Man Mandir of Gwalior
Gwalior, an important city in the Deccan Plateau, is home to the fascinating hilltop fort and other extravagant monuments. Among the most stunning monuments of the city, the Gwalior Fort is probably the most spectacular landmark housing several monuments, temples and palaces. Among these several palaces in this impenetrable fort, the given write-up is trying to shed some light on the ever beautiful Man Mandir in Gwalior.Commissioned by Maharaja Man Singh Tomar, an important ruler of the Tomar Dynasty, the beautiful palace was the residence of queen Mrignayani and her handmaids. The expensive decoration of the palace reveals that the queen was very important to the king – probably she was his favorite wife.
Whatever be said, the Man Mandir, Gwalior is a beautiful palace – also referred to as Chit Mandir – and this page is trying to bring out the beauty of this stunning monument.
Keynote on Man Mandir, Gwalior
Address: Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008
Opening time: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entry Fee: INR 250
Architecture: Predominantly Rajputana architecture with few local elements
Famous for: Grand palaces and museum
Visit Duration: Two hours
Best time to visit: October to March is suitable for the trip
How to Reach: The palace is easily accessible from different corners of the city. Visitors can book a cab or board public transport to reach the venue.
An Overview of the Man Mandir
Located at the North-east end of the Gwalior fort, according to historical records the palace was commissioned at the end of the 15th century. Although the original structure of the palace is in a dilapidated condition, however, the surviving portions of the monument display beautiful artistry of the era.Referred to as Chit Mandir, or Painted Palace, mostly due to the vibrant green, turquoise, and yellow-colored tiles, the palace is mesmerizing. The multi-level palace complex had open courts and residential apartments for the queen and her handmaids.
The Man Mandir in Gwalior is often regarded as the only remaining pre-Mughal palace that showcases the elements of Rajputana architecture.
The Architecture of Man Mandir
Man Mandir Palace was commissioned by last of the important rulers of the Tomar Empire, Raja Man Singh Tomar. Being a patron of art, the emperor envisioned a palace that could showcase his love for art and everything beautiful.The medieval-Hindu architecture of the palace portrays certain features atypical to this form of designing. Friezes patterned in floral designs, exteriors covered in colorful tiles, and elaborate lattice works are some of the interesting features of the palace.
The multi-level palace, with underground floors, was used by the royals for residential purposes. According to historical records, the Gwalior Man Mandir was ornamented with beautiful beyond comparison motifs and carvings. The royal quarters were once bejeweled with gems and semi-precious stones. However, after the Mughal annexation, the gems were plundered. The circular columned halls in the lower levels of the palace were well ventilated, keeping the royals cool during the hot scorching summer seasons. Queens’s quarters were well-ventilated and had hollow pipes, a primitive model of telephones, used for communication with the outside world.
The secret underground floors, locally known as Bhool Bhulaiya, were used to store prisoners who were probably made dark and gritty intentionally. During the Mughal rule, these underground chambers were used to keep important high-ranking hostages.
Some Important Things to Remember
1. Few of the quarters of the underground levels have a roosting bat population.
2. Guides are available and can be hired from the ticket counter.
3. The Man Mandir, Gwalior ticket includes admission to Teli ka Mandir and Sas-bahu Temples.
4. During summer, the weather can get very hot and arid so visitors are requested to carry adequate sun protection – a powerful sunscreen, hat, and good sunglasses.