Information on Holkar Rajwada (Indore, Madhya Pradesh) - History & Architecture

Rajwada Holkar is located Chhatris in the district of Indore in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The literal meaning of the term Rajwada means "The King's Residence". This particular palace belongs to the category of Maratha and Mughal style City Palace. In Indore city, Rajwada is a historical palace. Nearly two centuries ago, it was successfully built by the Holkars of the Maratha Empire. It is a seven storied structure. It is one of the best examples of royal architectural skills and unique grandeur. It is blended with the architectural style of Indo-Saracenic Maratha. It situated at an elevation of 553 m (1,814 ft). The present tenant of this palace is the Khasgi Ahilyabai Holkar Charities Trust.

Holkar Rajwada Architecture

Rajwada Holkar was completed in 1766 by Holkars. The palace structure includes two parts. The main part is located at the center of the city and the next part is located in the old region of the town. This particular palace displays a perfect blend of Mughal and Maratha styles. This style really makes it really spellbound. There is a huge wooden door decorated with iron studs at the lofty archway. At the entrance pathway is located Mughal arched Ganesha hall. It has good number of balconies with windows and corridors that are Mughal ornamented and surrounded largely by galleried rooms. The upper floors are made of wood and lower three floors are perfectly made of stone in order to give strong foundation.

At the four corners with cylindrical bastions, Rajwada Holkar is rectangular shaped building. After being slightly damaged by fire, the southern portion of this palace was rebuilt in 1811-1833. The building structure was constructed by the artisans of Muslim origin from Mandu who were considered as the most skilled crafts persons of this entire region. They wholeheartedly worked for the Holkar for many structures in their kingdom. This palace comes with chattries, jharokhas, 7 story beautiful façade of perfectly carved stone and wood jails. Rajwada Holkar has brick paved courtyard, rough black basalt flooring and wooden columns with stone bases. In 1984, this palace was destroyed by fire in riots. It was later renovated in 2007 by H.H Ushadevi Holkar. The present owner of this palace is Madhya Pradesh State Archaeology Grade A Monument. This palace was nominated for UNESCO world Heritage Awards.

Holkar Rajwada History

The Maratha Rajas were the rulers of the Holkar dynasty. Until 1818, they became the Maharajas of Indore in the present state of Madhya Pradesh region in Central India. Initially, this particular dynasty was an independent member of the Maratha Empire. Later, this region became a princely state under the strong protectorate of British India. This dynasty was successfully founded by Malhar Rao in 1731. In 1721, he joined the active service of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. He immediately rose to the ranks of Subedar. The king was known as Holkar Maharaja so this became name of the dynasty. It is to be highly noted that the Holkar Maharaja was proudly saluted with a 19-gun salute under the British rule. On 16 June 1948, the Princely State of Indore directly acceded to the newly founded Indian government. In this manner, the monarchy that began in 1731 ended in 1948. The first monarch of Holkar dynasty was Malhar Rao Holkar I and last monarch was Yashwantrao Holkar II.

Holkar Rajwada Tourism Importance

Domestic and foreign tourists can easily understand the glory of Holkar Dynasty through Rajwada Holkar. It is a residential palace. The interior and exterior architectural styles and decoration will make the visitors transformed to medieval period. A day is required to go around the palace and enjoy its beauty and understand its significance in this particular region.