Information on Prag Mahal (Kutch, Gujarat) - History & Architecture

Parag Mahal or Prag Mahal is next door to Aina Mahal, which is to be found in the same walled compound located in Bhuj, Gujarat. This is the palace which was custom-built by King Pragmalji in 1860. The originator to design it was Colonel Henry saint Wilkins. The design of the palace is Gothic style, and was built in the core of Bhuj. In the courtyard there is a Hindu temple, which is behind the palace, which is adequately carved with stonework.

Within the palace is the foremost palace antechamber along with the climb stairway which is 45m bell tower for an invigorating view. Through this bell tower one is able to see the view of the city.

Prag Mahal Architecture

Parag Mahal was envisioned as a superior sample of Italian architecture. The materials used while the construction of the Mahal is Italian marble and sandstone which was brought from Rajasthan. Along with Mr. James Wilkinson, the various Italian artisans worked while construction.

In the main hall of Prag Mahal there is a huge list of Taxidermy crammed in the Darbar hall is filled with attractive suspended chandeliers and Italain styled statues. The design of the hall and the entire palace gives an interesting combination of Indian and European style figure. The jail work is typically in Indian manner represents Flora and Fauna which is European in derivation. The huge pillars which is Corinthian pillars which is evocative of Italian Gothic art.

The insignificant Hindu place of pilgrimage made of carved sandstone is present in the courtyard in the rear the palace. The gigantic clock tower located in the palace is 45 feet in total height. The tower gives the entire view of the city. Thus the architectural importance and the historical significance of this Parag Mahal or Prag Mahal is still given importance and admired even today.

Prag Mahal History

Prag Mahal built in the 19th century is located next to the Aina Mahal. The architect of the Mahal was the famous architect of that period. The palace began to get constructed in 1865. The commission of the palace was prepared by Rao Pragmalji II. The manufacture took 12 years to get completed. It was in 1865 when Pragmalji II well thought-out the expenses of the Mahal and favored in full gothic style, nevertheless before long he died (1875) and could not see over and completed, Mahal. The palace was however accomplished in the year 1879 in the sovereignty of Khengari III who was the son of Rao Pragmalji II.

The manufacture of the fortress was a whooping 3.1 million rupees, which is exorbitant calculation during that period. The Parag Mahal has witnessed double tragedies of that time.

The first one was the tragedy of 2001, when the earthquake hit the state of Gujarat, destroying the structural uprightness of the palace. Thought the re-establishment took place but soon the next catastrophe came over. The precious customary and beyond price statues were stolen away by the thieves. It is also considered as the heritage site by the Government of Gujarat and also renovated and tenable the property.

Prag Mahal Tourism Importance

The Mahal has a diverse tribes, culture, tradition, the ancient civilization. The palaces talks about the sumptuousness life of centuries ago. Nevertheless, getting hit by the earthquake, the monuments are conserved and the place acts as an attraction that invites visitors and offer then to experience the old background and inheritance of Kutch.