Information on Tarkash Mahal (Bidar, Karnataka) - History & Architecture

The Tarkash Mahal is in Bidar Fort and is located in the Bidar district of Karnataka. The fort though initially constructed by the Brahmins but the upper parts of the fort was completed during the reign of the Baridi. The construction of the fort was started in the 14th century and completed in the early 15th century. It is worth a visit owing to the architectural and historical heritage.

Tarkash Mahal Architecture

The architecture of the monument is an important point that should be emphasized to get a better and close understating about the outlook of the fort. There lies a decorative emblem in the upper section of the fort that portrays the prominence of the Bidar rulers. The interior of the upper storey was designed in such a manner that the roof directly connects with the 'Solah Khamb Mosque'. The middle storey of the monument is decorated elegantly with tiles and stone. This is also a stucco work within the walls of the fort. It is believed that were different rooms made as per the demand of the Shahi Sultans where women from different nations were kept separately. It is also believed that the extension of the Mahal during the Bidar rule has a contemporary touch to it. There was a separate audience room, apartments for the royal guests of the sultans and a swimming pool all of which were decorated with colored and designer tiles. There was also a well maintained graded which has floodlit to be used at night. All these aspects further show the architectural heritage of the Tarkash Mahal.

Tarkash Mahal History

The Mahal which is situated in the southern end of the Lal Bagh is a three storey monument. The chambers inside the monument were used as residence by the Brahmins. It is believed that the women of the Brahmins families were involved in watching animal fights from the roof top of the fort. During the reign of the Bidar rulers the Throne chamber inside the fort was used to address the private audience by the King. There was also a mosque within the fort was mainly used to worship by the people reside within the fort during the Bidar rule. The overall structure of the fort was elongated in the early 15th century. There is also a prayer hall located within the fort or the Mahal were long prayers used to conduct during the 14-15 century. There is also a separate throne room for the rulers within the fort. There include pointed arches within the fort which were further covered with 'strips of basalt'. The rooms of the ground floor were used to store the sundry materials along with the ammunition used by the Bidar rulers.

Tarkash Mahal Tourism Importance

The Mahal is located in the Bidar district of Karnataka. The place has appropriate hotels, restaurants and has access in terms of roadways. These factors increase its tourism value. It is believed that the best time of visiting the place will be in between the months of October and March as the weather is appropriate for vacation during the period. The Mahal also shows a fusion of the Brahmin and the Bidar culture in its architecture and decorations which will again be a unique visual experience for the visitors. Furthermore, near to the Mahal there is also an archaeological gallery which is considered must visit for the tourist. Hence, all these features of in and around the Mahal extensively attract the tourists from all over the state and country. It is truly a marvel to witness that gives an insight of the glorious past and the architectural genius of the era.