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Rajwada stands on the crowded streets of Kajuri Bajar in Indore, facing the main square of the city. It is the historical palace of the Holkars built two centuries back and the seven storey structure exemplifies the grandeur of the Holkars. With the new palace on the northern side, the older palace is located in the old city center and is really the gateway to the Rajwada. The palace was once the centre of all trading activity in the city. |
The structure blends Maratha, Mughal and French styles of architecture. The entrance has a lofty archway with a giant wooden door covered with iron studs. The gopura-like monument is made up of wood and stone. It has a number of balconies windows and corridors. The entrance leads to a huge courtyard surrounded by galleried rooms.
The palace interiors are a fusion of French and indigenous styles, perfectly integrated without a discordant note. The covered arcade of the Ganesha hall that used to be the venue for state and religious functions, now hosts art exhibitions and classical music concerts. The rear part of the palace houses a beautiful garden with fountains, artificial waterfall and period sculptures.
Inside the palace are awesome heirlooms, furniture and chandeliers that are eloquent reminders of the gracious grandeur of the Holkars. Soaring seven storey’s high, parts of the palace that had been disfigured by a raging fire have been renovated to perfection. The huge carved iron archways are traditional in style and a fitting tribute to two hundred year old palace. |
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