Quila Mubarak in Patiala

Famous for its forts, museums and places of historical importance, Patiala is home to pleasing structures and architecture built in the days of yore. Sikh Palace architecture with its distinct beauty and unmatched style adorn the district of Patiala.

One such structure that is a famous tourist spot among visitors as well as locals is the Qila Mbarak. A great example of Sikh architecture, the Qila is an imposing structure that reminds one of the glorious history of the place.

History of Quila Mubarak

The genesis of the Qila can be traced back to the times of Baba Ala Singh. It is believed to have been constructed in 1763, though the foundation stone is believed to have been laid in 1754. Maharaja Amar Singh, Grandson of Baba Ala Singh completed the construction in 1763. The founder of Patiala dynasty built it as a mud fortress and the Qila has undergone a lot of changes since then. Subsequent rulers of Patiala Dynasty have made changes and upgraded the fort from time to time.

The Entrance to Quila Mubarak

The entrance to the Quila Comlex is dotted with multiple small shops that sell variety of items such as hand woven fabrics, juttis, nad other street items. The complex is in the middle of the town and stands proudly in a 10 acre ground. One of the rare palaces that has been built by any Sikh ruler, the Quila Complex makes one reminisce the past.

The Inner Fort- Quila Androon

As the name Quila Androon suggests it means the Inner Fort. It is the main palace building and formed the residential part of the palace. The entrance of the Quila Androon is grandly decorated with floral designs and is a very imposing structure. The Quila is inspired from the Mughal and Rajasthani architecture and is a treat to the eyes. There are a series of courtyards which, though they are inside the single structure of Quila Androon form distinct palaces of their own and have been bestowed with different names. The names of some rooms are as follows:

• Sheesh mahal
• Jalau Khana
• Toshakhana
• Chand Mahal
• Rang Mahal
• Treasury
• Prison

There are fresco paintings in these rooms and some have beautiful mirror work done in them. There is also a British structure in the complex where a beautiful fire place made of marbles exists.

Rang Mahal & Sheesh Mahal

These mahals are adorned with frescoes and paintings that epitomize quality and beauty. Splendid work done by Avadhi, Rajasthani and Pahari artists, these frescoes are amongst the finest in India that were made during those times. The paintings depict different instances and illustrate Vishnu avatars, romantic epics and in some cases the qualities that a King should exhibit or not exhibit.

Darbar Hall

Darbar in English means a kind of gathering. As the name suggests, the Darbar Hall was used to manage pubic gatherings at those times. Of late, it has been converted into a museum. One can find a rare collection of armaments from yesteryear in the museum. The Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh’s sword and dagger can be found in the museum. Apart from this Nadir Shah’s sword is also on display. The Darbar Hall is also called as Divan Khana.

Ran Baas

There are two courtyards in Ran Baas and it was probably built for the guests. There are two chambers across the courtyard, which display beautiful mirror work and paintings of those times.

The Qila Mubarak is a symbol of pride for Punjab. A great historical monument displaying the archaeology of those times, the Quila is not in the best of conditions as of now. Renovation works are required and the fort needs a facelift. The museum still attracts tourists from various places who throng this place to witness a part of history.