The Durbar Gadh in Bhuj, India, is one of the most visited Tourist Attractions in Bhuj. This Durbar Gadh houses the famous Aina Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) which delights the visitors by displaying the unique blend of Indian and European architecture with its fountains and two storied royal residences.
History of Darbar Gadh
Built in the 18th century by Rao Lakhpatji, Durbar Gadh, Bhuj is a perfect example of an enclosed area of the royal family which exhibited a drastic change in the style of architecture and the layout that resembled those of Europe to a large extent.
Durbar Gadh is also the name given to the place located in the center of the old town of Bhuj. It was at this place that that the Maharaja of Nawanagar held his meetings with the masses.
Although, the massive earthquake in Gujarat with Bhuj as the epicenter in January, 2001 destroyed a portion of the Durbar Gadh, it still failed to affect the popularity and the number of visits to the place by travelers from all over the world.
Description of Darbar Gadh
Darbargadh in Bhuj is a royal enclosure, which was fragmented into a cluster of apartments that were dwelled by the various sections of the royal family. Each cluster was structured around a small courtyard, which thus separated its inhabitants from the outside world.
Further, the Durbar Gadh, Bhuj was built in accordance with the houses in the surrounding towns and villages so much so, that even the resources used in building such structures as well as the space occupied by them was almost similar to those of the common man.
To the western side of the Darbargadh, the Pragmal Palace was included a couple of centuries. This new palace resulted in the partial vacation of the previously existing Durbar Gadh.
The chief aspect of the Darbargadh has been the layout of royal chambers that were used as the main public rooms of the Darbargadh. These rooms were designed gracefully following the arts and crafts of the Kutchee culture which was in sharp contrast to the European styles followed in the exteriors.
Thus, a visit to the Darbargadh in Bhuj will certainly inform you a lot about the culture and traditions followed in this part of the world with respect to art and architecture and also the influences of the west on it.
