Light & Sound Show in Purana Qila Delhi
The Light and Sound Show of Purana Qila is known as ‘Ishq-e-Delhi’. The show is modified in terms of sound and technology. New version of show includes cutting edge projection and laser technology while having 3D effect in some part. The new combination of light and sound makes the show marvelous. Along with the voice of narration some visuals and some documentation is used in between the show to represent the music, art and culture of that time. The Light & Sound Show in Old Fort of Delhi is an enchanting depiction of history and architecture of the fort. It is believed that Delhi has 7 incarnations. Every time when the Delhi is fortified, ruler built a new fort. It is also believed that it is the site where Indraprastha used to be, mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharat. The foundation of the present day reinforced Old Fort was started by Sher Shah Suri, but before the completion of the fort Sher Shah died and the remaining work was completed by Humayun.
It’s a mesmerizing experience to have a glimpse of fabulous past in Light & Sound Show inside 20 meter tall and 50 meter thick ramparts of Purana Qila. The wall is broad at base and tapers as it gains height. One side of the wall of the fort touches zoo and other side opens towards the Pragati Maidan where international fests and events are organized. The fort is built at the banks of river Yamuna and its water is used to fill the moat that surrounds the fort. The fort has three gates – Badadarwaja faces towards west. It was started by Sher Shah and finished by Humayun. Talaqidarwaja seems to be entrance of formal ceremonial occasions of that time. Humayundarwaja faces zoo and remain closed now as it is in ruined condition.
There are several buildings within the campus of Old Fort of Delhi. As its name suggests, Kila-e-Kunha Mosque is built in a corner of fort. It was designed as Jami Masjid or Friday mosque. It is decorated with marbles and colorful stones. It is single domed and has five doorways. Architecture of this mosque looks like some palace. Second storey of the mosque is accessible through stairs from prayer hall. The upper storey of mosque gives a look of a Hindu temple. It is suggestive of two views- either it was a temple earlier and converted into temple or Sher Shah used the harmonious architecture of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles for the first time. Sher Mandal is an octagonal shaped double storey structure. In this structure, white stones to make designs were used with red background. Humayun completed it and used it as library by Humayun. Sher Shah Gate was built away from other entrances. Colorful tiles and beautiful abstract design are part of its decoration. Both Hindu and Islamic motifs were used for its decoration. Gate is a multi storey structure. The other attractions of Purana Qila are Khairul Manzil, & Hammamkhana.
There are many domes of Sufis in the neighborhood of this place. Matka peer is one of them. The devotees come here to do prayers and leave ‘matka’ or earthen pitcher in gratitude. Political importance of this fort was not much, but it contributed well in non-political means of that time.
Location of Light & Sound Show in Purana Qila:
Mathura road, Near Delhi Zoo, New Delhi, 110003.
Nearest metro station is Pragati Maidan & bus stop is Delhi Zoo.
Opening Days: Show is hosted every day except Friday.
Timing of the Show: Show is done in two languages Hindi and English. The show timing differs According to language and weather conditions. The detailed show timing is as follows:
For Hindi Show: In the months from May to August timing is from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
In September and October timing is from 7 pm to 8 pm
In the months from November to January from 6 pm to 7 pm
In the months from February to April from 7 pm to 8 pm
For English Show: In the months from May to August timing is from 9 pm to 10 pm
In September and October timing is from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm
In the months from November to January from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm
In the months from February to April from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Ticket of the Show: For adult Rs. 100/- & for child Rs. 50/-
Suggested Tours: