Written by Karan Sharma August 5, 2025
As India prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day at the Red Fort, discover the incredible history, architecture, and secrets of this Mughal masterpiece built by Shah Jahan.
The Red Fort, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648, has been India's Independence Day venue since 1947.
Declared a World Heritage Site in 2007, it attracts millions of tourists annually.
It took a decade (1638-1648) and ₹1 crore (adjusted for inflation) to complete this architectural marvel.
Its 2.5 km-long walls were built to establish Delhi as the Mughal capital.
Originally on the Yamuna’s banks, urban encroachment has now distanced the river.
The Lahori and Delhi gates each have unique historical importance.
Walls range from 18m (Yamuna side) to 33m (Chandni Chowk side) for defense.
Visitors enter through this iconic gate, leading to the Chhatta Chowk market.
A marble canopy (chhatri) marks where Shah Jahan held court on his throne.
Blending Persian and Indian styles, it remains a testament to India’s rich heritage.