Phool Bagh Mahal, Orchha, Madhya pradesh, India.
Orchha excursion where the priceless confluence of nature and heritage surprises the tourists. Four centuries ago, all the buildings located here testify to efficient leadership, efficient workmanship, care of skilled architects, use of better construction materials, due to which even today these buildings are the center of attraction and the ruined structures are also from the historical point of view are important. In these buildings, the luxurious Phool Bagh Palace was built for such summer season.
Phool Bagh and the palace were built by Maharaja Veer Singh Dev during his reign. This palace is mainly based on three floors and the most special portion is the basement which was built as a private palace to avoid the effect of summer season as a summer delight. The system used to keep the palace cool by Persian water cooling method is also a center of attraction. Tourists are not allowed to visit this portion.
At the ground level or on an elevated structure an elegant classical post lintel structure attracts the attention of tourists. This structure is just above the summer retreat and built by red sandstone members. Pillars have decorated bases and capitals are richly carved with Hindu traditional iconography. Beams are also decorated including domed ceilings. It’s facing towards the garden. Its floor is given a moderate slope and water channels connected to the small tank built at the centre of the hall on the outer edge towards the garden and water used to flow in a cascading manner this feature was common in Mughal Architecture. This central part is supported by brackets and two pillars. This water was collected by the rain of chandan Katora fountain and supplied to the other fountains In the garden. The square room on the first floor is crowned with a large ribbed dome surrounded at corners by domed canopies. Façade is very attractive and in the centre of the building. It has three stone archways built by pillars and brackets and covered by a unique dome. It’s built in front of the large dome on the first floor. Either side windows and around the square room terraces are covered with decorated stone lattices. Stone overhangs and ornamental work above antebulature is beautiful including cornice and moldings. Entrances are closed and appreciation visitors can understand from outside. The shelves and the dome are of Bundela style.
Phool Bagh Mahal is an exemplary monument and lots of opportunities to learn for history buffs and art and architecture lovers.