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statues and sculptures of ancient time, Jai Vilas Palace, Durbar Hall interiors, Madhya Pradesh, interior royal achitecture
The Jai Vilas Palace, also known as the Jai Vilas Mahal in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh is a symbol of age-old Indian culture and opulence, preserved in the backdrop of modern-day India. The Maharaja of Gwalior, Jayaji Rao Scindia, had this magnificent edifice built to ensure a grand welcome for King Edward VII, the then Prince of Wales. Today, it serves both as a residence for the descendants of the royal Maratha Scindia family, as well as a museum stretched over 35 rooms of the palace. Together with the Chitrangada Raje Art Gallery that showcases the artistic nerve of Gwalior, and a library that comprises of more than five thousand books, the Jai Vilas Mahal is a must-visit for history lovers who wish to engage with the rich narrative of Indian civilisation. Each room in the regal palace contains curios of historical importance, including a collection of swords that date back to the times of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb, and the original Dhal (shield) that belonged to freedom fighter Rani Laxmibai. The venture cost a total of INR 1 crore, which must have been quite an extravagant affair in that era. Covering a floor area of about 75 acres, the Jai Vilas Palace has an intricately designed Durbar Hall, which houses some of the world's most colossal chandeliers, gilt furnishings, and a large plush carpet. The centre operates with the vision of creating an international cultural centre for the study of Maratha dynasty.
Size: 3195px × 4800px
Location: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India
Photo credit: © Pradeep Soman / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
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