Ali Usman Baig : Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) of Kot Diji (2020)

Date of Visit: - 23^rd February 2020 (R)

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Outer Elevation of Building

When it comes to Sheesh Mahal, one thinks about the 'Mirror Palace,' which is present inside the Lahore Fort its construction was ordered by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631 and completed in the year 1632. However, another building with a similar name is present in Pakistan at Kot Diji in the province of Sindh. Its construction is attributed to Mir Fateh Ali Khan.

Mir Fateh Ali Khan established the Talpur dynasty after defeating the Kalhoras at the Battle of Halani. Mir Fateh Ali Khan, also declared himself the first Rais, or ruler of Sindh, in the aftermath of this, Khairpur becomes the hometown of the Talpur’s. The Khairpur state was ruled under Talpur’s from the period (1783 to 1955). Also, Khairpur became famous for its historical monuments, palaces, forts, and artistic buildings.

The Talpur architecture features a combination of various elements that have roots derived from Islamic, Mughal, Rajasthani, and British buildings. Talpur rulers hired engineers, masons, and artisans from all parts of the sub-continent for bringing innovation and new styles to their construction.

I traveled to Khairpur last year, after visiting Kot Diji Fort and the ancient archaeological mound present there, we wanted to see the Oak Mahal, but its permission was canceled at the last minute. Our guide told us that we have a chance to see another historical building located a few kilometers from the fort named 'Sheesh Mahal of Kot Diji,'.

After reaching the site, we met with a guard, who welcomes us in a very unfriendly manner. However, after a little talk with our guide who was also a local, he gave us permission for only five minutes to visit the place.

Sheesh Mahal is a two-story building that has dimensions of 92 x 118 feet. There is a main hall in the center, which must be a darbar for royals in the past. The darbar walls are partitioned into equal-distance wooden door entrances on all four sides. These doors have elegantly designed circular arched ventilators at the top, which are decorated with multicolor glasses.

The darbar hall is rich in architectural embilshments, geometric patterns, and murals. The intricated design on the roof of mosaic work is something unique and a treat to watch also I have seen it in very less buildings in Pakistan,

Another distinctive element of this building is the fresco floral paintings present on the roof and walls. The use of glass in different design patterns was so skillfully done and amazing to watch. It is also told by our guide that this is a Jodhpuri style of work. It is also noted that the building's interior doors are half-round. In a semi-circle area, tinted glass pieces are used. Earlier, I have seen such a type of glass design in many old buildings in Chiniot city.

The interior of Main Hall, amazing floral patterns on walls and roof. Also one can see the half-round door with tinted glass on semi arched portions

Corridors present along the length on both sides of the building. These corridors are supported with semi-circular arches having multifold facades on one end resting on circular Greek-style columns on the outside.