The Panch Mahal meaning `wind catcher tower’ was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Akbar This structure stands close to the Zenana quarters (Harem) which supports the supposition that it was used for entertainment and relaxation. This is one of the most important buildings in Fatehpur Sikri. This is an extraordinary structure employing the design elements of a Buddhist Temple; entirely columnar, consisting of four stories of decreasing size arranged asymmetrically on the ground floor, which contains 84 columns. These columns, that originally had jaali (screens) between them, support the whole structure. Once these screens provided purdah (cover) to queens and princess on the top terraces enjoying the cool breeze and watching splendid views of Sikri fortifications and the town nestling at the foot of the ridge.
The pavilion gives a majestic view of the fort that lies on its left. The pool in front of the Panch Mahal is called the Anoop Talab. It would have been filled with water, save for the bridge, and would have been the setting for musical concerts and other entertainment. The ground floor has 84 columns, the first story has 56 columns and the second and third stories have 20 and 12 columns respectively. The topmost story has 4 columns supporting a chhattri. There are 176 columns in all and each is elegantly carved pillars with unique designs.
Fatehpur Sikri, known for its architecture and planning, is situated in Northern India close Agra, was worked by Akbar, the third Mughal ruler, in 1571 , as his new capital. The significant piece of the complex was manufactured/built in a limited capacity to focus four to ten years, utilizing neighborhood building aptitudes and materials.
Since the territory is near the western desert area, the atmosphere is hot-dry with generally little precipitation.
Planning and Architecture Features
The Fatehpur Sikri complex stands on an edge and the city is encased by an embattlement on three sides and on the fourth by an immense counterfeit lake which was the primary wellspring of water supply to the city.
The edge is to some degree in the focal point of this walled territory and keeps running from South-West to North-East. All the significant structures of the complex are situated over this edge , using a similarly level territory.
At the outskirts, where the slants are troublesome, bring down structures are worked as props to empower simple development to finish everything. The lower structures are for the most part benefit offices congenial from the lower streets and interconnected with upper levels by steps.
A detailed water supply framework existed, enacting the direct channels and tanks at the upper patio level. The seven passage doors punctured in the city divider prompt real settlements in the areas of which the Agra entryway is the most vital (since Akbar had effectively fabricated his fortress there).
This street lies indistinguishable way from the edge and steadily ascends to give access to the royal residence complex to finish everything. The introduction of the mosque and the royal residence complex is toward Mecca while the other city structures watch the land shape as a noteworthy determinant.
At one time, the town was spread on all sides of the edge and the castle region had a fantastic perspective of the region around. Minor level changes exist between patios which are consulted by steps and are keenly abused for gravitational stream of water.
Microclimate Control
