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Rajwada (also spelled Rajwade), also known as the Old Palace or Holkar Palace, is a landmark heritage structure in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, built by the Holkar dynasty in the Maratha Empire. Constructed between 1747 and 1766 under Maharaja Malhar Rao Holkar, it stands as a vivid testament to the political power, cultural refinement, and architectural synthesis of that era.
Architectural Style & Features
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| .Hall Rajwade palace,Indore shutterstock.com |
Rajwada is a seven-storied edifice, with its first three floors constructed in stone, and the upper floors in wood.
The lower levels provide a solid base, while wood allows for elaborate detailing in upper parts. The design blends Maratha style (simplicity, adaptation to climate, open courtyards, etc.) with Mughal influences (arches, jali work, chhatris and balconies) and touches of French or European stylistic sensibilities in ornamentation.
Key features include: a grand entrance with lofty arches; wooden doors fixed with iron studs; courtyards; galleries; semi-open arcades; balconies; windows with jali screens; cylindrical bastions/corner towers; decorative wood carving; niches in walls; chhatris and jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies).
Over its history, Rajwada has suffered from fires (notably in 1801, 1837, and a more recent one in 1984) which led to rebuilding of parts. The southern half, for example, was reconstructed between 1811-1833 after fire damage.
Historical Significance
Beyond being a royal residence, Rajwada functioned as the administrative and social centre of the Holkar dynasty. It symbolizes Holkar’s rule in Malwa, their patronage of arts, and the mingling of cultures—Maratha, Mughal, local artisan traditions. It’s also one of the oldest surviving palaces in Indore, central both geographically (near Khajuri Bazaar, Chowk) and symbolically. It has also been a target of damage: fires, decay (especially wooden parts, roof waterlogging), and neglect. Part of it was burnt during the 1984 riots.
Recent Restoration & Conservation Efforts
In recent years, serious restoration efforts have been under‐way:
The Indore Smart City Development Limited (ISCDL) has been leading restoration works. The restoration, aimed at stabilizing the structure (particularly the wooden upper stories and decayed beams), replacing rotten pillars, recovering original carvings, and giving the building strength for many decades ahead. It reopened to tourists in February 2023 after restoration.
Most recently, ahead of the upcoming major religious festival Simhastha in 2028, further work is proposed: renovation of the Darbar Hall in Rajwada, improved amenities, landscaped surroundings, better visitor infrastructure, etc.
There have also been some controversies/damage post-restoration: e.g. nails being hammered to hang tarpaulin during festivals, causing damage to restored surfaces; these are being addressed by the Archaeology Department and IMC.
https://www.hindustantimes.com/indore/asi-assures-of-restoring-fallen-portion-of-indore-s-historical-rajwada/story-ABpA48mW9kroDtF3yztqXI.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajwada?utm
