Amer Fort

• 24 Apr 2025

Why in News? 

US Vice President JD Vance , during his four-day visit to India with his family, met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed India-US relations in Jaipur. 

Key Points 

• About the Visit: 
  • The Vance family was welcomed at the Amer Fort in traditional Rajasthani style, which included Kaachi Ghori, Ghoomar and Kalbelia dances. 
  • At the Rajasthan International Centre (RIC) in Jaipur, he discussed India-US relations and praised the cultural experience of India. 
  • Amer Fort:  
    • Introduction: 
      • Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is located in the Aravalli mountain range, about 11 kilometers from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan . 
      • It is one of the most famous Rajput forts in India and a major centre of attraction for international tourists due to its grand architecture, historical significance and cultural splendor . 
    • History and architecture: 
      • Amer Fort is a great example of Hindu architecture and Rajput architecture. A blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles can be seen in its structure . 
      • Amer Fort was once the capital of the Kachwaha Rajputs . Its construction was started  by Raja Man Singh I in the late 16th century . 
      • Later, Mirza Raja Jai Singh I and Sawai Jai Singh II made many important changes and expansions in it. 
      • The fort was constructed in four phases and is mainly made of  light yellow, pink sandstone and white marble . 
      • The fort is divided into four main sections and each section has its own courtyard 
    • Major structures and attractions: 
      • It consists of a 'Diwan-i-Aam' (hall of public audience), ' Diwan-i-Khas' (hall of private audience), a ' Sheesh Mahal' (mirror palace) and a 'Sukh Niwas' . 
        • Sukh Niwas is known for its distinctive coolness which is produced by the winds blowing over the falls. 

Kalbelia Dance  

• Kalbelia dance is an expression of the traditional lifestyle of the Kalbelia community, which belongs to Rajasthan. 
• It was included in the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO ) in the year 2010 . 
  • UNESCO's prestigious list consists of intangible heritage sites that help showcase the diversity of cultural heritage and raise awareness of its importance. 
  • The list was established in 2008 at the time of the Convention on the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. 
• This dance form involves spinning and graceful movements, which makes this dance worth watching. 
• It is often performed on any happy occasion and is considered an integral part of Kalbelia culture . 
• It is performed only by women , while men play the instruments and provide the music.