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.
- 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' .
- Introduction:
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.