Rise of Marathas during 17th
century lead to emergence of one of the most significant power in India which
is mostly credited with ending misrule which was prevailing in those times.
Brilliant commander like Tanhaji, supported by courageous chiefs like Holkars,
Bhonsale, Scindia, Gorkwads, established a kingdom based on Indian traditions
and culture.
Brilliance of Indian soul is that
gallantry comes along with patronage of arts and culture. Be it Rajputs or
Marathas, their swords crushed invaders time and again and their chisels
crafted architectural wonders.
The way Rajasthan is full of exquisite
masterpieces, a testimony to the artistic flavors of the Rajputs; similarly the
Maratha Rulers also had exquisite taste for architecture which is immortalized
in the form of the Krishnapura Chhatris, a spectacular combination of visually appealing stones, visible at the first glance.
Heart of Indore is the address, and I was fortunate to be at
Krishnapura Chhatris, the resting place of the Holkars. Development of Indore
and nearby areas like Maheshwar is solely credited to the Holkar kings, who
kept the soul intact till 1948.
Situated on the banks of Kanha river; the
premises consists of three Chhatris/
cenotaphs of Maharani Krishnabai Holkar, Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holkar II and his son Shivaji Rao Holkar. There is also
a Lord Krishna temple alongside the Chhatris, which used to serve the praying
place for the Queen. The present structures are built over the cremated remains of
erstwhile rulers.
The monument has some unique features
like figures of soldiers, dancers, musicians along with carved Gods/ Goddesses
figures.
Different stones in a wall make the
structure looks more attractive. Adjoining garden adds to the beauty of the
place. Not only the interiors, but the exteriors are carved with exquisite
carving.
Keep some time for this monument, watching it closely you
will realize the blend of Maratha, and Rajputana architecture. See the pillars
carved in Rajputana carved styles.
To summarize: Built in the late 1800s, Krishnapura
Chhatris is an example of beautiful architectural heritage of the Indore region
and is a monument that portrays bravery and courage of the Great Marathas.
Distance of 1.5 km. separates you from exploring another marvel, Kanch Mandir (Glass Temple), built by then Cotton King of India, Seth Hukumchand. Keep exploring Guys.
