History

History of Indore

The history of Indore reveals that the ancestors of the founders of the city were the hereditary Zamindars and indigenous landholders of Malwa. The families of these landlords led a luxurious life. They retained their possessions of royalty, including an elephant, Nishan, Danka and Gadi even after the advent of Holkars. They even retained the right of performing the first pooja of Dussehra (Shami Pujan). During Mughal rule, the families were granted confirmatory sanads by the Emperors Aurangzeb, Alamgir and Farukhshayar, confirming their ‘Jagir’ rights.

Indore, located on the Western region of Madhya Pradesh is one of the most important commercial centers of the state. The rich chronological history of Indore is worth considering. Even in days of yore it was an important business hub. But today with the entry of the corporate firms and institutions, it has earned a major name in the commercial sector of the country. As the story goes, Malharro Holkar of the Holkar clan, received Indore as part of his booty in the conquest of Malwa in 1733. His descendants, who formed the core part of Maratha confederacy, came into conflict with the Peshwas and Scindhias and continued the gory battle. There was a sharp turn in the History of Indore with the advent of the East India Company.
The Holkars of Indore took part in the battle against the Britishers in 1803. Their glory was razed to dust when they were finally beaten in the Third Anglo Maratha war IN 1817- 1818.The Holkar dynasty had to admit defeat and give up a large portion of the territories under them. Matters came to an extreme when the English started intervening in their succession right. Two of the successors abdicated under mysterious circumstances. The History of Indore became murkier and dark as days went by till the independence of India when in 1947 the state came under the dominion of India.

R A J W A D A

Rajwada is a historical palace in Indore city. It was built by the Holkars of the Maratha Empire about two centuries ago. This seven storied structure is located near the Chhatris and serves today as a fine example of royal grandeur and architectural skills.
Also known as Holkar Palace, Rajawada is an important historical site in Indore that was constructed by the Holkars (belonging to the Maratha Dynasty) around 2 centuries ago. An example of the fine architectural skill and magnificence of those times, the palace is an impressive 7 storey structure that is placed near the Chhatris. One of the popular tourist attractions of Indore, Rajwada Palace is one of the oldest structures too. The palace was constructed by Malhar Rao Holkar, the founder of Holkar Dynasty in the year 1747 A.D. The palace was his residence and remained so till the year 1880 A.D. this remarkable structure is placed in Khajuri Bazaar, right in the middle of the city. Rajwada palace faces a well-maintained garden that has a statue of Queen Ahilya Bai, fountains and an artificial waterfall.

GANDHI HALL

King Edward Hall that was renamed as the Mahatma Gandhi Hall after the independence is one the most gorgeous buildings of Indore. Made in 1904 and originally named King Edwards Hall, it was renamed Mahatma Gandhi Hall in 1948. Its architectural style is Indo-Gothic. Made in Seoni stone, its domes and staples are a landmark of Indore today. It has a four-faced clock tower in front. It can accommodate 2,000 people at a time. It is one of the greatest landmarks of the city and is also frequently a venue for exhibitions and fairs throughout the year. The building also has a library, a children park and a temple.

LALBAGH PALACE

Lal Baag Palace is one of the most spectacular buildings in Indore. It stands on the outskirts of the town, towards the southwest. It is a three storey building on the bank of the River Khan. The palace was built by Maharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar during 1886-1921.

CENTRAL MUSEUM

The Central Museum located at Indore displays some of the rare and elegant collection that deserves the status of being maintained, for the generations to see and learn from them. The main things that are on display at the museum are the Parmer Scriptures, different coins, armours and artifices. The history of the Central Museum at Indore dates back to the time of the Holka Dynasty when the Kings of the Holka Dynasty were persuaded to submit to the British, and so, a large part of the kingdom needed to be surrendered. This included their capital also, the present Cantonment.

The armors of the Holkas, their arms and ammunition have been kept with concern at the Museum in Indore. So, the Museum at Indore which is also known as the Central Museum has all the attractions that would make a classic collection, of choicest materials.