Jaipur to Agra, by way of Dausa, Bharatpur and Fatehpur Sikri; Music at Agra
Today we are motoring along our way from Jaipur toward Agra, when we spot this Hindu temple at Dausa, Rajasthan. It is brightly decorated in a manner popular in southern India, but not so much here.
Bharatpur
At Bharatpur we stop at another former palace for lunch, where we are greeted by a drummer and dancing boy.
The architecture is said to seamlessly blend Rajput, Mughal and "Brij" styles.
Very pleasant gardens with flowering trees delight us.
Fatehpur Sikri
23 miles west of Agra is Fatehpur Sikri, a former Mughal walled city, and now a World Heritage Site. Built by Mughal emperor Akbar between 1571 and 1585, it is almost entirely made of red sandstone. Architecturally it is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles.
Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) courtyard and pavilion, seen from the site entrance gate.
Diwan-i-Khas (hall for private audience and debate).
This ornate pillar in the Diwan-i-Khas supports an upper level, where royals could rise above their petitioners if they wished.
Local children on an outing, seen at the Ankh Michauli (Treasurer's Kiosk).
At the Sultana's house elaborately carved sandstone panels provided ventilation and privacy at the same time (above). Below, we are looking at the garden views to the left and to the right from the front of the Sultana's house.
On the Road Again
Back on the road to Agra, we grab shots of another street scene or two, and look closer at some colorful bangles being offered.
Music at Agra
After arriving at Agra, checking into our hotel and having dinner, we adjourn to a music store where our national guide Madan and two other performers entertain us with traditional Indian classical music.
The music starts with instrumental duos performed on sitar and drums ...
... then Madan sings, accompanied by the instrumentalists ...
... and then tourists go berserk and start jumping around.
NOTE: to see an 11 minute video compilation of the music at Agra, made up of ten shorter clips, click here or on the image above.
You can also listen to any or all of the music -- just click on any of these links:
1. Instrumental (sitar alone at first, then accompanied by drums)
