Theories abound, but the true reason behind a palace in Madhya Pradesh’s haunting remains a mystery. The palace’s eerie past adds an air of mystique to its already fascinating history. When you go from Gwalior to Orchha, there is a small village named Datia, which is home to a magnificent palace that has been abandoned for more than four centuries. Now, it has earned a reputation for a baffling occurrence – it closed down after just one night of hosting guests.
The Mystery Of Datia Palace
Data Palace alias Bir Singh Palace or Bir Singh Dev Palace is a place at Datia city in Madhya Pradesh state, India. It was built by Birsingh Dev to welcome Mughal Emperor Jahangir.https://t.co/VIlorzRHFu #Jahangir #DataPalace #Mughals pic.twitter.com/HTx8W0yoZz
— Touristinindia (@touristinindia) October 20, 2021
Datia Palace, also known as Bir Singh Palace, is an architectural marvel that showcases the grandeur and opulence of a bygone era. Built during the late 17th century by Raja Bir Singh Deo, this magnificent edifice reflects the architectural style of the Bundela dynasty.
Salim once rebelled against his father, the emperor, and established a court at what is now Allahabad. To encourage him to return, Akbar dispatched his prime minister, Abul Fazl, for Salim. Salim, anticipating what was to come, surreptitiously recruited Bir Singh Deo of Orchha to assassinate Abul Fazl first. However, he was not a fan of Akbar and had led several rebellions against the Mughals. Hence, Bir Singh Deo assassinated Fazl in exchange for the life of young Salim. Years later when Salim ascended the throne as Jehangir, Bir ascended the throne of Orchha.
The bricks and stones of Datia Palace have stayed together without cement or iron for centuries! Visit: https://t.co/V9NdFp6cH3 pic.twitter.com/nvKHRSU8qB
— Madhya Pradesh Tourism (@MPTourism) January 3, 2017
Bir Singh Deo commissioned the construction of 52 buildings in the kingdom after Jehangir proclaimed his desire to visit Orchha to meet his old buddy. One of these was the Datia palace, which would serve as a rest stop for the emperor.
Bir Singh Deo Palace and Satkhanda Palace are two other names for the Datia Palace. It was, nevertheless, given to the Emperor as a gift. Jehangir arrived in this palace and made up camp for one night only. The following morning, the group travelled to Orchha, where Bir Singh Deo was ready to see his friend.
Bir Singh Deo and his family never used the castle because it was a gift. And the Datia Palace sat empty and unused for over 400 years.
Also Read: Featuring 300+ Brands & The Best Fine Dining Experience, Phoenix Citadel Indore Is A Must-Visit
A Glimpse Of Architectural Grandeur
A standout example of Bundela architecture- Datia Palace.
Lovely shot by The reDiscovery Project#MPTourism #HeartofIndia pic.twitter.com/oMkVJ9gQK5— Madhya Pradesh Tourism (@MPTourism) July 24, 2017
Datia Palace, despite its closure, continues to captivate the imaginations of those who hear its enigmatic story. It remains an architectural wonder frozen in time, suspended in a state of eerie silence that has preserved its mystique.
The palace features intricately carved facades, splendid courtyards, and impressive arches that blend Rajput and Mughal architectural influences. Its strategic location and architectural beauty have attracted numerous historians, architects, and tourists over the years.
So, when are you visiting this beautiful palace in Madhya Pradesh?
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
Good news! We are on WhatsApp! Subscribe to Curly Tales WhatsApp Channel to stay up-to-date with exclusive content and BTS. Join HERE.