Sheesh Mahal

Sheesh Mahal or the 'Palace of Mirrors' is in Patiala in Punjab, a state of India. It was built by Maharaja Narinder Singh (1845-1862). The palace draws its name from the exquisitely designed glass and mirrorwork, which covers an entire section of the palace.

It is behind the main Moti Bagh Palace. It has terraces, gardens, fountains and an artificial lake. The lake has two watchtowers in the north and the south, and is connected to the Banasar Ghar, a repository for stuffed animals. There is also a suspension bridge.

The walls of the Sheesh Mahal is painted with a variety of images pertaining to literature, mythology and legends. These works depict the vision in the poetry of Keshav, Surdas and Bihari. The paintings also portray Raga-Ragni, Nayak-Nayika and Baramasa (song of twelve months) in Rajasthani style. The walls and ceilings of the Sheesh Mahal are rich in floral designs and its interior is a kaleidoscope of images and multi-coloured lights. Amongst the Sheesh Mahal's most highly recommended displays are a series of Kangra-style miniatures depicting the Geet Govind, an epic poem by Jaidev.

There is also a museum in the Sheesh Mahal.

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