The fort today

Every year on the Independence Day of India 15 August, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and delivers a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts.The Red Fort, the largest monument in Delhi,is one of its most popular tourist destinations and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The jali of the Diwan i Aam in the Red Fort A sound and light show describing Mughal history is a tourist attraction in the evenings. The major architectural features are in mixed condition; the extensive water features are dry. Some buildings are in fairly good condition, with their decorative elements undisturbed; in others, the marble inlaid flowers have been removed by looters. The tea house, although not in its historical state, is a working restaurant. The mosque and hamam are closed to the public, although visitors can peer through their glass windows or marble latticework. Walkways are crumbling, and public toilets are available at the entrance and inside the park.

The Lahore Gate entrance leads to a mall with jewellery and craft stores. There are a museum of blood paintings, depicting young 20th century Indian martyrs and their stories, an archaeological museum and an Indian war memorial museum. Nevertheless, Red Fort is still one of the most beautiful and well designed forts in the world.