Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III built Aga Khan Palace to provide employment to famine-struck villagers in the areas surrounding Pune, India. The construction employed one thousand people over five years and cost approximately 1.2 million rupees.
Why was Mahatma Gandhi imprisoned at Aga Khan Palace?
Gandhi was interned at Aga Khan Palace by British authorities following the launch of the Quit India Movement on the 9th of August 1942. The Quit India Movement demanded an end to British rule in India. Gandhi remained imprisoned there until the 6th of May 1944.
Who died at Aga Khan Palace during the British internment?
Kasturba Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's wife, and Mahadev Desai, his secretary, both died during their captivity at Aga Khan Palace. Their octagonal marble samadhis are located on the palace grounds.
When was Aga Khan Palace declared a monument of national importance?
The Archaeological Survey of India declared Aga Khan Palace a monument of national importance in 2003.
When was Aga Khan Palace donated to the Indian people?
Aga Khan IV donated the palace to the Indian people in 1969 as a mark of respect to Mahatma Gandhi and his philosophy. The palace subsequently became the headquarters of the Gandhi National Memorial Society.
What architectural style is Aga Khan Palace built in?
Aga Khan Palace is built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, featuring pediments and turrets. A distinctive 2.5-meter corridor runs around the entire perimeter of the building.