Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri

This cenotaph, built in the memory of Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh and his queen, Rani Moosi, reflects the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. The upper portion comprising columned pavilions and domed arches is made of marble while the lower section consists of pillars in red sandstone. The memorial is rated as one of the finest of its type.
Situated outside the main palace of Alwar, Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri was built by Vinay Singh in the memory of Alwar’s ruler, Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh and his queen, Rani Moosi who committed ‘sati’ (self immolation on her husband’s pyre). This beautiful cenotaph shelters the tomb of the king and the queen and the entire chhatri is supported by pillared sandstone.

The double-storeyed structure with Aravalli hills in the background looks stunning during sunset. The top floor is carved and designed entirely in marble. The interiors are adorned with some beautiful mythological paintings and frescoes on its ceiling. You may even spot some peacocks dancing around if the weather is pleasant. Perfect location and stunning architecture, lists Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri among the popular attractions of Alwar. However, the edifice calls for maintenance.

This can be called Alwar’s most artistic monument and the most regal as well, replete with a fascinating story. Maharaja Vinay Singh of Alwar built this double-storeyed cenotaph in 1815 in memory of his father Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh. It is also known as Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri after the king’s mistress, who performed sati here when he died. After the sati, she came to be accepted as king’s wife. It is an elegant monument, shaped like a flower and built with a blend of brown sandstone and white marble.

The first storey is made in sandstone while the upper storey and chhatris (cenotaphs) are made in white marble. Its carved pavilion has domed arches with exquisite floral tracery and patterns. There are intricate designs that shine brilliantly under sunlight. Bala Qila, on a hilltop, can also be seen from Bakhtawar Ki Chhatri.
The colourful circular ceiling is an important part of Moosi Maharani Ki Chhatri and is adorned with fading gold leaf paintings of mythological characters and scenes. Footsteps of Maharaja and Moosi Rani are carved in marble inside the cenotaph, and locals pay homage to them.