Those in favour with the emperor, or conquered rivals begging for peace, were admitted to the white marble Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience). This delicate, wedding cake–like pavilion features some outstanding carving and inlay work. The legendary gold and jewel-studded Peacock Throne was looted from the pavilion by Nadir Shah in 1739.
South of the Diwan-i-Khas is the dainty Khas Mahal , containing the emperor’s private apartments, shielded from prying eyes by lace-like carved marble screens. An artificial stream, the nahr-i-bihisht (river of paradise), once flowed through the apartments to the adjacent Rang Mahal , home to the emperor’s chief wife. The exterior of the palace was once lavishly painted; inside is an elegant lotus-shaped fountain.
