ORCHHA: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has indicated that the historic Jahangir Mahal in Orchha could be renamed after Bundela ruler Raja Veer Singh Judeo, who is credited with constructing the iconic palace.
CM Yadav was in Orchha in Niwari district on Monday, where he attended a state BJP executive meeting and visited the Ramraja Sarkar Temple. He also reviewed ongoing development works at the Ramraja Lok project.
Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister pointed out that the palace was built by Raja Veer Singh. Asked whether Jahangir Mahal could henceforth be called Veer Singh Mahal, Yadav replied in the affirmative.
“Yes, it belongs to Veer Singh. Raja Veer Singh built it. There is a saying that Jahangir was going to come. If he doesn’t come, then the one who built it will remain,” he said.
Yadav said several aspects of the region’s history needed to be brought before the public. “We respect them all, there is no denying that,” he added.
The Chief Minister also said development in Orchha would be undertaken while ensuring that the architectural character and historical legacy associated with the Bundela rulers remained protected.
Former Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra, who accompanied Yadav during the visit, backed the proposal. He said the palace should bear the name of its actual builder.
“The palace should be named after the person who built it. But as there was a malicious attempt to erase our historical heritage, to erase their names, by the Mughals and the subsequent culture, that was not good. And therefore, what the chief minister has said is correct. It should be called Veer Singh Mahal,” Mishra told PTI Video.
Located along the Betwa River, Orchha is renowned for its medieval temples, palaces and monuments. Historical accounts state that Raja Veer Singh constructed the palace in 1518 for Mughal prince Salim, who later became Emperor Jahangir. However, Jahangir is believed to have never stayed at the palace.
The monument is noted for its blend of Bundela and Mughal architectural elements. Built on a raised rectangular platform, it has circular domes at its four corners and eight prominent striped domes on the roof, surrounded by smaller cupolas. The palace has 236 rooms and is considered one of Orchha’s most distinctive heritage structures.
Several legends are also associated with the monument, including claims of underground levels. One popular account suggests that the palace has seven floors below ground, although such claims remain part of local folklore.
Raja Veer Singh was the fourth son of Bundela ruler Madhukar Shah. Historians describe him as an opponent of Mughal emperor Akbar but a close associate of Akbar’s son Salim.
As tensions between Akbar and Salim increased, the relationship between Salim and Veer Singh reportedly strengthened, eventually forming an important political and personal association in the history of the Bundela kingdom.