Chhota Imambara, Lucknow.

Chhota Imambara also known as Hussainabad Imambara is a wonderful monument located in the city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. The third Nawab of Avadh Muhammad Ali Shah built this in 1838; it was to serve as his own mausoleum. Also known as the Palace of Lights because of its decorations during special festivals.

The chandeliers used to decorate the interior of this building were brought from Belgium. Thousands of labourers worked on the project to gain famine relief.

It has a gilded white dome and several turrets and minarets. The tombs of Muhammad Ali Shah and other members of his family are inside the imambara. The walls are decorated with Arabic calligraphy. Outside the imambara is the watch tower called Satkhanda or tower of seven storeys. Though it is called satkhanda, it has only four storeys, as the construction of the tower was abandoned when Ali Shah died. Satkhanda was built between 1837 and 1842.

Bara Imambara, Lucknow.

Art, architecture & fine arts seems to have something in common with Muslims. Any place in India, for that matter in the world, you go where there is a sizable Muslim population you can see their imprint glaringly visible in the architecture of that place.

Lucknow commonly called as ‘Nawabon ka Shahar’ in Northern India, is a place where there is a significant Muslim population and traditionally ruled by Muslim rulers. This place has many monuments that speak of the past Muslim ruler’s interest and devotion to architecture.

The city is typical! Have many things in common with my city which is Hyderabad. The culture, food, people, market place and very importantly the warmth of the people you feel once you are there! No wonder I felt at home in Lucknow!

 Lucknow is the capital of India’s largest state called Utter Pradesh. There are many unique archaeological monuments in Lucknow city. The biggest of them all is called “Bara Imambara”. This is a historical edifice with marvellous architecture. It was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784 and its chief designer was Kifayat-ullah, who is said to be the relative of the architect of Taj Mahal. (Family of super architects I guess!) The structure shows a mixture of Rajput and Mughal architectures with Gothic influences. The Bara Imambara is an interesting building. It is neither a mosque, nor a mausoleum, but a huge building having interesting elements within it. The construction of the halls and the use of vaults show a strong Islamic influence.

Created with flickr slideshow from softsea.