CAPTURING LUCKNOW IN PIXELS - CHOTA IMAMBARA

 

                                                                      CAPTURING LUCKNOW IN PIXELS -

The Chhota Imambara, or the Imambara of Hussainabad, is one of the most beautiful and attractive buildings in the old city of Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh. This imposing monument lies to the west of Bara Imambara and is a true sight to behold. The Chhota Imambara was initially a congregation hall for Shia Muslims that was built by Muhammad Ali Shah, who was the third Nawab of Awadh, in 1838. The Imambara was to serve as his own mausoleum as well as that of his mother, who is buried beside him in this prestigious monument.

The Imambara is beautifully adorned with decorations and chandeliers at the time of special festivals, especially Muharram. In fact, this 19th-century building is also referred to as the 'Palace of Lights' by European visitors and writers because of the profuse decorations of the monument at specific events.

It is a beautiful amalgam of Charbagh, Indo-Islamic and Persian structural and architectural designs. The exterior is complete with Quranic verses which are written in Islamic calligraphy on the walls of the monument. However, it is not just the exterior of the Imambara which catches the fancy of the eager visitors. Even the interiors of the monument are designed and maintained with intricate details and utmost care.

Historical Significance 

Lucknow, earlier known as Awadh, witnessed famine a few times in the early 19th century. Consequently, the agricultural economy broke down, and the labourers and farmers were all poverty stricken. They were finding it increasingly difficult to make both ends meet, so finally, Muhammad Ali Shah, the then Nawab of Awadh, decided to sanction the building of the Chhota Imambara.

This decision was taken with the objective of offering the distressed with some work so that they could manage to earn a decent living. The construction of the monument was finally completed in the year 1837.

 

 NEED TO KNOW - 

Non-Muslim visitors are not allowed inside the mosque located within the monument complex.

Tourists are advised to start their tour with the Bara Imambara, and then visit the Chhota Imambara later on. You can club your visit with nearby locations such as Jama Masjid, Clock Tower and Rumi Darwaza.

It is a wise idea to seek the help of a guide which is available for a minimum rate of INR 20 onwards in the monument.

Timings : 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Time Required : 2-3 hrs

Entry Fee : Indians: INR 25,

Foreign Nationals: INR 300

Built In : 1838

Constructed By : Muhammad Ali Shah, the Nawab of Awadh

Picture is taken from  - Redmi Note 5 Pro/ Faisal Quadeer