Lucknow was continuing to surprise me, the historical places and the monuments are mesmerizing with a vast amount of history behind them. Close to the Bada Imambara is this Chhhota Imambara, Lucknow which is constructed by Muhammad Ali Shah, the Nawab of Awadh in the year 1838. Many believe that he got the building constructed to pay his respects for having had a new leash of power by being the Nawab of Awadh as chosen by the British. In his last leg of life, he was given the opportunity to occupy this position of great importance when he was not even vying for it. The monument is also called Hussainabad Imambara and is essentially a place of congregation for the Shia Muslims.
Chhota Imambara Lucknow Front View | Image Resource : wikimedia.org
Chhota Imambara Lucknow Side View | Image Resource : flickr.com/photos/31865058@N04/5168994639
The Imambara later served the purpose of the Nawab’s mausoleum and also for his family. The main gate of the premise or the Phatak is also known as the Rumi Darwaza. During special festivals the place gets a celebratory look with lights and decorations to commemorate the special day of the Muslims. There are many artifacts within the building like the crown of the Nawab himself and the esteemed tazias. Inspired by the Taj Mahal, the place also houses the tombs of Muhammad Ali Shah’s daughter and her spouse which are like the replica of the Taj. The ancient calligraphy in the walls is reminiscent of the bygone era and presents to the visitors the historical significance of the place.
Chhota Imambara Lucknow | Image Resource : flickr.com/photos/naiyer/4432048360
The minarets, the turrets and the domes have beautiful architectural qualities that spellbind the people who visit the monument. The fountains that can be seen inside have provisions of water from the Gomti River. The interiors are simply breathtaking and I came to know that the imposing chandeliers that can be seen were brought from Belgium. Close to the Chhota Imambara, Lucknow is a Satkhanda Tower meant for lunar observations. It was to have 7 stories but the construction was halted up till the 4 stories because of the demise of the Nawab and the subsequent ruler had got the construction stopped. As I moved around this very important historical area, I braced myself for more references to the history of Lucknow as Jama Masjid, Lucknow was next.
Wonder Destinations 