During the Islamic month of Muharram, Shia Muslims come here in large numbers to mourn (ماتم) the passing of Hussain (Husayn) ibn Ali, who was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H). Bara Imambara is an important place of worship and religious gatherings, especially during this month.
In spite of this, the monument is a well-known tourist destination thanks to its remarkable construction as well as the numerous fascinating stories that are associated with it.
Bara Imambara is a magnificent religious structure that was built in the 18th century and can be seen in Lucknow, also known as the City of Nawabs.
In common parlance, it is referred to as the Asafi Imambara and was constructed by the Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula of Awadh. The monument, which is one of the most beautiful historical sites to see in Lucknow, is designed in the Mughal style and features some spectacular architecture.
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History of Bara Imambara
The Awadh province was struck by a devastating famine in the year 1784, which caused common men and nobles alike to fall into abject poverty and starvation.
During this period of turmoil, Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula made the decision to construct the Bara Imambara as a means of providing famine relief. It is estimated that at then 20,000 people worked on the monument during its construction.
When the noblemen and members of the upper class arrived at the construction site in the evening, they would begin demolishing whatever had been constructed during the day by the common men who were working on building the structure.
Bara Imambara: Today
An important centre of prayer for Shia Muslims, the Bara Imambara may be found in the historic district of Lucknow, just on the side of a major thoroughfare. Every day of the year, visitors from all around the world, including devout Muslims, flock to the monument.
The graves of both Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula and his wife Begum Shamsunnisa are located in the large hall that is a part of the Imambara. In addition, the Imambara features three gardens that are kept in pristine condition.
During Muharram (محرم) 1st Islamic month, a significant number of devout followers of Shia Islam travel to the monument to participate in sacred ceremonies.
Architecture & Style of Bara Imambara
The Bara Imambara is a structure that is nothing short of an engineering masterpiece. It was designed by Hafiz Kifayatullah, who was a well-known architect of that time.
One of the most stunning architectural structures in the city, it combines elements of the Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture along with Gothic elements, and it is located in Lucknow.
The fact that no metal nor wood was employed in the monument’s construction is perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the structure.
The Imambara boasts not one, but two sizable entrances. At one end of the gate is the Asafi Mosque’s gate, while at the other end is the enormous baoli. Both of these buildings can be seen from within the gate.
The primary entrance to the structure is characterised by three arches and a twin fish motif, both of which are representative of the Nawabs. It is comprised of a total of nine halls, with the central chamber being the largest of the bunch.
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What to See at Bara Imambara
- The Central Hall is one of the most impressive parts of the Bara Imambara because of how large it is and how well the construction was done. As was said earlier, the ceiling of this room is constructed in an unusual manner, as there are neither beams nor pillars to support it.
- In keeping with its moniker, Bhul Bhulaiya is a complex maze that consists of more than a thousand corridors and 489 sets of doors that are all the same. Even though it is one of the most incredible portions of the Imambara, you are not permitted to visit there unless you have a guide with you. It may be impossible for you to find your way through this convoluted labyrinth of interconnected tunnels on your own.
- Asafi Mosque is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture and may be seen on the west side of the Bara Imambara.
- The outstanding architectural design may be seen in the Shahi Baoli, which is a stepwell with five levels and is located on the east side of Bara Imambara. It was rumoured to be the covert location from where the authorities of the Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula would keep an eye on the guests. The architecture of the well was conceived in such a way that the guests who stood at the entrance would have their reflections cast onto the water of the well.
Instructions on How to Get to Bara Imambara
Connectivity via air, rail, and road are all strong in Lucknow, which serves as the state capital of Uttar Pradesh. Bara Imambara is around 15 kilometres away from the International Airport of Chaudhury Charan Singh in Lucknow.
If you are travelling by rail, the closest station to your destination is Lucknow Railway Station, which is located six kilometres away. From there, you can rent a taxi or an auto-rickshaw.
Rashid Nawaz is a professional blogger and a News report. He works for SMH News Agency in Jhang and he is a news reporter on Dunya Urdu as well.
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