The Mughal monument, Chhota Imambara aka Imambara Hussainabad Mubarak is located in the city of Lucknow. The monument is a congregation hall where Muslim devotees perform prayer. It was built by Muhammad Ali Shah who reigned the city in the 18th century. If you are traveling to Lucknow city, this will definitely give you a vast series of information about history. Moreover, the site holds the utmost tranquillity, so feelings of inner peace and bliss are guaranteed.
The significance of Panjetan, the holy five, is once again emphasized here with five main doorways. This Imambara consists of two halls and a Shehnasheen (a platform where the Zarih of Imam Husain is kept.) Zarih is the replica of that protective grill or structure which is kept on the grave of Imam Husain at Karbala, Iraq.
The large green and white-bordered hall of Azakhana is richly decorated with chandeliers and a good number of crystal glass lamp-stands. In fact, it was for this profuse decoration that the Imambara was referred to by European visitors and writers as The Palace of Lights. The exterior is very beautifully decorated with Quranic verses in Islamic calligraphy.
Chota Imambara History
Lucknow, earlier known as Awadh, witnessed famine a few times in the early 19th century. Consequently, the agricultural economy broke down, and the laborers 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 some work so that they could manage to earn a decent living. The construction of the monument was finally completed in the year 1837.
Top Attractions Near Chota Imambara
1. Husainabad Clock Tower
The Big Ben Of India! This is the perfect place for tourists, photographers, and the one who seeks a physically appealing background for photo clicking.
2. British Residency
Intervene yourself into past British India. The residency consists of a small museum that will be more interesting.
3. Rumi Darwaza
Get the insights of Awadhi architecture that is embedded in the creation of Rumi Darwaza. A great tranquil place to spend some quality time.
Things to do Near Chota Imambara
1. Lucknow
Lucknow city is famous for its Mughlai cuisines and you will find a hub of restaurants serving different Mughlai dishes.
2. Chikankari Kurta
In women's attire, it is one famous attire that can be found at every street shop and shopping complex.
Best Time to Visit Chota Imambara
The place can be visited year-round. But, Muslim devotees officially visit the place on Fridays.
How to Reach Chota Imambara?
Locals
Apart from local buses, autos, and taxis, you can also take the service of Lucknow Metro Railway Corporation. The nearest metro stations are Alambagh, Charbagh.
Outsiders
If you are traveling from other cities or countries, The Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow is a well-managed airport providing several domestic and international air services.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here.
