Saturday, February 1, 2020

Bara Imambara (बड़ा ईमामबाड़ा)। मुस्कुराइए आप लखनउ में है।



"This large structure was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1786-91 and is one of the architectural wonders of that era." " There are actually 4 things main is Bara Imambara, Bhul Bhulaiya, Asifi Masjid and Shahi Baoli.




Its central hall is said to be the largest vaulted chamber in the world. The great assembly hall is a large hall unsupported by any pillars. Except for the galleries in the interior, there is no woodwork in the entire structure. People can also view the grave of Nawab Asaf-Ud-Dowlah and his crown, kept in the middle of the hall. It is now used by Shia Muslims for the purpose of Azadari.




















It is believed that the construction of this grand building was started in 1785 when a devastating famine had hit Awadh, and the nawab’s objective was to provide employment for people in the region for almost a decade while the famine lasted.




It has large underground passages which have been blocked up. 







A staircase from outside leads to a series of labyrinths known as Bhool-Bhulaiyan, which is a complicated entanglement of zig-zag passages. Visitors are advised to visit only with authorised guides. 




Within the compound of the Imambara is the grand Asafi Mosque. Shahi Baoli is another attraction here.




This huge architectural and religious place is a must visit if you are in Lucknow. (Entry: Rs 50 (Incl : bara Imambara and Picture gallery) Guide Charges : 150 for family tour.

Shahjahan built Taj Mahal & then The Chief Minister Ms Mayavati built Ambedkar Memorial Parivartan Park


Ambedkar Memorial Park Lucknow

Drashya Sthal

This park of plants, tress with statues of icons of depressed society of India was built by Miss Mayawati the then Chief Minister of the State of UP, of which Lucknow is capital. Its construction and landscaping shows the royal taste of Miss Mayawati. It has a sprawling area on the banks of Gomti River. 

Ambedkar Memorial Stupa

The Park and memorial is built across 107 acres in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. The park is comprised of Ambedkar Stupa, Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Sangrahalay, Pratibimb Sthal and Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Drashya Sthal. 





The park was established in the memories of people who devoted their life for humanity, equality, social justice and reforming traditional barbaric culture such as Lord Buddha, Saint Kabir, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, Chantrapati Shahu Maharaj, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Ghasidas, Narayana Guru, Rohidas, Birsa Munda and Kanshi Ram.

Dr Basahab Ambedkar's bronze Statue ( My Life's Struggle is my Message)

        

            


Red sandstone from Rajasthan was used for this megalithic construction. There are lush green gardens all around the memorial park which adds to the beauty of this monument. 

     

The sprawling area is a wow. The statues and structures are magnificent. The greatness of a man who wrote the Indian constitution is well respected and portrayed.

Pratibimb Sthal





The whole park is a leisurely stroll. I was so taken by the place, with its arch of more than half a kilometre and long lines of 62 elephant statues and a marble colonnade that's reminiscent of ancient Rome.


Lord Buddha








The place is so impressive altogether that I later told family and friends, that a trip to Lucknow would be worth the time and money, to see just that one sight only. Must Visit....... (Ticket: Rs 20 only)