Taking 54 years for completion, the Chota Imambara stands in all its glory, nestled in the heart of the city of Nawabs, Lucknow. Built by the third king of Oudh Muhammad Ali Shah, the monument is famous as the “Palace of Lights”, because of the chandeliers and crystal glass lamp stands that adorn the hall of Azakhana. Also known as Imambara Hussainabad Mubarak, this splendid monument was built as a place of worship, commemorations and social gatherings for the Shia Muslims of Lucknow.
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The monument is a delicate blend of the Persian, Mughal and Indian architectures. The five main doorways of the Chota Imambara, an emphasis on the Holy Five (Panjetan), and the exterior are adorned with Quranic Verses in Islamic Calligraphy. The domes, minarets and intricate ornamentation welcome the visitors to marvel at the grandeur of the Imambara. The monument covered in white and green serves as remembrance to the sacrifice and sorrow of the Tragedy of Karbala, 10th October 860 A.D.
The central structure, crowned by a majestic dome, houses the tombs of Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah and his family members. Inside, the walls are adorned with ornate stucco work, intricate mirror work, and delicate chandeliers, creating an atmosphere of opulence and tranquility.
The exterior of the Chota Imambara is equally captivating, with its intricate arabesque patterns, ornamental domes, and towering minarets. The reflective pool, known as the Hussainabad Tank, adds to the charm of the complex, providing a picturesque backdrop for the monument. The water inside the Imambara for the fountains and water bodies comes directly from the Gomti River.
Tourists are also held in awe by the Tomb of Princess Asiya Begum, or Shahzadi ka Makbara as it is locally called, a replica of the famous Taj Mahal of Agra. Also a sight to marvel is the Satkhanda, built as a watch-tower to watch the city from the perspective of a bird. Alas, due to the untimely death of the Nawab the construction process was halted and the Satkhanda, seven storey, stands only four storeys tall. The incomplete watchtower was also proposed to be a lunar observatory for Eid Celebration.
All in all the Chota Imambara is a must visit for tourists or locals who wish to be one with the essence of the Nawabi Culture of the city.
In the bustling city of Lucknow, amidst its vibrant streets and bustling markets, the Chota Imambara stands as a pacific of beauty, calm and tranquility.
