Chattar Manzil
Chattar Manzil is a historical building in Lucknow, India. It was built by the Nawabs of Awadh in the 18th century and was used as a palace for the royal family. The name “Chattar Manzil” means “umbrella palace,” as it has a large umbrella-shaped dome on top. Today, the building is a museum and a popular tourist attraction in Lucknow.
History of Chattar Manzil
The history of Chattar Manzil dates back to the early 18th century when the Nawabs of Awadh ruled over the region. The first Nawab of Awadh, Saadat Ali Khan, built a palace on the same site where Chattar Manzil stands today.
However, the palace was destroyed in a fire in the early 19th century. The present-day building was constructed by Nawab Ghazi-ud-Din Haider in the mid-19th century.
The architecture of Chattar Manzil is a blend of European and Mughal styles. The building has two parts: the upper part, which was used as the living quarters of the royal family, and the lower part, which served as a durbar hall or a meeting place for the Nawabs.
The upper part has a distinctly European style with large French windows, while the lower part has a more traditional Mughal style with arches and domes.
The most distinctive feature of Chattar Manzil is its large umbrella-shaped dome, which gives the building its name. The dome is made of metal and is covered in copper. It is said that the dome was used as a weather vane, and its direction would change with the wind.
Over the years, Chattar Manzil has been used for various purposes. During the British colonial period, it served as a court of justice. Later, it was used as an office for the municipal corporation.
In the early 20th century, it became the residence of the Raja of Mahmudabad. After independence, the building was acquired by the state government and converted into a museum.
Today, Chattar Manzil houses a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of Lucknow. The museum has a collection of artifacts, paintings, and photographs that depict the lifestyle of the Nawabs of Awadh.
Visitors can see the durbar hall, which has been restored to its original grandeur, with chandeliers, mirrors, and ornate decorations. The upper part of the building has been converted into galleries that display various exhibits, including weapons, clothes, and jewelry.
Apart from the museum, Chattar Manzil is also known for its beautiful gardens. The building is surrounded by lush green lawns and trees, which make it a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. The gardens also have a musical fountain that plays every evening, attracting visitors from all over the city.
In recent years, the Uttar Pradesh government has taken steps to restore and preserve Chattar Manzil. The building has been given a new lease of life with a fresh coat of paint and restoration of its domes and arches. The gardens have also been landscaped and beautified, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
In conclusion, Chattar Manzil is an important part of Lucknow’s heritage and history. It is a testament to the rich culture and architecture of the Nawabs of Awadh. The building’s unique blend of European and Mughal styles, along with its distinctive umbrella-shaped dome, make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture and history.
The museum inside the building provides a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Nawabs, while the gardens offer a serene and tranquil setting for relaxation and enjoyment.