Lucknow is the land of the Nawabs and is renowned all over India for its refined ways of conversation, delectable seekh kebabs, chikan clothing and also for its vibrant streets lined with shops and street vendors. There are many monuments in Lucknow among which the Shah Najaf Imambara, Lucknow occupies an important place for the Muslims of Lucknow as well as the whole India. This wonderful piece of architecture is located at a convenient distance from the various points of transit. Shah Najaf is the title which was given to Maula Ali, the supposed son in law of Prophet Muhammad, who made his sincerest efforts to protect the emerging religion of Islam.
History of Shah Najaf Imambara, Lucknow
The history of Shah Najaf Imambara in Lucknow takes a tourist back to the ancient times when Islam was in the nascent state and still struggling to make its own mark. Moula Ali or Shah Najaf, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, was a great intellectual as well as a brave warrior. His valiant endeavors in protecting and popularizing Islam won him the title of Haider-e-Khuda, meaning “Lion of Allah”. He later became the 4th Caliph of Islam. The Imambara is dedicated to him.
Description of Shah Najaf Imambara, Lucknow
Located near the Chariton Hotel, Shah Najaf Imambara in Lucknow is one of the best and the most splendid monuments in Lucknow. This particular Imambara is in the shape of a dome and on the bank of the river Gomti on the right side. Najaf Imambara in Lucknow was built by Nawab Ghazi-ud-Din Haider to serve as his mausoleum. This mausoleum is also the repository of the remains of Ghazi-ud-din Haider and his wives that also include Mubarak Mahal, his European wife. The entrance of the mausoleum will take you to a scenic garden that is beautifully adorned with the various types of flowers.
At the center of the building there lies the silver tomb of Ghazi-ud-din Haider and is located in between the more impressive silver and gold tomb of Mubarak Mahal and another tomb. The tombs and their design patterns are simply a delight to watch and hence adds to the experience of a good travel for the tourists.
