Lucknow was earlier the capital city of Awadh Pradesh. This city is one of the most popular cities in the country. The city was ruled by several rulers such as the Nawabs of Bengal, Nawabs of Awadh, Mughals, and Britishers. This city is named the City of Nawabs as well as the City of Gardens. As the city holds so many gardens of mangos. This land of nawabs is famous for its food, heritage, and industries, as well as for its royal lifestyle.
Now the city is the capital of Uttar Pradesh, one of the fastest-growing states in India. They say that once this city was led by Lakshman the brother of Lord Rama and called Lakshmanpur. This city has numerous attractions which attract tourists from across the world. The city is situated on the bank of River Gomati which is the must to visit attraction of the city. Lucknow is a blend of Islamic and British architecture styles with Ada and Tehzeeb of Nawabs.
History of Nawabs in Lucknow
This city has an ancient history but become famous after the ruler of Mughal rulers over the area during the 15th century. The great Mughal rulers assigned the Awadh region to Muhammad Amir Saadat Khan for the smooth functioning of their empire. Later he become the Nawab of Awadh and in the 18th century, he established his court near Lucknow in Faizabad. This is the time when the region has come into consideration and started developing.
In 1775 the fourth nawab of the region Mirza Asaf – Ud – Daula has shifted their capital to Lucknow from Faizabad. After becoming the capital this city developed as never before. Nawabs have made the city a cultural capital known for its music and art forms. This period was called the golden period for the city. Numerous monuments with astonishing Islamic architecture were formed as well as various art forms were introduced.
After that in 1856 East India Company has taken command of the Awadh region and constructed many buildings. The city was the administrative capital of the Britishers during the colonial period. This region has played an important role in the independence of the country. Lucknow was one of the major supporters of the Khilafat Movement against the Britishers. The city has witnessed numerous events of independence.
Major attractions of the city
- Bara Imambara :- It is the oldest and the second-largest mosque in the world. This is a beautiful place with the finest architecture. It is a must to visit the location of the city, locally known as Bhul Bhulaiya. This mosque was constructed in 1784 by the Nawabs of Awadh.
- Rumi Darwaza :- This astonishing monument was built by Nawab Asaf – Ud – Daula in 1784. This gateway is 60ft. tall and constructed in an incredible Awadhi style of architecture. It is made of marble and red sandstones. The monument is used as the logo of the old city. Rumi Darwaza is a model of the Turkish Gate called Bab – I – Humayun.
- The Residency :- It is the place where British generals reside in Lucknow. This place is a group of several buildings in a single place. It was constructed by nawab Asaf – Ud – Daula in 1700. This is an astonishing building that stands as a memorial of freedom fighters.
- Shaheed Smarak :- This tall structure is made in the honor of the death of martyrs. It stands between the lush green garden and gives a beautiful view of the Gomati River. Tourist visit here to have a peaceful time near the river as well as to enjoy themselves with their family.
Must visit tourist destinations in Lucknow
- Chandrika Devi Temple :- This is a famous temple in the city. Temple is devoted to Goddess Chandi and has a great history related to Ramayana. This temple is also known as Mahi Sagar Teerth, which means it has great value among Hindu tourists. The temple is on the bank of river Gomati, i.e., it is surrounded by water from three sides.
- Constantia :- It is a colonial landmark of the city built in 1845. This building has a European style of architecture. Here you can visit the tomb of French general Claude Martine with a library and a chapel. It is also known as La Martiniere School, maintaining two separate schools for boys and girls.
- Marine Drive :- It is a long stretch along the Gomati River similar to Marine Drive in Mumbai. This is a beautiful street with picturesque views of the river as well as of the city. This place is a must to visit location in the city to relax on the bank of the river. Most people visit here for morning walks, cycling, and jogging.
- Zoological Garden :- This was formed to celebrate the visit of the Wales Prince to the city. This garden is commonly known as the Lucknow Zoo, which is spread over an area of 71.6 acres. This zoo has a toy train ride to wander through the zoo. The zoo holds several events like Children’s Day and Wildlife Week.
Specialties of Lucknow
- Twin Tomb :- These are the two tombs of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan II and his wife Begum Khursheed Zadi. These tombs are adjacent to each other in Qaisarbagh. These are the astonishing monuments constructed in defined artistic architectural styles. It is a place for people who love to explore art in depth.
- Food :- Lucknow is famous for its food from vegetarian to non-vegetarian. The city offers so many different flavors in its dishes. The food of the city is famous for its lip-smacking tastes and royal looks. Tundey Kabab, Biryani, Malai Makhan, Sheermal, and Paya are some famous dishes you can try here.
- Embroidery :- Authentic style of artwork and embroideries are the specialties of the city. The most famous style of embroidery made here is the Chikankari style. This embroidery is a traditional form of threadwork done on the cloth with hands. Chikankari clothes are the must to purchase thing in the city, as these clothes are exported to the whole world.
- Classical Music :- The music and dance form of the city emerged from the poetries scripted by famous poets of the region. The city has a great collection of classical music known as Hindustani Classical Music. Earlier the kings of the region invite famous artists of the country to perform in their courts. Music as well as dances of the city are largely influenced by the Mughal culture.
- Lifestyle :- This city is famous for its nawabi lifestyle to date. People here are still living their lives with the same standards as the nawabs. Here the people are soft-spoken and speak the language which is a blend of Hindi and Urdu. The lifestyle of the city is influenced by Hindi, Persian and British cultures.
Conclusion
Hence it can be concluded that Lucknow is a city with uncountable Jem’s given by Nawabs. Moreover, the city has so much to explore and experience. You can enjoy the royal vibes of the city while wearing Lucknowi and tasting the delicious street food. However, this city is a destination with rich nawabi heritage along with modern technologies and hi-tech surroundings. Tourists visiting the city can experience the Pehle Aap – Pehle Aap courtesy of the local people.
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