Indo Islamic Heritage
Khursheed Manzil: A Symbol of Love and Legacy in Lucknow Nestled in the heart of Lucknow, near the banks of the Gomti River, Khursheed Manzil is a timeless tribute to love, royalty, and architectural grandeur.
Nestled in the heart of Lucknow, near the banks of the Gomti River, Khursheed Manzil is a timeless tribute to love, royalty, and architectural grandeur. This magnificent palace, adorned with European influences, was conceived by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan, the sixth ruler of Awadh, as a gift for his beloved wife, Khursheed Zadi. However, fate had other plans?both the Nawab and his queen passed away before its completion. Their son, Nawab Ghazi-ud-Din Haider, later fulfilled his father?s vision and completed the palace in 1818, naming it after his mother. A Tale of Two Monuments Khursheed Zadi?s memory was honored with not just a palace but also a grand maqbara (mausoleum). While her mausoleum reflects the finesse of Mughal architecture, Khursheed Manzil stands as an elegant masterpiece of European design, setting it apart from the traditional Awadhi structures. A European Masterpiece in the Heart of Lucknow Designed by Captain Duncan McLeod, a British architect who later left the East India Company to serve the Nawabs, Khursheed Manzil blends regal elegance with European architectural elements. The two-story palace is distinguished by its octagonal towers, a central dome, and exquisite fa?ade, reflecting a fusion of Roman and Gothic styles. The Nawab was so impressed by Captain McLeod that he provided him with seven out-houses, luxurious accommodation, and a host of servants as a mark of honor. Witnessing History: From Royal Residence to Battleground Khursheed Manzil has seen the tides of history change dramatically. During the Revolt of 1857, the palace was transformed into a British stronghold and became a key location in the Siege of Lucknow. The walls of this majestic structure still bear the scars of that historic rebellion, a silent testament to the battles fought here. Khursheed Manzil Today Over the years, the palace has evolved from a royal residence to an educational landmark. Today, it is home to La Martiniere Girls? College, carrying forward its legacy of grandeur and learning. The structure remains a cherished part of Lucknow?s heritage, drawing visitors who marvel at its exquisite design and storied past. A visit to Khursheed Manzil offers a journey through time?a place where love, art, and history intertwine. Whether one is drawn to its romantic origins, its role in India?s first war of independence, or its enduring architectural charm, the palace remains an unmissable gem in Lucknow?s heritage.
Year of Built: 1818
Address: w, La Martiniere Girls' College, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226001, India.
Country: India
State: Uttar Pradesh
District: Lucknow
Pincode: 226001
Longitude: 80.9462? E
Latitude: 26.8467? N