In the Autumn of 2017, I was lucky enough to plan a short escape to the rich and royal city of Lucknow. Being an out and out vegetarian, my friends/ colleagues/ boss teased me as to what I am planning to do in Lucknow – the city that’s known for their meat-based cuisine. But hey! Lucknow is much more than Tunday Kebabs, Nihari, Mutton Biryani, Galouti Kebabs. And thus began my pursuit of food joints of Lucknow that was popular for vegetarian food.

Read more here: Nosh Farmaiye ki aap Lucknow me Hain!

I wanted to visit Lucknow for a long long time because I had heard of this place that’s known for its awe-inspiring design, mysteries & stories. I had heard of its envy inducing & gravity defying architecture and had longed to experience that in-person.

Yes, I am talking about the Imambara of Lucknow, also known as Asafi Imambara or Bara Imambara – a true testament to human ingenuity and architectural brilliance.

A Glimpse into the History:

Constructed in the 18th century by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the fourth Nawab of Awadh, Bara Imambara was called Asafi Imambara.

It was constructed to provide employment to the masses during a severe famine. The construction of the monument provided jobs and a means to live during those tough times which is why the saying:

जिसे न दे मौला, उसे दे आसफ़ुद्दौला (meaning: He who does not receive from the Lord, receives from Asaf-ud-Daula)

That said, what makes the monument truly unique is its structural design, which has challenged the thinking of architects and engineers for centuries now.

A Feat that defies Gravity:

At the centre of the Imambara complex is this grand central hall, which is one of the largest arched constructions without any supporting beams in the world.

Yes, No kidding! In the world.

This monument defies gravity with its gigantic hall spanning 50 meters in length, 16 meters in width, and an stupefying height of 15 meters.

It doesn’t stop at that.

What’s even more surprising is that the hall’s roof is made from brick and limestone, without the use of any pillars or beams for support. This feat of engineering has baffled experts and visitors alike questioning how a structure of this architectural brilliance was possible during its time of construction.

I would like to share a couplet from Bismil Saeedi,

किया तबाह तो दिल्ली ने भी बहुत ‘बिस्मिल’

मगर ख़ुदा की क़सम लखनऊ ने लूट लिया

The Mysterios Bhulbhulaiya:

While the gravity-defying hall is the main attractionof the Imambara, the surprises don’t end here. The place has got a unique labyrinth known as the Bhulbhulaiya, that’s quite a hit during the guided tours. This intricate maze is a network of narrow passages, staircases, and doorways that often lead visitors astray, amused and amazed.

Navigating the Bhulbhulaiya is so fun that both kids and adults try to find out its hidden corners & secret connecting passaged. One can’t help but appreciate the intelligence that went into building this beautiful mess. 😉

The Envy of Architects:

Many architects and engineers have visited the Imambara to study its construction techniques and have attempted to discover its mysteries but building a similar structure till date remains an elusive task.

The Imambara of Lucknow, with its brilliant architecture, construction genius & gravity-defying structure is a symbol of pride for India. With its historical significance and the rich cultural heritage of the city (Lucknow) where it’s located, it serves as a constant reminder of India’s genius and advancements in the fields of Science, Tehnology and Arts ahead of the rest of the world.

Wherever you are in the world, I invite you to take out some time to visit Imambara situated in the beautiful city of Lucknow in India, and experience yet another Logic-defying place of India that evokes awe, wonder & faith – which is our ongoing theme of our recent campaign, ‘Rediscover India, Incredible India’.