Nestled within an expansive courtyard, flanked with lengthy corridors and dominated by the imposing clock tower, the Hooghly Imambara (50km north of Kolkata) stands as a testament to architectural brilliance, silently narrating tales of its former eminence and waning grandeur. Originating in the 19th century, this Imambara serves as a gathering hall for Muslim commemorative ceremonies, yet its doors are open to individuals of all castes, creeds, and religions.
The humble genesis of the Imambara can be traced back to Mohammad Aga Motahar, a distinguished Persian merchant who, in 1717, established the Hooghly Imambara on the banks of the river Hooghly. Initially settling there for his salt business, Motahar envisioned a tranquil abode for his family, dedicating the dwelling solely to the Muslim faith and naming it “Nazargah Hossein.” In 1735, his son-in-law Mirza Saleh-ud-din expanded the premises with the addition of “Tazia Khana.”
The present-day Imambara, replacing the original structures, emerged under the patronage of Haji Mohammad Mohsin. This philanthropist, who donated the entire property for the local Muslim community’s use, passed away in 1812, preceding the commencement of the Imambara’s construction. The formidable structure took two decades, from 1841 to 1861, to be completed, incurring an expenditure of Rs.850,000.
Translated as the “abode of angels” (‘Imam’ signifying angels and ‘Bara’ meaning abode), the Hooghly Imambara welcomes visitors through a grand entrance leading to a captivating open courtyard. A rectangular tank, adorned with fountains, graces the courtyard’s center. Surrounding the courtyard are two-story buildings with extensive corridors, housing numerous rooms now utilized for official purposes and as classrooms for madrasah students. Facing the courtyard is the Zaridalan, the main prayer hall of the Imambara, although not captured in photographs.
The clock tower, a highlight of the Hooghly Imambara, takes center stage. Positioned amid twin towers towering 150 feet high, with 152 stairs leading to the top, the clock boasts two dials. Acquired in 1852 from the London-based manufacturer Black & Hurray Co. for Rs. 11,721, it is wound weekly by two individuals wielding a 20kg key. Above the central mechanism, three bells of varying sizes, weighing around 3200 kg, 1600 kg, and 1200 kg, chime every 15 minutes and every hour, respectively. The Southern Tower grants access to men, while the Northern Tower is designated for women, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding areas and the Ganges River from their summits.
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Categories: Hooghly Imambara, India, West Bengal
Kevin Standage 
Very nice pictures like usually. It’s interesting to know that we can go in the top of the minar to have a good view. I’ll be there in few weeks…
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