Satkhanda — Attraction in Uttar Pradesh

The old city area of Lucknow is replete with historical monuments so much so that it seems to be taken straight out of a history book. Most of the monuments built by the Nawabs of Awadh portray a rich blend of Mughal, British, and Persian architecture at its best. One such magnificent structure, which unfortunately could not reach completion, is the #Satkhanda, situated in the Hussainabad area of the city. The tower was built by Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah in 1842. Originally, the plan was to build 30 meters high, seven-storey tower but the construction work was abandoned after the untimely death of Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah. By that time, only four storeys could be completed. The tower is approximately 21 meters high and was built to view the moon by the Ulema as Muslims celebrate Eid, Bakreed festivals according to the sighting of the moon. Moreover, Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah wanted to have an extensive bird’s eye view of the wonderful city of Lucknow along with the majestic monuments and buildings from Satkhanda. According to some local historians, the Nawab used to love his daughter immensely and wanted to build the monument for her. Unfortunately, the Nawab’s daughter is said to have died at a tender age. Soon after the untimely death of his daughter, Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah also died as he was unable to bear the loss of his daughter. The construction of the Satkhanda tower was abruptly stopped after the death of Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah and the descendants of the Nawab did not undertake the completion of the construction because they thought it would be a bad omen. Some locals believe that Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah hurt his ankle badly while climbing the stairs of the tower and died soon after this incident. Perhaps, this was the reason behind the reluctance of the Nawab’s descendants to avoid resuming the construction of Satkhanda, considering it a bad...

Satkhanda The construction of this tower shaped historical building was started by King of Awadh Mohaamed Ali Shah in the year 1838 in Mohalla Husainabad (Near to Choota Imambara ) to sight the moon specially the moon commencing the month Moharram and Eid . In the year 1842 when Mohammed Ali Shah died only four stories were been constructed. After him the construction stopped. The maintenance and upkeep of this building is the responsibility of Husainabaad Trust. Due the sheer negligence and carelessness in the upkeep and maintenance the building started being ruined. The building was constructed by lakohri and Stone. The nearby residents started picking these from the ruins. Eleven pillars of the first floor only were shattered and the rest were almost in the similar condition. The Flood has taken away the foundation. It has become a public toilet. Anti social elements like drinkers, eve teaser had made this their playground.

We a group of people have approached Husainabad Trust or any other body like Archaeology Survey Of India , Municipal Corporation , Nirman Nigam , LDA , INTEC , Tourism Department for the renovation and maintenance of this historical building . When unheard and felt that if no action is taken the SATHKHANDA will be no more we moved up an application to the Chairman Husainabad Trust / District Magistrate Lucknow for the permission to start the renovation.

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Satkhanda, located in Lucknow, India, is a magnificent seven-story tower that stands as a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. Built in the 18th century during the reign of Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah, Satkhanda, meaning "seven storeys," was intended to be twice its current height, adorned with seven stories instead of the four that were completed.

The tower's design is a blend of Mughal and European architectural styles, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each of the four stories that remain is adorned with ornate balconies, arched windows, and beautifully carved motifs, reflecting the grandeur of its time.

Satkhanda was originally planned to house a clock on its topmost floor, inspired by the Big Ben of London. However, due to financial constraints and the untimely demise of Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah, the construction was halted, leaving the tower incomplete.

Despite its unfinished state, Satkhanda remains a popular tourist attraction in Lucknow, drawing visitors with its historical significance and stunning architectural beauty. Standing tall amidst the bustling cityscape, it serves as a reminder of Lucknow's glorious past and the rich cultural legacy of the region. Visitors can admire the tower from the outside and soak in its grandeur while imagining the towering structure that it was...