Ameer Mahal stands as one of Chennai’s most significant heritage landmarks, located in the heart of Royapettah at Bharathi Street.
This historic palace is the official residence of the Nawab of Arcot and is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, reflecting the city’s royal legacy. The palace is set within a bustling neighborhood that perfectly blends old-world charm with modern urban life.
The Ameer Mahal is the official residence of the titular Nawab of Arcot and his family. Situated in Royapettah, a neighbourhood of Chennai, India, it was constructed in Indo-Saracenic style in 1798, the Ameer Mahal has been the residence of the family since 1876. The Prince of Arcot, Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali, lives in the palace with his family
Royapettah itself is one of Chennai’s oldest and most vibrant areas, known for its rich cultural history, classic architecture, and a lively street scene. The locality is a major residential and commercial hub, offering easy access to key parts of the city.
Residents and visitors benefit from proximity to shopping centers, hospitals, schools, and major business districts. The area’s connectivity is excellent, with arterial roads like Anna Salai and Thiru Vi Ka Salai nearby, and public transport options including buses and the upcoming Metro station making travel convenient.
Despite being a busy area, Royapettah retains a sense of historical grandeur, with Ameer Mahal serving as a reminder of Chennai’s princely past.
The surrounding streets are filled with a mix of traditional markets, modern stores, and eateries, creating a dynamic urban atmosphere. While traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours, the neighborhood’s central location and amenities make it a sought-after address for both residential and commercial purposes.
Overall, Amir Mahal’s location in Royapettah offers a unique combination of heritage, accessibility, and urban vitality, making it not just a landmark but a living part of Chennai’s...
Read moreAmir Mahal is the official residence of the titular Nawab of Arcot and his family. Situated in Royapettah, a suburb in the present Chennai India, it was constructed in Indo-Saracenic style in 1798. Amir Mahal has been the residence of the family since 1876. The Nawab’s successor, Mohammed Abdul Ali, and his three brothers still live in the palace with their families. It also has a mini cricket ground which is currently being renovated by the government.
The Amir Mahal was constructed in 1798 by the British East India Company to house administrative offices of the company. When the Carnatic kingdom was annexed by the Company in 1855 as per the Doctrine of Lapse, the Chepauk Palace which was the official residence of the Nawabs was auctioned off and purchased by the Madras government. The Nawab moved to a building called Shadi Mahal on Triplicane High Road and lived there. However, the British felt that the Shadi Mahal was not a place ‘fit for the residence of the Prince of Arcot’ and granted him the Amir Mahal in Royapettah. Robert Chrisholm was given the task of converting the office building into a palace. In 1876, the Nawab moved in with his family into the Amir Mahal.
The Amir Mahal has since been the residence of the...
Read moreHidden gem in the heart of the city... Pride of Chennai... Got an opportunity to meet the PRINCE OF ARCOT as well👍🏼😎 You have a palace where the Nawab and his family still lives. Big cricket ground where cricket matches happen...
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