Dilkusha Kothi, Ruins of a colonial house in Lucknow, India
Dilkusha Kothi is a colonial-era mansion in ruins with tall walls and octagonal towers. The remains display the English baroque style of the 19th century and are set within expansive garden grounds.
During the 1857 Siege of Lucknow, British forces retook the building from Indian rebels, resulting in substantial damage from artillery bombardment. This military conflict left lasting marks on the structure.
The structure blends English design with local building traditions, visible in its open floor plan without a central courtyard. This architectural fusion reflects how European and Indian styles merged during the colonial period.
The site is open during daylight hours and best explored on foot, with towers and walls visible from multiple angles. Comfortable footwear is advisable, as the ground is uneven and shade is limited.
In 1830, an early hot-air balloon ascent took place on the palace grounds, witnessed by King Nasir-ud-Din Haider and members of his court. This rare event reveals how progressive and connected to the wider world Lucknow's elite were at that time.
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