Sibtainabad Imambara, Religious gathering place in Metiabruz, Kolkata, India.
Sibtainabad Imambara is a religious gathering place in Metiabruz, Kolkata, distinguished by a large hall featuring scalloped arches and decorative niches throughout its interior. The structure displays ceremonial tomb replicas called tazias, and an eastern enclosed area contains the tomb of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, which is decorated with inscriptions and poetic verses.
The structure was built in 1864 by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last ruler of Oudh, following his exile from Lucknow. The building became a refuge and gathering space for followers who shared his religious and cultural heritage in a new city.
The building serves as a center for Shia Islamic ceremonies, especially during Muharram when the community gathers for religious observances. People come together in the halls to perform rituals and remember sacred figures through collective prayer and commemoration.
Daytime visits work best for seeing the architectural details and decorations clearly. Respectful dress is expected since this is an active religious site, and visitors should be aware that access may be limited during celebrations and ceremonies.
The entrance displays the Oudh coat of arms and a hamsa hand symbol representing five sacred Islamic figures above the main doorway. These emblems visibly connect the Nawab's heritage to Shia faith traditions and mark the building's link to his former rule.
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