Kothis of Awadh: Exploring Lucknow kothis through centuries, transformed today into admin buildings

Kothis built at the time of Nawabs varied from archetypal Indian architecture and typically showcased two storeys, lawns, sprawling courtyards, plain walls, hints of Goth in their designs, and points alike. With stored treasures of historical facts, legends of the past, architectural anecdotes, these Lucknow kothis have stood all tests of time.

Taking you on a historical dive into the rich roots of the history of the city of Nawabs, we're here to dispense all about these prodigal wonders.

Built by the exemplar Nawab Saadat Ali Khan and designed by the genius of Major General Claude Martin, Kothi Hayat Baksh stands today as the historical and architectural marvel known the Raj Bhavan of Lucknow.

As the colonial era came to an end, the kothi became home to Indian governors, and thus, came to be called as Governor House.

Built during the reign of Awadh's Nawab Nasirudeen Haider (1827-1837) by Roshan-ud-Daula, the intricacies and uniqueness of Awadhi architecture can be found in the monument, with the (now) rare Lakhauri bricks, lime, etc.

Now a state-protected building, Kothi Roshan-ud-Daula once stood as a kacheri or a palace of justice to the Nawab.

One of Lucknow's heritage living sites, the Bibiyapur Kothi was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula and comprises grand halls with high ceilings, mystical spiral staircase, arched doorways, among other features.

Even though it is currently administered by the Indian Army, its gates are still open to general public to explore secrets and narratives from 18th century.

Located in Hazratganj, Kothi Noor Baksh is believed to have been built by Saadat Ali Khan (1798-1814), the sixth Nawab of Oudh. The resonance of Awadhi imprints in the structure gathers immense appreciation, whilst speaking volumes of glory, beauty, and renaissance.

Today, the grandeur of a kothi stands as the DM's residence and camp office.

The Tare Wali Kothi, standing for 190 years now, engendered from the then King of Oudh Nasir-ud-Din Haidar Shah's fondness of stars and astronomy. Thus, the marvel was built as a royal observatory. 

The kothi has seen tremendous changes and today has taken the shape of the SBI branch head office in Lucknow.