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Nawab's Lasting Legacy: Exiled King Recreates Lucknow in Kolkata
23 Oct
Summary
- Nawab Wajid Ali Shah exiled to Kolkata in 1856, recreated Lucknow
- Remnants of his passion for arts and Awadhi traditions persist
- Metiabruz area a poignant reminder of the last king's enduring influence
After being deposed and exiled by the British in 1856, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah spent the final three decades of his life in Kolkata's Metiabruz, where he created a miniature version of his beloved Lucknow and transported the city's vibrant culture there. As of 2025-10-23, the meandering street named after the nawab in Metiabruz stands as a poignant reminder of Awadh's last king and his tumultuous life.
Despite the British efforts to erase all traces of Wajid Ali Shah's existence in Metiabruz following his death in 1887, remnants of his passion for arts, traditions, and Awadhi culture persist in the area. The Sibtainabad Imambara, a magnificent structure that marks the nawab's presence, houses his literary possessions, royal insignia, and the last verse he wrote, along with other artifacts that bear witness to his legacy.
Today, Metiabruz is known for its diverse industries, but the nawab's influence can still be felt in the area. Kite-flying, a pastime he patronized, has not only survived but has made Metiabruz one of the largest kite-making hubs in India. The sensory experiences of the area, from the aroma of paan to the dazzle of zari-zardozi work, evoke the essence of Lucknow's Qaiserbagh and Chowk, reminding visitors of the nawab's enduring impact on the city's culture.
