The Shahi Bowli is a beautiful step well built in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. It was built during the 18th century by Nawab Β Asif- Ud-Daulah, one of the most famous Nawabs of Awadh. He is well known for building many great monuments in Lucknow, such as the Bara Imambara and the Rumi Darwaza. The Shahi Bowli is located near the Bara Imambara complex.
The word "Bowli" or "Baoli" means a step well. Step wells are deep wells with steps going down to the water level. They were made to store water and provide cool places for people to rest, especially during hot summers. The Shahi Bowli is not just a water tank, but also a beautiful structure with artistic design. It is made of stone and has arched doorways and corridors. The walls are decorated with simple yet elegant carvings. One interesting thing about the Shahi Bowli is its secret tunnel. It is said that there is an underground passage from the Bowli that leads to the Gomti River. This passage was believed to be used in times of danger by royal family members or soldiers to escape.
The Shahi Bowli also had a unique feature. People could see the reflection of visitors in the water before they actually arrived at the Bowli. This was a clever security system used in those times. It would have remained there as a well, but Asaf-ud-Daulah who had a desire to build unique buildings, ordered it to be built as a guest-house β the Shahi Mehmaan Khana. Post-completion, on April 6, 1784, it saw Warren Hastings, the Governor General of East India Company, as one of its first distinguished guests.
Today, the Shahi Bowli is a popular tourist spot in Lucknow. It shows the smart engineering and artistic skills of that time. It is a peaceful place and reminds us of the rich history and culture of the Nawabs of Awadh. Visitors often come here to admire its beauty and learn about the past of Lucknow.
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