Prince Mohammed Rahimuddin Imambara (Kolkata)

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Among the more overlooked Imambaras in Kolkata, I have been passing the Prince Rahimuddin Imambara for years without ever noticing it. One look at the exterior is enough to confirm that the Imambara is from the Tipu Sultan lineage, because of its signature “Dakhani” style, which one also finds in the 4 mosques in Kolkata built by members of the same family. After Tipu was killed in the siege of Srirangapatna in 1799, the family was exiled to Kolkata and given land around the Tollygunge area, then known as the village of Russa Pagla. Family members still live and own vast tracts of land around the area, including the grounds of the Royal Calcutta Golf Club. Prince Rahimuddin was one of the grandsons of Tipu Sultan.

The imambara is located in a narrow lane on the western side of Deshpran Sashmal Road, near Tollygunge Phari. It is approached through the ornamental gateway that locals call Ghari Ghar. The imambara was built in 1865 and renovated in 2009. The interiors, although unabashedly modern, are tastefully done. There are two halls inside the single storey structure, with the marble minbar being located in the southern one. The zarikhana contains some beautiful and precious articles.