Gulab Bari is the ancient tomb of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, the Nawab of Oudh or Awadh in the medieval age and it implies `Garden of Roses`, mainly due to the presence of various kinds of roses blooming amidst water fountains. It is located in the region of Faizabad in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is also the mausoleum or `maqbara` of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, who was the third Nawab of Awadh. Gulab Bari is an exquisite charming building which boasts of excellent architectural wonder and is based in a lush garden which is surrounded by a wall. One can have access to this maqbara through two gigantic gateways. This well maintained garden is built with a perfect symmetry and is surrounded by a wall and is approachable through two large gateways.
History of Gulab Bari
The Nawabs of Faizabad were known for their passion for spectacular buildings, out of which the most memorable were Moti Mahal, Gulab Bari and the tomb of Bahu Begum who was the wife of the Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula. Residing in Moti Mahal, Bahu Begum Mahal had married the Nawab in the year 1743. Located near Gulab Bari is existent her tomb which was constructed by Darab Ali Khan, who worked as her chief advisor. It was erected in 1816, after her death and one can attain the view of the entire city from the summit of the tomb of the Begum. She is said to have patronised art and architecture and some of the most beautiful buildings of Faizabad are believed to have been built during her reign. After the shifting of the capital to Lucknow from Faizabad by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the prosperity of Faizabad was compromised upon.
Attractions of Gulab Bari
The Gulab Bari is not only a spot that needs to be visited; it is also a place of devotion and various enlightening events. The locals treat it as a holy place and the varieties of colourful roses planted in the garden attract the people for its natural beauty.
Though today Gulab Bari is in a deprived condition, it still is very significant for the locals. It will remain important only if its tourism is boosted and the people become a little more conscious about its importance.