Namak Haram Deorhi is the palace of Mir Jafar, and is also referred to as the `Traitor`s Gate`, `Jufarganj Palace` or `Jafarganj Deorhi`. The main gate of the palace, as well as the residence of Mir Jafar is termed as the Namak Haram Deorhi.
Historical records claim that Mir Jafar, who was the Commander-in-Chief of the `subha` of Bengal (Bengal- the then Bengal when the English East India Company was present in India and comprised Bengal, Bihar and Orissa) used to dwell in this very building.
Location of Namak Haram Deorhi
Namak Haram Deorhi is located in the region of Lal bagh town in Murshidabad, West Bengal. This palace is situated exactly opposite to the Jafarganj Cemetery which is present in this place, right beside Mahimapur.
Significance of Namak Haram Deorhi
Historical evidences bear testimony to the fact that a conference was held in Namak Haram Deorhi prior to the Battle of Plassey. Mir Jafar, William Watts and Mir Miran were the various people who were said to be present in the conference.
William Watts was the chief officer of the factory of British East India Company which was located at Kasim bazar and he resided in Bengal. Hindustani, Persian and Bengali were the various languages in which Watts was believed to be proficient. Mir Miran is said to have received William Watts in the seraglio (residing quarters utilized by wives or concubines of Muslims). Watts placed the Holy Quran on the head of Mir Jafar while his hand was kept on Miran`s head. It was at this very moment that Mir Jafar solemnly declared and swore his loyalty towards the British and promised to take all necessary steps (which included the plan to betray the then Nawab of Bengal, Nawab Siraj ud-Daulah during the Battle of Plassey which was scheduled to take place the next day) which would enable the British to achieve victory against Nawab Siraj ud-Daulah and thus dethrone him.
Seir Mutapherin has stated that Muhammad-i-Beg assassinated Nawab Siraj ud-Daulah on the orders of Mir Miran in the premises of Namak Haram Deorhi. The murder occurred right near a neem tree on 2nd July, 1757. This was done after the Nawab made an attempt to retreat following his defeat in the Battle of Plassey.
The palace of Namak Haram Deorhi was strengthened with the aide of turrets and towers and was also equipped with cannon in order to protect the historical building from external attacks. However, a present the palace is in a state of complete ruins, except the gate of the Deorhi.