Metiaburuz Walking – The Lucknow of Kolkata
Kidderpore (Khidirpur): History, Culture & Local Life
Kidderpore (Khidirpur), in southern Kolkata, ranks among the city’s oldest neighbourhoods. The area combines history, culture, local traditions, bustling markets, and distinctive food. A walk through Kidderpore reveals an old-world character that modern Kolkata rarely preserves. Busy streets, traditional shops, heritage buildings, and lively markets such as the famous Fancy Market create a fascinating atmosphere for travellers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions.
Food is another highlight of the neighbourhood. Local favourites include the legendary biryani and chaamp at India Restaurant, hot kachoris and jalebis from Chowdhury Sweets, Panchuda’s famous bread and mutton, traditional sweets from Chaturbhuj Mistanna Bhandar, and the much-loved mutton dishes at Rahmania. Together, these food stops offer an authentic taste of Kidderpore’s everyday culinary culture.
The neighbourhood also has strong spiritual and historical connections. The Adi Ganga and its surrounding areas reflect Kolkata’s older river heritage, while the well-known Baba Panchanan Mandir remains an important local place of worship. Meanwhile, Kidderpore’s traditional markets showcase everyday life, local commerce, and heritage goods in a way that no modern shopping mall can replicate.
Khidirpur Walking Tour: Hidden Historic Spots
Step into the fascinating history of Kidderpore and Metiabruz as you follow the legacy of Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh. After his exile to Kolkata, the Nawab transformed Metiabruz into a cultural centre inspired by Lucknow. He encouraged music, dance, poetry, cuisine, and religious traditions, creating what many describe as a “Little Lucknow” in Kolkata.
During this heritage walking tour, explore the winding lanes of Metiabruz and discover historic mosques, Imambaras, burial grounds, and lesser-known landmarks connected with the Nawab and his family. Along the way, you will also hear fascinating stories about Kolkata’s biryani, local legends, and the colourful traditions that continue to shape the neighbourhood.
Highlights of the Wajid Ali Shah Heritage Trail
BNR House, Garden Reach – Explore the exterior of the residence associated with the Nawab’s early years in Calcutta. Entry inside requires permission.
Gulshanabad Imambara – Discover the historic Oudh family burial ground and its connection with the Nawab’s settlement in Metiabruz.
Qasr-ul-Buka Imambara – Visit this beautifully maintained historic Imambara, known for its distinctive architectural character.
Bait-un-Nijat Imambara – See the remains of an Imambara that once formed part of the Nawab’s larger cultural complex.
Shahi Masjid – Explore the mosque traditionally associated with Wajid Ali Shah and his religious life in Metiabruz.
Bichali Ghat – Discover this historic riverside location and the stories surrounding its connection with the Nawab.
Sibtainabad Imambara – Visit the final resting place of Wajid Ali Shah and his son, Birjis Qadr.
Begum Umda Mahal Imambara – Admire the delicate glazed floral decoration and historic details that distinguish this lesser-known landmark.
Short History of Wajid Ali Shah
Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, inherited the throne during a period when the British East India Company continued to expand its influence across northern India. In 1856, the British annexed Awadh, and the Nawab left Lucknow for Calcutta.
After arriving in Kolkata, Wajid Ali Shah settled in Metiabruz, where he recreated aspects of Lucknow’s cultural life. He supported music, dance, poetry, theatre, cuisine, and religious traditions, turning the area into an important centre of Awadhi culture.
His influence remains visible in Metiabruz today. The neighbourhood’s Imambaras, mosques, food traditions, and cultural practices preserve memories of the Nawab’s years in Kolkata. He spent the remainder of his life in Metiabruz and later received burial at Sibtainabad Imambara.
Kolkata’s famous biryani tradition also connects strongly with the Nawab’s arrival. Local culinary history commonly credits Wajid Ali Shah’s household and cooks with helping establish the distinctive Kolkata style of biryani, including the now-famous use of potato alongside meat.
The Kidderpore–Metiabruz Walking Tour offers an opportunity to experience this lesser-known side of Kolkata. Rather than focusing only on famous monuments, the walk takes you through historic neighbourhoods, local markets, religious landmarks, food traditions, and stories that reveal how Awadhi culture became part of the identity of Kolkata.
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