Showing posts with label Sheikhan di Khoti. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sheikhan di Khoti. Show all posts

Tuesday 2 May 2023

The King of Leather: Sheikhan Di Khoti Wazirabad

23rd April 2023

(All images copyright 2023 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research and shouldn't be reproduced)




Sheikh Niaz Ahmed's Mansion: A Testament to Hindustan's Rich Heritage

Introduction:

In the era of British rule in Hindustan, only two tanneries dotted the country's landscape, one of which was in Cawnpore and the other in Wazirabad. Under the astute administration of Sheikh Niaz Ahmed, the Wazirabad Tannery thrived. Not only was Sheikh Niaz a prominent figure in the leather industry, but he also hailed from Wazirabad and erected a magnificent mansion for himself, a testament to his success and stature. Completed in 1929 at a cost of one Lac rupees, this mansion, known as 'Sheikh wali Khoti,' still stands proudly on Lt. Arif Shaheed Road, across from the city courts.

Architectural Grandeur:

The two-story mansion exudes an aura of grandeur and opulence, reminiscent of a palace. Elaborate lancet arches in the Gothic style grace the front arcade on the ground floor, accentuating its elegance. A majestic Victorian-style porch occupies the central portion of the facade, capturing the attention of all who pass by. The meticulous craftsmanship is evident in the use of English bond bricks, which lend strength and structure to the building. Intricate column ribs and an ornate exterior cornice, all meticulously designed with elegant cut bricks, further embellish the mansion's exterior.

A Fusion of Architectural Styles:

The mansion is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a style that emerged and gained prominence during the colonial period in India. This architectural blend masterfully incorporates elements from Indian, Islamic, and European styles. Oval-shaped ventilators, a common feature in colonial architecture to ensure ventilation in hot and humid climates, are also present in the mansion's front elevation. The first floor boasts rectangular windows and square ventilators, both adorned with curved tops. Such intricate detailing highlights the seamless fusion of various architectural influences.

A Testament to the Changing Landscape:

According to our local host, a resident of Wazirabad, the mansion was once surrounded by a vast jungle that has since been lost to the march of urbanization. The concrete jungle has replaced the natural beauty that once enveloped the estate. Adjacent to the mansion, in a state of disrepair, lie the servant quarters and a mosque that Sheikh Niaz himself constructed, reflecting the passage of time and neglect.

Sheikh Niaz Ahmed: A Man of Honor:

Sheikh Niaz Ahmed was renowned for his unwavering integrity and expertise in the leather industry. His dedication earned him the respect of the British, who recognized his contributions by presenting him with a watch as a token of appreciation. In due course, he was bestowed with the title of honorary magistrate by the Queen of Britain, further cementing his reputation. When Sheikh Niaz passed away, the British newspaper's headline the following day read, "The King of Leather has died," a testament to his prominence and the impact he had made in his field.

Legacy and Remembrance:

Years later, after the formation of Pakistan, Sheikh Niaz's son, Arif, sacrificed his life in the 1971 war. In honor of his gallantry and sacrifice, the road in front of the mansion was named "Lt. Arif Shaheed Road." This poignant tribute perpetuates the memory of Sheikh Niaz's family's sacrifices and their contributions to the nation.

Unspoken Stories of Wazirabad's Illustrious Past:

Known among the commoners of Wazirabad as 'Sheikh wali Khoti,' this magnificent mansion encapsulates the rich and storied history of the city. It stands as a testament to the bygone era of Hindustan's grandeur and Sheikh Niaz Ahmed's enduring legacy. Concealed within its walls are untold stories of triumph, heritage, and the fusion of cultures that shaped the region's history.

Conclusion:

Sheikh Niaz Ahmed's mansion in Wazirabad stands as a testament to the grandeur of Hindustan's past. Its architectural magnificence, blending elements of Indian, Islamic, and European styles, is a remarkable example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The mansion's rich history, from Sheikh Niaz's achievements in the leather industry to his son's sacrifice for the nation, adds layers of significance to its legacy. As 'Sheikh wali Khoti,' it remains a cherished symbol of Wazirabad's illustrious past and a beacon of heritage for generations to come.











The mosque built by Sheikh Niaz

Mosque

Mosque

Mosque

Servant rooms