Building
The two storied palatial building of Lucknow city was constructed in the eastern side of the city surrounded by greenery. Hayat Baksh means, life giving. The buildings constructed under influence of East India Company used to be different than the traditional Indian style of architecture and these buildings were called Kothis. In Indian style of architecture, it was essential to have courtyard in the house, for which no provision has been made in these Kothis. Kothis normally were two storied, with long straight plain wall without any design. The only place for artistic work were the doors and windows, the Gothic style was used for beautification of doors and windows.
Kothi Hayat Baksh is an airy palatial building with all four sides surrounded with high roofed varandas. Only Raj darbar inside the Kothi is made as per Indian art and sculpture, whereas remaining portion of the Bhavan is completely influenced by western style. The mehrab of Dewan khanas are decorated with flower strips and are painted beautifully with golden colour.
In 1873 under the direction of Sir George Cooper beautiful lawns, fountains and also beautiful sitting rooms were attached
In 1907, one portion of this Kothi was demolished and a ballroom was also added. The ballroom is now a dining hall.
Read more about this topic: Raj Bhavan (Uttar Pradesh)
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