Bareilly :- The Historical City of Jhumka, Zardozi, and Spiritual Solace
Detailed History
Located at the heart of the Rohilkhand region in Uttar Pradesh, Bareilly district is an ancient and culturally rich city. According to mythology, Bareilly (the Panchal region) is considered the birthplace of Draupadi. In the medieval period, the city was founded in 1537 by Jagat Singh Katehriya, who named it ‘Bans-Bareilly‘ after his sons Bansdeo and Baraldeo. It later became the capital of the Rohilla rulers, who built several grand structures. During the 1857 First War of Independence, Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan led the rebellion against the British, making it a major center for freedom. Today, the city is known for the ‘Ala Hazrat‘ Dargah, the seven Shiva temples of Nath Nagri, and world-famous Zardozi embroidery.
Detailed Architecture
- Exterior :– The architecture of Bareilly is a unique blend of Mughal, British, and modern styles. The domed structure of ‘Ala Hazrat Dargah‘ with its black-and-white striped Islamic art is the city’s primary hallmark. On the other hand, the ancient Shiva temples (like Dhopeshwarnath) follow the traditional North Indian temple style.
- Interior :– Artistic influences of Zardozi and cane-work are visible inside the buildings. The interiors of dargahs and mosques feature intricate lattice-work and Arabic calligraphy. Old city mansions exhibit high courtyards and airy balconies, showcasing the architectural skill of that era.
Travel Guide & Routes
- Ticket :– Entry to major temples and dargahs is completely free.
- Timing :– 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Mornings are the most peaceful for visiting the Dargah and Nath temples.
- How to Reach :–
- By Air :– Bareilly Airport (BEK) is now available for regular flights from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Rail :– Bareilly Junction (BE) is a major North Indian station, directly connected to Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Kolkata.
- By Road :– Bareilly is located on NH-24 (Delhi-Lucknow Highway). Regular bus services are available for Nainital and Haldwani.
- Photography Spots :– Jhumka Tiraha (Giant Jhumka), Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat, and the ancient ruins of Ahichchhatra (Ramnagar).
- Local Taste :– Don’t miss the ‘Seekh Kababs’, ‘Dal Makhani‘, and the famous ‘Barfi‘.
- Famous Markets :– Qutubkhana Bazaar, Bara Bazaar (for Zardozi and Surma).
Nearby Attractions
- Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat :– The world-famous shrine of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan.
- Nath Nagri :– Bareilly is called Nath Nagri due to its seven ancient Shiva temples (Dhopeshwarnath, Pashupatinath, Alakhnath, etc.).
- Jhumka Tiraha :– A giant symbolic earring inspired by the song ‘Jhumka Gira Re Bareilly Ke Bazaar Mein’.
- Ahichchhatra (Ramnagar) :– Archaeological remains of the capital of the ancient Panchal Kingdom.
- Fun City :– One of the largest water and amusement parks in Uttar Pradesh.
Interesting Facts
- Bareilly’s ‘Surma‘ (Kohl) and ‘Cane Furniture’ are exported worldwide.
- It is known as ‘Nath Nagri‘ because the city is surrounded by seven major Shiva temples.
- Bareilly holds an international GI tag for its Zardozi embroidery.
Important Questions and Answer :-
- Question 1:- Why was Bareilly named ‘Bans-Bareilly’?
- Answer:– It was named after the sons of its founder, Bansdeo and Baraldeo.
- Question 2:- Which is the most famous handicraft of Bareilly?
- Answer:- Zardozi (gold and silver thread embroidery) is the most famous craft.
- Question 3:- Why is Bareilly called ‘Nath Nagri’?
- Answer:- Because of the presence of seven ancient and powerful Shiva temples protecting the city.
- Question 4:- Where is ‘Jhumka Tiraha’ located?
- Answer:- It is situated on the Bareilly-Delhi Highway (NH-24).
- Question 5:- How far is Nainital from Bareilly?
- Answer:- Nainital is approximately 130-140 km away by road.
Author’s Perspective :-
Bareilly is a city that beautifully bridges its traditions with modernity. The sound of Zardozi workshops in the lanes and the spiritual echoes from the temples and dargahs give you a sense of a different world. The ‘Jhumka‘ may have dropped in the songs, but the memories of Bareilly stay in your heart forever. If you are a lover of history, handicrafts, and delicious food, Bareilly must be on your travel itinerary.
“The culture of Bareilly still holds the sharpness of Surma and the shine of Zardozi.”