Archaeological findings related to Lucknow testify to the fact that Lucknow is a pretty ancient city, but the city in its present form was set up by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in the year 1775. The foundations of this aristocratic city touted as the mecca of Urdu language and the seat of refined elegance and aristocratic sophistication, the history of Lucknow is not so ancient compared to the other Indian cities.
Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula belonged to the Awadh dynasty and he was instrumental in the inflow of a number of gifted artists and thinkers from Persia who brought with them the Shia tradition. Lucknow was considered to be favorable place for the pursuit of art and culture. The later Awadh rulers became debauch and the incompetent and this was used as an excuse for the British to take over Lucknow.
Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula is a prominent name in Lucknow’s history. It was at his initiative that the process of modernizing Lucknow was set in motion. He commissioned the construction of a number of magnificent monuments that serve as the popular tourist draws of Agra. It was due to his financial backing that work was resumed in the Bada Imambara.
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