Hazratganj Market, Lucknow (must see)

In 1827 the ruler Nasir-ud-Din Haldar Shah founded what was to become the Ganj market. He opened a Bazaar selling merchandise from China, Japan, and Belgium. In 1842, the shopping area's name was changed to Hazratganj, in honor of the ruler Amjad Aji Shah, known by his nickname "Hazrat."

After the First War of Independence ended in 1857, Lucknow was totally under British occupation. The Hazratganj was modified into a version of London's Queen Street. Mughal-style structures were demolished and replaced with European-style buildings.

The term "ganj" implies strolling along and shopping. Like Connaught Place in New Delhi, Hazratganj is a major shopping district in the city. Car dealerships, jewelry, antiques, books, food, and anything is available at Hazratganj. In 2010, the Market was transformed into a Victorian-style area with lighting, benches, and fountains.

Buildings in the Ganj are both new and old. Some housing shops, restaurants, and cinemas are almost 200 years old. Among the landmarks of Lucknow to be found in Hazratganj are the Mayfair Cinema, the British Council Library, the Lucknow Coffee House, and the Ram Advent Bookshop.

The Ganj is a place for malls. The most popular are Sahara Ganj, City Life, Lucknow-Riverside, Fun Republic, Umrao, City Mall, Wave Mall, and Singapore Mall. Have a lunch break with the rich Lucknowi cuisine at the Royal Cafe. JJ Bakers is dessert heaven. The Cherry Tree Cafe is great for snacks.

Showrooms, shopping complexes, restaurants, hotels, cafes, theaters, and malls abound. And let us not forget the monthly Carnival. On the second Sunday of each month, the Lucknow Development Authority sponsors a carnival in Hazratganj. The Market becomes a vast no-parking zone given over the public entertainment and cultural programs.