Dhanyakuria Ballav Bari

You may experience a Gothic, English countryside in Dhanyakuria, a village of castles and mansions in North 24 Parganas, West Bengal. It combines history with a wonderful, Disney-esque appearance. And for Dhanyakuria Rajbari and other homes it’s quite well-liked by tourists. You may have encountered towns and villages with a large number of temples but very few villages with as many mansions as Dhanyakuria, which is mostly renowned for the Dhanyakuria Rajbari. For instance, Bishnupur in the West Bengali district of Bankura is well-known for the numerous terracotta temples that are situated there. Nevertheless, there is hardly any other village in West Bengal other than the Village of Castles and Mansions of Dhanyakuria, which boasts numerous castles. There is, however, hardly any other village in West Bengal with as many castles as Dhanyakuria, the Village of Castles and Mansions, which is home to the well-known Dhanyakuria Rajbari and the Castle at Dhanyakuria. With the stunning Dhanyakuria Rajbari, Dhanyakura, which is in the West Bengal district of North 24 Parganas, is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway from Kolkata. The distance from the city center is roughly 55 kilometers. You can reach a tranquil town two hours’ drive from the capital, where history is revealed through the grand houses of Dhanyakuria, which were once bustling with activity from dawn to dusk but are now mostly vacant.

Attraction

A magnificent example of late 19th- to early 20th-century architecture that combines European and Indian influences is Dhanyakuria Ballav Bari. The mansion’s striking European-style exterior, complete with elaborate arches, columns, and statues, is its defining feature. The Ballav Bari boasts a unique clock tower that gives it an opulent appearance, and it is surrounded by lovely gardens.

The mansion’s interior features elaborate woodwork, windows with stained glass, and ornamental tiles that capture the splendor and richness of the time. For those who are interested in history, architecture, and culture, the mansion is a fascinating location that bears witness to the wealth and artistic taste of the Ballav family.

History

This area was a part of the Sundarbans as long as 300 years ago. The region was densely forested, with numerous saline creeks winding through it. But a man by the name of Jagannath Das cleared the jungles and made the area suitable for habitation. In 1742, he and his family moved to this village. Following that, a number of families moved here to settle. Among them were the Ballav, Gaine, Mandal, and Sawoo families. Due to their trading in sugarcane and rice, many of them had grown wealthy. In the settlement, they constructed opulent houses known as Bagan bari or garden retreats. Even now, many of these enormous homes and mansions here are unique since they were built in the style of medieval European architecture. Numerous families that came to live here had a significant impact on the growth of the region. For instance, in 1885, Upendranath Sawoo and Mahendranath Gaine played a key role in the village’s first English-medium school establishment. In 1893, Sawoo was also instrumental in the establishment of a ladies’ school and the Dhanyakuria Rural Hospital, a benevolent medical facility.

Inside/Outside Views

Large Corinthian pillars, arched arches, and elaborate stucco work adorn the imposing and elaborate facade of Ballav Bari. The building’s front is distinguished by an array of arches and ornate floral patterns, which are accentuated by balconies using wrought iron railings that give the structure a European feel. The mansion is surrounded by verdant gardens and wide areas, and it is frequently embellished with fountains and statues that heighten its regal aspect. The mansion’s inside is just as magnificent, with roomy hallways and chambers brimming with ornate woodwork, chandeliers, and antique furnishings. The walls are adorned with elaborate paneling and frescoes that portray historical or mythological scenes, while the ceilings are lofty and frequently embellished with elaborate moldings. The Thakurdalan, a traditional courtyard that is used for religious and cultural events and functions as a focal point for gatherings, is a noteworthy aspect of the residence. The house also has grand wood or marble staircases that lead to higher stories and galleries with views of the garden or courtyard that give the entire structure a feeling of openness and connectedness.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata. The distance from the airport to Dhanyakuria is approximately 60 km. You can hire a taxi to reach Dhanyakuria directly from the airport.

By Rail: The nearest Railway station is Malatipur Railway Station. From the Railway Station, Dhanyakuria Ballav Bari is about 3 km away. You can take a local rickshaw or taxi to reach Dhanyakuria.

By Road: Dhanyakuria is about 65 km from Kolkata. You can drive or hire a taxi. Buses are also available from Esplanade or other major bus terminals in Kolkata to Basirhat. Get down at Barasat and take a local bus to reach Dhanyakuria.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed here?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed.

Que-03: Are there any accommodations available nearby?

Ans: While Dhanyakuria may have few accommodations, you can find several hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns like Barasat, Taki, and Habra.

Que-04: Are there any food options available near Dhanyakuria Ballav Bari?

Ans: There are limited food options in Dhanyakuria, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks or pack lunch. You can find local eateries in nearby towns like Taki or Barasat.

Que-05: What should I know before visiting Dhanyakuria Ballav Bari?

Ans: It is important to remember that Dhanyakuria Ballav Bari is a privately owned property, so visitors should respect the privacy and property of the owners. It’s also advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully enjoy the architectural beauty of the mansion.