Shaheed Minar

Shaheed Minar is a 48-metre tall monument located in the Maidan area at Esplanade in central Kolkata, West Bengal. Built in 1828 as the Ochterlony Monument, it was renamed in 1969 to honour martyrs of the Indian freedom movement. Notable for its blend of Egyptian, Syrian and Turkish architectural styles, it stands as an iconic landmark of the Kolkata skyline and a prominent visitor attraction near the Maidan.

Visitors can expect to view a tall white masonry tower set in the open grounds of the Maidan at Esplanade. The monument features a classical column with Egyptian-style base, Syrian-style shaft and Turkish-style dome, reached by 216 steps to the top. The exterior can be viewed from the surrounding grounds and is illuminated in the evening. Interior access to the top is generally restricted and requires special permission, so most visits involve sightseeing and photography from outside.

Built in 1828 by architect J.P. Parker and commissioned by the British East India Company to commemorate Major-General Sir David Ochterlony's victory in the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-1816) and his defence of Delhi against the Marathas. The foundation stone was laid by the Marquess of Hastings. It was rededicated as Shaheed Minar on 9 August 1969 to honour the martyrs of the Indian freedom movement.

An iconic landmark of Kolkata and a symbol of the city's heritage skyline. Located in the historic Maidan-Esplanade precinct, it is a well-known orientation point and gathering landmark, illuminated on special occasions and valued for its architectural heritage.