Shobhabazar Rajbari

Shobhabazar Rajbari is a historic palace complex in Shobhabazar, North Kolkata, West Bengal, comprising two adjacent palaces built by Raja Nabakrishna Deb. Constructed after 1757, it is renowned for its Bengal-European architecture, ornate courtyards and Thakurdalan. The Rajbari is famous for initiating the grand Durga Puja tradition in Kolkata and remains a private residence of the Deb family, attracting visitors for its heritage architecture and cultural legacy during the festive season.

Visitors can expect to see two historic palaces - the Boro Rajbari and Choto Rajbari - on Raja Nabakrishna Street featuring colonnaded courtyards, arched verandas, a central Thakurdalan (courtyard for worship), Belgian glass chandeliers, and classical European-influenced facades. The exterior and courtyard are viewable from the street and during Durga Puja the Thakurdalan is decorated for public viewing. The surroundings are a dense North Kolkata neighbourhood with narrow lanes, heritage buildings and local markets.

Shobhabazar Rajbari was established by Raja Nabakrishna Deb, a prominent aristocrat and associate of the British East India Company. The original palace was built after 1757 following the Battle of Plassey, when Lord Clive granted him land. The complex later expanded to include the Choto Rajbari. The Rajbari hosted Lord Clive and Warren Hastings and played a significant role in the social and cultural history of 18th and 19th century Kolkata as a centre of elite Bengali society.

The Rajbari is culturally significant for starting the tradition of grand public Durga Puja in Kolkata in 1757, which continues annually in its Thakurdalan following traditional rituals. It represents the heritage of Bengali zamindari architecture and North Kolkata's aristocratic culture, and remains an important site for heritage walks and cultural tourism during the autumn festival season.