Azimganj

Jiaganj and Azimganj- the two towns located on opposite sides of the Baghirathi River, Jiaganj (Ziaganj) on the east bank and Azimganj on the west bank.

In 18th century, “Sheherwalis” community of businessman from Rajasthan migrated to Murshidabad. They worked tirelessly to create their empires in textile and banking and went on to become Zamindars.

The Sheherwalis adapted to the then prevalent cultural influences in the region namely, Mughal, British, Bengali and European and as such created their own unique culture over generations.

They settled in the twin cities of Azimganj-Jiaganj. The most notable Sheherwali was Jagat Seth (literally, ‘universal banker’, title accorded by the Mughal empire).

The sheherwalis are known to have their own dialect, cuisine, culture and lifestyle. A typical picture of early 1900's of a Sheherwali will showcase a Rajasthani turban, a Bengal influenced dhoti, a British walking stick and a Mughal kurta-styled upper wear.

Like the melange of cultures in their clothing, Sheherwali cuisine is also deeply influenced by Rajasthani, Mughal and Bengali flavours and ingredients.

Being staunch Jains, the cuisine only uses non-root vegetables and has strong Gujarati influence in its dishes.

The architecture in Sheherwali palaces (nowadays as Azimganj Rajbari) also reflected this melange - you may find a British room right across a Rajasthani Gaddi Ghar all housed in a building having European pillars.

Azmiganj is also home to the Bari Kothi Heritage Hotel, a restored palace belonging to the Dudhoria family. This is one of many palaces that belonged to the aristocratic merchant families of Murshidabad.