Shaheed Minar

The Shaheed Minar, also known as Ochterlony monument, or simply the monument is an important monument of the city dedicated to a general of the British East India Company, best known for his key role in the war between the British and the Marathas who actually delivered to the almost total control of the British in India.

It is located in the center of Calcutta between the Esplanade and the Maidan. Recently it started work in order to make the tower accessible to the public, whose summit is expected to enjoy a splendid view of the city.

Shaheed Minar, a column of white marble, high 49.50 m. erected in 1828 in commemoration of the victory won by the British Major David Ochterlony in the Anglo-Nepalese War, also known as the War of the Gurkhas (1814-1816). In 1969 the name was changed to Shaheed Minar literally the tower of the martyrs in honor of those patriots who did not hesitate to sacrifice their lives for the independence of India.

The column reminds forms the famous Qutub Minar in Delhi and is located in the section of the park overlooking the Maidan district of Esplanade. Inside, a spiral staircase of 198 steps takes you to the rooftop terrace. From here a further 25 steps staircase rises to the upper balcony. To access the interior, however, need a permit issued by the police in Lal Bazaar. On the outside is held a Sunday market where artisans and farmers from the surrounding countryside exhibit their products.