Wasif Manzil: The "New Palace" of Murshidabad,West Bengal- A Tourist's Delight

Navrang India February 26, 2026

Wasef Manzil, Murshidabad, WB. tripadvisor.com

The Wasif Manzil, also known as the New Palace, is a significant historical landmark within the Nizamat Fort Campus in Murshidabad, West Bengal. Situated between the Hazarduari Palace and the Dakshin Darwaza (South Gate), it served as the residence of Sayyid Sir Wasif Ali Mirza Khan Bahadur, the Nawab of Murshidabad, who reigned from 1906 to 1959.

Historical Origins and Early Setbacks

The palace was constructed under the personal supervision of the Nawab, who was highly educated in prestigious British institutions like Sherborne and Rugby. The technical execution was managed by Mr. Vivian of the Public Works Department and a Bengali engineer named Surendra Barat.

A defining moment in the building’s history occurred during the massive earthquake of June 12, 1897. The disaster caused the entire second floor of the structure to cave in. While the building underwent extensive repairs and was eventually completed in 1904, the destroyed second story was never rebuilt. Consequently, what was intended to be a towering multi-story mansion remains a sophisticated single-story structure today.

Architecture and Design

Wasif Manzil was designed to evoke the grandeur of a European castle. It features distinctive small turrets at the corners, which give the building a fortified, castle-like appearance. One of its most striking architectural features is the semi-circular pediment located above the main entrance, which proudly displays the Coat of Arms of the Nawabs of Murshidabad.

oldimage Drawing room Wasef Manzil, Murshidabad 
en.wikipedia.org

Murshidabad,WB,en.wikipedia.org

The interior reflects the Nawab’s refined tastes, boasting a grand stairway and several statues crafted from high-quality marble. The main entrance is marked by a majestic archway fitted with ornate iron doors. Historically, the palace was fronted by a lush landscaped garden enclosed in beautiful iron railings, featuring a central fountain and classical marble sculptures.

Sir Wasif Ali Mirza Khan Bahadur
en.wikipedia.org
Present Status and Conservation

Today, Wasif Manzil is a protected monument under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). While the original landscaped gardens have largely vanished over time, the core structure remains a popular tourist attraction, complementing the nearby Hazarduari Palace and Nizamat Imambara. Conservation efforts focus on preserving the marble interiors and the delicate stone carvings on the exterior from the effects of the humid Bengal climate, ensuring this "New Palace" remains a testament to the final era of the  Nizamat  royal residence.




K. N. Jayaraman