Octerloney Monument. "Shaheed Minar"

Saheed Minar,
situated near Esplanade on the Kolkata Maidan, was initially known as Octerloney Monument. It was named after its founder, Sir David Ochterlony. This magnificent monument was established in the year 1848 so as to mark the founder's victory in the Nepal War (1814-1816). The construction of Calcutta Saheed Minar follows an architectural variety. Its foundation is based on the Egyptian style, whereas the main Shahid Minar in Calcutta and its dome follow Syrian and Turkish designs respectively.

It was in 1969 that the Octerloney Monument got the name 'Sahid Minar'. It was renamed in the honor of those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of our country. Presently, the political parties convene meetings over here. Various rallies and seminars also take place behind the Sahid Minar Of Kolkata, India. The tradition of holding political meetings began in 1931, when Rabindranath Tagore presided over a convocation meeting held over there. If one stand at the top of the minar, you'll get an excellent view of the hub city of Kolkata



It was built to commemorate the British East India Company's victory in the Nepal Campaign of 1814 - 1816. In 1968, however, it was renamed Shaheed Minar or Martyrs' Column in memory of the Indian freedom fighters. Designed by J.P. Parker, this column is of mixed architectural style having a Syrian column, an Egyptian plinth slightly tapering towards the top, and a Turkish cupola. It needs 218 steps to climb to the top of the high tower. Political parties, trade unions and other groups frequently use the grounds adjoining the monument to hold public meetings. The custom of convening political seminars started in 1931 when a historical convocation took place here, presided by Rabindranath Tagore. The humanitarian poet had severely condemned the vandalism of the imperialist British Government that had shot a youth dead in the Calabooze in Hizli.

Visitor's time
It's only open Monday to Friday

A little distance away from the foot of the monument, there is a terminus for local buses as well as long-distance One can have a panoramic view of Calcutta from the top of this Minar. From there, the much-known Calcutta is transformed into an enigmatic fantasyland. But one cannot get at the top of the Minar at one's will until he has the permission of the Deputy Commissioner.
you should simply ask for a monument pass at the Assistant Commissioner?s office on the 2nd floor