“Experience the Perfect Blend of Heritage and Warmth’‘
By Susmita Ghosh in Azimganj, Murshidabad
In the heart of Murshidabad’s Azimganj, nestled along the serene banks of the Bhagirathi River, lies The House of Sheherwali—Eastern India’s first museum hotel. A brainchild of visionary entrepreneur Pradip Chopra, this unique establishment offers an immersive experience where guests can stay amidst history, surrounded by the legacy of Bengal’s Sheherwali community.
Pradip Chopra, Chairman of the PS Group and iLEAD College, is a celebrated entrepreneur, philanthropist, and educationist with a passion for creating impactful legacies. His latest endeavour brings history alive, offering an innovative way to educate, entertain, and provide hospitality.Beyond his business acumen, Chopra’s commitment to empowering the next generation through education and skill development stands out.
While discussing with Mr Chopra regarding the source of inspiration he acquired for this creation, he mentioned, “When I discovered this neglected property with a breath-taking view of the Bhagirathi River, I envisioned transforming it into a space where history, art, and hospitality converge. Initially, I thought of creating a student hostel for educational field trips. But as I explored the emerging concept of museum hotels, the idea evolved into a “museum where you can stay.”
The House of Sheherwali is not just a hotel; it is a living museum. Every corner of the property tells a story. Restored antiques, artefacts, and furniture are accompanied by descriptions that share their historical significance.
The property features spacious accommodations designed after Sheherwali mansions, with intricate décor and a regal ambiance. An exquisite collections from British, Dutch, French, Portuguese, Mughal, and Bengali households, showcasing a fusion of artistic traditions.
A unique aspect of this museum hotel is its commitment to sustainability. Inspired by Jain philosophy, the project incorporates upcycling and restoration of discarded artefacts. From furniture to décor, every element reflects an ethos of creating “wealth from waste.”
“Our goal was to minimize environmental impact while preserving history. Recycling materials and using antiques allowed us to stay true to the Sheherwali principle of ‘living with minimal possessions,’ asserted Mr Chopra.
The guests can indulge in authentic Sheherwali vegetarian cuisine, prepared with organically grown fruits and vegetables from the hotel’s own farms. Nearby, visitors can explore historical landmarks like Rani Bhavani’s Char Bangla Temples, The Bari Kothi, Jain temples and other protected sites within a 5-kilometer radius.
Mr. Chopra envisions the property as a hub for educational trips, heritage walks, and cultural festivals, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and history enthusiasts alike. “I want this space to inspire visitors, especially the younger generation, to appreciate history and heritage. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a movement to keep our traditions alive,” added he.
The House of Sheherwali offers an affordable luxury experience, with rooms starting at INR 2,000 per night, including breakfast. Accessible via train or car from Kolkata, the journey takes about four to seven hours, making it an ideal getaway for history lovers and cultural explorers.