General Wali Kothi

General Wali Kothi, located in Lucknow, India, is a historic building originally commissioned as an observatory in 1832 by King Nasir-ud-Din Haidar Shah. Although it became operational in 1841 under Royal Astronomer Colonel Richard Wilcox, the observatory faced challenges, including the loss of its instruments during the 1857 Indian Rebellion, when it served as the headquarters for insurgent leader Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah. The building later transitioned to various uses, including a bank and a local court, and is now the head office of the State Bank of India. Known for its handsome classical design, General Wali Kothi offers a glimpse into the rich history of Lucknow and its architectural heritage.