Kotwara Insight
(Every day except Sunday, by appointment)
A visit to Kotwara House is more than just a tour — it’s an experience that offers a rare glimpse into a world where creativity, heritage and history converge. This elegant residence in Lucknow is home to the renowned filmmaker, fashion designer, painter, poet and architect Raja Muzaffar Ali, and his equally accomplished wife, Meera. Truly a “couple with many feathers in their caps”, they have transformed their home into a living expression of their artistic vision.
Raja Muzaffar Ali, a descendant of the royal family of Kotwara, inherited the title from his father and has since carried forward not just a name, but a rich cultural legacy. His film Umrao Jaan is a cinematic tribute to Lucknow’s refined culture, timeless elegance and artistic traditions. Set against the backdrop of Nawabi grace, it encapsulates the very essence of the city — its music, couture, language, and manners.
The Kotwara House itself is part of the historic Kaiserbagh Palace complex, built by the last King of Awadh, Wajid Ali Shah. Today, the home feels like a curated museum, with every room, artifact, and corner thoughtfully styled by Meera and Muzaffar themselves. It offers a rare chance to see how this creative duo lives, works, and finds inspiration.
Our visit to Kotwara House includes an intimate look at their personal living spaces and the in-house workshop where traditional Lucknowi crafts — Chikan, Mukaish, Aari and Zari embroidery—are meticulously created. This initiative, led by Meera and Muzaffar, has revitalized local artisanship and evolved into the high-end couture label “KOTWARA”.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the home, watching skilled artisans at work, and sipping tea as you view a dance sequence from Umrao Jaan. If the couple is in residence, there’s even a chance you may meet them in person – a truly special moment for any admirer of art, fashion or film.
TARIFF....
Per Guest
INR 4000 (Max 25 Guests)
(Includes : Access to Kotwara House (both floors), Tea/Coffee service at the residence of Muzaffar Ali, film clip screening at the residence, services of a curator)
This experience is available every day except on Sunday and a few Islamic festivals, between 1100 hrs and 1600 hrs.