Beyond Hazarduari Palace and its 1,000 doors, lies the home of one of the biggest economic giants in Indian history—Jagat Seth, a wealthy banker, who was said to be worth 8.3 lakh crores, if not more. Today, his home which still holds many of his riches, has been converted into a museum.
The trillionaire of the 18th century, his story is one of a successful banking and trading business. As the story goes, his grandfather Manik Chand migrated from Dhaka to Patna to start a money-lending and trading enterprise. As his nephew, Fateh Chand, took over the reins, the business became so successful that the latter became known as “Jagat Seth” or “Banker of the World.”
Additionally, Jagat Seth looked after the treasury accounts of Bengal during the Nawabi period. He played a key role in the conspiracy involving the imprisonment and ultimate killing of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah.
Jagat Seth rode a successful wave of financial bliss and had so many assets that he would even extend loans to the British and the Mughals. However, his descendants did not share his fate. After periods of conspiracy led by the British and local economic rivals, the Seth family lost its initial footing. Despite this, Jagat Seth’s house retained many of its originals and still stands as a museum housing mementos of times gone by.
The House of Jagat Seth was constructed by Harreck Chand, who belonged to a later generation of this family that was once prosperous.
As you step inside, you will see a display of coins, muslin and various luxurious garments from the past. The Banarasi sarees are beautifully embroidered with threads of gold and silver.
The house also boasts of a hidden underground tunnel and chamber where some speculate that trade plans were made. You can request a private tour and explore the museum gardens if you wish. Additionally, you can visit the Seth family’s temple to complete your visit.
Timings
The Museum's visiting hours are from 6:30am to 6pm every day of the week, including Sundays and public holidays.
By Air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata is the closest airport, located around 195 km away. This airport offers flights to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Bengaluru, making it a convenient transportation option.
By Train: Trains connect Murshidabad and Berhampore Court railway stations to various Indian cities, including Howrah, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and more.
By Road: Murshidabad is easily accessible by road. Regular state-run buses operate from Kolkata, Burdwan, Rampurhat, Suri, Bolpur, Malda, Krishnagar, and Durgapur to Murshidabad. Alternatively, one can hire a taxi to reach Murshidabad from these places. There are two routes to Berhampore from Kolkata, NH34 and Badshahi Road via Burdwan.