It is quite a task to find someone from West Bengal who has not been to Murshidabad yet. It is a historical city and is home to establishments constructed decades and centuries back. Not just the iconic Hazarduari Palace, there are some renowned tourist attractions to explore here. One of our recommended places in the city is the Jagat Seth Museum. Home to Jagat Seth, this property is rich in history and some fascinating archival information that will simply blow your mind.
Plan A Trip To Murshidabad’s Jagat Seth Museum Soon
With the winter season approaching at the speed of light, this city in West Bengal is all set to see a major spike in tourist footfall. Murshidabad welcomes visitors from different places all around the year but the winter season is surely one of the times of the year that sees a huge increase in the number of tourists visiting the city and exploring all the historical establishments. If you are also planning to travel to this famous city, make sure to add the Jagat Seth Museum to your itinerary.
This iconic property is the home of Jagat Seth. If you are wondering who this eminent person was and why his home has become such a fascinating touristy location, here’s everything you need to know. Back in the 18th century, he was a trillionaire who had a net worth of around ₹8.3 lakh crores. PS: Do not ask us how many zeros are added to make this humongous amount of money.
The banker and trader was originally named Fateh Chand. Later, he received the title of Jagat Seth (meaning Banker of the World) for his tremendous success and growth of his trading business. He is considered to be one of the wealthiest bankers in history for his vast wealth. Not just his banking and trading enterprise, but it was also his responsibility to take care of Bengal’s treasury accounts and mints in the Nawabi period, according to a report by Outlook Traveller.
Why Is This Museum A Must-Visit?
The home belonging to one of the wealthiest families has now been transformed into a beautiful museum. Like any other museum, this establishment also transports you back to the time and enriches you with knowledge of different aspects and parts of the history of Bengal and stories related to Jagat Seth. When exploring this museum in Murshidabad, you will get to witness the family’s extraordinary possessions. From expensive Banarasi sarees made with gold and silver threads to coins to muslin clothes, there is just too much richness and priceless belongings to take a look at.
The history of the Seth family making a remarkable name in Bengal dates back to the time when Manik Chand came to Dhaka from Patna in the 1700s. After coming to Murshidabad, he started his trading enterprise. After he died in 1714 leaving the responsibilities to Jagat Seth, he took over the enterprise. Jagat was Manik Chand’s nephew. The business started growing so much that even the British and Mughals took money from Jagat at some point.
Also read: 6 Heritage Bungalows Near Kolkata That Will Give You Royal Feels
To know more about the grandeur of the businessman and his home, you need to head to the Jagat Seth Museum soon.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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