Imambara Zadibal

Imambara Zadibal was the first Imambara(Husayniyya) or Marak constructed in Kashmir Valley by Kaji Chak, minister in the regime of Sultan Mohammad in the year 1518. It is situated in the Zadibal area of Srinagar to the west side of Hari Parbat fort. This Imambara was burned down and destroyed number of times.

Architecture
This Imambara is a two-storey building. The building follows Persian architecture and has a symmetrical structure. The building has a central hall with high ceiling supported by pillars, walls decorated with calligraphic inscriptions and floral motifs. The hall is surrounded by rooms on all the sides. A large gate adorned with carvings and designs act as the entrance to the hall.

On the side of the hall, staircase leads to second floor of the building. The second floor has several rooms, a balcony that overlooks the hall.

the Building can accommodate more than 32,000 visitors at a time.

Observances
Shia Muslims are a minority in Kashmir. During the first 10 days of Muharram, Imambada Zadibal becomes a centre of mourning and religious gathering (Majlis) in Zadibal. Azadars (Mourners) join in the mourning, usually from Bota Kadal, Lalbazar and ending on the day of Ashura with large Zuljanah procession and parades through the streets of Zadibal ending at Imambada Zadibal. Mourning continues from first day of Muharram to third of the Islamic month Rabi al Awwal, after which Eid al Zahra, also known as Eid e Shuja, is celebrated. This marks the end of the two-month mourning period.

Building and destruction
The Building was destroyed and reconstructed several times.

Location
Reaching this shrine is easy because it is close to Srinagar Highway. The Imambara is in the middle of Zadibal, and it is near the Khushal Sar Lake and Hari Parbat Fort that most people call Qilla. The nearest railway station is the Srinagar railway station. It is an hour's ride away by car. Sheikh ul Alam International Airport is only a few kilometers from the Imambara. Taxi services are also available within the city of Srinagar.