Golghar was constructed in 1786 by Captain John Garstin, who was an engineer in the British East India Company. The purpose of the building was to provide storage for grains and other food items to be used in case of a famine. The design of Golghar is unique and was inspired by the shape of a beehive. The structure is made of bricks and has a diameter of around 125 meters with a height of 29 meters. The walls are around 3.6 meters thick at the base and taper towards the top.
The architecture of Golghar is not only unique but also functional. The granary has no pillars or support beams, and the entire weight of the structure is supported by its walls. The roof of Golghar is a massive dome, which has a series of small holes to allow for ventilation.
Golghar has been witness to some of the most important events in the history of Patna. During the British rule in India, the granary was used to store grains for the British army. It was also used as a shelter for the people of Patna during the disastrous floods of 1838. In 1943, during the Bengal famine, the government used Golghar to store grains, but due to mismanagement, the grains ended up rotting, and thousands of people died of starvation.
Today, Golghar is a popular tourist attraction in Patna, and visitors can climb to the top of the granary to enjoy panoramic views of the city. The view from the top is particularly stunning during sunset. The surrounding area of Golghar has been developed into a park with well-manicured lawns and walking paths.
In conclusion, Golghar is an important historical landmark and tourist attraction in Patna. It is not only a remarkable piece of architecture but also a reminder of the hardships faced by the people of Bihar during times of famine and natural disasters.