Historic Red Clock Tower in Surat: A Timeless Landmark

Surat : Surat was once India’s leading trade city and one of the world’s most renowned ports. Since medieval times, Surat has been a significant trade center in India’s history. The Bhaghal area and Bhaghal Road were known as major commercial routes, lined with old mansions, mosques, temples, and other historical monuments. The Clock Tower, located near the Jhampa Bazaar area of Bhaghal, still stands tall today.

Built in the 18th century, this historic Red Clock Tower serves as a testament to Surat’s rich past, reflecting its grand historical significance. The construction of the Clock Tower took place during the 1870s when Surat was a key trade hub. Over time, it became a unique identity of the city. Built in European architectural style, this Clock Tower is one of the oldest landmarks in Surat and a remarkable symbol of architectural craftsmanship.

During the 1870s, Surat was a prominent commercial center for both Indian and international traders. At that time, Parsi merchant Khan Bahadur Barjorji Merwanji Fraser’s father, Merwanji Fraser, passed away. In those days, it was customary to build monuments in memory of the deceased. As a tribute to his father, Khan Bahadur Barjorji Fraser constructed an 80-foot-tall Clock Tower in the heart of the city, at the site of a large well near Bhaghal’s Jhampa Bazaar. The tower was visible from every corner of Surat, and its hourly chimes echoed throughout the city.

Features of the Clock Tower

* The clock’s design and craftsmanship are mesmerizing.

* Roman numerals are used on the clock faces.

* The tower has four large clock faces, each facing a different direction.

* A massive bell inside the tower chimes at regular intervals.

83-year-old merchant Ibrahim Abdul Hussain Manjniwala, reminiscing about the historical significance of the Clock Tower, said:

“I have been a witness to Surat’s glorious past. Horse carriages used to run along the main road from the railway station to the Dutch Garden. The Clock Tower and the English trading houses were widely known. This Red Clock Tower is not just Surat’s but one of India’s oldest clock towers, also known as the ‘Red Tower.’ Despite being built in the 18th century, the tower remains operational even in the 21st century, with its clockwork running smoothly and without error.”

During that era, Surat’s major landmarks included Ruwala Tekri, Tower Road, Lakshmi Talkies, and Station Road, which were among the highest roads. At the time, Surat was confined within the fort (kot), which was surrounded by 12 gates, including Lal Darwaza, Sahara Darwaza, Ved Darwaza, and Katargam Darwaza. The area near these gates was referred to as “Bhaghal”, while the region inside the gates was known as the “Kot area” or the old city of Surat. As the city expanded beyond these gates, it grew into modern Surat, flourishing due to industries such as diamonds, textiles, and zari embroidery.

Ancient Forts of Surat

Ibrahim Bhai also mentioned that in the late 16th century, after Surat was plundered, the city was fortified with its first defensive wall, known as “Shaherpanah Fort.” Additionally, remains of another fort, “Alampanah Fort,” can still be found in the stretch from Katargam Darwaza to Lal Darwaza.