Jamshedpur not only represents the industrial ambitions of a nation but its architecture also speaks the glorious tale of its spectacular history, rich heritage, weaving innumerable pearls of memories in the thread of time. For decades these rich heritage sites have stood as the pride of their founders.

The numerous places of cultural heritage in the Steel City speak volumes about the rich past of the city. The vision and ambition of the entrepreneur for his country and its people created modern India’s first planned industrial town, Jamshedpur. The city alone has several heritage buildings, which are more than 75 years old. It's time that get to know about such local heritage sites.

Armoury Ground

The safeguarding of Tata Steel (Erstwhile TISCO) plant at Jamshedpur against the Japanese attack during World War II was assigned to the Bihar Warriors, a company of the Hyderabad Regiment. They used Armoury ground in Bistupur adjacent to the plant for their parades, training and warfare movements. The Bihar Warriors had developed an indigenous ack ack gun – anti aircraft gun – mounted on a bicycle. It was at this ground that the gun was displayed to the then-Viceroy, Lord Wavell during one of his visits to inspect army preparedness.

Keenan Stadium

Built in 1939 and named after Sir John Lawrence Keenan, then general managers of Tata Steel, the stadium was a prime cricket venue in eastern India after Kolkata’s fabled Eden Gardens. It has hosted 10 international matches, first being the India-West Indies match in December 7, 1983, so far. Barring, one match (against South Africa in March 2000) India has never won a match here.  

In fact, from 1983 to 2006, of all the 10 big-ticket ODI matches held at Keenan, India won only one. Pakistan, England, West Indies, New Zealand, all romped home with victories. The last ODI was held on April 12, 2006, between India and England, as part of the TVS Cup series. Unfortunately, England had won the match.

Director’s Bungalow

Director’s Bungalow (popularly known as DB) was built in 1918, and, since then, stands as a proud host to some of the famous people across India and the globe. Prior to the present DB, stood an old building built prior to the construction of the steel plant. It was here that stalwarts like Sir Dorabji Tata, J RD Tata stayed and oversaw the operations of the company.

Kali Bari

Beldih Kali Temple was built by Pandit Bhupaticharan Smrititirth in December 1932.Over the years this Kali Bari has been the centre of attraction during Durga Puja as it has drawn people from all walks of life to witness the aarti. It is said that the idol of goddess Durga is also one of the biggest idols in the Steel City.