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India.com
14-07-2025
- General
- India.com
Lost Legends & Forgotten Royals: The Untold Story Behind Hyderabad's Name
Hyderabad, which serves as the capital city of Telangana state in India, is a bustling city well known for its heritage, history, and technology. It is also known as the 'City of Nizams' which explains why it is a blend of modernity and antiquity at the same time. But do you know how this magnificent city came to be known as 'Hyderabad'? The etymology of the name is a mixture of romance, myth, and history which is equally spellbinding as the city is. Story of Bhagmati with the Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah The person whom Hyderabad is associated with, Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, was the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. The name of the city is said to have derived from this Sultan's story. Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah built Hyderabad in the year 1591 in order to accommodate the overflow of people and the lack of water in the fortified city of Golconda, which was the capital of the Qutb Shahi kingdom. Legend has it that this city was named after a pearl of a maiden named Bhagmati whom the Sultan was deeply fond of. Bhagmati was a local Hindu girl, and her bond with the Sultan represented the peaceful blending of Hindu and Muslim traditions in the area. As the story goes, Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah was so captivated by Bhagmati that when they wedded, he named the city 'Bhaganagar' in herename. Gradually, and after her conversion to Islam, she assumed the name 'Hyder Mahal,' which also meant that the city got the name 'Hyderabad' meaning 'the city of Hyder.' The word Hyder itself means 'lion' in Arabic which represents courage and valour. This tale, while common, has its discrepancies. Some historians believe that the title Hyder was associated with Ali, the fourth Caliph of Islam revered by Shia Muslims and the name was used as cover for him. The Qutb Shahi dynasty being Shia Muslims cherished Ali, thus suggesting that the city was named after him. Founding of Hyderabad Hyderabad was the brainchild of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. He wanted the city to be a wonder of a city, with a unique road-and-street layout, professional style buildings and effective drainage and water supply facilities. The unrivaled symbol of the city, Charminar, a massive gate with 4 towers on its 4 corners, was erected in the central part of the city and is one of the sites that people associate with Hyderabad. It was a monumental building of the city and a memorial of the great Sultan's affection for Bhagmati, for it was claimed that she met her beloved Sultan at that particular site. Hyderabad developed into a well known trade, culture, and education center and quickly grew in importance. Its location on the Deccan Plateau made it a central point for trade which brought merchants from all over the globe. The city became known as a 'City of Pears' as it became famous for its pearls and diamonds along with its textiles. Influence of the Nizams During the late 17th century, after the fall of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty, the Mughal Empire took rule over Hyderabad. This city reached its peak during the time of the Nizams who were Mughal governors. In 1724, the Nizam Ali Khans proclaimed independence and started the Asaf Jahi dynasty until India received independence in 1947. Hyderabad instantly developed into one of the richest and prosperous districts under the Nizams dynasty. Although the name Hyderabad remained the same, the city developed and blended into a mix of various arts, cultures, languages, and traditions. Even today, the palaces, mosques, and other institutions in the city exhibit the legacy of the Nizams and their great encouragement towards art, education, and architecture. Today At present, Hyderabad is a modern city infused with technology and history. This region houses an ever-growing IT sector which has earned the city the title of 'Cyberabad'. The city is well known for its exquisite dishes like the world's renowned Hyderabadi Biryani, as well as for its colorful festivals like the famous Bonalu and annual Bathukamma celebrations. No matter the context, the name 'Hyderabad' never fails to ignite a sense of unity and self-identity in its people. Be it from a traditional romantic folklore or a revered individual, the city's name speaks volumes towards its cultural mix and historical roots. Hyderabad still preserves the legacies of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, the Nizams, and countless other contributors to the city's growth. Conclusion The tale of how Hyderabad got its name blends history, romance and legend. Whether it was the admiration for Ali or the love that Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah had for Bhagmati, 'Hyderabad' has always been associated with the city's identity. As Hyderabad continues to expand, its name reminds us of the city's past and the potential it has for the future. The history of Hyderabad is captivating and is a strong representation of love, culture, and vision, making it one of the most wonderful places in India.
India.com
11-07-2025
- India.com
Hyderabad's Legends Aren't Just Stories — They're Alive In Every Corner Of The City
The Indian city of Hyderabad serves as Telangana's capital and it holds historical significance along with cultural heritage and folklore background. Over generations local myths and legends combined with historic marvels including Charminar and Golconda Fort while biryani became the hallmark of Hyderabad which established the identity of this culturally rich city. The old stories which have been transmitted over multiple generations show how Hyderabad combines traditional elements with spiritual aspects and mystery. Legend of Qutb Shahi Tombs The Qutb Shahi dynasty maintained power over the Hyderabad region between 1518 and 1687 as one of its most famous Hyderabad legends. The Qutb Shahi dynasty ruled Hyderabad through generations as artistic supporters who constructed two famous landmarks: Golconda Fort and Charminar. According to lore their burial places hide within proximity to Golconda Fort. According to belief each royal tomb received its design exclusively based on how the monarch lived their life. The founder of Hyderabad Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah is buried beneath a magnificent mausoleum that features exquisite artwork. Local residents believe that the spirit of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah remains vigilant over his constructed city because he provided sustained prosperity to its citizens after his death. Districts of Hyderabad attract numerous worshippers whose belief in sacred energy at these sites motivates their visits. Mystical Origins of Charminar Numerous legends surround the most recognizable landmark of Hyderabad which is the Charminar. The structure was constructed by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah during 1591 and it signifies the final point of a dreadful plague epidemic. The Sultan made a promise to construct a mosque on the site where he received comfort during his plague-prayer which led to the development of the Charminar. The four minarets of Charminar represent the first four caliphs of Islam in order to convey strength and unity according to popular myth. Those who walk under the Charminar arches consider it a way to obtain good luck and protection against evil spirits. The widely held belief about the structure transformed Charminar into a symbolic religious attraction for both residents and outsiders. Enigmatic Koh-i-Noor Diamond The link between Hyderabad and the famed Koh-i-Noor diamond gives the city an extra touch of historical depth. The diamond holds unique status as one of the world's largest and most well-known gems because people believe it was extracted from Kollur Mines near Golconda during the Kakatiya dynasty period. The gem has been transferred between different owners across history yet its Golconda affiliation retains great importance. The local belief exists that people who hold the Koh-i-Noor diamond must expect bad luck unless destiny declares them for rule. The curse assigns bad fortunes to all owners due to its mysterious power that supposedly doomed Mughal emperors and Persian conquerors and British monarchs. Locals in Hyderabad maintain a strong sense of pride toward the Koh-i-Noor diamond because it remains displayed at the Tower of London even though its historical origins belong to Golconda. Sacred Story of Hussain Sagar Lake The artificial Hussain Sagar lake serves as a cultural and religious landmark because it integrates Hyderabad with its twin city Secunderabad. The lake construction began in 1563 under the leadership of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah and honored the spiritual leader Hussain Shah Wali. Local traditions say that the waters of Hussain Sagar achieve healing properties because they receive blessings from the saint Hussain Shah Wali. A contemporary story exists about the placement of the Buddha statue on Gibraltar Rock which sits in the heart of the lake. During its ship transport across the water in 1992 the huge stone Buddha statue accidentally sank into Hussain Sagar Lake. The statue survived the accident since no casualties occurred in the incident as it would later become installed properly upon Gibraltar Rock. The strange incident with the fallen Buddha statue on Gibraltar Rock leads many people to believe in divine intervention so they come to view the lake as holier than ever. Haunting Tales of Golconda Fort The historical Golconda Fort rests on a Hyderabad-observant hill that holds the reputation of ghostly tales in addition to its significant historical value. During the time of Abdullah Qutb Shah at his royal court Taramati the courtesan gained fame through her captivating beauty along with her artistic abilities. The legend claims her soul remains in Golconda Fort to haunt the areas where she danced as a courtesan. According to legends there exists concealed treasures positioned underneath the fort's perimeter. Reports among local residents describe hidden underground tunnels that direct people to vaults containing forgotten treasures of gold and jewels. Locals report experiencing both chilling audio communication and unclear shapes which seem to protect the rumored hidden treasures. These genuine or fictitious stories create an eerie fascination around Golconda Fort. Spirit of Osmania General Hospital As one of India's first medical facilities Osmania General Hospital maintains its past together with popular ghost stories. The facility served British colonial rule as an essential healthcare institution upon its foundation in 1919. Time passed and physicians and staff members started sharing their supernatural experiences which spread as rumors throughout both groups. The former patients who died from illness in the medical facility continue to haunt the building per urban legend stories. Employees witness sudden footsteps without human origin and ghostly figures during late nighttime hours. The hospital operates as an essential medical institution for Hyderabad despite experiencing mysterious stories about its paranormal activities. Final Thoughts The city of Hyderabad benefits from its diverse collection of myths and legends which add to its cultural richness throughout its history. These enduring stories provide revelations about the thoughts and beliefs shared by Hyderabad's citizens within the confines of the Charminar's origins and Golconda Fort spectral happenings. Through these memorials Hyderabad maintains its historical greatness as it takes form for its contemporary identity. The narratives serve as more than entertainment because they build both local identity and long-term connection among Hyderabad's residents. The city of Hyderabad maintains its rich heritage through legend preservation and celebration so that future generations can honor their cultural heritage. The city demonstrates the eternal relationship between historic events and mythological tales and human interactions in its present.
India.com
23-06-2025
- India.com
Explore 10 Amazing Spots In Hyderabad To Visit This July!
Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana in southern India, is a hotchpotch of rich history, vivid culture and modern splendor. From stately buildings to tasty food selection, Hyderabad has everything the traveler wants. Whether you are a historical enthusiast, a gourmet or just want to have an unforgettable holiday – there's something for you here in Hyderabad. Let's take a look at the top interesting places to visit in this city of enchantment. 1. Charminar: A symbol of architectural excellence at Hyderabad, Charminar is an iconic building that stands tall over the cityscape. Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah erected it in 1591 as one among others with four gigantic spires an Indo-Islamic masterpiece. While wandering around Charminar where pearls are sold delicious street food can be purchased along the way. 2. Golconda Fort: Perched atop a granite hilltop , Golconda Fort represents Hyderabad's grandiose past . Known since XIII century for its mighty walls that surrounded several palaces and majestic gateways . If you're planning on exploring its ruins don't miss The Sound and Light Show over there. 3. Mecca Masjid: Mecca Masjid is one among oldest and biggest mosques found in India constructed using soil bricks brought from Mecca creating room for about 10,000 worshippers at once demonstrate Islamic architecture at its best It boasts grand arched colonnades , ornate domes as well as historical tombs within its premises which any visitor may marvel at . 4. Hussain Sagar Lake: Escape from the bustling city life by relaxing along Hussain Sagar Lake shores . Constructed during Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah's reign in 16th century; this artificial water body offers visitors panoramic views of cityscape. A boat trip to middle island where statue of Buddha is located will surely leave an unforgettable memory especially when the sun goes down. 5. Chowmahalla Palace: Enter through the royal doors into the palatial world of Nizams at Chowmahalla Palace and know their lavishness and architectural brilliance. Take note of delicate stucco work, spacious courtyards, and a large amount of vintage cars, manuscripts, antique pieces that speak about Hyderabad's past. 6. Salar Jung Museum: Within the walls of Salar Jung Museum lie most beautiful artistic treasures . This museum has one of the biggest private art collections in the world – ranging from ancient sculptures to European paintings. Such highlights include Mughal miniatures , Veiled Rebecca sculpture well as very rare artifacts across continents. 7. Ramoji Film City: Experience Bollywood magic at Ramoji Film City, which is currently the largest integrated film studio in the world . While roaming around its 2000-acre wide area you can observe how movies are made or visit thematic parks with various attractions or even ride on roller coasters in the amusement park . Remember not to miss evening shows with live performances and dance spectacles . 8. Laad Bazaar: Laad Bazaar – Hyderabad 's premier marketplace for lacquered bangles and traditional clothes provides a great chance for consumers to shop till they drop! Get lost among narrow alleys packed with colourful stalls selling anything from intricate jewellery to aromatic spices , bargaining for better deals as you go along; then do not forget tasting delicious local dishes such as Hyderabadi biryani or Irani chai in one of small nearby cafes. 9. Qutb Shahi Tombs: Visit the grand tombs of the Qutub Shahi rulers at green and beautiful gardens. These are architectural wonders which combine Indian, Persian and Islamic influences; they have detailed engravings and pretty domes made from marble stones. Walk gently through the serene surroundings of these great tombs. 10. Nehru Zoological Park: Discover a range of animals from different parts of global at Nehru Zoological Park for a wild night out with them. The zoo is located over an area of 380 acres, it houses some majestic beasts like lions, tigers, elephants among others in their natural habitat. Be sure to check out the nocturnal house, bird aviary as well as lion safari. Final Thoughts Hyderabad is an unforgettable experience for those who appreciate history combined with modernity and culture. Your stay in Hyderabad may be filled with surprise and awe whether you are astonished by ancient structures or tasting mouth-watering food or experiencing vibrant marketplaces. Therefore get your stuff organized and start this magical journey to explore myriads of reasons why people call Hyderabad 'City of Pearls'.
India.com
02-06-2025
- Business
- India.com
10 Must-Know Facts About Hyderabad That Will Amaze You
The Indian state of Telangana holds its capital Hyderabad as a place which exhibits history alongside cultural traditions and contemporary development. People find diverse opportunities throughout Hyderabad due to its historical roots and its thriving food culture alongside its active information technology sector. This article presents ten intriguing pieces of information about Hyderabad city that all visitors should learn. 1. A City With Over 400 Years of History Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah established Hyderabad city as his capital in 1591 through his role as the fifth Qutb Shahi ruler. The establishment of Hyderabad as the Golconda Sultanate capital occurred when it located itself alongside the Musi River. Throughout history the city retained its royal heritage through monuments like Charminar and Golconda Fort. During the Nizam rule until 1947 Hyderabad functioned as a leading commercial and political and cultural center of the region. 2. The Iconic Charminar The Charminar stands as India's most famous landmark which faces the center of the Hyderabad district. The structure known as Charminar now stands as a commemoration of the decline of a plague epidemic after its completion in 1591. Multiple minarets extending from its four corners shape this remarkable Islamic building design. Shoppers and tourists find the lively Laad Bazaar encircling the Charminar because it displays its renowned collection of bangles and jewelry and traditional handcrafted items. 3. The City of Pearls Since pearl trading took place in Hyderabad its residents earned the title 'City of Pearls' throughout history. The Nizams invited global traders to conduct their pearl business here resulting in the city becoming a universal leading trade center for precious stones. Today Hyderabad continues to attract buyers who seek extravagant pearl jewelry while its markets display high-quality pearl items to several visitors. 4. A Melting Pot of Cultures Hyderabad exists as an intercultural mix of ethnic communities together with numerous linguistic communities. Each ethnic group including Telugu together with Urdu and Marathi and Kannada and Hindi speakers forms part of Hyderabad's population. The city shows its diverse cultural elements in both its social events along with its traditional foods and artistic expressions. Unique cultural customs known as the Deccani culture emerged from the united living of Hindus and Muslims and combines Persian and Turkish elements with Indian traditions. 5. The Birthplace of Biryani Hyderabadi biryani possesses its status as Indian cuisine's most famous food while earning a reputation as the birthplace of this celebration dish in the city. This signature Rice dish contains basmati rice which marries with aromatic spices and tender mutton or chicken to form a distinctive literary presentation. Two distinctive versions of Hyderabadi biryani exist: Kacchi Biryani that cooks raw marinated meat alongside rice and Pakki Biryani where finished meat and rice layers create the dish. The traditional recipe represents Hyderabad's noble eating traditions. 6. India's Silicon Valley The city of Hyderabad developed into a leading IT destination which secured its position as 'Cyberabad' during recent years. HITEC City serves as a vast technology park within Hyderabad accommodating Microsoft and Google and Amazon and Facebook as well as numerous multinational corporations. Hyderabad's rapid development in the IT sector established it as one of India's fastest-growing metropolitan areas that pulls people from all areas of India and international locations. 7. Ramoji Film City – The Largest Film Studio in the World Ramoji Film City stands as the largest film studio complex which exists worldwide in Hyderabad. This enormous entertainment facility extends across 2,000 acres to provide advanced production infrastructure which includes artistic installations as well as production spaces and entertaining amusement parks. The location hosts a large number of film shooting projects from Bollywood studios and Tollywood studios and additional filmmakers from Indian regional industries. Ramoji Film City welcomes visitors who want to see its facilities while taking them through their production operations. 8. Home to Osmania University Established in 1918 Osmania University stands as a distinguished Indian institution which holds the title of being one of the oldest universities in the nation. Hyderabad was the first institution of higher education in India to gain patronage from Mir Osman Ali Khan who served as the seventh Nizam of Hyderabad. The campus of the university houses Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpieces that currently function as a nominee site for UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage. Osmania University maintains its standing as an academic and research center which continues to excel in present times. 9. The Hussain Sagar Lake Hussain Sagar Lake emerged as a man-made reservoir in 1563 through the rule of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah in Hyderabad. The Buddha statue stands in the middle of the lake as it unites Hyderabad and Secunderabad into a united urban region. People can either take boat tours on the lake while also having the opportunity to spend time relaxing at the Necklace Road along its borders. 10. A Thriving Handicrafts Industry Hyderabad maintains a worldwide reputation for two traditional handicrafts which include Bidriware and Kalamkari art. Bidriware consists of detailed silver inlays applied to blackened metal products alongside Kalamkari which utilizes two practices for making textile art – hand-painting and block-printing. Generations have preserved these handicrafts which acquired high value throughout India and internationally. The local artisans through their work maintain ancient techniques which grow Hyderabad's cultural wealth. Conclusion Hyderabad exists as a place where lordly heritage perfectly merges with contemporary progress. You will find countless compelling reasons to discover the multifaceted metropolis of Hyderabad because it offers beautiful architecture and tasty cuisine in addition to its successful technology sector and creative arts community. Hyderabad presents an extraordinary series of attractions that entertain both historians and food enthusiasts and technology professionals showing the diverse energy of Indian culture.
NDTV
30-05-2025
- NDTV
Incredible Facts About Hyderabad's Charminar That'll Leave You Amazed
You have seen it on postcards, in Bollywood films, and probably even on biscuit packets, when we talk about Hyderabad, the first thing that comes to mind is Charminar. Standing tall in the heart of Hyderabad's Old City, this monument is a standing symbol of its rich past and vibrant culture. Charminar was built in 1591 and is more than 430 years old. It isn't just an architectural marvel but is also filled with hidden meanings, surprising stories and details that many people might not notice. If you live in Hyderabad or are planning to visit the city soon, take a look at how its highlight – the Charminar – is an incredible monument with a fascinating history. Here Are 5 Facts About Charminar That'll Blow Your Mind 1. It Was Built To Mark The End Of A Plague One of the most fascinating reasons behind the construction of Charminar is said to be a deadly epidemic. As per the legends, Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah built the Charminar to mark the end of a devasting plague that had swept through the region. Apparently, the Sultan had prayed for the plague for the end of the plague. Once that happened, he built the Charminar as a tribute to Allah, and the monument's four pillars are said to be the first four caliphs of Islam. So, the Charminar became a symbol of hope and gratitude. 2. Charminar Might Have A Hidden Tunnel Yes, you read that right! The monument, which was built in 1591 is rumoured to have a secret tunnel that connects it to the Golconda Fort, which is 8 kilometres away. As per the legends, the tunnel was built for the royal family to escape in any kind of emergency. Though the existence of this tunnel hasn't been publicly confirmed or explored recently, the idea of a royal underground passage hidden inside the bustling city of Hyderabad adds an element of mystery to the monument. 3. It Was Once A Mosque And A Clock Tower While most people know the Charminar for its majestic structure and minarets, not many people are aware that it also happens to have a mosque on the top floor. It is said to be one of the oldest mosques in Hyderabad and is still used for prayers. That's not all! In the year 1889, each side of the Charminar had a clock installed. Although they aren't functional now, the faded clock faces are still visible if you look closely! 4. Charminar Has A Unique Architecture If you observe this monument, you will notice the mix of Indo-Islamic, Persian, and a bit of Hindu architectural influence. Charminar was designed by an Iranian architect named Mir Momin Astrawadi, who had settled in Hyderabad. You will also notice lotus-like motifs and other Indian elements while also following the Persian design principles. According to legends, these blending styles reflect Hyderabad's diverse culture during the Qutb Shahi dynasty. 5. Its Name Has A Deeper Meaning Most of us know that 'Charminar' literally translates to 'four minarets,' but its name means more than just that. While many believe that the number four symbolises the four directions or even the four Khalifas of Islam, others think it represents the four major roads that meet at the monument, which symbolises connectivity and unity.
