"Hyderabad Through My Eyes – by Nitesh

King Kothi Palace – A Glimpse into Hyderabad’s Regal Past Hyderabad is a city of stories, and King Kothi Palace stands as one of its most quietly majestic narrators. Nestled in the bustling heart of the city, this palace is a testament to the luxurious lifestyle and royal elegance of the Nizams of Hyderabad . The Origins of King Kothi Palace King Kothi Palace, originally known as "Vilayat Manzil," was constructed in the early 20th century. It came into prominence when Mir Osman Ali Khan the seventh and last Nizam of Hyderabad, made it his official residence. The name "King Kothi" (King’s Mansion) was later adopted, and the initials “K K” inscribed on the gates are said to stand for "King Kothi." Architectural Elegance The architecture of King Kothi Palace blends European and Mughal styles, featuring grand arches, carved wooden doors, long corridors, and high ceilings. Though time has taken its toll on the palace’s grandeur, its royal character is still ev...

Falaknuma Palace – Hyderabad's Heavenly Mansion in the Sky Falaknuma Palace Hyderabad  (Image credit -Pinterest) Perched 2,000 feet above Hyderabad’s old city, Falaknuma Palace is a symbol of grandeur, grace, and the legendary opulence of the Nizams. Its very name means “Mirror of the Sky”, derived from two Urdu words: ‘Falak’ (sky) and ‘Numa’ (like or mirror). This architectural masterpiece continues to enchant visitors with its royal charm and timeless elegance. --- Who Built Falaknuma Palace and Why? Falaknuma Palace was commissioned in 1884 by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra , the then Prime Minister of Hyderabad and a member of the Paigah family—known for their immense wealth and closeness to the Nizams. He intended it to be his private residence, but when the sixth Nizam, Mahbub Ali Pasha , visited the palace in 1897, he was so impressed by its grandeur that Vikar-ul-Umra gifted it to him. It soon became a royal guesthouse and a retreat for visiting dignitaries. --- How Long Did It Take ...

Paigah Tombs – The Silent Legacy of Hyderabad’s Nobility "Paigah Tombs in Hyderabad – historic Indo-Islamic architecture Tucked away in the quieter lanes of Old Hyderabad, the Paigah Tombs stand as a silent, marble-clad tribute to one of the most influential noble families in the history of the Deccan – the Paigahs. These tombs are not just graves; they are poetry in stone, whispering stories of loyalty, love, and unmatched artistry. A Legacy of Loyalty and Power The Paigahs were not ordinary nobles. Loyal to the Asaf Jahi Nizams, they were entrusted with the security of the state and held the highest ranks just next to the Nizam himself. Their tomb complex, dating back to the late 18th century, is the final resting place of generations of Paigah nobles, including Asman Jah , Viqar-ul-Umra , and Shams-ul-Umra . Architectural Grandeur Beyond Words The Paigah Tombs are a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture , blended with Persian, Mughal, and even Rajasthani influences. Wha...