This year marks the 400th death anniversary of the founder of Hyderabad, Mohammad Quli Qutb Shah. So, who was he? The fifth ruler in the Quli Qutb Shah dynasty, he founded the new city towards the south of the Musi river in 1591.
He chose the river to eliminate water shortage and linked it to the hub Golkonda with a stone bridge over the river. This ruler with foresight was as enterprising as the other rulers in the Qutb Shahi dynasty started by Sultan Quli Qutb ul Mulk.
“From 1518 to 1687, over a span of 171 years, seven Qutb Shahi kings ruled over the kingdom. Sultan Quli came to India from Iran and entered the military service of the Bahamani king. For having quelled trouble in the Telangana region in 1463 he was made the Subedar of Telangana in 1495, and the title ‘Qutb ul Mulk” was conferred upon him,” says Mr MA Qaiyum, former Deputy Director of Archaeology and Museums of Andhra Pradesh.
Beautiful buildings
Not only did Sultan Quli establish the empire he also built beautiful mosques, palaces and gardens. The establishment of the water channel system from Talab-e-durg (Durgam Cheravu) to Golconda, was a remarkable achievement.
During the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah, the third in the lineage, that Hussainsagar lake was built. Hyderabad became famous for its open diamond market, where merchants from all over the world came to trade in diamonds and other precious stones. Telugu literature and poetry received an impetus during this period.
“Architecture was given a boost during this period, with the Charminar being his masterpiece. The Qutb Shah rulers were great builders and patrons of architecture and learning,” continues Mr Qaiyum. Abdullah Qutb Shah, the seventh ruler, built the cultural pavilion Taramati Baradari, after the graceful Taramati.
The Qutb Shahi rulers are known for buildings and gardens they built like Ashrafi Mosque, Hira Mosque, Moti Darwaza, Chini Mosque and Nagina Bagh. Unfortunately today very few of these remain. They offer insight into the rulers' architectural knowledge, rich urban planning, art and culture. The Seven Tombs, where the rulers are buried, are also known for the intricate workmanship.
