NIVEDITA N.
The Chowmahalla palace is one of the “must visit” places in Hyderabad.
Kings and stories about them always have been fascinating.
Ever wondered how a palace looked like or the ways of the nobles seemed like? Here is a palace closer home to drop by to get a glimpse of nobility. And this one has a lot to offer.
The Chowmahalla palace echoes the benevolence of the Nizams who seated their guests of the Asif Jahi dynasty amidst splendour. Constructed in mid 19th century, The Palace relives the majestic lifestyle of the Nizams.
Embellished with a finely structured fountain at the fore, a walk through the garden is refreshing.
Grand architecture
The Khilawat or the Durbar Mahal, speaks eloquently of the marvellous architecture of the dynasty.
The chandeliers and the glittering marble Durban are delightful. The closet of the gallantry reflects the valour of the warriors. One cannot take their eyes off the photo gallery of the Mahallat (the ladies of the house).
Draped in Hyderabadi ‘Chaugoshia’ costume and jewellery, the pictures of the princesses voice nobility and royalty with grandeur.
The Mahtab Mahal houses the lavish spread of artefacts used by the Nizams.
It includes a unique Piscean symbolising sovereignty bestowed upon the Mughal dynasty by Khusru Parviz, a Persian King. Like wise, the Aftab Mahal is a store house of the bedazzling costumes, ornaments of the Asif Jahi dynasty.
The clock tower, fondly known as Khilawat clock is a fine work and it has been ticking since 250 years. It is believed that the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad lived in the Roshan Bangla, which is named after his Mother, Roshan Begum. The present Nizam, Barkat Ali Khan Mukarram Jah and Princess Ersa Jah have opened the Chowmahalla Palace to the public in January 2005.
The Chowmahalla palace
Where: Near Lad bazaar
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed on Friday, National holiday)
Ticket: Rs. 25, (Rs. 50 camera, Rs. 100 video)
