The landmark lung space that is Public Gardens dates back to 1846, courtesy of Osman Ali Khan, the VIIth and last Nizam of Hyderabad and Berar. Also known as Bagh-e-Aam or Bagham , Public Gardens has heralded a great deal of attraction since its opening to the public in 1937 — to ever-loyal Hyderabadis and curious newcomers.
The design of the gardens retains a prevalent historic charm and now booms with a flurry of biodiversity rich with flora and fauna surrounded by cornerstone institutes including the Telangana Legislative Assembly, the State Archaeology Museum, Shahi Masjid mosque and Indira Gandhi Auditorium.
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The entrance of the Gardens itself underwent a ₹10 lakh repair, proving the State Archaeological Department spared no expense.
These buildings reflect various eras through their purpose and their architectures, such as the Indo-Saracenic exoticism of the State Archaeology Museum and the breathtaking Shahi domes of Shahi Masjid.
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The lawns and enlivening vegetation embody serenity among the chaos of politics and general city bustle, making it easy to visualise Nizam royalty ambling along the winding pathways. As part of the revamp, the lake in Public Gardens received a healthy fill up. Previously, the lake was linked to Tank Bund but the pipeline system became heavily clogged with pollutants. Now the Public Gardens society has set up an autonomous rain water harvesting system that will hopefully keep the lake full throughout the year.
However, do not expect a total makeover due to security restrictions put in place by the government buildings upon the premises.
The sprawling grounds do allow for at least an hour and a half of passable time and some seriously productive exploration. School picnics and family days out frequent the Gardens without the worry of noise or rowdiness.