Chowmahalla: Your Escape to the Heaven

Ever wondered what a royal residence in Hyderabad looks like? Chowmahalla has history buffs covered. The royal palace is nothing less than a dreamy haven for visitors. The 18th-century marvel is renowned for its vast expanse and breathtaking architecture, but what might also pique one's interest is its meticulous upkeep.

Khilwat Mubarak of Chowmahalla I Source: Wikimedia Commons

The owners of Chowmahalla, descendants of the Asaf Jahi dynasty of Hyderabad, have graciously opened their palace to the masses. Chowmahalla stands as a testament to the legendary architectural contributions of the Nizams of Hyderabad. The palace commemorates the commissioning of its construction in 1769 by the great patron Nizam Ali Khan Asaf Jah II. In the modern-day, this elaborate structure has been honoured with the National Tourism Award for Best Maintained and Differently-abled Friendly Monument in 2017.

The location of Chowmahalla holds symbolic importance for visitors as it was constructedat the same place once occupied by the Qutub Shahis*.* This location signifies the Asaf Jahi's accession and continuity of power. The Asaf Jahis had arrived in Hyderabad in the 17th century as subordinates of the Mughal Empire. After the fall of the Mughal Empire, Asaf Jah declared his independence in 1724, ending the subordination. Now, this grand palace complex, situated near Charminar, Hyderabad, stands as a symbol of their Independence and continued rule.

The construction of this grand palace spanned a century, from laying its foundation to placing the throne. The construction continued with successive rulers making additions, enhancing the grandeur of Chowmahalla*.* Architecture serves as a symbol of a ruler's power and strength; the Asaf Jahis utilised this symbol to assert control. Examining the exemplary features allows one to envision the shift in political power.

The main attraction of Chowmahalla is the Durbar Hall or the court. The Durbar Hall, known as Khilwat Mubarak, is a pillared hall with a white marble floor, adorned with grand chandeliers. Featuring nineteen magnificent chandeliers and touches of Indo-Sarcenic architecture, this regal hall once housed the Takht-e-Nishan. Commissioned in 1912 by the seventh Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, the throne’s grandeur is matched with the nineteen chandeliers made of Belgian Crystal. Mughal, Turkish, and Qutub Shahi architectural influences can be observed in the palace. Presently, the palace serves as a museum open to the public. The upper floor of Khilwat Mubarak showcases handloom, crockery, and paintings, offering visitors insight into the Nizam's lifestyle. The walls exhibit the ruler's arms, such as guns, bows, and swords, symbolising power and prestige.

It is the state’s only Palace to have been decorated with UNESCO’s 2010 Award of Merit, in addition to being awarded the prestigious INTACH Heritage Award twice.

The opulence of the palace reflects the aesthetic sensibilities and vision of the rulers. It was the seat of power for the Nizam, it was designed to exude stability, surrounded by a cistern of water. The palace consists of four buildings, symmetrically opposite to each other: the Durbar, zenana, quarters for the royal family, and the administrative building.

While the architecture of these four palaces maintains an elegant sense of uniformity, Aftab Mahal & Mehtab Mahal are supported by Ionic columns, while Afzal Mahal & Tehniyat Mahal are held up by Corinthian columns of double-height.

The four palaces - Aftab Mahal, Afzal Mahal, Mehtab Mahal, and Tehniyat Mahal - form part of the Chowmahalla complex. Aftab Mahal offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of royal women, displaying mannequins dressed in embroidered textiles, tableaus, and tables adorned with gifts. Mehtab Mahal is the library, boasting a large collection of books on various subjects. Afzal Mahal and Tehniyat Mahal are filled with cupboards containing trinkets and textiles, reminiscent of the royal lifestyle.

Fascinated by the lifestyle of the Nizams? The common people can even book the Palace for corporate and private events, making heritage accessible to the masses. Chowmahalla, a major attraction at the heart of the city, promises to whisk you away from the mundane and transport you to another world.