Hyderabad has a rich heritage which dates back to its foundation in 1591 CE by the Qutb Shahi sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. Built around the iconic Charminar, Hyderabad emerged as a pivotal hub for trade in diamonds and pearls and a vibrant cultural centre as well.
From the era of the Nizams, who established dominance in 1724, to the subsequent alliance with the British that transformed Hyderabad into the largest princely state in British India, the city witnessed the evolution of industry, railways, modern education, and airways. Post-Independence in 1947, Hyderabad faced a tumultuous period as the Nizam resisted acceding to the newly formed nation, eventually leading to annexation by the Indian Army in 1948. The city’s destiny took another turn in 1956 when linguistic differences prompted the division of the Hyderabad State, making Hyderabad the capital of Andhra Pradesh.
Best Places to Visit near Hyderabad
In 2014, a new chapter unfolded as the state of Telangana emerged, with Hyderabad assuming the role of its vibrant capital. Join us on a journey through time as we explore its cultural legacy and ever-evolving identity.
The Iconic Charminar
In 1591, Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, orchestrated the construction of the iconic Charminar. This architectural masterpiece marked a significant shift as he moved his capital from Golconda to the newly established city of Hyderabad.
According to the records of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the current custodian of the monument, various theories surround the purpose of Charminar’s construction. However, the widely accepted belief is that it stands at the city’s heart to memorialize the successful eradication of a rampant plague during that time.
Presently, the Charminar stands not only as the first place people visit in Hyderabad but also as one of the most iconic monuments across the entire nation. Enveloped by the lively Chudi Bazar, also known as Laad Bazar, the vicinity resonates with the dynamic energy of the city. The time-honoured mosque crowning the Charminar remains operational to this day, and the monument serves as a venue for various festivals, including Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha.
Every evening, the Charminar in Hyderabad comes to life with an enchanting illumination against the backdrop of the dark sky, presenting a breathtaking spectacle. Recognized as a valuable archaeological and architectural treasure by the Archaeological Survey of India, the Charminar has earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s tentative list, further solidifying its cultural and historical significance.
Cuisine of Hyderabad
Hyderabadi cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mughlai and North Indian flavours, with a distinct influence from the aromatic spices and herbs found in native Telugu dishes. Traditional copper, brass, and earthen pots, along with the unique use of heated stone slabs, contribute to the authenticity of the cooking methods.
A cardinal principle in Hyderabad’s culinary tradition is the art of patient and meticulous cooking, often referred to as “ithmenaan se.” This approach, characterized by slow cooking, draws inspiration from the Dum Pukht method employed in Awadhi cuisine. Ghee serves as the primary cooking medium, lending a rich and distinctive taste to the dishes.
The cuisine places a premium on selecting and preparing ingredients with precision, paying careful attention to spices, meat, rice, and more. Coconut, tamarind, peanuts, and sesame seeds are key flavours woven into many dishes, setting Hyderabadi cuisine apart. Notably, the presence of dry coconut and tamarind distinguishes it from North Indian culinary practices. Unique ingredients such as Betel roots (Pan ki jad) and Stone flower (patthar ke phool) further contribute to the distinctive taste.
Hyderabadi cuisine stands out as the only Muslim culinary tradition in the subcontinent that boasts a significant vegetarian element, shaped by local influences. Complementing every meal are the renowned bread from local kilns, including the sumptuous “Sheermal” and the savoury mincemeat-stuffed “lukmi.” These breads not only accompany meals but also form the base for the popular sweet dish “Double Ka Meetha.”
The delectable authentic taste of Hyderabadi cuisine can be found in the Hyderabadi Biryani, Hyderabadi Haleem, Khorma, Shorba and Khalia, Pathar-ka-gosht, Baghara Baingan, Mirchi ka Saalan, Paaya Nahari and many more dishes.
Now, that you know about the dishes you must be wondering about the best places to visit in Hyderabad for the authentic taste, here are our top 10:
- Rayalseema Ruchulu
- Ulavaharu
- Shah Ghouse
- Cafe Bahar
- Adaa, Taj Falaknuma
- Chicha’s
- Jewel of Nizam
- Aish- The Park
- Spicy venue
- Hotel Shadab
The IT Hub & Film Industry
Hyderabad has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, so much so that it has now emerged as an IT Hub. The state of Telangana witnessed a staggering growth of 31.44 per cent in IT and IT-enabled services exports during the 2022-23 fiscal year, a testament to the city’s evolution into a prominent tech destination. This surge, highlighted in the annual report from the Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications Department, underscores Hyderabad’s pivotal role in the nation’s digital landscape. (source: indianexpress.in)
In addition to its tech prowess, Hyderabad has also become a thriving centre for the film industry. The Hyderabadi film scene is experiencing an impressive upswing, with an annual film output nearly rivalling that of the Hindi film industry. What sets Hyderabad apart is not just the quantity but the quality, as the Hyderabadi film industry offers investors a higher return on each feature compared to its Hindi counterpart. This unique combination of technological innovation and a flourishing film industry positions Hyderabad as a city that seamlessly blends modernity with its cultural vibrancy.
What’s up ahead?
Carrying forward the legacy and cultural identity to the new year, real estate developers in Hyderabad are planning to capitalize on the city’s massive economic and migrant surge. The best real estate company in Hyderabad, Auro Realty offers you a chance to own your dream home rooted in the image of this historical city.
