Hyderabad: Hidden in the historic lanes of Hussaini Alam in the Old City is the Century old Deccan Button Factory which churned out gold and silver buttons that adorned the royal attires of the Nizam. The factory was established by the sixth Nizam, Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, in 1916 to produce buttons for the royals, high ranking officials of the police and the army.
“The factory was famous for its ornamental works. Gold and silver buttons of sherwani and coats were produced here. There were numerous designs for different occasions,” said MA Qayyum, a historian, and added, “The buttons were unique and were famous all over the country,” he said.
The royals preferred buttons in blue, green and yellow colours with thin enamel works to make them attractive.
At the rear end of the buttons, the name of the manufacturer was written. Either the trademark of the company crossed flags with a star and the crescent or the word ‘Dekkan’ in English was also found inscribed on them.
According to the preferences of the buyer, floral patterns were used in the design. The buttons were produced in round, square and oval shapes.
Historian Dr Mohammed Safiullah said, “It spoke about the hard work and skills of artisans. The machinery was imported from England and installed here. Several persons worked in the factory.” The buttons were packed in a metal casket, he added. The factory completed 100 years of existence last year. The factory downed its shutters a few decades ago and today lies in ruins.
