Hyderabad: Two palatial structures that give a glimpse into the lives of the Paigah nobles are now in a dilapidated condition, badly in need of attention and immediate repairs.
The imposing Deodi Iqbal-ud-Dowlah and Deodi Khursheed Jah, both located in Shah Gunj, a few meters from the Chowmohalla Palace in the Old City date back to the Nizam era.
Deodi Iqbal-ul-Dowla at Shahgunj
“Nawab Fakhruddin built the Khursheed Jah Deodi and Iqbal-ud-Dowlah Deodi along with other palatial houses. Artisans from European countries completed the structure,” explains M.A. Qayyum, former assistant director, department of archaeology and museums. Both the structures are now lying in a dilapidated condition.
For instance, the Iqbal-ud-Dowlah Deodi is located on the main thoroughfare but “neither the authorities nor the property owners ever bothered to plaster the structure or take up repairs. Chips of plaster regularly fall from the majestic building. What if the wall collapses someday,” said H.J. Azam, a marketing executive who lives at Fateh Darwaza.
Worse, a garbage bin is placed right in front of the building which offers a feast to bandicoots and large rats that have already burrowed the walls.
Mohammed Shafeeq, a resident of Hussaini Alam points out that several children play in the huge front courtyard of the Khursheed Jah Deodi.
“The plaster has peeled off the Deodi and it poses a risk to the local children who play around. Also, there is a women's college on the other side of the structure and scores of girls move in close proximity to the structure,” says Mr Shafeeq.
When contacted, Charminar MLA Syed Ahmed Pasha Quadri said that he is making a representation to the State Archaeological Department to take up renovation of the buildings.
Ancient treasure
- A marvellous piece of European style architecture.
- Interiors had expensive carpets and exclusive chandeliers.
- Gardens blossomed with flowers and fountains.
- Water to these palaces was channeled from Mir Alam Tank by a special line.
