King Kothi Palace

Filed under Attractions

Among the dynasties that made up the state of Telangana’s colourful and rich history, perhaps none has contributed to structural beauty and aesthetics appeal more than the Asaf Jah line of rulers. More commonly known as Nizams, the Asaf Jahs are responsible for a lot of the great and magnificent edifices and palaces that are found at Hyderabad. Most of these structures have been classified as prime tourist spots by the Telangana state government.

One of these palaces is called the King Kothi Palace, a sprawling complex of mixed architectural style that was the home of the seventh Nizam, Osman Ali Khan, otherwise known as Asaf Jah VII. The complex is located in Hyderabad, and like most of the palaces and buildings built by the prolific Nizams during their glorious reign, it has a hint of fusion between European traditions with Islamic and Hindu motifs and architecture. The result is one that is uniquely Hyderabadi, and is aesthetically pleasing to lovers of both architectural styles.

The palace was originally owned by a nobleman, Kamal Khan, and it was purchased for the young Nizam. When he turned 13, Osman Ali Khan moved in. The palace has been his home ever since, even when he ascended to the throne in 1911. He did not move to Chowmahalla Palace like his father, the sixth Nizam, did.

The complex has three main buildings, and these are divided into two groups. The first group is located in the eastern half. It used to house the Usman Mansion, until it was demolished in the early eighties and a state government hospital was built in its place. The eastern wing was used by the Nizam for ceremonial and official purposes.

The second group is located on the western half, which houses the residential section of the complex. The main King Kothi building is located there as well as the residential mansion Nazri Bagh (also known as Mubarak Mansion). The mansion’s gate is guarded by the Maisaram Regiment, police, and the Sarf-e-Khas army.

Comments

Comments are closed.