With its 430-year-old history, Charminar stands tall in the city. But if you think it’s just a monument with four minarets, think again.
You have seen it on postcards, in Bollywood films, and probably even on biscuit packets, when we talk about Hyderabad, the first thing that comes to mind is Charminar. Standing tall in the heart of Hyderabad’s Old City, this monument is a standing symbol of its rich past and vibrant culture. Charminar was built in 1591 and is more than 430 years old. It isn’t just an architectural marvel but is also filled with hidden meanings, surprising stories and details that many people might not notice. If you live in Hyderabad or are planning to visit the city soon, take a look at how its highlight – the Charminar – is an incredible monument with a fascinating history.
One of the most fascinating reasons behind the construction of Charminar is said to be a deadly epidemic. As per the legends, Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah built the Charminar to mark the end of a devasting plague that had swept through the region. Apparently, the Sultan had prayed for the plague for the end of the plague. Once that happened, he built the Charminar as a tribute to Allah, and the monument’s four pillars are said to be the first four caliphs of Islam. So, the Charminar became a symbol of hope and gratitude.
Yes, you read that right! The monument, which was built in 1591 is rumoured to have a secret tunnel that connects it to the Golconda Fort, which is 8 kilometres away. As per the legends, the tunnel was built for the royal family to escape in any kind of emergency. Though the existence of this tunnel hasn’t been publicly confirmed or explored recently, the idea of a royal underground passage hidden inside the bustling city of Hyderabad adds an element of mystery to the monument.
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