The history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas) is one of the important monuments of India. It is a major landmark of Hyderabad and was built by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah in 1591 AD. The four minarets of Charminar not only make it unique from the architectural point of view, but also reflect its religious and cultural significance. Charminar was built when Hyderabad was free from an epidemic like plague, and this monument was seen as a symbol of a new beginning of the city.
Today in this post we will try to know Charminar ka itihaas in full detail. Also, when was Charminar built and what was the purpose of its construction, we will also know some amazing facts about Charminar. Which route do you have to take to reach Charminar and through which place to come or go, so let’s first know when Charminar was built.
When was Charminar built and its purpose
While answering the question “Charminar kab banaa”, we should pay attention to its historical importance. Charminar was built in 1591 AD, and it was built to celebrate the city’s freedom from the plague epidemic. Its purpose was not only as a monument, but it was also considered a religious and social center. Four major roads lead out of it in all four directions, which also makes it a center of business activities.
Although it is said that there were many other purposes of its construction, but it is most often said that it was built as the beginning of a new era of the Hyderabad Sultanate, which is also true to a great extent. Soon we will bring more posts, three reasons for the construction of Hyderabad, in which you will be able to know about the construction of Hyderabad in more detail, today we are talking about Charminar ka itihaas.
Where is Charminar: Its Geographical Importance
Before knowing the history of Charminar, it is important to know where Charminar is. “Charminar kahan hai” is the question that comes to the mind of every person who wishes to see this wonderful structure. Charminar is located in the heart of the old city of Hyderabad. This monument is an important commercial and religious center, from where four main roads of the city originate. Big business markets around it like: Laad Bazaar and Patthar Gatti, still remain the main center of business activities.
If you have not visited Charminar even once, then you are still far behind in the world. I believe that you should visit Charminar at least once. Especially the people of India should definitely see Charminar once. Charminar is in the middle of Hyderabad today. If you are coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Ranchi, Kolkata or any other city, then catch a direct train to Nampally Railway Station of Hyderabad.
From there, take any auto rickshaw which will take you directly to Charminar. But here let me tell you one thing, auto rickshaws are easily available for ₹100. Many people charge 500 to 1000 rupees on seeing people from outside. You have to be careful so do not pay more than 150 rupees.
Architecture of Charminar: A confluence of Mughal and Persian art
The history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas) becomes even more interesting due to its unique architecture. Charminar has four minarets, whose height is about 56 meters, giving it a special identity. A great blend of Mughal and Persian styles can be seen in its structure. There are winding stairs inside each of its minarets, which make it even more attractive from the architectural point of view. Apart from this, a mosque is also located inside it, which makes it important from the religious point of view.
Commercial importance of Charminar
The history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas) is not limited to just one monument. The markets around it are still one of the major business centers of Hyderabad. Areas like Laad Bazaar and Patthar Gatti are located around Charminar, where hundreds of traders and customers come every day. These markets especially sell traditional clothing, jewelry and handicraft items, which are very popular among tourists and locals.
Importance of Charminar in tourism
The history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas) makes it a center of attraction not only for Indians but also for foreign tourists. Every year millions of tourists come to see it. Its attractive architecture, cultural significance and surrounding markets make it even more popular. At night, when Charminar is lit up with lights, its view is unique and this time becomes a center of attraction for tourists.
Although you cannot go inside Charminar at night. But you can see its view from outside. Which adds to the beauty of Charminar. It is not that Hyderabad has only Charminar, apart from this there are many other places which are worth visiting, about which we will know a little further.
History of Charminar: Nearby lodges and eating places
The history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas) is not limited to just a historical monument, but it is one of the major tourist places in Hyderabad. When you plan to visit Hyderabad city, seeing Charminar along with other historical sites like Golconda Fort, Mecca Masjid, and various historical temples can be a memorable experience. But when visiting a new city, it is important that you know good and cheap lodges and eating places, so that your trip is comfortable and according to the budget. Places to stay near Charminar.
When you reach Hyderabad, especially if your train arrives in the evening, the first thing you have to do is find an affordable and convenient lodge. To know the history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas) and see it closely, you will need a place to stay at night, so that you can visit this historical monument comfortably in the morning. And the best place to stay is a lodge. It can be cheap, medium and some expensive but it is the best. I will share my experience which I had while traveling to Hyderabad.
There are many cheap and affordable lodges in front of Namepalli Railway Station in Hyderabad. If your budget is Rs 1000 to 1500 per night, then you can get comfortable and convenient accommodation here. There are some lodges near Nampally Metro Station where you can stay and enjoy the city without spending much. When I traveled there myself, I stayed in a lodge which cost ₹1000 per night and had all the necessary facilities. You just need an identity card like Aadhar card or PAN card.
Places to eat: Around Charminar
The history of Charminar is as unique as the food here. When you are near Charminar, do try the famous biryani and paya here. These two dishes are among the most famous and famous foods here. If you eat non-veg, then you will find the taste of biryani and paya unique. If you are a vegetarian, then you will also easily find South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and uttapam in Hyderabad.
The best place to eat is the Islami Markaz area around Charminar. Here you will get the best biryani and paya, which is famous all over the world for its taste. Apart from this, there are many local hotels and dhabas around Charminar, where you can enjoy delicious and economical food. Whether you are fond of non-veg food or vegetarian, there is something for everyone here.
Enjoying Charminar at night
Along with knowing the history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas), its view of the lights at night is also unforgettable. If you go to see Charminar at night, its beauty will mesmerize you. The markets and food places around it remain buzzing even at night, making this area even more attractive. But keep this thing in mind that at night you can see Charminar only from outside. You feel like going inside.
What is the age and importance of Charminar?
Charminar is now about 433 years old. The answer to “Charminar kab banaa” is found in 1591, and since then this monument holds a special place in Indian history. Despite being so old, Charminar has maintained its beauty and strength, and millions of people visit every year to see its history and architecture up close. This monument still remains an important part of the cultural and religious life of Hyderabad.
History of Mecca Masjid and famous temples of Hyderabad: Cultural heritage related to Charminar ka itihaas
The city of Hyderabad is famous for its rich historical and cultural heritage. The buildings, mosques, and temples here bear testimony to the glorious past of the city. Just as Charminar ka itihaas holds an important place in the history of Hyderabad, other religious establishments here are also important from the cultural and historical point of view. Of these, Mecca Masjid and some famous temples are particularly very important.
History of Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad
Mecca Masjid, one of the oldest and largest mosques in Hyderabad, holds historical importance just like Charminar ka itihaas. Its construction was started by the fifth Sultan of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, “Mohammad Quli Qutb Shah” in 1617 AD. But he could not complete it. This mosque was named “Mecca” because the soil brought from Mecca was used in the construction of its main arch. However, the entire construction of the mosque was completed in 1694 AD during the reign of Aurangzeb (mughal saltnat).
This mosque is located in the center of Hyderabad and its grandeur and architectural carvings make it special. The height and length of the Mecca Masjid make it a unique religious place, more than 10,000 people can offer prayers together at a time. This mosque also has a deep connection with Charminar ka itihaas, because both these buildings represent the same historical period. Also, both these buildings are nearby. Both of them were built by the same king. Even though he could not complete it.
History of famous temples of Hyderabad
Like Charminar ka itihaas, the temples of Hyderabad are also a part of cultural and religious heritage. Some of the famous temples here include Birla Mandir, Jagannath Temple, and Chilkur Balaji Temple, which are centers of attraction for devotees and tourists.
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Birla Temple
Birla Mandir is a grand temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, located near Hussain Sagar Lake. This temple was built in 1976 by the Birla family. Its structure is made of white marble, which makes it unique and attractive. Just like Charminar ka itihaas symbolizes the historical beauty of Hyderabad, Birla Mandir symbolizes the religious architecture of the city. The view of the entire city can be seen from here, which makes it even more special. There is a relation.
2. Jagannath Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra. It was built in 2009, and it is a replica of the Jagannath Puri temple of Orissa. The architecture and colorful design of this temple is worth seeing. Like Charminar ka itihaas, this temple is also known for its religious and cultural significance. If you are going to Hyderabad, then you must visit this temple once.
3. Chilkur Balaji Temple
Chilkur Balaji Temple, also known as “Visa Balaji”, is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. This temple is famous for the belief that people who visit here get visas to travel abroad. Like History of Charminar, this temple also has its own historical significance and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Relation of Mecca Masjid and Temples with Charminar ka itihaas
The construction of Mecca Masjid and the temples of Hyderabad presents a historical scenario that further enriches the depth of History of Charminar and the cultural diversity of the city. Since the time of Charminar ka itihaas, this city has been a symbol of religious tolerance and cultural diversity, where mosques and temples co-exist.
History of Golconda Fort: Heritage related to Charminar ka itihaas
Golconda Fort, located near Hyderabad, is a major historical site built in the 12th century by the “Kakatiya dynasty”. Initially established as a small fort, it was later converted into a huge fortified structure during the rule of the Qutb Shahi Sultans. Golconda Fort is famous for its grand gates, strong walls and unique drainage system. This fort has been an important center of trade and politics, where gold and diamonds were traded the most.
Golconda Fort shares a deep connection with History of Charminar, as both structures symbolize the heritage of the “Qutub Shahi period”. The fort is an attractive heritage site along with its historical palaces and domes, which attracts thousands of tourists every year. Today, Golconda Fort not only reflects the history of Hyderabad, but is also an invaluable heritage of Indian architecture and culture.
Here also you have to take special care of one thing. Before visiting Golconda Fort, you have to remember that you should go here on a free day, that is, you will take a full day to visit it. This fort is very big and is on the height of the mountain from where you can see the whole city from one place. In this post, although we are telling the short history of Golkonda Fort, but we will write a separate post specifically on Golconda Fort.
The history of Golconda Fort is very deep and ancient. As I mentioned above, it was built by the Kakatiya Empire in the 12th century AD to reduce the threat to their Sultanate. But later this fort became important. Apart from the Sultans of Delhi Sultanate, the Bahmani Empire also ruled here. The Mughal Empire also had a tremendous history here. Marathon also has a different history here, which we will try to know in detail in the next article.
Hussain Sagar Lake of Hyderabad:
The next part of the Hyderabad trip is Hussain Sagar Lake near the new Assembly of Hyderabad. Lumini Park is also present here which adds more beauty to this lake. When you are on a trip to Hyderabad, do not make the mistake of not visiting Hussain Sagar Lake, otherwise the history of Charminar will remain incomplete.
Hussain Sagar Lake of Hyderabad is one of the major water bodies of the city, and when History of Charminar is being written, it is mandatory to mention this lake. Hussain Sagar Lake was built in 1562 by “Hussain Shah Wali” with the aim of arranging water for irrigation and solving the economic problems of the Sultanate. The construction of this lake improved the lifestyle of the people and paved the way for their happy life.
To add to the beauty of Hussain Sagar Lake, a huge statue of Gautam Buddha was installed here in 1992, which has become a major attraction for tourists today. This lake also plays an important role in connecting Hyderabad and Secundrabad.
Nowadays, people come to ride in boats in this lake in the evening, which makes their experience even more colorful. The park located near the lake also doubles the enjoyment of this place. Thus, Hussain Sagar Lake is not only associated with History of Charminar, but it is an important part of the cultural and historical heritage of Hyderabad.
Why is Charminar named Charminar?
So far we have known so much history about Charminar and also what are the other places in Hyderabad where we should go. Now from here onwards a question must be coming in your mind that why is Charminar named Charminar? I will solve this problem of yours. Charminar is named Charminar because of its four minarets. Earlier it had no name. But due to its beauty and being the most unique minaret in the world, it was named Charminar. From then till today it is famous by the name of Charminar. According to me, it will always be called by this name.
Conclusion History of Charminar
The history of Charminar (Charminar ka itihaas) is an important part of the cultural and historical heritage of India. “Charminar kab banaa” this question takes us towards its historical roots and the reasons for its construction Charminar takes us to Hyderabad, while the answer to the question “Charminar kahan hai” establishes it as a geographical and cultural center. Charminar with its four minarets is one of the historical and cultural symbols of not only Hyderabad but the whole of India.
What did you learn from this post and what did you know about Hyderabad, do tell in the comment section. Do share it on your social media too so that people can know more about the history of Hyderabad.
