Hyderabad's Char Kaman to be renovated: Know its history, significance and restoration plan

Why in the News ?

The Telangana government has announced the restoration of Hyderabad's historic Char Kaman. The government has granted administrative approval for the project and will soon issue a tender and appoint an expert consultant. The aim is to preserve the original architecture of these historic gates while protecting their structure.

What is Char Kaman ?

• Char Kaman is a group of four grand ornamental gateways surrounding Hyderabad's famous Charminar. They were built during the Qutb Shahi period as entrances to the old city of Hyderabad.
• A large square and garden, called Char Kaman, was built at the entrance to the Qutb Shahi palace complex, located north of the Charminar. A beautiful water fountain called Gulzar Houz (Char-Su-Ka-Houz) was located in its center.

The Four Gates of Char Kaman

• The four gates are located on the four sides of Gulzar Hauz:
  • North: Machli Kaman
  • South: Charminar Kaman
  • East: Kali Kaman
  • West: Sher-e-Batil ki Kaman
• Three stories were built on either side of each Kaman, which served as quarters for the royal soldiers and security personnel.

History of Char Kaman

• Charminar was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, between 1589–1591.
• According to historians, Char Kaman was built around 1594, a few years after the construction of Charminar.
• Its purpose was to grand the entrance to the royal palace complex and to create a large public square for administrative activities.

The original names of the four arches

At the time of construction, these gates had different names than they do today.

How did they get their current names?

• Over time, the names of these gates changed, and today they are known by the following names:
• Machhli Kaman (North): A giant fish made of bamboo and paper was hung here on the occasion of the Lunar New Year.
• Charminar Kaman (South): This name is derived from its location facing the Charminar.
• Kali Kaman (East): It is also known as Shambhu Prasad's Kaman.
• Sher-e-Batil Kaman (West): It is believed to mean "Gate of the Lionhearted" or "Gate that Destroys Evil."

Historical Significance of the Char Kaman

• During the Qutb Shahi period, the Char Kaman was not only a gateway but also a major center of administrative activity.
• Royal officials and nobles visited here daily.
• Officials would leave their attendants in the royal courtyard located between the four gates and would go alone to meet the king.
• This area was the main entrance to the royal palace complex.

What will the restoration plan include?

• Under the government's proposed project:
  • Historic structures will be repaired.
  • Damaged areas will be conserved.
  • Original architecture and heritage features will be preserved.
  • Efforts will be made to repair damage caused by pollution and urbanization.

Significance of Char Kaman

• An excellent example of Qutb Shahi architecture.
• A historical landmark of the Charminar complex.
• An important part of Hyderabad's cultural heritage.
• An excellent example of medieval urban planning and architecture in India.
• ​​A monument of immense importance from the perspective of tourism and heritage conservation.

Conclusion

The Char Kaman are not just four gateways, but a precious relic of Hyderabad's glorious history, Qutub Shahi architecture, and urban planning. The Telangana government's restoration plan will significantly help preserve these historical monuments and safeguard their legacy for future generations.