Prof. Farooqui Unveils Charminar's Mystique in Virtual Talk by Pleach Foundation

Hyderabad: Renowned historian Prof. Salma Ahmed Farooqui took centrestage at a virtual talk, hosted by Pleach India Foundation, and unravelled the mystique of Charminar. The session provided insights into the significance and architecture of the monument, built in 1591 by the Golconda king Quli Qutb Shah.

Prof. Farooqui shared information on lesser-known aspects of Charminar, including that it was the focal point of the original city, comprising seven villages.

The talk offered a chronological overview, emphasisng Charminar's status as the inaugural monument of Hyderabad and highlighted Mir Momin Astrabadi's pivotal role in planning the city.

The interconnectedness of the Char Kamans and Charminar emerged as a key theme. Prof. Farooqui traced the city's architectural lineage to the Kalyani Chalukyas, the Kakatiyas of Warangal, and Persian influences, with a nod to the impact of the Vijayanagara empire at Hampi.

She said various birds and an image of a cat were featured in Charminar's stucco works.

Charminar was revealed to house a mosque and a madrasa. The professor delved into details of Hyderabad's architecture, including mosques, minarets, arches, fountains, and stucco works adorned with symbolic motifs.