Badshahi Ashoorkhana Restoration Resumes

Hyderabad:Restoration works at the Badshahi Ashoorkhana, stalled for more than three years, have resumed and are progressing at a brisk pace. The works include rebuilding the collapsed Naqqar Khana, Persian tile conservation and repairs to other heritage structures within the complex.

The Naqqar Khana was in a severely damaged condition, with its wooden roof completely collapsed. “As per the approval of the Department of Heritage, the roof was replaced with steel members and stone slabs for long-term preservation. The front façade will be retained with the existing wooden members after necessary repairs,” said Yoshowant Purohit, project director, Hyderabad, Aga Khan Trust for Culture.

The Naqqar Khana works, including traditional lime plaster, are expected to be completed in nine months. Conservation has also begun on the main Ashurkhana with installation of a temporary roof to allow repairs to the historic timber roofing system.

The fragile 17th century tiles are being documented in detail to prepare a conservation proposal. The original Persian tile work remains in good condition, though the lower 6.5 feet of the structure was submerged during Musi floods, damaging the tiles.

“The Naqqar Khana is an important place where drums were played by nakarchis, especially during Muharram and on special occasions,” said Mir Abbas Ali Moosavi, hereditary Mujawer of the Ashoorkhana. He noted that visitor numbers have risen in recent years, with heritage walks and tourist guides bringing more people.

Built in 1592 by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, founder of Hyderabad, the Badshahi Ashoorkhana has been a place of mourning since its inception, with congregations held here during Muharram.