History of Hyderabad - Bhavani Raya

My husband Sam Prabhakar Raya and myself came to the United States of America in 1999.Our two children have settled here with their jobs and we came here to join them. We are from Hyderabad, state capital of Andhra Pradesh, India. Here are some historical facts of Hyderabad.

Hyderabad was founded on the river Musi five miles east of Golconda in 1591-92 AD by Muhammad Quali Qutab Shah. In the 16th century the city grew rapidly along the banks of river Musi. At that time, Golconda was the capital of the rulers of Qutab Shahi dynasty. It is one of the five kingdoms that emerged after the break up of the Bahamani Kingdom. This dynasty ruled for nearly 171 years contributing to the growth and development of Hyderabad. During their rule, Golconda became one of the leading markets in the world of diamonds, pearls, steel and printed fabric. The glory of Golconda Kingdom ended in 1687.

Then Asif Jahi declared independence from Mughal rule in 1724 and thus became the first Nizam and the founder of the Asif Jahi dynasty. The seven successive Nizams of Asif Jahi dynasty ruled the deccan for nearly 224 years right up to 1948. During Asif Jahi period, Persian, Urdu, Telugu and Marathi languages developed simultaneously.

The highest official positions were given to deserving persons irrespective of their religion. Persian was the official language until 1893 and then Urdu became the official language until 1948.

The rule of the seven Nizams saw the growth of Hyderabad both culturally and economically. Huge reservoirs like the Nizam Sagar, Tungabadra Dam, Osman Sagar, Himayath Sagar and other dams were built. Hyderabad under the Nizams was the largest princely state in India. Areawise, it was as big as England and Scotland put together. The state had its own currency, mint, railways and postal systems. There was no income tax.

Soon after India gained Independence, Hyderabad state merged with Union of India. On November 1, 1956 the map of India was redrawn into linguistic states and Hyderabad became the capital of Andhra Pradesh