The Untold Charminar, Page 141

“The Untold Charminar” presents a dazzling collection that captures the essence of Hyderabad, offering insights into the myriad elements that contribute to its unique identity—blending fact and legend, old-world charm with cutting-edge technology, eccentricity with intrigue, and the calm of genteelness with the fervor of rebellion. Once ruled by the world’s richest man, who invested lavishly in his state while maintaining a modest wardrobe, Hyderabad is a city rich in stories. It holds tales of a courtesan who not only fought wars and advised prime ministers but also composed her own verses and captivated influential figures. The narrative also includes a chief minister who transformed the city into a hi-tech hub and a sports star who brought the youthful glamour of India to tennis courts worldwide.

Home to both the historic Golconda and the famed Jacob diamond, which served as a paperweight for the Nizam, Hyderabad boasts rock formations that are over two and a half million years old. This city is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, cuisines, religions, and languages, where Persian melds with Telugu, Marathi, and Arabic to create a distinct version of Urdu known as Dakhini. As Andhra and Telangana intertwine, a gentle charm persists, disarming all who encounter it, while grace under pressure remains a hallmark of its people, regardless of gender.

In “The Untold Charminar,” readers will discover a city ripe for exploration, as notable figures such as Sarojini Naidu, Sir Mark Tully, and William Dalrymple share their experiences alongside contemporary voices like Ian Austin, Meenakshi Mukherjee, and Anees Jung, who weave together a rich tapestry of hard facts and anecdotes. Each foreign visitor recounts their story through the lens of Narendra Luther, while filmmakers Shyam Benegal and Nagesh Kukunoor vividly recall their memories of home. Poets, including the maverick Makhdoom and Gaddar, lend their voices to the narrative, and statesmen, academics, and enthusiasts offer diverse perspectives on the multifaceted Hyderabad they each encountered.

As Tejaswini Niranjana profiles the vigilante Vijayasanthi and Dharmender Prasad delves into the origins of place names with almost mystical significance, Bachi Karkaria, Omkar Goswami, and Harsha Bhogle provide their typically unconventional views of this beloved city. Through these varied contributions, readers will come to appreciate not just a city, but the intricate workings of a remarkably complex character.

Syeda Bilgrami Imam is a writer and activist based in New Delhi, India. She was a member of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), India, and has authored a book titled The Untold Charminar, which describes the culture of Hyderabad.