Finally, arches near Charminar getting a facelift

Charminar: The four arches that lead to the Charminar are getting a facelift. All the fears of the 17th century structures crumbling are now laid to rest. Work on the Machli Kaman is underway and all the four would be completed by March.

Highlights:

• The four Kamans- Machli Kaman, Sher-eBatil Kaman, Kali Kaman and Char Kaman-lead one to the historic Charminar
• A Mumbai-based heritage conservation company Laxmi Hericon that is presently doing restoration work of Mecca Masjid has been entrusted with the work.
• The repairs are being carried out at a cost of Rs 87 lakh

The four Kamans- Machli Kaman, Sher-e-Batil Kaman, Kali Kaman and Char Kaman lead one to the historic Charminar. The work is being done under the supervision of Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). The restoration is being carried out by Laxmi Hericon who are also doing the restoration work of Mecca Masjid.

Mohammad Arif, a heritage activist says, “The Kamans add charm to the old city and are similar to Isfahan in Iran. The architecture of Hyderabad has so much in common with Iran. These Kamans are as important as the Charminar.”

Char Kaman and Machli Kaman were constructed in 1592 and Kali Kaman and Sher-e-Batil Kaman in 1593. A fresh coating of lime and mortar is being given to the damaged areas. A senior official of GHMC said that the plastering works would strengthen the Kamans.

The works are being undertaken at a cost of Rs 87 lakh.

The Machli Kaman now not only plays host to domestic and foreign tourists but provides protection and livelihood to several perfume sellers and food stall owners. Rahmat, a resident of Gulzar Houz says, “On lunar new year, a fish made of bamboo and paper resembling an aeroplane is suspended from the arch.”

During the Nizam’s era, royal processions atop caparisoned elephants were common, probably the reason for the height of the arches. Each Kaman has its own significance. The Kaman on the western side- Sher-e Batil Kaman meaning the arch of lion hearted is another arch that is a sought-after spot for locals.

The arches and the onion shaped domes have become a part of the Hyderabad architecture and transport one to the days of yore. They provide character to the city. So much so that domes were added to Salar Jung Museum building as the High Court and Osmania Hospital that are a stone’s throw from the museum are decked with domes.

Shrubs are being removed that have grown from the crevices and certain areas where plaster has peeled off are being filled. A GHMC official said, “Work cannot be done at night and we have to be careful as there are several shops abutting the arches but we would be finishing the work by March.”