The Paigah Tombs, an ancient royal tomb in the maze of narrow alleyways in Pisal Banda, is about to get a facelift
UPDATE – 12:22 AM, WEDNESDAY – JANUARY 11
Hyderabad: The Paigah Tombs, an ancient royal tomb in the maze of narrow alleyways of Pisal Banda, is about to receive a facelift.
The US Consulate in Hyderabad decided to restore the more than 200-year-old building, which houses officers of the Nizam army, with the help of the Ambassador’s Fund and in partnership with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture.
US Chargé d’affaires Beth Jones, who explored the Paigah Tombs complex on Tuesday, announced an allocation of Rs 2 crore for the restoration and preservation of the centuries-old tombs.
With support from the US Ambassador Fund for Cultural Preservation, this is the fifth conservation project funded by the US Consulate in Hyderabad. It announced a $1,03,000 grant to restore and preserve the century-old tombs of famous dancers Taramati and Premamati within the Qutb Shahi Tombs complex.
Ambassador Jones described the site as an absolute masterpiece of architectural design and unparalleled craftsmanship, “We are proud to be part of the Telangana government’s efforts to preserve these magnificent monuments.” The complex’s architecture is a fusion of eight different styles – France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Mughals, Rajputs, Persia and Kakatia. The roofs are adorned with spectacular carvings, and there are extensive “jaali” work on the walls, in addition to tombstones adorned with intricate detail.
US Consul General Jennifer Larson said: “By partnering with the Telangana State Government and the Aga Khan Cultural Trust, we are able to ensure the integrity of unique cultural sites for generations to come.”
The U.S. Department of State created the AFCP in 2001 to demonstrate American values and respect for other cultures. Over the past two decades, Americans have invested more than $2 million in India to document, preserve and restore 23 significant historical and intangible heritage sites.
