As I continue down the list of bucket list spots that I got from my friend Jenn, I ran across the wonder of Charminar. Then, a few days later, I saw it on "The Amazing Race," and I knew I had to look into it. Charminar is the most recognizable landmark in Hyderabad, India. And that's not all.
The mosque, named for it's four minarets or four turrets, which is exactly what Charminar means; was built from 1589 to 1591. It is the thing of legends. It was commissioned by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, reportedly in honor of his deceased wife, Bhagmati. That makes it sound a bit like another monument in India. But, that is only one theory about the reason for the building of the structure. It may have been to celebrate the end of a great plague, or as a sign of power. The reasons are not abundantly clear. It may have been to celebrate the second millennium of Islam or in memory of Muhammed's son in law who lost his life in battle. What we do know is that it has been there since 1591 for some significant reason. And in the meantime, it has become a famous landmark.
What we do know is that Charminar is in Hyderabad. Hyderabad is an ancient city that has progressed into modern times with millions of people, crowded streets, and lots of tuk tuks running around. But this city is also the gateway to southern India. The President spends time there each year to work on issues that are specific to the southern part of the country.
Hyderabad is one of the many places in modern India where old meets new, and the people forge ahead and stay up with the times. The film industry in Hyderabad is known casually as Tollywood and is not far behind Bollywood in film production. The city is vibrant and always coming up with new parks for its citizens, and new businesses to support its people. Even terrorist attacks earlier this century only slowed them down a little.
Hyderabad has long since been the pearl capital of India and maybe Asia. The tradition goes back centuries. Diamonds have also been hugely traded in Hyderabad over the years.
There are many layers in Hyderabad. "The Amazing Race" only touched on a few. Wonderland Amusement Park has several one of a kind rides for its visitors. Charminar is certainly not alone in the monument and religious building category either. There are several temples and ancient ruins that are worth a visit. Hyderabad is quickly becoming an archaeologist's wonderland and is believed to be the fifth most productive city in the country.
But, let's talk Charminar. The other reason to go there is to shop. The bazaar surrounding the Mosque is one of the largest in all of India. You can find anything there. There are deals to be made, food to be tasted and thousands of people there daily to earn a living and provide you with anything your heart desires.
Brides go to the bazaar to outfit their wedding attire. People go there to decorate their houses. There are thousands of people there every single day. It's one of the most amazing spots anywhere, and there's a mysterious historic mosque right in the middle of it all.
Legend says that Charminar may have been the foundation of the city of Hyderabad. Now, the population is millions. Was it built to celebrate the end of a plague or the death in battle of Muhammed's son in law? I don't know, and apparently neither does anyone else for sure.
I can tell you that this amazing structure was finished in 1591. I can tell you that it is surrounded by an amazing bazaar and a stunning city. There are so many things to do in Hyderabad, that it is a must for any bucket list. But, you cannot visit Hyderabad without taking a day to spend at the bazaar and ancient mosque at Charminar.
Enjoy!
