A Visit of Golconda Fort

Emilly Smith (England)
Visited: September, 22nd, 03.

As a part of my India Heritage Tour, I along with my friend 'Collin' proceeded for Hyderabad, after a day sojourn at Hyderabad visiting Char Minar, Mecca Masjid, Salar Jung Museum- treasuring an astonishing mélange of artifacts from all over the world and much more, we headed towards Golconda Fort.

The fort situated in the outskirts of Hyderabad, is one of the unique and majestic fortress complexes of India. We took a paid taxi from the main city as the fort lies at a distance of 11 km, it didn't took us more then half an hour to reach the premises of the fort. We took a local guide from there, who are quite easily available on the main gate of the fort itself.

The guide told us that the fort was constructed by Qutb Shahi Dynasty and during those times the entire city was girdled by the thick colossal walls of Golconda Fort. The main attraction of the fort was the unyielding and elevated 'Balahisar Gate', the Grand Arcade where you can here the sound of a clap made at a certain distance- the fort will not stand in silence any more if anyone tries to test its hidden magic with slightest of whisper. I was absolutely amazed at the advancement of science at those times.

I was quite fascinated to know the interesting story behind this massive construction, our guide Mohan told us that the fort was prevalently known as 'Shepherd's Hill' or 'Golla Konda' during earlier times. A shepherd boy founded and idol on the rocky hill of Mangalavaram therefore, a mud fort around the holy spot was constructed by the Kakatiya ruler. Later on Emperor Qutb Shahi constructed this massive fort of granite and the entire Deccan was ruled from Golconda Fort. As I advanced further, I could feel every niche of this sumptuous monument echoes the peerless story of a bygone era.

The guide further added that the glory of Golconda was touching the sky during the 17th century, as it came out to be one of the famous diamond markets of the world. It is from here that the world most prestigious 'Kohinoor' diamond originated. During those golden days, the 10-km long road from Golconda to outer Hyderabad was a spectacular market place for trading in precious stones, diamonds, pearls and other gems. I wish, I had been there to collect all sort of precious stones, as for my self I am also crazy about all this stuff.

The guide told us there was the remotest possibility to invade the Golconda fort due to its location as this colossal fort is perched on a granite hill app. 120m high, encompassed by enormous crenellated barricades, which are nearly 7 km in perimeter.

Another remarkable feature of the fort was its magnificent architecture and its innovational water supply system. I was astounded to see the scrupulous trivialities of the fort- the gigantic gateway supported with large penetrating iron hedge to prohibit elephants from slugging them down.

Besides this I also enjoyed the sites of Royal Nagina Gardens, the convoy' billets, and the imposing Durbar Hall on the hilltop. There was a breathtaking view of Hydrabad City from the Durbar Hall and with a watchful gaze Collin could even spot the Char-Minar.

Now I feel my sojourn to the fort was just not a visit from tourist point of view but it left more deeper jolt over me and backing me to perceive the veritable heritage of India.