A Unique Epoch in Hyderabad’s Urban Evolution

Aman Krishna is from the ASP batch of 2024 pursuing research under the supervision of Prof. Gaurav Garg. His thesis investigates the pivotal period in Hyderabad’s urban development triggered by the calamitous flood of 1908, leading to the establishment of the City Improvement Board (CIB) in 1912. Tasked with the reconstruction of the city, the CIB embarked on a mission involving public buildings, parks, slum clearance, and various city improvement initiatives.

Aman’s research encompasses understanding how the Nizam of Hyderabad strategically utilised the aftermath of the 1908 flood to build a legacy of monumental structures symbolising the city’s progress. Additionally, it aims to analyse the distinctive operations of the CIB within a princely state, drawing comparisons with other boards in colonial cities, including Secunderabad. The study also explores the evolving architectural styles and shifting focus of the CIB’s buildings, with a particular focus on the contributions of architect Vincent Esch.

To conduct this research, primary sources from the Telangana State Archives and the National Archives (New Delhi)  have been extensively used, including the Annual Records of the City Improvement Board and other reports. Secondary sources include a range of works such as books, articles, etc., on other improvement boards in the subcontinent, Indo-Saracenic architecture, and relevant studies on Hyderabad and Esch.

The anticipated findings of Aman’s research will cover the evolution of the urban development of Hyderabad by focussing on the role of monumental architecture as the face of development of the city. The study aims to explore how Esch’s Osmanian style evolved to become a more general Indo-Saracenic identity under the CIB’s own architects. This exploration is contextualised against the backdrop of Indo-Saracenic architecture, Esch’s legacy, and the general urban development of subcontinental cities.

The study’s significance lies in uncovering Hyderabad’s journey through monumental architecture, providing a nuanced perspective on urban development and architectural history. By using a unique architectural style as a lens, Aman’s thesis contributes to the understanding of urban evolution and architectural trends. The comparative analysis of a princely state’s influence on urban development offers distinctive insights applicable to contemporary urban planning.

In essence, the thesis offers a comprehensive exploration of Hyderabad’s urban development through the lens of architecture, shedding light on influential factors and key personalities that shaped the city’s narrative.

Edited by Dr Yukti Arora and Sanyukta Singh