Context: The necropolis (a large, designed cemetery with elaborate tomb monuments) of noblemen dating from the Asaf Jahi era known as Paigah Tombs complex in Hyderabad is set to be restored with funding by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation.
About Paigah Tombs complex:
Paigah Tombs or Maqhbara Shams al-Umara, are the tombs belonging to the nobility of Paigah family, who were fierce loyalists of the Nizams.
The Paigah tombs are among the major wonders of Hyderabad State which known for their architectural excellence.
These tombs are 200 years old which represent the final resting places of several generations of the Paigah Nobles.
One of the best examples of Indo Saracenic architecture, the tombs presents a beautiful blend of Asaf Jah and Rajputani style of architecture.
Built of white marble, Paigah tombs captivate visitors with intricately designed interiors.
Paigahs who married daughters of the Nizams were the highest ranking nobles in princely state of Hyderabad, after the family of Nizams.
Paigahs were the only noble family who were permitted by the Sultan to have their private army.
These tombs are magnificent structures, decorated in stucco work, and represent the Mughal, Greek, Persian, Asaf Jahi, Rajasthani and Decani style of architecture.
Stucco or render is a construction material made of aggregates, a binder, and water.
Stucco is applied wet and hardens to a very dense solid.
It is used as a decorative coating for walls and ceilings, exterior walls, and as a sculptural and artistic material in architecture.
The famous ‘Jali’ work makes it even more attractive.
Each Tomb has been designed differently, ensuing a unique style and design.
