The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh / Hyderabad News : Badshahi Ashoorkhana roof caves in due to rain

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Sep 13, 2007
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Badshahi Ashoorkhana roof caves in due to rain

Staff Reporter

It was built by Quli Qutb Shah in 1594

Photo: Mohd. Yousuf

NEED FOR REPAIRS: Badshahi Ashoorkhana suffered extensive damage on Wednesday when the roof of Naqar Khana caved in due to incessant rain.

Hyderabad: Badshahi Ashoorkhana, one of the earliest constructions of the Qutb Shahi period, suffered extensive damage on Wednesday when the roof of the ‘Naqar Khana’ caved in following incessant rain. The rundown structure built with bricks and lime mortar appeared unsafe with the leftover portion of the wooden roof sagging dangerously.

The Naqar Khana is one of the structures of the Badshahi Ashoorkhana built by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah in 1594. Earlier, this place used to resound with drum beats during Muharram, it is said.

Protected monument

Though a protected monument, it is now marred by encroachments all over. The open space here doubles up as a parking lot and auction house. J. Kedareshwari, Director, Archaeology and Museums, who visited the monument along with her staff, had a tough time gaining entry. The encroachers prevented her from entering the damaged portion stating that the matter was in court. There were heated exchanges between the officials and encroachers.

An irate Ms Kedareshwari shouted at them and forced her way in. “We are here to check the extent of damage and take remedial steps. You can’t stop us,” she said.

Opening in roof

The Naqar Khana was sealed by the Archaeology Department three years ago as it was being used as a store room. The door lock of the dilapidated structure was broken before the officials ascended the steps. The wooden beam and rafters lay in a heap creating a wide opening in the roof. Rest of the structure also appeared very precarious.

Dr. Kedareshwari wanted the encroachments around the Naqar Khana to be cleared within 24 hours.

The Archaeology Department plans to set up an Islamic Art Gallery in the Naqar Khana. Dr. Kedareshwari also examined the collapsed wall of the Niaz Khana close to the Ashoorkhana. The entire building is proposed to be given a face-lift with Iranian collaboration. It would take at least 18 months for the structure to be restored to its past glory.

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