The credit for putting Hyderabad on the global map undoubtedly goes to the Nizams, rulers of the erstwhile princely state from the 18th-century to the mid-20th-century. Famed for a lavish lifestyle, luxury cars, opulent palaces and extravagant tastes, the seven Nizams of Hyderabad, also known as Asaf Jahis, were amongst the wealthiest in the world and great patrons of literature, art, architecture and food. Nizami court life still reflects in many aspects of Hyderabadi culture, especially in pearls, perfume and palate.

Pearls

It is said that the Nizams were enamoured by pearls and they loved to shower affections on their queens through exquisite pearl jewellery. The city started attracting pearl merchants and artisans from other regions, especially from the Gulf. Mir Osaman Ali Khan, the 7th Nizam possessed a collection of enough pearls that could fill an Olympic-size swimming pool! It was only a matter of time before Hyderabad became a booming hub of pearl trade, and that is how it has stayed till today. Buying pearls is one of the most popular things to do in Hyderabad. Hyderabadi pearls are available in classic ‘original’ white and in rare pink and black colours. The ‘rice pearl’ (tiny size) is another popular variety, while “Basra” is the most sought-after for its flawless colour and sheen. Most people prefer to buy strings of pearls, but for those on the lookout for something more exotic, there are neckpieces, earrings and bangles made of pearls combined with precious stones like emeralds and rubies. The city’s jewellery market clusters around many areas including Basheer Bagh, Begum Bazaar, Madina Market and Laad Bazaar. Some of the most famous pearl shops are located in the iconic Charminar area. Indulge to your heart’s content while on a Hyderabad sightseeing trip.

Perfume

The Nizams of Hyderabad believed in living life king-size and showcased their royal tastes through opulent architecture, furniture, royal cars and embroidered garments. They also started the tradition of using Ittar (perfumed) oils with strong fragrances. Skilled perfumers supplied rare and exotic perfumes to the Nizam’s family, which included Jasmine, Amber, Zafraan (Saffron) and Musk. On a Hyderabad City Tour, you will notice that the Charminar area has innumerable Ittar shops owned by families who have been making perfumes for generations, some with legacies linked to the royal courts. You can even get a perfume customized in these little shops where shelves are crowded with decorative glass vials. From one that smells like wet earth after the rains to a replica of an international brand, no whim is unserviceable in Hyderabad!

Palate

When there is a mention of Nizami palaces and courts, how can culinary finesse be far behind? The stars of Hyderabadi food, like Biryani (rice dish cooked with meats), Haleem (meat stew) and Keema Khichdi (rice with minced meat) started from the royal kitchens and continue to define the essence of food culture in the city. Lesser known, but equally celebrated Nizami recipes are Buttermilk, Salan (chilli peppers cooked with groundnut paste) and Masoor Dal (red lentils). And to end on a sweet note, their chefs concocted luscious temptations like Khubani Ka Meetha (sweet dish made of apricot) and Shahi Tukda (sugary sweet bread deep-fried in ghee). Hungry yet?
Scout for pearls, perfumes and palate perfection in the Charms of Charminar Precinct walk.

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