The Enigmatic Paigah Tombs: Hyderabad’s Forgotten Marvel of Elegance and Craftsmanship. The Paigah Tombs stand as a remarkable yet underappreciated piece of Hyderabad’s architectural and cultural heritage. With their intricate craftsmanship, unique architectural style, and fascinating historical significance, the tombs offer a window into the opulence and grandeur of the Paigah family. As restoration efforts continue and awareness of the tombs grows, the Paigah Tombs are poised to become one of Hyderabad’s most important historical landmarks, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
Table of Contents
The Enigmatic Paigah Tombs: Hyderabad’s Forgotten Marvel of Elegance and Craftsmanship
Located about 10 kilometers from the bustling heart of Hyderabad, the Paigah Tombs are a lesser-known yet architecturally stunning necropolis that stands as a testament to Hyderabad’s rich historical legacy. These tombs, dating back to the late 18th and 19th centuries, are the final resting places of the noble Paigah family, one of the most powerful aristocratic families of the Deccan region during the Asaf Jahi dynasty. While overshadowed by the more famous Qutb Shahi Tombs and Charminar, the Paigah Tombs are unique for their intricate designs and exquisite blend of Indo-Islamic and European architecture.
The Historical Significance of the Paigah Family
The Paigah family was among the most influential noble families under the Nizams of Hyderabad, second only to the ruling Asaf Jahs in terms of power and wealth. The family’s lineage can be traced back to Abdul Fateh Khan Tegh Jung, who was entrusted by the second Nizam of Hyderabad, Nizam Ali Khan, with the security of the state. Over time, the Paigahs became custodians of vast estates and developed close matrimonial ties with the Nizams, further elevating their social status.
The tombs house the remains of several generations of the Paigah family, including notable figures like Shams-ul-Umra, Asman Jah, Viqar-ul-Umra, and Sir Khursheed Jah. The Paigahs were not just military commanders and aristocrats but also patrons of art, culture, and architecture. Their legacy is evident in various historical structures across Hyderabad, but nowhere is their influence more apparent than in the Paigah Tombs.

1. Architectural Grandeur: A Blend of Styles and Cultures
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Paigah Tombs is their unique architectural style. These tombs are a harmonious fusion of Mughal, Persian, Deccan, and European influences, making them stand out from other historical monuments in Hyderabad. The intricate latticework (jalis), in particular, is considered some of the finest in India, with each tomb adorned with elaborate carvings that resemble delicate lace patterns.
- Indo-Islamic Influences: The overall design of the tombs follows traditional Islamic principles, with arches, domes, and minarets forming the structural core. However, what sets these tombs apart is the delicate inlay work on the marble and stucco, which incorporates geometric patterns and motifs typical of Islamic architecture.
- European Influences: In an unusual departure from traditional Indian tomb architecture, the Paigah Tombs also incorporate neoclassical elements, including Corinthian columns and European-style friezes. This blending of European and Islamic styles speaks to the cosmopolitan nature of Hyderabad’s aristocracy during the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Latticework Masterpieces: The intricacy of the jaali (lattice) work found in the Paigah Tombs is unmatched. Each jaali pattern is distinct, representing a combination of geometrical shapes and floral designs. These perforated screens serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, allowing light to filter through in beautiful patterns while providing privacy for the tombs.
2. The Marble Wonders: The Craftsmanship of Paigah Tombs
The use of marble inlay and stucco in the Paigah Tombs is another distinguishing feature. Unlike the sandstone or plastered surfaces of other tombs in Hyderabad, the Paigah Tombs are richly decorated with intricately carved marble. In fact, the marble craftsmanship is so fine that it rivals the artistry of Taj Mahal, although it remains far less famous.
Many of the tombs feature detailed floral motifs, vine patterns, and arabesques, which are all hallmarks of Islamic art. The tombs of notable family members, such as Shams-ul-Umra and Sir Khursheed Jah, are particularly impressive, with their domes and walls covered in ornate carvings that showcase the expertise of the artisans who worked on them.
One of the lesser-known facts about the Paigah Tombs is the incorporation of diamond-shaped motifs throughout the structure—a subtle nod to the Paigah family’s wealth and their control over Hyderabad’s Golconda diamond mines.
3. Unraveling the Tomb of Viqar-ul-Umra: The Man Behind Falaknuma Palace
Among the most prominent tombs in the necropolis is that of Viqar-ul-Umra, the Paigah nobleman who built the Falaknuma Palace, one of Hyderabad’s most iconic landmarks. Viqar-ul-Umra was a visionary statesman and a connoisseur of art and architecture. His tomb is one of the finest in the complex, featuring elaborate jaali work, ornate stucco decorations, and a raised platform that adds to its grandeur.
A lesser-known fact about Viqar-ul-Umra is that he was also responsible for commissioning the Spanish mosque in Hyderabad, which exhibits Moorish architectural influences. This eclectic mix of styles can also be seen in his tomb, where both Islamic and European design elements converge harmoniously.
4. Forgotten Beauty: The Neglect and Restoration of Paigah Tombs
Despite their historical and architectural significance, the Paigah Tombs suffered from years of neglect and disrepair, largely overshadowed by more famous historical sites in Hyderabad. For decades, the tombs were virtually abandoned, with overgrown vegetation, cracked walls, and vandalism taking a toll on the site.
In recent years, however, efforts have been made to restore the tombs to their former glory. INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) has taken steps to clean and conserve the tombs, and there is now growing awareness of their historical importance. However, much remains to be done to fully preserve the site for future generations.
During the restoration process, several hidden chambers and subterranean vaults were discovered beneath the tombs, suggesting that the Paigah nobles were buried with their personal possessions, much like the Mughal emperors. These chambers, though not yet fully explored, are believed to contain valuable relics and artifacts that could shed new light on the lifestyle and traditions of the Paigah family.
5. A Unique Burial Tradition: The Mystique of the Paigah Tombs
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Paigah Tombs is their burial tradition. Unlike many Islamic tombs where the graves are placed underground, the Paigah family’s graves are elevated on platforms, giving them a sense of prominence and respect. The tombs also contain separate enclosures for women, with their graves featuring more intricate and delicate designs.
An interesting and relatively unknown fact is that the Paigah Tombs reflect the social hierarchy of the time. The size and scale of each tomb were determined not just by the individual’s wealth but also by their standing within the family and their relationship to the Nizams. For instance, the tombs of Shams-ul-Umra and Viqar-ul-Umra, who were highly regarded by the Nizams, are more grandiose compared to those of other family members.
6. The Forgotten Women of the Paigah Family
While the Paigah Tombs are mostly associated with the male members of the family, several tombs of female members of the family, including the wives and daughters of Paigah nobles, can also be found within the complex. These tombs are distinguished by their floral motifs and delicate latticework, symbolizing the feminine aspect of Islamic art.
Interestingly, these tombs also contain inscriptions in Persian, Urdu, and Arabic, detailing the life and virtues of the women buried there. The attention to detail in these inscriptions reflects the high regard in which these women were held, both within the family and the broader society.
7. Lesser-Known Legends: The Treasure of Paigah Tombs
Much like the Qutb Shahi Tombs, the Paigah Tombs are also the subject of local legends involving hidden treasures. According to folklore, the Paigah nobles were buried with their personal belongings, including gold, jewels, and precious artifacts. Over the years, many treasure hunters have sought to uncover these fabled riches, but none have succeeded in finding any significant wealth.
One persistent story involves the Tomb of Asman Jah, a Paigah noble known for his immense wealth and opulent lifestyle. Local legend has it that Asman Jah’s tomb contains a secret underground chamber filled with treasure. Although this legend remains unproven, it continues to fuel the imaginations of treasure seekers and historians alike.
8. Paigah Tombs in Popular Culture and Media
Despite being relatively unknown to mainstream tourists, the Paigah Tombs have found a niche audience among historians, architects, and filmmakers. Several documentaries and historical films have featured the tombs, highlighting their architectural beauty and the rich history of the Paigah family.
In recent years, the tombs have also become a popular location for heritage walks organized by local cultural groups. These walks provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history, architecture, and stories associated with the tombs, helping to raise awareness about this overlooked gem of Hyderabad.
9. Visiting the Paigah Tombs: A Hidden Heritage
For those interested in exploring Hyderabad’s lesser-known heritage, the Paigah Tombs offer a unique experience. Despite their historical significance, the tombs receive relatively few visitors, making them an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and contemplative environment away from the city’s crowded tourist spots.
Located in the Santosh Nagar area, the tombs are open to the public, though the lack of comprehensive signage and visitor facilities means that many aspects of the tombs remain hidden to casual visitors. Guided tours are highly recommended for anyone wishing to fully appreciate the history and architecture of the site.
The Timeless Elegance of Paigah Tombs
The Paigah Tombs stand as a remarkable yet underappreciated piece of Hyderabad’s architectural and cultural heritage. With their intricate craftsmanship, unique architectural style, and fascinating historical significance, the tombs offer a window into the opulence and grandeur of the Paigah family. As restoration efforts continue and awareness of the tombs grows, the Paigah Tombs are poised to become one of Hyderabad’s most important historical landmarks, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
While they may not yet rival the fame of the Qutb Shahi Tombs or Charminar, the Paigah Tombs represent a forgotten chapter in Hyderabad’s history—one that is waiting to be rediscovered by the world.
Also read: The Largest Necropolis in India: 10 Fascinating Facts About the Qutb Shahi Tombs