Sabahat Sarwar
Hyderabad, a city layered with centuries of history, culture and architectural brilliance, continues to reflect its rich past through its historic buildings From pre-partition era structures to culturally significant landmarks.The Hyderabad District Administration organized a heritage walk to showcase the city’s rich historical and architectural legacy The walk was formally inaugurated by the Commissioner Hyderabad along with the Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad. Assistant Commissioner City was also present at the inauguration In an effort to reconnect people especially the younger generation with this invaluable heritage. The walk covered 18 heritage sites across the city, beginning from Besant Hall and concluding at Pacca Qila. Around 40 participants including students, professionals, researchers, heritage enthusiasts and content creators, took part in the walk.
Assistant Commissioner City Hyderabad, Syed Noor Hussain who led the initiative, stated that the district administration is committed not only to preserving heritage sites but also to promoting them widely to highlight Hyderabad’s cultural significance and strengthen tourism. He explained that Hyderabad has a rich architectural and cultural heritage dating back to the pre-partition era, reflected in buildings that embody artistic, cultural and historical value. He noted that such heritage often remains overlooked and lacks proper visibility. To address this, a heritage cell has been established to document and protect heritage sites, with surveys underway to identify existing sites and prevent encroachments.
Siraj Ahmed Bhaagat, the tour guide of the heritage walk, described the overall experience as deeply enriching and rewarding. He said it was encouraging to see participants actively engaging, asking thoughtful questions and showing genuine curiosity about Hyderabad’s heritage. He added that this was among the first official heritage walks facilitated with administrative support in the city. According to him, more heritage walks are planned in the future, focusing on different locations and themes such as architecture, folklore and local histories. He emphasized that historical sites are living witnesses of collective identity and encouraged people to explore heritage with respect, curiosity and responsibility.
Participant Fatima Soomro, a performing artist, shared her experience of the heritage walk, calling it phenomenal. She said that pre-partition era buildings carry a unique character and artistic essence that modern structures lack. While she had visited many of the sites earlier, returning to them after 10 to 12 years filled her with nostalgia.
This heritage walk marks an important step toward reviving Hyderabad’s historical identity and sets the foundation for recurring heritage activities aimed at preservation, awareness and cultural tourism.
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