Purani Haveli, Hyderabad

Purani Haveli, also called Masarrat Mahal or Haveli Khadeem, is a royal palace located in Pathar Gatti, Hyderabad. It was originally built in the 18th century for Sikander Jah, Asaf Jah III, by his father, Asaf Jah II of the Nizam dynasty. The palace served as the official residence for several Nizams and was the birthplace of the sixth and seventh Nizams, making it a site of important historical events in Hyderabad. The U-shaped complex covers about eight acres and blends European-style facades with traditional Indian courtyard planning. Key features include grand arches inspired by European architecture and the world’s longest wardrobe, symbolizing the wealth and opulence of the Nizam era. Today, Purani Haveli is an important heritage site and tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle and history of Hyderabad’s royal families.

Purani Haveli shows a blend of Indo-Islamic and Deccani architectural styles, typical of late 18th-century Hyderabad. Built mainly with local granite and lime mortar, the palace demonstrates skilled masonry and wooden craftsmanship. Its design focuses on symmetry, good ventilation, and decorative details, reflecting the wealth and lifestyle of the Nizams. The mansion has a U-shaped layout, with two long rectangular wings parallel to each other and the residential quarters at the center. It was originally developed under Mir Nizam Ali Khan (Asaf Jah II, 1762–1803), with later additions by subsequent Nizams. Key architectural features include large open courtyards, arched verandahs, and intricately carved wooden balconies, making it a valuable heritage site that showcases Hyderabad’s royal architecture and history.