Hyderabad: A three-century-old Miyan Mushk mosque, a protected monument, and several heritage structures in its courtyard in Puranapul, is rotting in silence due to official apathy and lack of funding from the government.
The structures, which showcase a unique architectural style from the Qutb Shahi era and were built by Miyan Mushk between 1680 and 1682, are in poor condition due to age, water seepage, and overgrown vegetation on the walls and terrace. These structures require immediate attention and restoration.
Apart from the mosque, the Maqbara (Dargah), entrance arch, and Hammam Khana are also in need of restoration. The Hammam, a separate building within the mosque premises that was once used to treat patients with paralysis, and the Sarai, an accommodation facility for visitors from different parts of the state, are both in a dilapidated condition.
Mosque managing committee president Samad Warsi said the Maqbara’s minaret collapsed 10 days ago due to structural ageing. “There is water seepage through the main entrance arch and the mosque terrace, along with vegetation growth. We are not allowed to carry out repairs ourselves by the heritage department,” said Warsi.
Despite his repeated requests since 2014, no action has been taken so far. “Officials visited and made estimates, but no work has started. A budget of ₹2.3 crore has been approved for the restoration, but it is yet to be released,” he added.
Historian Dr Dyavanpalli Satyanarayana said the mosque was built between 1680 and 1682 by Miyan Mushk, who was from Abyssinia and served as keeper of the keys during the reign of Tanashah in the Qutb Shahi Kingdom. “It is well known for its Arabesque calligraphy, where verses from the Quran and Hadith can be seen. In 1687, Aurangzeb destroyed many structures, but this mosque was left untouched,” he said.
The department of heritage has been ineffective, resulting in many protected monuments in and around the city falling into disrepair. By sanctioning adequate funds, the government should protect Hyderabad’s ancient monuments built over the past 500 years, said Mohammed Habeebuddin, a heritage activist.
An official from the Department of Heritage said restoration works have been delayed due to budget constraints. “The department is waiting for sanction from the government. Not just this structure—several heritage monuments are facing the same issue,” the official added.
