A Dynasty of Power: The Paigah (c. 1760 CE – 1948 CE) were the premier nobility of the Hyderabad State – a powerful coalition of families that formed a "state within a state." Second only to the Nizams themselves in power and prestige, they were the kingdom's kingmakers, military commanders, and chief administrators. The name "Paigah" (from the Persian Pฤygฤh meaning "stable" or "foundation") symbolized their role as the foundational pillar of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.
The Paigah Tombs complex, located in Santoshnagar, serves as the family's distinguished mausoleum, where generations of Paigah nobles lie buried in tombs of breathtaking beauty. Known for their delicate stucco work, intricate marble inlay, and unique architectural style that blends Persian, Deccani, and European influences, these tombs are considered among the finest examples of Indo-Islamic funerary architecture in India.
๐️ Architectural Marvel – The Paigah Tombs
The Paigah Tombs complex is renowned for its exquisite architectural details that set it apart from other funerary monuments in the Deccan. The tombs are notable for:
- Delicate stucco work (munabat kari) – Intricate plaster designs that rival the finest in the world
- Intricate marble inlay – Similar to the Pietra Dura work of the Taj Mahal
- Unique architectural fusion – Blending Persian, Deccani, and European influences
- Lattice screens (jalis) – Carved with geometric and floral patterns
- Canopied tombs – Each tomb is sheltered by an ornate canopy supported by pillars
๐จ A Hidden Masterpiece: The Paigah Tombs are often called the "hidden jewel of Hyderabad" because they remain relatively unknown compared to the city's more famous monuments. Yet, art historians consider the marble and stucco work here to be among the finest in India, with some comparing the intricate craftsmanship to that of the Taj Mahal.
The tombs feature inscriptions in Persian and Urdu, with dates recorded in both Hijri and Gregorian calendars. Each tomb is a unique work of art, reflecting the status and personality of the noble buried within.
๐ The Spanish Mosque – A Unique Architectural Wonder
The Spanish Mosque (also known as the Moorish Mosque or Aiwan-e-Begumpet) is located in the Paigah Palace complex in Begumpet. Built by Sir Viqar-ul-Umra, this extraordinary structure is one of the only two mosques in India built in the Spanish Moorish style (the other being in Ajmer, Rajasthan).
๐ช๐ธ Inspired by the Great Mosque of Cรณrdoba: The Spanish Mosque draws its architectural inspiration from the Great Mosque of Cรณrdoba in Spain. It features:
- No minarets – following the Spanish Moorish tradition
- Horseshoe arches characteristic of Islamic architecture in Spain
- Intricate stucco work throughout the prayer hall
- Unique geometric patterns blending Islamic and European designs
๐ Origins and Rise – The Foundational Pillar
๐ Founded by Shams-ul-Umra I (Abul Fateh Khan Tegh Jung): The Paigah's ascendancy began with Nawab Abul Fateh Khan Taig Jung (c. 1748-1822), a distinguished nobleman of Turkic ancestry in the Mughal court. His fortunes were irrevocably tied to the Asaf Jahi dynasty when he married Shahar Bazaar Begum, the daughter of the first Nizam, Asaf Jah I. This marital alliance made him the Damad (son-in-law) of the sovereign – a position of immense influence.
In recognition of his status and the need to maintain a substantial cavalry force for the state, the Nizam granted him a vast hereditary estate. This estate, and the military household it supported, became known as the "Paigah". Upon his death, the estate was divided among his descendants, forming the three great branches – the Shiina – that would dominate Hyderabad's politics for the next 150 years.
Peak Power: Through military service, land grants, marriage alliances with the Asaf Jahi family, and acquisition of jagirs, the Paigahs expanded into multiple branches (notably the Shams-ul-Umra senior line, Viqar-ul-Umra, Asman Jah, and Khursheed Jah branches). At their peak in the 19th century, they controlled hundreds of villages, maintained private forces of 14,000 troops, and held the highest court offices.
๐️ The Three Great Branches of the Paigah Family
1. Shams-ul-Umra (Senior Line)
The original and senior branch, holding the hereditary title "Shams-ul-Umra" meaning "The Sun among Nobles". This branch maintained the closest ties to the Nizams and held the position of Amir-e-Kabir I (Head of the Nobles).
2. Viqar-ul-Umra Branch
Founded by Nawab Muhammad Fazluddin Khan Bahadur (1881–1902 CE), this branch produced some of the most lavish builders in the family's history, including Sir Viqar-ul-Umra who built the Falaknuma Palace (now a Taj Hotel), the neo-classical Paigah Palace in Begumpet, and the unique Spanish Mosque. The name Viqar-ul-Umara means "Dignity of the Nobles".
3. Asman Jah Branch
Founded by Nawab Sir Muhammad Mazharuddin Khan Bahadur (1877–1898 CE), who served as Prime Minister (Diwan) of Hyderabad from 1887 to 1893. The title Asman Jah means "One whose Rank is as high as the Sky" or "Dignity of the Heavens". This branch built the Asman Garh Palace and Basheer Bagh Palace, as well as the Mahboob Chowk Clock Tower.
4. Khursheed Jah Branch
Founded by Nawab Sir Muhammad Muhi ud-din Khan Bahadur (1881–1902 CE), whose title Khursheed Jah means "Dignity of the Sun". This branch was known for being great patrons of the arts and promoting Urdu–Persian learning. They built the Khursheed Jah Devdi (palace) near Shah Gunj.
๐ Complete Chronology of Paigah Rulers and Leaders
The following is the complete chronological list of all Paigah rulers, leaders, and heads of the three branches, from the founder to the last recognized heads before the abolition of jagirs in 1948.
Founder of the Paigah Dynasty. A crucial military figure and trusted commander to Nizam Ali Khan (Asaf Jah II). He was granted high hereditary titles including Shams-ul-Umra ("The Sun among Nobles"), Shams-ul-Mulk, and Shams-ud-Daula. By 1781, he commanded a massive private army of 9,000 cavalry and 12,000 Paigah troops. He married Shahar Bazaar Begum, daughter of Asaf Jah I, making him the Damad (son-in-law) of the sovereign. He is buried at the Paigah Tombs complex, which became the family's distinguished mausoleum for generations.
First Amir-e-Kabir (Head of the Nobles). He was the son of the founder and the first member of the family to hold the senior titles of Shams-ul-Umra I and Amir-e-Kabir I. He served under both Asaf Jah II and Asaf Jah III. He established the enduring marital alliance between the Paigahs and the Nizam dynasty by marrying Sahebzadi Bashirunissa Begum, a daughter of Asaf Jah II (Nizam Ali Khan). He significantly consolidated and expanded the Paigah estates, particularly around Shamsabad and Medchal and their adjoining parganas. He began the tradition of interring Paigah nobles at the family's renowned mausoleum, the Paigah Tombs.
The Great Division: Upon his death, the Paigah estate was divided between his two surviving sons, initiating the branching of the Paigah family.
Elder son of Fakhr-ud-din Khan. He held the title Shams-ul-Umara II after the division of the estate. He inherited a share of the Paigah territories upon his father's death in 1863 and held the senior branch until his death.
Younger son of Fakhr-ud-din Khan. He held the title Shams-ul-Umara III and was the ancestor of the two great Paigah branches: Khursheed Jah and Viqar-ul-Umra. He inherited one-third of the Paigah estate and his descendants would go on to become major builders and administrators.
Founder of the Asman Jah Branch. He was the most powerful figure of the Asman Jah Branch. His tenure as Amir-e-Paigah began in 1877, succeeding his uncle's portion of the estate. He held the rank of Amir-e-Kabir II and served the Nizams Asaf Jah V and Asaf Jah VI. He served as Prime Minister (Diwan) of Hyderabad from 1887 to 1893. His architectural legacies include Asman Garh Palace, Basheer Bagh Palace, and the Mahboob Chowk Clock Tower. The title Asman Jah means "One whose Rank is as high as the Sky" or "Dignity of the Heavens."
Founder of the Viqar-ul-Umra Branch. He held the titles Iftikhar-ul-Mulk and Viqar-ul-Umra and served Nizam Asaf Jah VI (Mahbub Ali Pasha). He succeeded to a portion of the estate in 1881 and also served as Prime Minister (Diwan) of Hyderabad from 1893 to 1901. He was the most lavish builder in the family's history, responsible for some of Hyderabad's most famous structures: Falaknuma Palace (which he later presented to the Nizam), the neo-classical Paigah Palace in Begumpet (his later residence), and the unique Spanish Mosque (Begumpet). He also held estates around Falaknuma and Begumpet. The town Vikarabad is named after him.
Founder of the Khursheed Jah Branch. He was the head of the Khursheed Jah Branch and held the titles of Shams-ul-Umra V and Amir-e-Kabir IV, serving under Asaf Jah IV and V. He was the son of Amir-e-Kabir Nawab Mohammed Rasheeduddin Khan Bahadur (Shams-ul-Umara III) and the brother of Sir Viqar-ul-Umara Bahadur. He inherited one-third of the Paigah estate after his father's death in 1881. The title Khursheed Jah means "Dignity of the Sun." His major estate holdings were near Shah Gunj and the Falaknuma area. He built the Khursheed Jah Devdi (palace) and was a great patron of the arts, promoting Urdu–Persian learning.
Heirs: Nawab Imam Jung and Nawab Zafar Jung – his two sons who were considered his legitimate heirs upon his death. Their claims led to a commission appointed by the Nizam to deal with the division of the estate among numerous claimants.
Head of the Viqar-ul-Umra Branch. He managed the Begumpet–Falaknuma jagirs under Asaf Jah VII (Mir Osman Ali Khan). His primary achievement was continuing the Paigah administration and overseeing estate adjustments necessitated by early 20th-century reforms.
Other sons of Nawab Sultan ul-Mulk Bahadur:
- Nawab Muzaffar Nawaz Jung Bahadur
- Nawab Fareed Nawaz Jung Bahadur
- Nawab Nazeer Nawaz Jung Bahadur
- Nawab Khair Nawaz Jung Bahadur
- Nawab Hassan Yar Jung Bahadur
Head of the Khursheed Jah Branch. He held the titles Shams ul-Mulk, Zafar Jang. He was one of the sons of Nawab Muhammad Rashid ud-din Khan Bahadur (Shams-ul-Umara III). He is also listed as an Amir-i-Paigah-i-Khurshid Jahi heir, suggesting a period of joint or sequential leadership among the descendants in the early 20th century.
Head of the Asman Jah Branch. He oversaw estates like Asman Garh and Malakpet, serving under Asaf Jah VI and VII. His role involved maintaining cultural and charitable institutions, though the autonomy of the jagir was reduced after the early 1900s.
Head of the Khursheed Jah Branch. He held the titles Lutf ud-Daula, Latafat Jung. He succeeded his elder brother, Nawab Muhammad Hafiz ud-din Khan, as the Amir-i-Paigah of the Khurshid Jahi branch on February 7, 1907, and held the position until his death. He was also granted the title of Lutf ud-Daula on February 13, 1923. He was recognized as the Amir-i-Paigah-i-Khurshid Jahi in the early 20th century. He was a prominent figure, serving as a member of the Executive Council for the Nizam, holding portfolios like the Military and Public Works Departments. He was instrumental in managing the estate after it was released from the Court of Wards in 1929. He died on board the ship Viceroy of India near Aden while returning to Hyderabad after undergoing medical treatment in Vienna. The Lutfuddaulah Oriental Research Institute was established in his memory circa 1937.
Last recognized Amir of the Khurshid Jahi Paigah branch. He held the title Himayat Nawaz Jang. He succeeded his brother, Nawab Muhammad Lutf ud-din Khan, as the Amir-i-Paigah of the Khurshid Jahi branch. He was the last recognized head of this branch until the annexation of Hyderabad State into the Indian Union in 1948 and the subsequent abolition of jagirs in 1949.
Last head of the Viqar-ul-Umra Branch before 1948. He was the eldest son of Nawab Sultan ul-Mulk Bahadur and the last member of the Paigah family known to have resided in the Paigah Palace (Aiwan-e-Begumpet). He oversaw the branch's estates until the annexation of Hyderabad State into the Indian Union in 1948 and the subsequent abolition of jagirs in 1949.
๐️ The Paigah Estates – A Kingdom Within a Kingdom
๐ Extent of Paigah Holdings (1901 Census):
- 23 taluks (administrative subdivisions)
- 1,273 villages
- Approximately 4,000 square miles of territory
- Private army of 14,000 troops
- Controlled revenue generating hundreds of thousands of rupees annually
The Paigah estates were spread across multiple modern Indian states, demonstrating their vast reach:
๐ Telangana: Medak (major district), Nizamabad, Atraf-i-Balda (areas around Hyderabad), Warangal, Mahbubnagar, Nalgonda
๐ Maharashtra: Nanded, Osmanabad, Aurangabad
๐ Karnataka: Bidar, Gulbarga
Towns and Localities Founded by the Paigahs
The Paigah family's influence is permanently etched into the geography of Telangana, with several towns and localities named after them:
- Vikarabad – Named after Viqar-ul-Umra, the Paigah nobleman and Prime Minister who founded the town
- Shamshabad – Named after Shams-ul-Umara (the hereditary title of the Paigah family head). The Hyderabad international airport is now located here
- Moinabad – Named after Moin-ud-Dowla (son of Asman Jah Paigah)
- Begumpet – Named after the Begum (wife) of a Shams-ul-Umra, who owned the land. The Paigah Palace in Begumpet is a famous landmark
- Basheer Bagh – Named after Asman Jah (whose given name was Basheer-ud-Daula)
- Urban Lands: The Paigah family holds historic claims to lands in areas now known as Hafizpet, Hydernagar, Hashmatpet, Malkaram, and Nacharam
⚔️ Administration & Military Power
The Paigahs operated under a sophisticated jagirdari system, where each branch administered its jagirs with its own revenue officers (amils), diwans, and courts. They exercised near-complete civil and criminal jurisdiction within their estates, collected revenue, and maintained law and order.
Military Role: The Paigahs maintained private troops and cavalry, responsible for local defense and often supplying troops to the Nizam. At its peak, the Paigah maintained approximately 14,000 troops, including:
- 9,000 sowar (cavalry) – as formalized by 1781
- 12,000 Paigah contingent troops
- Artillery and infantry units
The Paigahs were also major patrons of Sufi shrines, mosques, educational institutions, and local festivals. Their patronage had a lasting impact on Hyderabadi court culture, language (Urdu), cuisine, and arts.
๐จ Art and Culture Patronage
The Paigah family were among the greatest patrons of art and culture in the Deccan:
- Architecture: Built some of Hyderabad's most iconic structures – Falaknuma Palace, Paigah Tombs, Asman Garh Palace, Khursheed Jah Devdi, Spanish Mosque
- Literature & Music: Great patrons of Urdu poetry, classical music, and courtly arts
- Material Culture: Commissioned textiles, carved woodwork, and inlay work; supported craftsmen who contributed to the distinctive Deccani style
- Education: Funded schools and educational institutions, including the Lutfuddaulah Oriental Research Institute established in memory of Nawab Muhammad Lutf ud-din Khan
๐️ Legacy and Modern Status
๐ Preserving the Paigah Legacy: Today, the Paigah legacy is preserved in its magnificent architecture, which serves as key heritage sites in Hyderabad:
- Falaknuma Palace – Now a Taj Hotel luxury property
- Paigah Palace (Begumpet) – A landmark of neo-classical architecture
- Asman Garh Palace – Overlooking the city from a hilltop
- Paigah Tombs (Santoshnagar) – The family mausoleum
- Khursheed Jah Devdi – Near Shah Gunj
- Spanish Mosque (Begumpet) – A unique Moorish Revival mosque
Descendants of all three Paigah branches continued to hold hereditary titles until 1949 when the jagirs were abolished, and the subsequent abolition of privy purses in 1971. Following independence, family members diversified into education, business, heritage conservation, and politics.
Today, several Paigah palaces have been converted into hotels, museums, or are maintained by family trusts that manage heritage properties and charitable institutions in modern times.
๐ Complete Chronology of the Paigah Dynasty
- c. 1760: Shams-ul-Umra I (Abul Fateh Khan) rises under Nizam Ali Khan – foundation of Paigah status
- c. 1781: Paigah formalized with command of 9,000 cavalry and 12,000 troops
- 1791: Death of founder Nawab Abul Fateh Khan
- 1797: Marital alliance between Paigah and Nizam dynasty
- 1863: Death of Fakhr-ud-din Khan; division of Paigah estate into three branches
- 1877–1898: Asman Jah serves as head of Asman Jah Branch and Prime Minister (1887–1893)
- 1881–1902: Viqar-ul-Umra serves as Prime Minister (1893–1901)
- c. 1893: Falaknuma Palace completed by Viqar-ul-Umra
- 1901 Census: Paigah estates recorded as 23 taluks, 1,273 villages, 4,000 sq miles
- 1902: Deaths of Viqar-ul-Umra and Khursheed Jah
- 1907: Muhammad Hafiz ud-din Khan succeeded by Muhammad Lutf ud-din Khan as Khursheed Jah branch head
- 1930: Death of Sultan ul-Mulk Bahadur (Viqar-ul-Umra branch)
- 1937: Death of Muhammad Lutf ud-din Khan; succeeded by Muhammad Azim ud-din Khan
- 1948: Operation Polo – Hyderabad State annexed into Indian Union
- 1949: Jagir abolition measures implemented
- 1971: Abolition of privy purses
⏰ Visitor Information
๐ Timings
Open: All days of the week
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Best visited during daylight hours
๐ฐ Entry Fee
Under maintenance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Nominal fee may apply.
๐ Address & Contact
Address: Paigah Tombs, Santoshnagar, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500059
Nearby Landmark: Near Etebar Chowk / Moazzam Jahi Market
๐ How to Reach
Bus: Well connected by TSRTC buses to Santoshnagar
Auto/Cab: Easily available from anywhere in Hyderabad
Metro: Nearest station – Malakpet or Musarambagh (approx. 3 km)
๐ธ Photography Tips: The early morning light (7-9 AM) and late afternoon (3-5 PM) are best for capturing the intricate stucco work on the tombs. The delicate marble inlay is best photographed in soft, diffused light. Don't miss the lattice screens (jalis) – photograph them from inside the tomb for dramatic shadow patterns. The ceiling details require a wide-angle lens to capture fully.
⭐ A Hidden Gem of Hyderabad: The Paigah Tombs remain one of Hyderabad's best-kept secrets. Unlike the crowded Charminar or Golconda Fort, this necropolis offers a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere where visitors can appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship in solitude. Art historians consider the marble and stucco work here to rival that of the Taj Mahal, making it an absolute must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers.
✨ Key Features Summary
- Dynasty Name: Paigah (Persian Pฤygฤh – "stable" or "foundation")
- Period: c. 1760 CE – 1948 CE (approx. 188 years)
- Founder: Nawab Abul Fateh Khan Tegh Jung Bahadur (Shams-ul-Umra I)
- Number of Rulers Listed: 13 (including branch heads)
- Status: Premier nobility of Hyderabad State – second only to the Nizams
- Territory: 23 taluks, 1,273 villages, approx. 4,000 square miles
- Military Strength: 14,000 troops (9,000 cavalry + 12,000 Paigah contingent by 1781)
- Three Main Branches: Asman Jah, Viqar-ul-Umra, Khursheed Jah
- Notable Palaces: Falaknuma Palace, Paigah Palace, Asman Garh Palace, Khursheed Jah Devdi
- Architectural Legacy: Paigah Tombs, Spanish Mosque, Mahboob Chowk Clock Tower
- Towns Founded: Vikarabad, Shamshabad, Moinabad, Begumpet, Basheer Bagh
- Current Status: Tombs maintained by ASI; palaces converted to hotels or private trusts