Goshamahal Baradari, Royal palace in Goshamahal, Hyderabad, India
Goshamahal Baradari is a palace featuring substantial balustrades and intricate Islamic architectural details spread across multiple levels. The building contains spacious interior chambers designed for various purposes, showcasing the architectural sophistication of its era.
Built in 1682 during the Qutb Shahi dynasty, the structure served as a Mughal military outpost during Aurangzeb's campaign in the region. The building subsequently changed hands and purposes several times across the following centuries.
The palace's name comes from 'gosha', a term relating to secluded women's spaces in Qutb Shahi society. This naming choice reflects how the building's design accommodated specific social practices of that era.
The building has an elevator in its east wing for easier access to upper levels. It is advisable to check ahead about which areas are open to visitors, as parts of the building remain in active use.
Since 1933, the building has hosted India's oldest continuously active Masonic lodge, after the Nizam of Hyderabad donated it for this purpose in 1872. This unusual conversion of a palace into a Masonic gathering place remains rare among Indian monuments.
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