Hyderabad, known as the city of Nizams, is famous for its opulent history, vibrant culture, and magnificent architecture. With iconic structures like the Charminar and the tranquil Birla Mandir, Hyderabad boasts a multitude of landmarks that captivate visitors from across the globe. In recent years, the city has experienced a remarkable metamorphosis, witnessing the rise of contemporary landmarks that epitomize its progressive essence with new landmarks of Hyderabad. Let us explore the latest additions to Hyderabad’s architectural marvels.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat
In its 10th year of existence, Telangana has achieved another remarkable milestone with the inauguration of the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat. This state-of-the-art integrated complex boasts a range of impressive features, including seamless connectivity, spacious conference halls, and a picturesque setting surrounded by lush greenery.
Spanning an expansive 27.9 acres, the complex encompasses a built-up area of 1 million sq. ft. and provides office space for approximately 2,000 employees. It is fully equipped with all the necessary facilities to accommodate the administrative offices of the Honourable Chief Minister of Telangana, Honourable Ministers, Chief Secretary, Principal Secretaries, and their support staff. The design, meticulously crafted by the renowned architecture firm Oscar and Ponni Architects, has been brought to life with an estimated investment of ₹616 crore over a period of more than two years. The construction of this magnificent secretariat was undertaken by The Shapoorji Pallonji E&C Company, encompassing civil, structural, and architectural finishes, as well as external MEP and furniture works.
The establishment of the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat signifies a significant stride in the state’s administrative development, embodying the requirements of modern governance while paying homage to a pivotal figure in India’s history, and adding to the new landmarks of Hyderabad.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat – New Landmarks Of Hyderabad
125-ft tall Ambedkar Statue
The Ambedkar statue in Hyderabad is a significant monument honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar for his contributions to social justice, the drafting of the Indian Constitution, and the upliftment of marginalized communities. Inaugurated on April 14, 2023, the 132nd birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the statue stands tall at 125 feet, ranking among the tallest statues of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in India. The construction utilized modern engineering techniques and durable materials, costing 145 crore rupees to ensure its longevity and grandeur.
Situated near the State Secretariat on the picturesque banks of the Hussain Sagar lake, the statue is a striking sight. Prior to the inauguration, KCR and his ministers held meetings with officials to finalize the event arrangements.
A notable decision was made to shower flower petals on the statue from a helicopter, as reported by PTI. Prakash Ambedkar, the grandson of BR Ambedkar, was the sole chief guest invited to the ceremony.
The location has now become a popular tourist destination and educational site, offering insights into Dr. Ambedkar’s life and work. The government has also developed the surrounding areas with visitor facilities, including landscaped gardens and informative displays.
The New Telangana Martyr’s Memorial (Telangana Amara Jyothi)
Telangana Martyrs Memorial, also known as Telangana Amara Jyothi or Amaraveerula Stupam, stands as a tribute to the 369 students who lost their lives during the 1969 agitation for a separate Telangana state. This significant memorial is located on the banks of Hussain Sagar, opposite the Public Gardens in Hyderabad. It holds the distinction of being the largest seamless stainless-steel memorial in the world, towering at a height of 25 feet (7.6 m) and surpassing the size of Cloud Gate in Chicago by five times.
Following the establishment of Telangana State, the first Chief Minister, K. Chandrashekar Rao, made the decision to commemorate Telangana Martyrs Memorial Day on 2 June annually across all districts of Telangana. On this day, official programs are held in each district headquarters, including the offering of floral tributes at the designated sites of the Martyrs Memorials, along with other fitting ceremonies.
The memorial itself consists of five distinct sections. About 4,500 stainless-steel plates, weighing over a hundred tonnes, were used for the structure, along with other materials. The base is crafted from black polished granite, adorned with nine bullet impressions on each side, symbolizing the sacrifice of the 360 students who laid down their lives for the cause in 1969. These bullet impressions also represent the nine districts of Telangana. The choice of black granite serves as a poignant expression of mourning for these heroes. Finally, it cost nearly Rs 180 crore.
The memorial is spread over a total area of 3.29 acres of land. There is a large, well-landscaped garden, and the memorial structure with its highly polished, reflective exterior stands within this green space. The built-up area of the memorial, including the garden, is about 2.88 lakh sq feet (26,800 sq metres).
