Asmangarh Fort

We could all stand to learn a few lessons from the older generations, especially the kingly ones. Despite a hectic schedule of conquering, destroying, scheming and pillaging, they found the time for random acts of mindless violence, like big-game hunting. They took off for god-forsaken lands, gave up all pretense of civilization, and lived like bloodthirsty barbarians. In fully-furnished, luxurious villas. With servants, cooks and little brown boys to operate the punkahs. Ain't life grand when you're the king?

So when Sir Asman Jah built the fort that bore his name in 1885, he just thought of it as a picturesque mansion to bring his gaming buddies and other important statesmen (he was Prime Minister of the State for a while). But the beautiful palace drew attention for more than just being a pleasant place to hang out at. The architecture is extremely Gothic, and the fort is at once grandiose and completely serene. You can see why it was a favorite with the lords and the ladies.

When Asmangarh changed hands and came into the Nizams' family, there was a small addition by way of a turban-shaped gateway to mark tribute to the seventh Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, who initially considered using the palace to house the Osmania University.

Now the Asmangarh Fort shares its neighbourhood with a TV tower, and has children running up and down its magnificent corridors. St Joseph's Public School takes care of this endangered heritage monument, and in turn the rambling fort lets the little brats rampage around its vastness, finding hiding places and secret spots that haven't been stirred for ages.

Note: If you want to visit Asmangarh Fort, you will need to take permission from the King Kothi branch of the School at 2323-5665.