Hyderabad House: The Nizam’s Luxury, Putin’s Visit, and a Legacy of Power
Explore the fascinating history of Hyderabad House, from the Nizam's lavish palace to its role as a diplomatic hub for global leaders like Putin. A legacy of power and opulence.
- Dec 4, 2025,
- Updated Dec 4, 2025 3:56 PM IST
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The Nizam of Hyderabad didn’t want just any land in Delhi. He demanded a plot next to the Viceroy’s House, setting the stage for one of the grandest palaces ever built. Find out how his royal request reshaped Delhi’s skyline.
Credit : Wikimedia Commons
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Edwin Lutyens, tasked with designing Hyderabad House, was given a monumental challenge. Despite the Nizam’s wishes, he couldn’t replicate the Viceroy’s House, but he sure came close. Discover how Lutyens created a masterpiece that rivals imperial grandeur.
Credit : Wikimedia Commons
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Hyderabad House wasn’t just another palace—it was designed to look like a butterfly. Lutyens’ bold architectural vision took inspiration from England, but it was the Nizam’s vast wealth that brought it to life. Unveil the secrets of this stunning design.
Credit : Wikimedia Commons
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Built at an astronomical cost of Rs 170 crore (adjusted for inflation), Hyderabad House stood as a testament to the Nizam's unmatched wealth. But did the opulence ever live up to the Nizam’s expectations? The lavish palace tells a rich and tragic tale.
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Inside the palace, the zenana (women’s quarters) revealed a stark contrast to its grandeur. A “rough bed” and “cold taps” showed a side of luxury not often spoken about. What secrets does the zenana hold about the Nizam's rule?
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More than just a residence, Hyderabad House became a symbol of the Nizam’s immense wealth, asserting his sovereignty while acknowledging British influence. Was it a palace or a political statement? You decide.
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After India’s independence, Hyderabad House faded into the shadows, left unused as the Nizam’s reign ended. But its transformation into a government asset marks a new chapter in its storied history.
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From the world’s richest man to global heads of state, Hyderabad House has seen it all. Hosting the likes of Bill Clinton and Vladimir Putin, its royal past has paved the way for modern diplomacy.
File Photo
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The house at 1 Ashok Road became more than a guesthouse—it became the pulse of India's diplomatic efforts. Learn how the palace transitioned from royal splendor to the heart of international relations.