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| Secunderabad James st. clock tower.(1900) cdn.dailypicked.com |
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| Hyderabad-secunderabad, James street, 1890 /i.pinimg.com |
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| 1880 James street Hyderabad- secunderabad, India |
Above images: Hyderabad during the colonial time just under the Raj. The photo, taken by Lala Deen Dayal in December 1887 and February 1888, depicts a bustling street with this iconic tower at its center. The street, originally named James Street in honour of James Achilles Kirkpatrick, the third British Resident in Hyderabad, is now known as Mahatma Gandhi Road. It remains a vibrant thoroughfare ..................
Clock towers, once essential for keeping time in communities, now stand as historical landmarks. They remind us of bygone eras and showcase architectural styles from their respective periods. Preserving these mechanical marvels is challenging due to the scarcity of spare parts and the expertise required for maintenance. Both central and state governments often strive to preserve these structures for future generations.
James Street also houses an old railway station established in 1874 by the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad, Mahboob Ali Khan. This station was part of a significant railway project that ultimately connected Madras Central (Chennai) and Hyderabad via Vijayawada and Kazipet in 1899. The surrounding area, known for its historical bazaars like General Bazaars, was once part of a sprawling British cantonment.
Clock towers once served as crucial timekeeping landmarks in their communities. However, with the advent of modern technology, many of these mechanical structures have become mere symbols of a bygone era. Maintaining them is a tough job due to the non-availability of spares and accessories. Despite these challenges, both central and state governments endeavor to preserve these historical structures for posterity.
A prime example is the clock tower atop the James Street Police Station in Secunderabad, generously donated by Dewan Bahadur Seth Ramgopal Malani, a Rajasthani financial trader who prospered in Hyderabad. The area, named Ramgopalpet after the benefactor, remains a vibrant hub of trade and business.
The area is also known for its historical bazaars, like General Bazaars, which were part of a sprawling British cantonment in the 20th century. Ranigunj, named after Queen Victoria, reflects the region's rich colonial history, housing landmarks such as the heart-shaped Hussain Sagar Lake and various regimental shops. The Nizam's subsidiary alliance with the British led to the establishment of a significant military presence in Secunderabad, further shaping the area's historical and cultural landscape.
Today, these clock towers serve as reminders of the past, standing tall amidst the hustle and bustle of modern city life
https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2024/May/02/vibrant-james-street-of-secunderabad.
https://dailypicked.com/clock-towers-of-hyderabad/
