Paigah Tombs

The Paigah Tombs in Hyderabad, India are the tombs of the several generations of the Paigah nobles. The Paigah nobles were very close to the Nizams and so they enjoyed a significant social status. They were given the responsibility of looking after the security and defense of the state. Some of the Paigah nobles who have been laid to rest here are Asman Jah, Viqar-ul-Umara and Shams-ul-Umara. Abdul Fateh Khan Tegh Jung founded the Paigah nobility and was rendering service to the second Nizam, who ruled between 1760 and 1803. The Nizam bestowed him with the prestigious title of Shams-ul-Umra, meaning "the Sun among the masses". Tegh Jung was buried in 1786 at the foyer of the complex. An iron plaque at the entrance of the complex traces the Paigah lineage and exalts the marble magnificence of the vault. The Paigahs were also great patrons of fine arts, literature and sports and commanded the respect of the rulers and the ordinary people alike. The Paigah Tombs are unique specimens of extraordinary artistry that is ardently visible in the wonderfully inlaid mosaic work. Local people claim that the geometrical patterns and designs of these stunning tombs are only one of its kind and exclusive and cannot be found anywhere in the world.