Hyderabad: After 446 years since its construction according to the Islamic Hijri calendar, Hyderabad’s iconic Charminar is about to transform into a luminous spectacle. The elegant minarets of the monument now glow, resembling the colors of the Indian tricolour.
The project to illuminate Charminar was undertaken by the National Culture Fund, operating under the Ministry of Culture. When a corporate entity expresses interest in a national monument and presents a plan, the National Culture Fund steps in to assist with its execution, as explained by an NCF official. The illumination initiative in Hyderabad is the result of a collaborative endeavor involving the National Culture Fund (NCF), the Indian Oil Foundation (IOF), and the Archaeological Survey of India.
Formerly, Charminar was only illuminated on special occasions; however, it will now radiate its glow year-round, according to sources within the Archaeological Survey of India. The lights will be activated after sunset and remain on until authorities permit people to remain in the vicinity. Once instructed to vacate the area, the lights will be switched off, as conveyed by a source within the Archaeological Survey of India.
Charminar stands as Hyderabad’s foundational monument, around which the city evolved. This centerpiece bears a chronogram marking its completion in 1591 according to the Gregorian calendar. Interestingly, only three of the minarets are illuminated with the national colors.
The establishment of the National Culture Fund (NCF) introduced an independent funding mechanism for supporting arts and culture in India, separate from existing funding sources and patterns. It facilitates direct support from institutions and individuals, who become partners with the government in promoting arts and culture. Contributions made to the NCF are eligible for a tax rebate under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act.
The inauguration of the lighting project is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday and will be officiated by Minister for Culture Kishan Reddy. In preparation for the inauguration, it was noted that hawkers near the monument will not be allowed to sell their wares on the day, as shared by an official from the Charminar Police Station.
