Tucked away in Karnataka's northeastern region, Bidar is a place which is not meant to be missed by the lovers of history. The historic city, formerly the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate, is a veritable goldmine of Persian and Indo-Islamic architecture, historical sites and artefacts. The streets of Bidar tend to transport you to a time of royal tombs, mediaeval forts and elaborate artworks narrating an illustrious past. In addition to its history, Bidar is also renowned for its meticulous workmanship, especially the well-known Bidriware, which gives the city an additional dimension of cultural value. Let us delve into the city of Bidar and find out all about its history, architecture and culture that make it a place not to miss.
Although Bidar has a long history, it gained notoriety in the 14th century when the Bahmani monarchs established it as their capital. Prior to being overrun by the Delhi Sultanate, the area was ruled by the Chalukyas and Kakatiyas. But under the Bahmani dynasty, it was transformed into a flourishing hub of study, art, and culture. Many of Bidar's architectural wonders were built by Sultan Ahmad Shah I, who established Bidar as the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate in the fifteenth century. Following the Barid Shahi dynasty, it was ruled by the Mughals and the Nizam of Hyderabad. The city's historical sites provide witness to the impact of these varied rulers.
Bidar is well known for its magnificent Persian and Indo-Islamic architecture. The enormous Bidar Fort, which was constructed of red laterite stone, is the city's crown jewel. Palaces, mosques, and granaries that display the builders' creative skill and military ability are enclosed within its enormous walls. Inside the fort, the Rangin Mahal is especially notable for its elaborate woodwork carvings and colourful tile work that evoke Deccan and Persian architectural influences.
The Bahmani Tombs, an amazing collection of royal mausoleums in Ashtur, is another noteworthy location. These domed buildings are among the best examples of Indo-Islamic architecture because they have elaborate writing, stucco work, and ornamental arches. Another example of Bidar's academic history is the Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan, an old Islamic college with stunning tile patterns and tall minarets that dates back to the 15th century.
Bidar contributes significantly to the preservation of Karnataka's cultural legacy in addition to its historical and architectural splendour. The city is the birthplace of the renowned Bidriware, a distinctive metal craft of Bahmani origins. Silver is inlaid onto blackened metal in this art form to create beautiful motifs that are used on ornaments, jewellery boxes, and vases. With a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, Bidriware is still a flourishing enterprise that preserves the customs of mediaeval craftspeople.
Bidar's religious and spiritual diversity is another important aspect of the city. The Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib, a hallowed Sikh pilgrimage place thought to have been visited by Guru Nanak, is located there. This serene Gurudwara, which is connected to a miraculous water spring that is believed to have been constructed by the Guru to quench the people's thirst, attracts devotees from all over the nation.
The expansive stronghold known as the Bidar Fort boasts magnificent palaces, formidable gateways, and breathtaking landscape vistas. Offering a window into Bahmani royal life, the Rangin Mahal's elaborate wood carvings and stunning Persian tile work make it stand out inside.
The Bahmani monarchs are buried in Ashtur's Bahmani Tombs, which are distinguished by their elaborate stucco work and large domes. In spite of its destruction, the nearby Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan, which was once a leading institution of Islamic study, nevertheless has impressive architecture.
Bidar is home to several holy places, including the Chaukhandi of Hazrat Khalil Ullah, a magnificent Indo-Islamic tomb, and the Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib, a hallowed Sikh pilgrimage destination. The city's religious appeal is further enhanced by the Papnash Shiva Temple, which is thought to have been dedicated by Lord Rama, and the Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple, where worshippers must wade through water to enter the temple.
By Air: The nearest airport is Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, about 140 km away.
By Rail: Bidar has a railway station with trains connecting it to major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
By Road: Regular buses and taxis operate from Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and other parts of Karnataka.