Saidani Ma Tomb
Also known as: Tomb of Saidani Ma, Saidani Ma Maqbara, Tank Bund Tomb
An extraordinary late-19th century Asaf Jahi mausoleum on the banks of Hussain Sagar, celebrated for its sublime blend of Mughal, Persian, and Qutb Shahi stuccowork and intricate Islamic lattice jali screens.
History & Story
Located on the northern embankment of Tank Bund road, this elegant domed tomb was constructed in 1883 CE during the reign of Mahbub Ali Khan (Asaf Jah VI) by Sardar Abdul Haq, styled Diler Jung. Abdul Haq was a prominent statesman, Director of the Nizam's Guaranteed State Railway (NGSR), and Home Secretary of Hyderabad State, who built this memorial for his beloved mother, Saidani Ma.
The tomb represents a stunning architectural synthesis of traditional Islamic and European craftsmanship. The monument features a grand bulbous central dome flanked by miniature octagonal corner kiosks (chhatris), multifaceted arches with deep lotus motifs, and walls covered in some of the most delicate, lace-like stucco filigree work anywhere in the Deccan. The subterranean chamber houses the marble sarcophagus of Saidani Ma, while the upper gallery once offered serene unobstructed vistas across the waters of Hussain Sagar.