Golconda Fort, known for its diamonds and wealth, is also believed to be haunted. It is said that the sound of rattling ghunghroos made by the spirit of a stunning dancer and courtesan can still be heard.
Perched majestically on a hill overlooking Hyderabad, the antique Golconda Fort, a fortified elaborate and ruined city, stands as a testament to the greatness and power of the Qutb Shahi dynasty that ruled from 1518 to 1687.
But beneath its historic appeal, where diamonds such as the Koh-i-Nor and Hope diamonds are kept, lies a darker, more haunting reputation. Golconda Fort is reputedly haunted, with terrifying tales of restless spirits, including long-dead soldiers and the spectral apparition of Taramati, a celebrated courtesan from the Qutb Shahi era.
A fortress steeped in history
Originally built as a mud fort in the 11th or 13th century by the Kakatiyas, this sprawling citadel was once the capital of the medieval sultanate that ruled Andhra Pradesh. It is known for its extraordinary architecture, intricate gateways and wide-ranging courtyards.
The mighty walls of the Golconda Fort have witnessed centuries of history, from royal intrigues and epic battles to the opulence of the Qutb Shahi rulers. The fort had huge diamond mines, and the word Golconda itself became synonymous with wealth.
This fortress city, with its cleverly designed acoustics and labyrinthine passageways, was once a blossoming centre of power and culture. But the fort’s grandeur is juxtaposed with a haunting presence that permeates its antique stones.
Ghosts of fallen soldiers in Golconda Fort
Of the many legends that haunt Golconda Fort, one of the most enduring is the tale of ghostly soldiers from the many years it was used as a fort. These ghostly warriors are believed to be the spirits of soldiers who died during the many battles that took place in and around the fort. Visitors and locals alike have reported seeing shadowy figures patrolling the ramparts, their spirit forms clad in antique armor, apparently guarding the fort even in death.
The eerie silence of the fort at night is often broken by the dull sounds of clashing swords and war cries echoing through the empty corridors. Some have even claimed to hear the dull, mournful murmurs of soldiers recounting their final moments. These chilling experiences have cemented the reputation of the Golconda Fort as one of the most haunted places in India.
The Tragic Story of Taramati
Perhaps the most moving and celebrated ghost story associated with Golconda Fort is that of Taramati Mandir, one of the most celebrated courtesans of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. She served under the seventh ruler of the kingdom, who ruled from 1626 to 1672.
Taramati was known not only for her beauty but also for her exceptional talent for Kuchipudi dance and music. She was a beloved figure in the royal court and her performances were legendary.
She and her sister Premamati Nritya Mandir performed on a platform called Kala Mandir a kilometre away and at the travellers' baradari in the serai, a roadside inn, while the king enjoyed the dances and songs of his durbar from atop the fort.
According to legend, the seventh Sultan Abdullah Qutb Shah, the ruler of Golconda, was deeply in love with Taramati. He was a lover of poetry and music and fell in love with her when he heard her sing.
Their love story was doomed by turbulent times and political upheavals, however, and his reign was full of sorrow and trouble. We don't really know much about Taramati's feelings, but it seems that she was very much appreciated.
Qutb Shahi's Tomb
It is also said that Taramati and her sister, along with her master, and his queen, are buried in the Qutb Shahi tomb, about a kilometer from the fort. These are among the few tombs that do not belong to the royal family.
The southern entrance to the tomb elaborate has been bricked up for fear of ghosts and goblins. The question is, should it be kept outside or something inside?
Spirit of Taramati Baradari
Some versions of the story suggest that Taramati met a tragic end, while others believe that she continued to live in sorrow after being separated from her beloved king. Details of her life are limited and mostly tied to romantic tales of her being the love of her king's life.
Today, visitors to Golconda Fort often report hearing the unmistakable sound of ghunghroos (time-honored ankle bells worn by dancers) ringing throughout the night after the fort closes. This is said to occur near the baradari where she once danced and sang.
These spectral sounds are believed to be the ghostly remnants of Taramati's performances, a poignant reminder of a love and life forgotten.
Paranormal Encounters and Haunting Experiences
There have been many reports of paranormal encounters at Golconda Fort over the years. Tourists, night watchmen, and paranormal enthusiasts have reported strange occurrences.
Some visitors to the fort claim that they saw the paintings on the walls turn upside down by themselves after it was closed.
The worst part is probably hearing people talk about dishes being thrown at them and walls hitting them in Kabootarkhan, or feeling acute pain coming out of nowhere.
References:
Ghosts, Goblins, Gates and Golconda – The Hindu
10 Haunted Places In Hyderabad With Real Ghost Stories For Scary Trips In 2024
Haunted India: Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
Abdullah Qutb Shah – Wikipedia
Taramati Baradari – A symbol of musical love – Savaari Car Rental Blog
Image Source: Pixabay.com
