A peek into the architectural history of India reveals that the dome, a hallmark of Islamic architecture, came to India during the Turkish invasions in the 12th century. The double-dome tradition began with Humayun’s tomb built by Akbar in Delhi in the 16th century. Built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century, the Taj Mahal has multiple domes. The newly-built Secretariat in Hyderabad was designed as a combination of Mughal architecture, Islamic architectural traditions and Hindu styles. Multiple gopurams and arches indicate the syncretic, liberal Deccan style. The design of this building was supervised by Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao with utmost care. The final design was approved after many changes were made to the designs presented by the architects.
Apart from the Secretariat main building, ancillary buildings for visitors, police personnel, fire department, crèche, utility building, temple, mosque and church are also being constructed. Landscaping, hardscape with stone pavements, lawns, trees, fountains, parking facilities for VVIPs, staff, etc. also have been design carefully. The Ashok emblem of Four Lions of Ashoka are placed atop the main dome.
Although the BR Ambedkar Secretariat building has been constructed attractively, political controversies have surrounded it after BJP State president Bandi Sanjay warned that domes will be demolished after BJP comes to power in Telangana. He alleged that domes were arranged to please AIMIM. Meanwhile, the opening ceremony of the Secretariat scheduled to be held on February 17, has been postponed due to the MLC election code.
