The beautiful and historical Kamans of Charminar lie neglected for want of proper maintenance. For over a decade nothing has been done by the State Archaeology and Museums department and the Tourism and Culture department to conserve and restore the Char Kaman.
Char Kaman, which served as the gateway to the Zilu Khana (ante chamber) of the royal palace and are named Machli Kaman, Kali Kaman, Sher Gil Ki Kaman and Char Minar ki Kaman, is surrounded by footwear, cosmetic and other utensil shops.
The Sher Gil Ki Kaman on the western side of Charminar was actually the gateway to the Qutb Shahi palace situated in the north western quadrant. Mir Momin, the then Prime Minister of the Qutb Shahi rulers, is believed to have decorated this gateway with a huge tapestry of gold. He is also stated to have got some magical chant engraved on a stone pillar right next to the kaman. This was intended to protect the palace, which housed the royal "zenana", from witchcraft. Anyone trying to get past the arch with an evil desire would be foiled in his attempts. But today this place is full of tiny shops dealing in a variety of footwear.
Cement plaster on arches is peeling off. Graffiti on the walls by tourists has spoiled the splendid visage. The area around it has become a dumping ground, littered with food packets and used water bottles. "We all know that the old city is known for its colour and thriving business but all these can happen at some distance from the monument and arches," alleged a tourist.
The road to Charminar is clogged and hawkers have surrounded it, Some tourists complain that government negligence and the greed of shopkeepers are degrading the architectural beauty. It is in a very bad shape compared to a few decades ago.
Mr P Chenna Reddy, director, state archaeology and museums department, said, ``elaborate exercise has been planned for the conservation of Char Kaman. Besides restoration and conservation plans of arches, a health centre, communications centre, heritage centre, travel help-desk and tourism customer care centre will be set up.''
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