Following the grand reopening of the revamped Nizam’s wardrobe, an exhibition showcasing approximately 200 extravagant pairs of royal shoes is now on view at the museum in Hyderabad.
The Nizam’s Museum, also recognized as the ‘Purani Haveli Museum,’ has recently unveiled its restored walk-in closet, which is now a part of the museum experience.
The ongoing exhibition also features a diverse collection of clothing and fabrics, each with a rich history that offers insights into the aristocratic heritage of Hyderabad, spanning from the late 19th to the early 20th century.
The renovation of the walk-in closet has successfully brought back its original grandeur, preserving its historical significance.
Visitors can explore the upper level of the teak wardrobe, which houses a remarkable assortment of footwear, including the distinctive polo shoes of Nizam VI, Mir Mahbub Ali Khan, designed to captivate visitors.
Conversely, the lower level is dedicated to showcasing the lavish royal garments that were once worn by the Nizam and his family, providing a glimpse into their opulent lifestyle and fashion preferences.
Furthermore, the exhibition also features Mir Mahbub Ali Khan’s textile collections and various royal accessories, adding to the overall allure of the display.
This exhibition allows visitors to delve into the luxurious lifestyle and fashion sensibilities of the Nizams of Hyderabad.
Nizam’s Walk-in Closet
The Nizam had a practice of never repeating his outfits, giving away his worn clothes, which makes it challenging to maintain an authentic record of his wardrobe. In the absence of his personal items, the remaining sections of the wardrobe are used to showcase the diverse clothing styles worn by the people of Hyderabad, including men, women, and children.
The Purani Haveli complex comprises over ten buildings, with the primary building housing the Nizam’s museum flanked by two long wings running parallel to each other.
The wardrobe itself features a hand-operated lift for accessing different sections, which is still in existence today. It boasts more than 100 almirahs, making it a substantial part of the museum’s historical treasure.
