The revival of 125-year-old Kotwal House after years of neglect in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: The 125-year-old Kotwal House, also known as the old Hyderabad Police Commissioner’s Office, was re-opened today, July 9, 2025, after a complete restoration. The colonial-era building had remained unused and in a deteriorated condition for over many years.
Located at Purani Haveli, the heritage structure was originally donated by Nawab Mir Mahbub Ali Khan, the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad, who ruled from 1869 to 1911. It once served as the office of the Kotwal, or Police Commissioner, a post that held high status and authority during the pre-independence era. The building later became the Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Zone) office.
The police commissionerate system in Hyderabad dates back to 1271 Fasli (1847 CE). The Kotwal House reflects colonial European architecture, with a central main hall, north and south verandas, an arched portico facing the courtyard, and Roman columns. The 4,500 square foot structure features stone and lime masonry, a traditional Madras terrace, and stone-arched doors and windows. The design eliminates the need for lintels, making it more structurally sound.
The restoration began in December 2022 after Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand signed an agreement with Mir Khan, conservator in chief of Deccan Terrain Heritage, to prepare a detailed conservation plan. Funding was provided by Anil, Chairman and Managing Director of Greenko Group.
The process was not without delays. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on July 8, Commissioner Anand shared that the building was close to demolition after its roof collapsed four years ago. “I just didn’t like the idea of destroying our heritage,” he said. “I searched for a sponsor and Anil came forward to support the project.”
Work halted in October 2023 following Anand’s transfer but resumed in September 2024 when he was reposted as Commissioner. “Heritage restoration is a tedious process. One has to be patient,” he said. He credited Mir Khan and his team for completing the conservation work.
With the restoration complete, the building will now serve as a functional space once again. “The Kotwal will now have a place to sit when he visits the old city,” Anand added.
