When I first set foot in Hyderabad, Telangana, for a media management course at the Dr. MCR Human Resource Development Institute, I had little idea that the city would offer me not only a classroom of knowledge but also a canvas of culture, history, and unforgettable human connections.
Over the course of my stay, I had the privilege of engaging with 29 delegates from 25 countries, a truly global gathering of minds that turned every class session into a mini United Nations summit. Together, we exchanged ideas, experiences, and perspectives that extended far beyond media management. Yet, it was the city itself; its heritage, flavors, innovation, and people; that became our greatest teacher.
Walking Through History: Charminar and Beyond
No visit to Hyderabad is complete without a pilgrimage to its iconic Charminar. Standing tall in the heart of the old city, the 16th-century monument whispered stories of kings, empires, and timeless trade routes. The air was thick with the aroma of spices from nearby stalls, mingling with the chatter of shopkeepers in the bustling bazaars where bargaining is less a skill and more an art form.
A Royal Glimpse: Chowmahalla Palace
Not far from the Charminar, I found myself stepping into the grandeur of Chowmahalla Palace, once the seat of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Its courtyards, gardens, and stately halls spoke of an age when royalty defined the city’s rhythm. The Durbar Hall, with its towering chandeliers and intricate marble designs, was breathtaking, a place where decisions that shaped history were once made. As I walked through the palace’s exhibits of vintage cars, costumes, and royal artifacts, I could almost feel the echoes of Hyderabad’s regal past blending seamlessly with the vibrant life of the present.
The Buddha on the Water
One of the most serene experiences came with a visit to the Buddha statue on Hussain Sagar Lake. The giant figure, standing gracefully on its island, radiated calm amid the surrounding bustle of the city. As the boat ferried us across, I felt a sense of stillness, an invitation to reflect on the balance between inner peace and outward progress.
The Warangal Experience
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was the journey to Warangal, a city with a deep historical and spiritual presence. The drive itself was filled with changing landscapes, from busy highways to quiet villages, until we arrived at sites that seemed to hold centuries of stories.
At the Ramappa Temple, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, I was struck by the detail in the stone carvings. Every figure seemed alive, telling tales from mythology and everyday life. The temple’s structure, built in the 13th century, has survived time and still stands with grace.
Nearby, the Thousand Pillar Temple offered another layer of wonder. Each pillar carried its own design, and together they created a space of both beauty and devotion. Walking through the temple complex, I felt connected not only to the history of the place but also to the generations of people who had worshipped there.
Adding to this spiritual journey was the Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, a site filled with both majesty and devotion. Dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu, the temple’s sacred atmosphere was heightened by its stunning architecture and the chants of devotees. Standing in its courtyards, I felt the blend of strength and protection the deity symbolizes, a reminder of the enduring power of faith across centuries. Warangal gave me a sense of timelessness, where the past is not forgotten but continues to live in stone, art, and devotion.
The World’s Largest Film City
Hyderabad is also home to dreams and imagination on a grand scale. At Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest studio complex, I walked through sets that transport visitors to distant lands and fantastical eras within minutes. It was a fascinating reminder of the power of media, not only to entertain but to shape perceptions, economies, and even national identity.
Threads of Tradition: Pochampally
Our journey also led us to Pochampally, famously known as the “fabric city.” Here, I watched master weavers at work, their hands skillfully interlacing threads to produce the signature ikat designs. Each piece of fabric was not just cloth but a living story of tradition, patience, and artistry handed down through generations.
Learning Beyond Borders
Academic enrichment was not confined to DR MCR HRDI. A visit to the Indian School of Business (ISB) gave us a glimpse into one of the world’s leading institutions for management education. The lectures and interactions reminded me that Hyderabad is not only a cultural hub but also a growing knowledge capital.
Innovation at T-Hub
Another inspiring stop was T-Hub, India’s largest startup incubator, which has become a symbol of Hyderabad’s rise as a global innovation hub. Walking through its modern spaces, I saw how entrepreneurs, technologists, and investors come together under one roof to create solutions for the future. The energy in the building was electric, young minds brainstorming ideas that could one day reshape industries and societies.
For me, T-Hub was more than a building; it was a glimpse into how Hyderabad is blending its rich traditions with bold visions of tomorrow. It showed that the city is not only preserving its history but also actively building its future.
Science and Culture Under One Roof
Our explorations also took us to the B.M Birla Science Museum in Hyderabad, a place where curiosity comes alive. From models of space exploration to interactive exhibits that made science fun and accessible, the museum reminded me of the importance of innovation driven by education. Standing among displays of India’s scientific milestones, I could see how knowledge and creativity fuel national progress.
Equally enriching was the visit to the Nehru Centenary Tribal Museum, which offered a window into the lives, traditions, and art of India’s tribal communities. The museum’s exhibits, ranging from intricate crafts to cultural artifacts, told stories of resilience, heritage, and identity. Walking through its halls, I felt a deep appreciation for the diversity of India and the way it honors its indigenous roots.
Food for the Soul
If history and learning filled the mind, Hyderabadi cuisine surely fed the soul. The legendary chicken biryani was a recurring delight, fragrant rice, tender meat, and a burst of spices in every bite. Beyond biryani, I explored local delicacies, each dish reflecting the city’s rich cultural fusion of Persian, Mughal, and Telugu traditions.
People and Places
What stood out most during my stay, however, were the people. From the warmth of auto-rickshaw drivers who ferried us through winding streets, to the kindness of market vendors who welcomed us with smiles even when our bargaining tested their patience, Hyderabad’s people embodied a spirit of generosity and openness. Religion here was not just worship but a way of life; temples, mosques, and churches standing shoulder to shoulder, echoing the city’s pluralism.
A Journey to Remember
My Hyderabad experience was far more than an academic course. It was a journey through history, culture, learning, innovation, and human connection. The city gave me memories of serene lakes, towering temples, bustling bazaars, and flavors that linger long after the last bite. But most importantly, it gave me friendships and lessons shared with delegates from across the world, proof that in our diversity lies our greatest strength.
As I boarded my flight home, I carried with me not only a certificate of completion but also the warmth of a city that welcomes the world with open arms. Hyderabad, in its own unique way, had managed to teach me what no classroom ever could.
Kalumbu Lumpa is a media practitioner in Zambia.
