Captain Davidson’s tomb in Secunderabad lies derelict

Hyderabad: There are a number of monuments in Hyderabad, the favored ones being Raymond’s Tomb, the Seven Tombs and their ilk, after which, there are the unknown ones, like that of Captain AH Davidson.

Epitaph of the Captain

This tomb, courting again to 1812, is hidden from public view although fairly near the principle highway, the SP Street in Secunderabad, and now, lies derelict. Dropped at public consideration by way of Fb and Twitter posts by heritage fanatic and architect Asif Ali Khan lately, the gorgeous construction has in truth extra to it within the type of two smaller memorials fairly near it. These, in accordance with folks within the locality, are of Captain Davidson’s horse and canine. The 2 pillar-like constructions are just some toes away from the Captain’s tomb and are painted blue.

The tombs, located on a few big rocks within the compound of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Provide and Sewerage Board’s workplace in Secunderabad reverse St Ann’s College, are over 200 years outdated however not like related memorials, haven’t obtained a lot consideration from authorities.

“The tomb is an oblong enclosed chamber with its roof supported by 4 sq. columns, bearing mouldings on their crown. The roofline additionally has thick and heavy cornices and above the centre of roof is a 20 toes sq. pillar. There’s additionally a black granite plaque with engraved inscriptions,” says Khan.

A listed monument

In keeping with Khan, and certainly one of his buddies on Fb, Kerry Edwards, the monument is talked about within the ‘Listing of inscriptions of tombs and monuments within the HEH the Nizam’s Dominions’ by OS Crofton.

The write-up within the e book, in accordance with Edwards, is as follows:

“Alexandra Street close to reservoir. 31 March 1812.

In reminiscence of Captain AH Davidson who died on 31 March 1812. Aged 31 years. This tribute of respect and affectionate regard was erected by his brother officers of the 4th Regt of Madras Cavalry.

Alexander Hector Davidson, baptised Madras 17 February 1782. Madras Cadet 1796. Cornet 1 November 1798. Lieutenant 4 Sept 1799. Captain 15 February 1805. Main 22 February 1812. Son of Alexander Davidson Performing Governor of Madras 1785 and chief of Vizagapatnam, and Elizabeth his spouse died at Kondapalli, Kistna district 31 March 1812 on his journey to the coast. M.I. at Kondapalli.”

Alexandra Street, Khan factors out, is the current SP Street.

Current situation

Nevertheless, the current scenario of monument is pathetic. In keeping with M Hari Babu, the upkeep contractor of the HMWS&SB and who has been working in the identical workplace close to the monument for the final 40 years, there has not been a lot maintenance for the spot of late.

Hari Babu says he obtained the steps constructed to the 2 tombs of the Captain’s horse and canine, however hasn’t been capable of get somebody to maintain the realm clear. In consequence, many individuals have been dumping rubbish round it and grass has overgrown, virtually obscuring it from sight.

“Not many individuals learn about this gem of historical past proper in the course of town. The Archaeological Survey of India or some heritage company ought to take up this monument and protect it,” he provides.

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