Hyderabad: The iconic Paigah Palace in Begumpet, once alive with the hustle of Tollywood film crews, now stands quieter as shooting activity has seen a significant decline.
Renowned for its architectural elegance and cultural legacy, the heritage structure was once a top choice for filmmakers. Today, however, the once-bustling palace sees far fewer shoots, raising questions about its optimal use and upkeep.
Hyderabad’s Paigah Palace Faces Uncertain Future Amid Drop in Film Shoots and Mounting Maintenance Costs
Hyderabad: The grandeur of Paigah Palace in Begumpet—once a hub of Tollywood activity—is gradually fading as film shoots at the iconic location have declined sharply in recent times. Known for its regal architecture and historic significance, the palace now stands quieter, with fewer production crews and visitors.
The decline in film-related activity has not only dulled the buzz around the palace but also impacted the local economy and the vibrancy of the surrounding area. Once a go-to destination for filmmakers, the heritage structure is now facing challenges in sustaining itself.
The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), which manages the palace, continues to bear the heavy financial burden of maintaining the premises. Despite spending nearly ₹1 crore annually on upkeep, the revenue generated from film shoots has dropped significantly—bringing in just ₹10 lakh to ₹15 lakh per year.
“For major star-led movies, we charge ₹10 lakh per day, and for other productions, the rent ranges between ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh,” a senior HMDA buildings maintenance official told Telangana Today. “A refundable caution deposit of ₹5 lakh is also required to cover potential damage.”
The palace had earlier housed the US Consulate General from 2008 until its relocation to Nanakramguda in March 2023. Since then, the HMDA has opened the site for film shoots to generate income, but returns have remained modest.
With the property occupying prime land, multiple proposals for its future have been floated. These include converting it into the Chief Minister’s Camp Office, housing the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), or establishing a Telangana State Museum.
A Glimpse into Paigah Palace:
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High ceilings: 22 feet on the ground floor, 26 feet on the first floor
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Features four large halls and over 20 spacious rooms
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Central area includes rectangular vents allowing natural sunlight and airflow
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Ornate entrances with double doors, detailed stucco and floral motifs
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Includes a four-storey annexe building added in 1999
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Surrounded by lush greenery in front of the main structure
As discussions on its future continue, preservationists and city planners alike are calling for a sustainable and culturally respectful reuse of this architectural gem—before it fades further into neglect.
