This entry briefly but comprehensively describes the Talpur dynasty and architecture it patronized during its rule in Sindh from 1783 to 1843 until the annexation of Sindh by the British. However, the Talpur continued to rule under the British who confined them to the Khaipur state.
The Talpur continued to rule Khairpur state till 1955 unless Pakistan formally merged it with the rest of the Sindh Province. Commonly called Amirs of Sindh, the Talpur rulers were famous for their wealth and riches both during and before British control of Sindh.
Contents
Chronological list of Talpur Rulers
The following is a chronological list of Talpur rulers:
1. Mir Fateh Ali Khan (1783 – 1801)
2. Mir Ghulam Ali Talpur (1801 – 1811)
3. Mir Karam Ali Talpur (1811- 1828)
4. Mir Murad Ali Khan until (1811- 1833)
5. Mir Noor Muhammad
6. Mir Naseer Khan Talpur.
Talpur architecture
Kalhora architecture did not form a distinctive style. The architectural practice and ornamentation more or less resembled that of the Mughul and Kalhora periods. It will not be wrong if we refer to it as simply an extension of the architecture developed during the Kahora period. By this token, Talpur architecture can be termed as the later Kalhora architecture.
Talpurs loved constructing architectural monuments with royal grace. A number of these monuments have attracted people from within the country as well as all over the world. Tombs of Talpur rulers and the royal family survive to date telling us about their rule, etc.
Tombs of Talpurs rulers
Located in Hiraabad, Hyderabad, the Tombs complex, also called Cubbas in Sindhi, is one of the main architectural monuments. The complex contains large mausoleums of Talpur rulers, their wives, and infants. There are also unmarked tombs outside the main complex.
The graves both in and outside the complex are made of marble carrying inscriptions of Quranic verses on their surfaces. As far as the shape of the graves is concerned, some are square whereas others are rectangular. The overall structure of the mausoleums is more or less similar to that of the preceding Kalhora dynasty.
According to historians, most of the rulers designed their own burial places in their life.
Conservation status
The Talpur tombs which were once famous for their architectural magnificence, are in dilapidated condition at present. The Tomb complex of Hyderabad needs immediate preservation attention from the authorities. However, after the Sindh government is taking steps to preserve and renovate the cultural heritage of Sindh. But, the pace with which government works towards this end is characterized by slow progress.
