Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana, is one of India’s most dynamic and culturally rich cities. Established by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in 1591, Hyderabad boasts a blend of historic architecture, such as the Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Mecca Masjid, alongside modern developments like HITEC City, which symbolizes the city's rise as a major IT and innovation hub. Known as the City of Pearls, it has been a prominent center for the diamond and pearl trade in the past, while today it leads in sectors like pharmaceuticals, information technology, and biotechnology.

Hyderabad is famous for its multicultural society, with festivals like Sankranti, Ramzan, Diwali, and Eid being celebrated with fervor. Its cuisine, particularly the iconic Hyderabadi biryani, attracts food enthusiasts from around the world. The city is also home to institutions like the University of Hyderabad, Osmania University, and the Indian School of Business (ISB), contributing significantly to education and research.

Hyderabad plays a crucial role in Telangana’s politics, serving as the administrative and economic heart of the state. It has been governed primarily by the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), now rebranded as Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), under the leadership of K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR). As the state’s capital, it is often at the center of policy decisions, urban development projects, and infrastructure initiatives. The city also witnesses significant political events and rallies, given its importance in both state and national politics.

In January 2019, BOOM fact-checked a claim that the Hyderabad police had banned kite flying during the Sankranti festival, citing safety concerns.

BOOM’s investigation revealed that no such ban was imposed, as confirmed by the Hyderabad Police Commissioner. Kite flying remains a cherished tradition during Sankranti in Hyderabad, and such claims were found to be baseless.