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Barkas Salala | |
|---|---|
  Barkas Salala Location in Hyderabad, India Show map of Hyderabad Barkas Salala Barkas Salala (India) Show map of India | |
| Coordinates:17°18′47″N78°28′58″E / 17.31306°N 78.48278°E /17.31306; 78.48278 | |
| Country |  India |
| State | Telangana |
| District | Hyderabad |
| Metro | Hyderabad |
| Established | 1903 |
| Founded by | Nizam Mir Mahboob Ali Khan Siddiqi Bayafendi Asaf Jah VI |
| Named after | Barracks |
| Government | |
| • Body | GHMC |
| Languages | |
| • Official | Arabic,Urdu |
| Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
| PIN | 500 005 |
| Vehicle registration | TG |
| Lok Sabha constituency | Hyderabad |
| Vidhan Sabha constituency | Chandrayangutta |
| Planning agency | GHMC |
| Website | telangana |
Barkas is a neighborhood inHyderabad, India, located in the old city area ofHyderabad. The name "Barkas" is believed to be derived from the English word "Barracks". The oldArabs pronouncedBarracks as Barkas in theirArabic flow. Barkas served as the militaryBarracks of theNizam of Hyderabad. Another less popular version states that "The name 'Barkas' is derived from 'Wadiya Barkas', which was a colony inSaudi Arabia. A regiment from Barkas inArabia had been called to Hyderabad. Thus most of the residents of this colony were originally inhabitants ofYemen andArabia."
BeforeIndian independence, Barkas served as the militaryBarracks of theNizam of Hyderabad. The Nizams were surrounded by hostile rulers in the Deccan and chose to employArabs instead of the local military for the safeguarding of his family. These Arabs formed the bulk of the Nizams'personal army and were more reliable as they could not defect to the rival states unlike locals and were trustworthy. Many mentions state thatthe last Nizam loved their trait of Loyalty and trusted them more than anyone else. The Arab population increased during this period, settling in mainly in barracks on the outskirts of the walled, gated city.
Barkas is known for its vibrant culture that reflects the rich heritage of its predominantlyYemeni community. This unique culture is characterized by a strong sense of community, traditional hospitality, and specific social practices.[1]
TheArab lungi izaar inArabic (إِزَار), also known asMaʿawaz (مَعَوَز),Futah (فُوطَة),Wizar (وِزَار), Maqtab (مَقْطَب) is a traditional garment made from high-qualityrayon fabric onhandlooms. It is known for its softness and comfort, making it suitable for the hot climate of the region. The lungi is stitched in the middle and is designed to be round, allowing for ease of movement. Due to its craftsmanship and the quality of material used, theArab lungi is relatively expensive.
In contrast to the lungi, thetaiban is a rectangular piece of cloth that is open at all four corners and is not stitched in the middle. Generally made from a thicker fabric, the taiban offers a different style of draping, allowing it to be worn in various ways. This garment is favored for its versatility and is commonly worn.
Thejubbah, also referred to asthawb,kandura, ordishdasha, is a long, flowing robe worn by men. It is characterized by its modest design and is typically ankle-length, providing coverage while allowing for comfort. Thejubbah can be made from various materials, depending on the occasion and the weather. It is often adorned with embroidery or patterns and is a staple in formal and religious settings.
Themushajarah, also known asghutrah orshemagh, is a traditionalheadscarf worn by men. Made from lightweightcotton, it is usually white or checkered in design. Themushajarah is worn to protect the head and face from the sun and dust. This garment serves not only practical purposes but also symbolizes cultural identity and heritage.
The traditionalfootwear associated with Barkas is known as naal inArabic but is more commonly referred to as Arba Chappal inHyderabad. These sandals are typically made from leather and are characterized by their durability and comfort. They are designed to complement traditional attire and are often worn during both casual and formal occasions.
Barkas houses a lot of mosques especially the 'Jama'a Masjid'.
Barkas Maidan, historically significant during theNizam's rule, served as a vital training and gathering ground for the army. Located in the Barkas area ofHyderabad, this maidan was essential for military drills and exercises, reflecting the strategic importance of the Yemeni troops who settled in the region.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, theNizam's relied on these troops for their loyalty and military prowess. The maidan facilitated various military functions, includingparades and ceremonial events, underscoring its role as a center for themilitary.
'Mandi Road' which is the main road of Barkas going to theShamshabad Airport fromChandrayangutta crossroads. It is lined with many restaurants serving a variety ofArab cuisine. This road is named after the most popular Arab dish - theMandi.[2]
The cuisine of Barkas is a reflection of itsYemeni heritage, enriched by various influences. It features of traditional dishes, introduced by theChaush orArab community.
Notable dishes includeMarag,Murtabaq,Shorba,Harira,Mandi,Kabsa. Other popular items areTas Kabab,Lukhmi,Sheer Khurma,Qubani Ka Meetha andMalida.
Barkas also showcases Arabic dishes such asMajboos, andShawarma. A local specialty is a sweet version ofHarees, available exclusively in Barkas.[3] Recently,Mandi, aYemeni rice dish, has gained popularity, leading to the opening of several restaurants in the area.[2]
Barkas is home to "Jaundice Medicine Barkas", a non-profit organization providing free medication forJaundice disease. The organisation is led by a team from Al Qureshi tribe.[citation needed]
Sabil Ul Khair is another non-profit organization established in Barkas by Shaikh Saleh Bin Salam Bahattab catering to the social development of the area. And it offers various schemes for the social development of the locals, like providing funds for the marriage of girls belonging to poor households, funeral services etc.
Salala Welfare Society NGO: a registered non-profit organization in Salala Barkas area, Established 2020 by President & Founder: Mabrook BinMuhammad AlSaari,
Barkas also has a non-profitable organization called "Bait-ul-Maal". The sole intent of this organization is to help needy people and looking for the betterment of communities.
