Living in Hyderabad: A North Indian’s Perspective

Hyderabad, home to over 10 million residents, has a rich tapestry of cultures and lifestyles. As a North Indian working in Amazon Hyderabad, I often inquired about the experiences of my fellow colleagues. Contrary to the popular beliefs, many drew a different picture of the city. In this article, I delve into the nuances of living in Hyderabad, especially for a North Indian person, offering my personal insights.

Introduction to Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana, is a vibrant city pulsating with life. Historically, it's a mix of various cultures due to its erstwhile rulers, the Nizams, and its strategic position as the capital. Hyderabad was the center of the Deccan Sultanates, and the city has a unique blend of Islamic, Mughal, and Dravidian influences.

Common Myths Debunked

The first myth is that Hyderabad is unsafe, especially for North Indians. Despite occasional reports of communal violence in the media, my colleague from Rajasthan, who spent over 3 years in the city, refuted these claims. He said, 'I have more Muslim friends, and the traffic, although problematic, indicates that people are working and employed. One of the safest cities on the practical ground, and the world knows us for our hospitality and tourism.'

The phrase 'Aandho' is prominently used in Hyderabad, which simply means 'interesting' or 'exciting' in Telugu. Complementing this, Hyderabad boasts a rich multicultural ambiance where communication is smooth because many Telugus speak and understand Hindi.

A Quirk of Language and Assimilation

If you and your group form among your own state language to Hindi, you will feel a stark difference. However, if you assimilate with Telugus, it’s more like staying in a friendly neighborhood. My colleague from Rajasthan advised, 'You won’t feel any difference if you assimilate with Telugus, but if you group form among your own state language to Hindi then surely it will feel different.' This is a testament to the city's multicultural acceptance.

Pros for North Indians in Hyderabad

Convenient Connectivity: Hyderabad is strategically located, making it convenient to reach other major cities. A train journey to the north, west, and east of the country is feasible. For example, it takes 12 hours to reach Mumbai, 22 to Delhi, 15 to Bhopal, and around 20 hours to reach Bhubaneswar. This accessibility makes Hyderabad a popular choice for students and professionals alike. Cheap Living Costs: With a salary of around 50,000 to 60,000 INR, a person can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in various areas of Hyderabad. The quality of life is high, and you can afford to eat well and live in a good neighborhood. Diverse Food Options: Hyderabad offers a unique blend of North and South Indian cuisines. You can enjoy various dishes such as biryani, chettinad sambar rice, and tandoori chicken without breaking the bank. Additionally, in residential areas, you can find 'curry points,' which are small shops selling staple foods at affordable prices. Colorful Festivals: Hyderabad celebrates all major festivals with great enthusiasm. Ganesh Chaturthi, for instance, is second only to Mumbai and Pune in India. Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and other festivals are celebrated with significant zeal and fervor, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity. Delightful People: Hyderabadis are known for their hospitality. The city is welcoming to outsiders, and no xenophobia against Hindi speakers is evident. Every metro station has Hindi and Urdu boards, and people in the city understand and speak Hindi. The city is a melting pot where Punjabis, Sindhis, Gujaratis, Marathis, and people from other states form an integral part of the cultural mosaic.

Conclusion

While Hyderabad is neither a bad nor a good place, it heavily depends on where you live and why you are there. For students and professionals, the city offers convenience, affordability, and a unique blend of cultures. It’s a city where you can explore different cuisines, celebrate diverse festivals, and experience a warm and welcoming community.

Note: My thoughts reflect my personal experiences and should not be taken as the definitive view of Hyderabad. Each person’s experience may vary based on their personal opinions and biases.