About Hyderabad The capital of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad is an integral part of the famous twin-city pair of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, which are situated on opposite banks of the Hussain Sagar Lake. It is easily accessible from most other cities by air, rail and road. Hyderabad has a romantic story behind its birth. Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth king of Golconda, founded this city of Bhagyanagar in 1591 for the sake of his lover Bhagmathi. Later he renamed the city as Hyderabad. The city retains much of the charm associated with its glorious past, while catapulting itself into the 21st century as India's hottest software centre. Food Influence of both Mughlai and Indian style of cooking is evident in Hyderabadi cuisine. Hyderabad is synonymous with feasting and royal, 'Nawabi' cuisine. Gourmets enjoy various kinds of Biryani (pilaf) that are unique to the city. The delicious Chilman Biryani is lamb biryani cooked on low heat, covered with a rich puff. Similarly, Sofyani Chicken Biryani, another local speciality is a biryani with chicken marinated in a liberal helping of curd. Sofiyani Pulao, a different kind of chicken Pilaf, Hyderabadi dum ki raan, marinated lamb served with cashew paste and spicy gravy and Chandni Korma, chicken in gravy, decorated with a silver coating, are also familiar in this region. Other local delicacies include Machchi ka khalia - marinated fish cubes served in a gravy, Dum ki Bhindi - ladyfingers cooked with ginger, garlic and chillies and Dal saat Nizam, six types of pulses simmered together and seasoned seven times often grace the Hyderabadi table. Although the cuisine in Hyderabad is primarily non-vegetarian, vegetarian delicacies like Khatti arvi ka Saalan - Yam in a sour curry, Aloo Gobi Methi ka Tuk - a delicious blend of potatoes, cauliflower and fenugreek, flavoured with spices and Bharrey Baghare Tamate - stuffed tomatoes in a paste-like gravy are unique to the city Culture The city was under the Nizam's rule for long has a legacy of Persian and Islamic influences. These pervade all aspects of Hyderabadi culture, be it the way the language is spoken, appreciation for all the fine arts or the proverbial Hyderabadi hospitality, which has to be experienced! You can also savour many forms of classical music and dance in the city. Spices Varied agro-climatic condition in Hyderabad offers vast scope for production of a variety of herbs including Mint,Parsley and Oregano.