History books are not for everyone, but writer, illustrator, Nikhil Gulati’s new graphic novel -Shepherd’s Hill - the rise and fall of Golconda, is a refreshing change
Qutb Shahi architecture was known for its richly decorated coloumns and minars, floral designs, particularly lotus petal motifs, turnip shaped domes and vaulted halls and passages
What: History books are not for everyone, but writer, illustrator, Nikhil Gulati’s new graphic novel —Shepherd’s Hill — the rise and fall of Golconda, is a refreshing change. It takes the reader through the colourful history of Hyderabad’s iconic Golcanda fort. It’s detailed illustrations and innovative storytelling make it a revetting read.
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For centuries, mines owned by Golconda were the only source of diamonds for the entire world. Golconda came to be known as the ‘country of diamonds’ and attracted merchants from far and wide
Under the Qutb Shahi Dynasty, Golconda became prosperous. Ibrahim Quli built an 8km long outer wall, making Golconda one of the strongest forts in India.
How: The novel starts by sharing facts about the 16th century monument, from the viewpoint of a visitor who observes the fort from different angles and gives readers an idea of what the fort currently looks like. As we move from chapter to chapter, the author also uses his imagination to show the reader images from the past, in an attempt to show what the fort might have looked like in its glory days. It brings alive characters and tells the tale of heroes, valour, loyalty, betrayals, loss and victory. The illustrations look like vintage miniature paintings —a definite page-turner.
Qutb Shahi architecture was known for its richly decorated coloumns and minars, floral designs, particularly lotus petal motifs, turnip shaped domes and vaulted halls and passages
Where: Shepherd’s Hill — the rise and fall of Golconda, written and illustrated by Nikhil Gulati, Oddball Comics, Rs 150, oddballcomics@gmail.com
In the final hours of the night of September 21 1687, eight months after the beginning of Aurangzeb’s seige, Golconda’s gates were flung open and the Moghul troops stormed in. The defenders fought bravely but Golconda was lost.
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