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Karnataka

Mahmud Gawan Madrasa

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January

12.3 - 32.4 °C

February

14.9 - 35.5 °C

March

17.2 - 39.1 °C

April

19.6 - 40.9 °C

May

20.9 - 42.2 °C

June

20.3 - 40.2 °C

July

20.0 - 34.1 °C

August

19.5 - 32.2 °C

September

19.4 - 32.8 °C

October

17.0 - 33.4 °C

November

14.6 - 31.7 °C

December

12.3 - 30.7 °C

Major Airports :

Bidar Airport (IXX), Bidar

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD), Hyderabad

Kalaburagi Airport (GBI), Kalaburagi

Nearest Railway Station :

Bidar Railway Station (BIDR)

Major Airports :

Bidar Airport (IXX), Bidar

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD), Hyderabad

Kalaburagi Airport (GBI), Kalaburagi

A testament to the fusion of Indo-Islamic architecture

As you walk through the streets of Bidar, an ancient jewel shines among the historic city's many beautiful attractions. Welcome to the Mahmud Gawan Madrasa, a national monument steeped in the legacy of Mahmud Gawan, an Iranian merchant whose journey from Gilan to Delhi left an indelible mark in history.

Constructed in 1472 during the illustrious reign of the Bahmani Sultanate, the monument is a testament to the fusion of Indo-Islamic architectural brilliance that characterises the region. As you wander through its sprawling grounds and marvel at its majestic ruins, you will be astounded by the skill of its builders. Rising three stories tall, it housed a mosque, library, lecture halls, and living quarters for esteemed professors. Here, students immersed themselves in a myriad of subjects, from Arabic and Persian languages to theology, philosophy, astronomy, and mathematics, while enjoying the rare privilege of free boarding, lodging, and education.

Though its walls bear the scars of time and a gunpowder explosion from 1695, the enduring remnants of its once vibrant blue tiles showcase an era when grandeur and sophistication reigned supreme.

The legacy of Mahmud Gawan

Mahmud Gawan arrived in the Bahamani Sultanate in 1453 AD. His integrity, modesty, and erudition left a profound impression on the Bahamani Kings, leading to his ascension to the esteemed position of prime minister. Revered by the local populace, Gawan's influence and stature were widely acknowledged.

With his own resources, Gawan ambitiously constructed a substantial madrasa in the centre of Bidar. Like universities of his time in West and Central Asia and Saharan Africa, this institution served as a beacon of learning and enlightenment.

With a towering façade and a grand gateway, the madrasa welcomed seekers of knowledge from far and wide. Its two lofty towers, rising to an impressive height of approximately 50.5 metres, symbolised its founder's lofty ideals and aspirations.

Within its walls lay a treasure trove of intellectual riches - 36 classrooms, a vast library housing over 3000 volumes of manuscripts, a state-of-the-art laboratory, and boarding facilities for both students and staff. Each corner of the madrasa bore witness to Gawan's unwavering commitment to excellence, with intricate artwork and architectural marvels adorned with quotes from the Quran.

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Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

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Bidar, Karnataka, India/ December 8, 2018: A Bidri craftsman engraves a traditional design on a vase, its grooves which will then be filled with fine silver wire.
Experience
Cultural canvas in Bidar

Picturesque sites around the city

Tourists visiting Bidar can stroll along the picturesque and spacious area surrounding the madrasa to explore the city's rich history. Remember to check out the exquisite Bidriware handicrafts, known for their intricate patterns, which make great souvenirs. No visit to Bidar would be complete without sampling its delectable cuisine. Bidri kebabs, naan, sajjige, and gulab jamun are local specialities sure to tantalize your senses. For breathtaking vistas of Bidar and its surroundings, don't miss visiting the Chaubara Tower nearby. You can also visit the Bidar Fort, which is home to palaces, gardens, and mosques with Persian and Turkish influences. Another attraction worth visiting is the Bahmani Tombs, the stunning mausoleum of the Bahmani rulers. Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib is a must-visit Sikh pilgrimage site built around a natural spring.

As you step into this hallowed institution, you'll be transported to a time of scholarly pursuit and artistic ingenuity, where the pursuit of knowledge was revered above all else. Join us as we unravel the story of Mahmud Gawan and his magnificent madrasa, a testament to the enduring power of education, enlightenment, and the human spirit.

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Experiences

Bidar, Karnataka, India/ December 8, 2018: A Bidri craftsman engraves a traditional design on a vase, its grooves which will then be filled with fine silver wire.

Cultural canvas in Bidar
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