Hyderabad, Sept. 12 -- Princess Durru Shehvar is widely celebrated for her pioneering philanthropic work, her dedication to women's education, and her efforts in establishing modern healthcare facilities across Hyderabad. Yet, while her public legacy endures in the institutions she founded, far fewer people know about the historic estate she once called home: Bella Vista in Khairatabad.

A palace overlooking the lake

According to historical records documented by the Deccan Chronicle, the Indo-European palace was built in 1905 on a 9.5-acre estate by Muslehuddin Mohammed, Chief Justice of the High Court of Hyderabad and holder of the title Hakim-ud-Dowla. Situated at the busy junction of the roads leading to Raj Bhavan and Punjagutta, the...