Information on Taylor Manzil (Yadgir, Karnataka) - History & Architecture

Taylor Manzil is an age old bungalow situated in Shorapur which is a small town in the district of Yadgir in Karnataka. The bungalow was actually the home of Col. Meandows Taylor, an Englishman who was selected by the then concerned British officials as a political representative of the state along with assigning the added duty of supervising the aspect of training as well as education of young Venkatappa Nayak.

Taylor Manzil Architecture

The bungalow was constructed during the span of 12 years when Meadows Taylor was posted in the town of Shorapur. The bungalow is located on the outskirts of the town and on a stony hill. The blue-print of the building was planned by Meadows Taylor himself and therefore, the shape of the building is known to appear similar to the letter 'T'. The building was erected by focusing increased priority to the aspect of safety. The plan of the building incorporated get away routes in every possible direction. The building has a total of 27 doors and includes a door on all the outer walls. An exceptional feature of the building lies in the actuality that in a situation when all the doors are closed, if a single door is vibrated, the other 26 doors would also start trembling. This feature was incorporated in order to use it as a method of warning in a situation of an attack. This particular system was planned according to the sound standards related to the process of construction as well as science.

The building or rather the bungalow enjoys ample of open space around it. The building also includes a seating provision in the outdoors which is quite near to the boundary of the plateau and is known to provide a good vision of the overall Shorapur town. An egg-shaped tank can be noticed right outside the wall of the complex which was possibly a fountain pool or a fish pool. However, presently it is found to lie uncared for, full of wastes and debris.

Taylor Manzil History

Meadows Taylor thoroughly read about geology, ancient times of India and even laws. He successfully introduced the country along with its traditions to the West with the help of books written by him for instance Tippoo Sultaun, Confessions of a Thug, Tara and several others. Possibly in the year 1850, Meadows Taylor was chosen by the Hyderabad's Nizam to govern the principality under Raja Venkatappa Nayaka which is presently known as Shorapur along with the adjoining regions in Karnataka.

The father of Venkatappa Nayaka who was the ruler of the district then met with an early death leaving behind his young son and a vacant throne. It was Meadows Taylor who with his tremendous composure, elegance and patience successfully helped the young Venkatappa Nayaka to take over the throne despite of the great resistances from within the Nayaka family. However, this act of his made him a target for vengeance by the other family members. This was the time when Taylor felt threatened owing to a great possibility of attack against him. As, Taylor started the work of constructing the bungalow in an environment filled with fear and apprehension so, safety was the only feature that occupied his mind the most which further explains such a design for the building.

Taylor Manzil Tourism Importance

The interesting features related to the design of the bungalow and the history behind it makes it a must visit for the people visiting the district. The extensive view of the entire town from the bungalow's peak is an experience which cannot be missed.