Chor Gumbad (Shor Gumbad) of Gulbarga, Karnataka: Gave Inspiration to Build "Gol Gumbaz"

Navrang India February 05, 2026
The Chor Gumbad, also known as Shor Gumbad, is a 15th-century monumental structure perched on a hillock west of the Gulbarga Fort in Kalaburagi, Karnataka. Dating back to the Bahmani period, it stands as a unique example of Deccani Indo-Islamic architecture, distinguished by its massive scale and strategic location.
Chor Gumbad,Gulburga,KA en.wikipedia.org

History and Etymology

The building's origin is traditionally linked to Sultan Ahmad Shah Bahmani, who is believed to have commissioned it around 1422 CE to commemorate his victory over his brother, Firuz Shah, and his subsequent ascension to the throne. Unlike many "Gumbads" (domes) of the era, it contains no graves, suggesting its function was celebratory rather than funerary.

Its colloquial names offer insights into its historical use:

Chor Gumbad (Dome of Thieves): Likely named so after it became a secluded hideout for bandits in
 later centuries.
Chor Gumbad, KA deccanherald.com

Above image: Chor Gumbad, Gulburga,Karnataka- It is said that The Chor Gumbaz, also known as Shor Gumbaz (Shor in Urdu means noisy), gave inspiration to the ruler to build w the iconic Adil Shahi monument - Gol Gumbaz.(14th CE)came up much before the Gol Gumbaz came up, it was constructed during the period of Firuz Shah Bahmani and his brother Ahmad Shah Bahmani, who patronised the contemporary-style of architecture evident in the tombs, palaces and wells constructed during that period, Built on a hilltop so that it could serve as a watchtower and a check post, in case of any invasion by the enemies, the soldiers would raise an alarm there.One of the larger monuments in Gulbarga, it is  built in a vast area, it has four domed minarets (watchtowers) with a big central dome, the parapet crestings are five feet high and must have given cover for the soldiers standing guarding the tower.........

Chor Gumbad, KA tripadvisor.co.uk

interior, Chor Gumbad, KA deccanherald.com

interior, Chor Gumbad, KA deccanherald.com

Shor Gumbad (Dome of Noise): A name derived from its role as a watchtower. Soldiers stationed on its turrets would sound alarms upon spotting enemies, with the sound carrying across the plains.

Architectural Features

The Gumbad is a square-shaped structure rising to an impressive height of 100 feet. Its architecture is a blend of strength and intricate detail:

The Dome and Turrets: A massive central dome surmounts the structure, flanked by four corner turrets topped with kiosks.

Fascia and Arches: Each wall features two stories of ten carved arches, giving the exterior a rhythmic, balanced appearance.

The Interior: Measuring roughly 74' by 66', the interior is noted for its fine stucco work featuring floral patterns and Quranic verses. It also contains a whispering gallery similar to the Gol Gumbaz in Vijayapura.

Zenana Corridor: An internal corridor with jali (trellis) screens allowed royal women to observe events while maintaining privacy.

Significance and Latest Conservation

The Chor Gumbad is significant for its acoustic properties and its status as a "victory monument," a rarity in Bahmani architecture. Today, it is a State Protected Monument.

Recent conservation efforts have focused on structural stability and aesthetic restoration. While a 2024 audit by the CAG noted challenges in maintaining state-protected sites in Kalaburagi, recent local initiatives have worked to clear vegetation and repair the masonry to prevent weather-related decay. There are ongoing calls by heritage researchers to integrate the site into a larger tourism circuit to ensure better security and funding for its "whispering" legacy.