Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, India, has witnessed remarkable demographic shifts over the years. According to the latest estimates from the UN World Urbanization Prospects, Hyderabad’s population is now estimated at 11,068,877, marking substantial growth from the 1950 population of 1,096,320. This growth trend, reflected in a 2.48% annual change, indicates the city’s increasing urbanization and expansion.
Situated on the banks of the Musi River and surrounded by artificial lakes, Hyderabad has a rich historical and cultural heritage. In 2014, the city was home to an estimated 8.7 million people, ranking it as the 4th most populous city in India. By 2018, this number had surged past 9 million residents, driven by consistent growth percentages.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), established in 2007, oversees the city’s civic infrastructure across its 18 administrative circles. This expansion significantly increased Hyderabad’s area from 175 square kilometers to 650 square kilometers, accompanied by an 87% population surge. Presently, the GHMC boasts a population of 10 million, positioning Hyderabad as the 6th most populous urban agglomeration in India. The city’s population density stands at approximately 18,480 people per square kilometer (47,000/sq mi).
In terms of demographics, Hyderabad is characterized by a diverse population, with the majority being Telugu and Urdu speakers. Additionally, minority communities such as Tamil, Marathi, Kannada, Marwari, Malayali, Oriya, Gujarati, Punjabi, and Uttar Pradesh are also present. The city is home to a significant number of foreigners, including Hadhrami Arabs, African Arabs, Armenians, Abyssinians, Iranians, Pathans, and Turkish people.
Religiously, Hinduism is the predominant faith practiced by 55.5% of the population, followed by Muslims (41%), Christians (2.5%), Jains (0.5%), Sikhs (0.3%), Buddhists (0.02%), and others. Despite its dynamic growth, Hyderabad grapples with socio-economic challenges, with 13% of its population living below the poverty line. The city hosts over 1,476 slums, accommodating at least 1.7 million residents, with a significant portion located in the core of the city.
Historically, Hyderabad’s roots trace back to the Chalukya dynasty’s rule over the region until 1075 CE. Over the centuries, it transitioned through various dynasties, culminating in the establishment of the city in 1589 by Sultan Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk. The city flourished as a center for trade, particularly in diamonds and pearls, earning it the moniker “City of Pearls.” However, Hyderabad’s trajectory was marked by periods of decline and resurgence, ultimately culminating in its integration into independent India in 1948.
Today, Hyderabad stands as a testament to resilience and growth, albeit with challenges stemming from rapid urbanization. The city’s population surge underscores the need for effective urban planning to address issues related to employment, housing, and essential services. Despite these challenges, Hyderabad remains a vibrant metropolis, embodying a blend of tradition and modernity.