Peddabankor

Peddabankor is an early Buddhist site discovered in the 1960’s in Peddapalli District at the confluence of two small streams in Telangana, India. 

Located 18 miles from Karimnagar.It is a place of archeological interest and the excavations here revealed apsidal rubble walled structures, brick structures, brick built and terracotta wolf. The site also shows covered underground drains to channel waste water into soakage pits.

Peddabankur is a small village now but was an important settlement during the Satavahana period extending over a 30 hectare area. About 10 kilometers, from Peddabankur was the fortified site which is one of the 30 walled cities mentioned by Megasthenes.

The stupa must date from the third century BCE because an inscription of the first quarter of the second century BCE records the veneering of the existing stupa. Roman coins and a terra cotta figure of a Roman trader have been recovered. There is no direct evidence of a monastery but a site of this size needed monks for the regular rituals. From the absence of the Buddha in reliefs it seems to be a Theravada site.

The findings also include punch marked coins, Roman and Satavahana coins; iron objects including agricultural, carpentry and domestic implements, and weapons such as spear heads, spikes and arrow heads. Artifacts such as seals, beads and bangles, terracotta and kaolin human figures, antimony rods, dice and coin moulds have been found here. Brahmi labels belonging to 1st century were also discovered.

Evidence for the forging of iron was found in the Peddabankur excavations.

http://monastic-asia.wikidot.com/peddabankur

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Padmakshi Temple

Padmakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Padmakshi who is fondly referred as ‘Amma’ or ‘mother.’ She is the consort of Lord Shiva. The present shrine is believed to have been built during the 12th century by the Kakatiya rulers.

The deity is also referred as Padmakshamma and the shrine is located atop a Gutta or a hill. The pond at the foot of the Padmakshi hillock is sacred.

Pillar in the temple is a unique piece of architecture. The quadrangular column is made in black granite stone and is located at the entrance of the shrine. The four faces of pillar are imposing. 

The padmakshi temple is one of the oldest temples of the city, The Kakatiya King Betaraju II was the first king in his dynasty to have converted to Veerasaivism. However, prior to that all Kakatiyan kings were followers of Jainism. It was under the rule of Prolaraju II that the Kakatiyans built a Jain temple or Badasi. This was later converted to the Padmakshi temple once the rulers converted to Veerasaivism. The temple therefore bears several sculptures ans carvings scattered throughout its walls that display Jain Tirthan- karas and other motifs that bear a strong stamp of the Jain culture.

From religious and tourism point of view this area is one of the most important parts of the city. Because of the presence of Bhadrakali tem- pleandthepadmakashitempleinthisarea,all the tourists that visit Warangal certainly come to this area. Hence, there is a large number of footfall in this area all through the year.

Culturally also this area is the most import- ant part of the city. 

The most important festival in the shrine is the Batukamma festival observed during Navratri (September – October). More than 100,000 women participate in the festival.

http://www.padmakshi.org/about

http://www.hindu-blog.com/2015/08/padmakshi-temple-at-hamankonda-near.html

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Dhulikatta Budhist Site

The Buddhist Stupa dating back to 2nd century BC and one of the 30 walled cities mentioned by Megasthenes located in Dhulikatta village of Eligaid mandal in Karimnagar district, Telangana lies neglected for several decades due to lethargy on the part of the government. Dhulikatta got its name from ‘Dhulikota’ that means a fort made of mud. 


It is about twenty-five kilometres away from Karimnagar city.

The nearest Airport is Hyderabad which is about 175 kms from Dhulikatta. From there one can hire private vehicles. Situated about 20kms away from Dhulikatta the nearest Railway Station is Peddapalli. One can hire private vehicles from those places to reach Dhulikatta.

The Archaeology Department had discovered the heritage structure in 1975 along the shores of a picturesque rivulet on the outskirts of Dhulikatta village. Barring the discovery of this early Buddhist stupa, the authorities have failed to take up any measures for the development and protection of the heritage site for the promotion of tourism.

In spite of several pleas by the historians and others, the authorities failed to provide road facilities to the ancient protected monumental structure. It is barely 33 km distance from the district headquarters, but still reaching the Stupa is a herculean task due to non-availability of road.

Due to non-availability of security at this structure, the miscreants had damaged the ancient monument and stolen away the antique veneer slabs and other panels and bricks. There were also incidents of miscreants digging the structure in search of treasure hunt. Literally, there is not even a sign board educating the people about the importance of ancient structure to attract tourists.

This Buddhist Stupa was constructed on a mound with light weight bricks. It is embellished with sculpted veneer slabs and beautifully carved limestone slabs. It is stated that site had attained importance as it was constructed with 47 slabs to enhance the dome with the Stupa.

Historians say that the Archaeology authorities had discovered other relics such as gateways built with light weight bricks, mahastupa, chatra, residential houses, wells, bangle pieces, ivory combs, gold objects, punch-marked coins, beads, coins of Romans and Satavahanas and seals. Majority of relics were shifted to the present Andhra Pradesh State Museum and only a few antiques lie in the Karimnagar museum.

Telangana State government was planning to develop Buddhist circuit covering Dhulikatta and other ancient Buddhist structures located in Nalgonda district which will also promote tourism.

The coins and the seals used by the Satavahanas and Romans were revealed by the excavations. This depicts that financial dealings between the two countries were prevalent at that time.

The sphere-shaped dome of the main Stupa was built by using forty-seven blocks of limestone and the blocks were adorned with symbols of ‘Muchalidanaga’, that according to Buddhist folklores means a serpent. Other than the Mahastupa there are other artefacts unearthed from the nearby spots, which are spiritually and historically significant. The Charmachakra Stupa is also very significant. The clay pottery used for household purposes which are of different colours such as red and black, depicts the vivacious life led the by the people of that era. A statue of a mother holding her child in the left hand, made of bronze is another significant work of art. The Buddhist symbol which is one the eight symbols and the footprints of the Buddha can also be found preserved here. Coins of different denominations and jewellery can also be found.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: It is advisable to visit this place from the month of October to March to explore the place.

http://beautyspotsofindia.com/dhulikatta-karimnagar/

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/buddhist-stupa-lies-in-neglect/article7679926.ece

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Kondapur Museum

Kondapur Museum (Late.17.33' N 78.1'E) is located on a small hillock about one km south of the village of Kondapur in Medak District, Telangana, around 70 kms from Hyderabad.

It is a Pre-Satavhana site dating back to 200 BC - 200 AD.
Capital of Mahisamandala
Discovered a 25-ft high mound spread over 100 acres which they presume to be a Buddhist stupa with myriad segments throwing light on the Buddhist link of the present Telangana region. 

One of the fortified urban settlements of Satavahanas. 


Proved to be an important kshetra of Brahmanical faith particularly Sakti cult of that time which was clearly shown through the exposed structures and other associated findings such as coins and sealings. 

The excavation yielded a large number of glass vessels indicating Roman influence that indicate the existence of a separate settlement of Romans in Kondapur who had brisk contact and trade with India. 

If a stupa is unearthed as hoped by the ASI, this will be the first Buddhist site in Telangana, firmly establishing the belief among historians that this region too was part of the Satavahana empire that extended into present Maharashtra and that Kondapur, indeed, was a city that had a direct connection with Paithan.

The stupas found elsewhere in the State, barring the Amaravathi ones, occupied smaller extents. 

The exhibits from this museums are basically retrieved from an ancient mound locally known as Kotagadda (Fort Mound) located at a distance of one km east of the museum.

Nearly 2,000 coins and many coin-moulds, ornaments made of gold and semi-precious stones, beads and terracotta figurines have been recovered from the surface area itself. 

A valuable find was a gold coin of the Roman king Augustus.

The historians’ team is of the view that ancient Kondapur city was larger than Amaravathi skirted by a mud-fort. 

A lake that possibly served the city as its water source, lies now by the side of the mound. 

While the fort’s mud-wall is visible even now, most of the other remains of the city lie buried under the earth, as a result of the earthquakes and catastrophes through ages.

Any excavation of the agricultural fields that covered these remains now, are sure to reveal different facets of the buried city, says Mr. Das.

Several structural remains have already been identified, some of them belonging to Chaitya halls/monasteries. 

Furnaces, floors, workplaces and storerooms have also been discovered indicating a rich industrial past. It is assumed that ceramic industry thrived in ancient Kondapur.

The site was first explored by the famous Archaeologist Mr. Henry Cousens in the early years of the 19th Century. Subsequently the Department of Archaeology of the erstwhile Hyderabad State under H.E.H. the Nizam of Hyderabad excavated this mound for a couple of seasons from 1940. A small museum was established with the excavated material over the ancient site itself which was later shifted to the present building. The museum came under the administrative control of Archaeological Survey of India in 1952.

The Archaeological Museum, Kondapur houses a rich collection of minor antiquities unearthed from the digs of 1940-1942. The museum has a Central hall and two more galleries in enclosed corridors.

In the main hall a good number of antiquities are displayed in wall showcases representing different facets of material culture of the early historic period such as pottery, terracotta figurines, bone and shell objects, metal objects, talismans, pendants, beads, inscribed pottery and coins etc. brick tiles, sharpening stones, moulded bricks and designed panels.

In the other galleries, prehistoric tools and fossils are exhibited. Apart from these objects, a couple of sculptures, a Buddhapada, a standing image of four handed Vishnu carved on a door jamb and two inscribed storage jars are other attractive pieces in this gallery.

Entrance Fee Rs.2/- for visitors above 15 years
Museum Hours 1000 A.M. to 0500 p.m.

Free entrance to children below 15 years.
Museum remain closed on Friday

http://asi.nic.in/asi_museums_kondapur.asp
http://www.panoramio.com/user/6860561/tags/kondapur%20museum
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/historical-site-discovered-at-kondapur/article1177396.ece

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Bommalagutta

945 AD : The Bommalagutta hillock, also known as Bommalamma Talli gutta (Vrishabhadri hill) built in 945 AD during Vemulwada Chalukya king Arikesari-II period is an ancient Jain pilgrimage flourished about mid 10th century AD.

This place is situated near Kurikyal village,Gangadhara mandal in Karimnagar District of Modern Telangana state, India. 

This place is about 18 kms from Karimnagar District headquarter in North West direction. The rock inscription underneath the Goddess Chakreshwari proclames the glory of Jainism and Adi kavi Pampa.


There is no approach road to reach the 200-mt high hillock. One has to sweat it out to climb up as there are no steps, an experience which will certainly be nightmarish. Tourists need to creep through the gaps of gigantic rocks, in order to have darshan of the Jain deities, which are carved out in 945 A.D.

This place contains natural caverns with some sculptures of Nirgantha Jinas and its subordinate goddess Chakreshwari. There are about 8 Jina figures in Kayotsarga posture on either side of Yakshi Chakreshwari. Goddess Chakreshwari is depicted as subordinate deity of first Savior Rishabha. 

Goddess Chakreshwari is depicted with eight arms containing different objects. Identification of Yakshi at this place was very tedious work because Eight Arms Chakreshwari is generally not depicted with eight hands but inscription underneath the Yakshi Image reveal the truth. Goddess Chakreshwari is depicted here with her vehicle Garuda. Two Kayotsarga Jina sculptures were carved just above the Yakshi Chakreshwari.The Teerthankara duo is canopied by triple umbrellas over the head. Yakshi chakreshwari is flanked by two whisk bearers on either side.

The chalukyas of Vemulvada patronized Sanskrit, Kannada and Telugu. Adi Kavi Pampa was court poet of Arikesari II. 

The Chalukya King of Vemulawada, Arikesari-II asks Pampa to write an epic to immortalize him. Pampa takes up the work with utmost earnestness. Within one year, he creates Kannada’s greatest epic ‘Vikramarjuna Vijaya aka ‘Pampa Bharatha. Arikesari-II is greatly pleased with the work of Pampa. He bestows him with an honorific ‘Kavithagunarnava’ and also gifts him with an agrahara called Dharmapura.

Adi kavi pampa’s ancestors belonged to Kamme Brahman caste and devout to Jainism. His father’s name was Bhimappayya according to the inscription. They were hailed from angiparru in Vengi Nadu. Pampa who also renowned as Adikavi composed Vikramarjuna Vijayam and Somdevasuri composed Yasatilaka champu. 

Pampa had a younger brother named Jinavallabha. He installs the idols of Chakreshwari and other Jain deities on a hill called Vrishabhadri, north of Dharmpura. He builds a Basadi named Tribhuvana Tilaka and also creates a garden called Madanavilasa. At the bottom of the hill he constructs a lake and names it ‘Kavithagunarnava’ as a tribute to his brother. Finally he inscribes all what he has done on a rock below the idol of Chakreshwari.

This inscription is of utmost importance to Kannada and Telugu languages. It is written in three languages viz Kannada, Telugu and Sanskrit. The Kannada portion contains invaluable information about Pampa. The Telugu portion is the oldest Telugu Kanda Padya. They are one of the important historical evidences, submitted to the Centre, for securing classic language status to Telugu.

The hill Vrishabhadri is now called Bommalamma Gutta. Dharmapura, Madanavilasa and Tribhuvana Tilaka have vanished. Kavithagunarnava is unrecognizable. But the idols of Chakreswari, now being called Seethamma, and other Jain deities are still there. Below the idol of Chakreswari the rock inscription remains proudly proclaiming the glory of Pampa.

http://www.jainglory.com/research/bommalagutta

http://pvr59ksl.blogspot.com

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/140926/nation-current-affairs/article/bommalagutta-cries-attention

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Hussain Sagar

Hussain Sagar is a lake in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. It is spread across an area of 5.7 square kilometers and is fed by River Musi. Maximum depth of the lake is 32 feet

1562 - 1563

Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah commissioned the construction of the lake in 1562. Sufi Saint Hussain Shah Wali, the son-in-law of the king, was entrusted the duty of overseeing the construction work of the lake. Apparently, the lake became so deep and big that it remained empty for a few years and they had to bring an additional channel of water from the Musi to fill it up. "Legend has it that one day, the King went to take a look at the lake after the construction and was more than irked to hear a bystander call it the Hussain Sagar Cheruvu. He had spent a fortune to build it and he was miffed that he got no credit for it. So, the king ordered the construction of Ibrahimpatnam Lake," says Salil Kader, a researcher and a former professor of History, Moulana Azad University.

12 April 1992 

An 18-meter high monolithic statue of Lord Buddha towers over the lake from atop the Rock of Gibraltar. The idea of erecting a giant monolith Buddha statue in the midst of Hussain Sagar lake on the Gibraltar rock was a part of the Buddha Poornima project in 1985. The statue was chiseled out of a white granite rock, weighting 450 tons. It was carved by 200 sculptors for two years. The statue was transported to Hyderabad in November 1988. After initial problems, the statue was erected on 12 April 1992 on a red lotus pedestal.

"The Tank Bund used to be the prized walkway of the city with its pristine surroundings. Many famous people of Hyderabad, liked to take their evening walks there, the most prominent of them being Nawab Dawood Jung, who built the first pavilion on the banks of the lake," recalls Nawab Shafath Ali Khan, the great grand son of Nawab Sultan Ali Khan Bahadur, erstwhile Prime Minister of Hyderabad State. "The sprawling artificial lake divided and united the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad," he adds.

It would be fair to say the lake bears testimony to all that's happened in Hyderabad. The city's first power station, the mint compound, the first telephone exchange, the Burgula Ramakrishna Bhawan, the Secretariat which was the erstwhile palace of Nizam Mehboob Ali Pasha, they all cropped up around the vicinity of the lake, some even encroaching upon it.

A fair share of effluents from the city's earliest industries in Patancheru also found their way in the Tank Bund as did sewage waters. The lake was also a notorious suicide point at one time. Even the Buddha statue took a dip in the waters before being resurrected amid much fanfare after a year. Add to the list, the innumerable Ganesh idols of all sizes, over the years. During the late 80s, the road on the Tank Bund was broadened and beautified with lawns and lined with 33 statues of famous personalities of the State. In the late 90s, the Necklace Road was constructed around the lake in keeping with the new Hi-Tech outlook of Hyderabad.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hussain_Sagar

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/Husain-Sagar-more-than-just-a-lake/articleshow/11095400.cms

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Medak Cathedral

25th December 1924 :  Constructed by Reverend Charles Walker Posnett during British Rule of India.

From 1914 to 1924 the farmers toiled to erect the church and Thomas Edward Harding, the architect, left no stone unturned in building the cathedral.

Located in the Medak Town about 90kms from Hyderabad, Telangana.

The Medak diocese, under the Church of South India (CSI) is the single largest diocese in Asia and the second in the world after Vatican.

The significance of the church is not only in its magnificence but also in the bond between poor and church. During World War-I, in late 1890s the district reeled under a famine. Moved by the plight of people, Rev. Charles Walker Posnett, proposed to build a great church in the year 1914. He evolved the 'food for work' programme so that the poor could find gainful employment. The villagers contributed to building the church, they could in turn earn food. That set the ball rolling for this renowned Gothic structure

Built on an extensive scale in pure white granite, this gothic style structure the magnificent Medak church stands on a sprawling 1000 acres of land. It took ten years to complete the monumental piece of architecture. With its massive dimensions, 100 ft width and 200 ft. length, the church can accommodate as many as 5000 people at a time. The 173 feet tall main tower is surrounded by four pinnacles. If it hadn't been for the Nizam, the church would have been taller. Old-timers say that when the cathedral was to be built, the Nizam had one condition, that the church should not be taller than the historic Charminar of Hyderabad.

Stained Glass Work:

What sets the Church apart are the three stained glass windows, created by Sir Frank O' Salisbury of London. They constitute 'the gospel trilogy' in art - the nativity, the crucifixion and the ascension. The stained glass work on the huge windows of the church offers a spectacular view during the daytime, which cannot be replicated by artificial lighting. This is the most fascinating feature of the church. It serves as a picture book on the Bible to those who cannot read. Each window is made up of small bits of painted glass which has been placed into a single piece and then delicately set into the stone windows.

All the stained glass windows have inscriptions in English, Hindi and Telugu. The Hindi inscription came later, at the instance of Vijaylakshmi Pandit, sister of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who felt that the national language must find a mention on the stained glass.
The three magnifcent stained glass windows inside the cathedral depict different phases of Lord Jesus Chirsts life. The window to the north which offers a canopy to the altar is very fascinating. It depicts the scene of assertion of Jesus towering above the altar, dwarfing everything as Jesus ascends to heaven.

The other two windows decorating the East and West facades depict the scene of the birth of Jesus and his crucifixion. The bells cast especially for the church can be heard from far off.

Sir Frank Owen Salisbury (1874-1962) a Methodist artist from Harpenden in Hertfordshire, who specialised in portraits, large canvases of historical and ceremonial events, did the art work. Salisbury was known as "Britain's Painter Laureate" and his work was steadfastly conservative.

For the floor, tiles from famous potteries were shipped from England. Then, Italian workmen were brought from Bombay to lay them. The tile's design is an intricate one in six colours - red, brown, black, yellow, chocolate and grey.

The roof has been cast to ensure best acoustics and sound proof made by hollow sponge material to have an impressive style of vaulting. With its immensity and beauty, this century old church stands out as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in India.

Making the Medak diocese one of the biggest in the world, there are several educational, health and social institutions in the sprawling church compound. They include a B.Ed college, a junior college, hostels for boys and girls, an old age home, an office to take care of properties and an agricultural centre. There were also a hundred-bed hospital and a seminary to train pastors.

http://www.csimedakdiocese.in

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medak_Cathedral

http://www.newsonair.nic.in/medak-cathedral.asp

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Gayatri Waterfalls

Gayatri waterfalls, a less known water body is situated on Kadam River away from the human eye, waterfalls found its habitat in a remote place inside a deep tropical forest. It is approximately 5 km from Tarnam Khurd village, near Neredigonda Mandal of Adilabad district in Telangana State, India.

The Kadam river is a tributary of the grand Godavari River and one of the many waterfalls in and around Nirmal town, along with Kuntala Waterfall and Pochera Falls. 

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Kuntala Waterfalls

Kuntala Waterfall is waterfall located near Kuntala Khurd village, Neradigonda mandal, Adilabad district, Telangana State, India. It is located on Kadem river, 13 kms from NH 44.

Kuntala Waterfall, set amidst the Sahayadri mountain range in Telangana, appear as a pleasant surprise, accessible through the twirling roads passing from dense forests.

The Natural water falls were formed on Kadem river surrounded by the four reserve forests i.e., Kuntala reserve forest, Nagamalla reserve forest, Sirichelma reserve forest and Rolmamda reserve forest protected by two big hillocks.

The water falls through 2 major falls Devkanne and somanna from a height of of 42 meters and 22 meters respectively which are stated to be highest in the state. The depth of these 2 falls are measured to 270 meters and 394 meters respectively.

Identified as the highest waterfalls of the state, the cascade attracts visitors from far and wide. At a distance of about 40 kms from Adilabad city.

At the bottom of somanna falls, locals worship Lord Shiva Someshwara which according to them was naturally formed.

As per the legends, Kuntala Waterfalls were named after the mythological figure Shakuntala, who was the beloved of King Dushyanta. It is said that both of them fell in love with each other amidst the spectacular beauty of the region. Perhaps Shakuntala used to bathe in the waters of the cascade. Through the dense forests, River Kadam flows and tumbles gushing at Kuntala from the height of 45 meters, creating the astounding waterfall.



Around 261 kms from Hyderabad. After reaching Nirmal you will have to travel a stretch of 10 Km of ghat road which provides you a thrilling experience through dense forest. If you love long and adventurous rides, this road is a must try.

After travelling around 30 Km you will reach a village called Neredikonda. A right turn into a small road just after this village, takes you to your destination. One has to be a little conscious here as there is no sign board that directs to the waterfalls. After driving straight for around 10 Km, cutting your way through lush green fields, and a dense forest, your eyes will open up to heaven on earth. The place is hidden from the noisy external world and offers you the best of nature. It is covered with valleys, dense forest, and chirping birds. After entering the area, you will have to walk around half a kilometer and you will reach a place where you find a series of 408 steps down to the waterfalls. 408! But a little effort may heal your heart. And then, you gaze at the amazing waterfalls. One simply falls short of words to describe this untouched beauty. To add adventure, you can enjoy trekking though big boulders to reach the footsteps of the waterfalls. The water gushes through rocks making its own path from a height of 200 feet and splits in to multiple streams. While there are many such scenic waterfalls, this one is just so amazing and very accessible. Climbing up further to reach to top of falls may seem as a good idea, but one has to be very careful as it is too steep and very risky.





Tourism in Indiaedited by Prof K Vijaya Babu, Jayaprakashnarayana Gade


http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/na-kuntala-waterfalls.html

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Perini Shivatandavam

Perini Shivatandavam (Perini Sivatandavam) or Perini Thandavam is an ancient dance form originated and prospered in Telangana during the Kakatiya dynasty.Perini is performed by males and it is believed that in ancient times this was performed before the soldiers set to war.

Nataraja Ramakrishna was the person who revived this art form recently. Perini Dance form was developed at the time of Ganapathi deva, the king of Kakatiya Empire.The Perini Thandavam is a dance form usually performed by males. It is called 'Dance of Warriors'. Warriors before leaving to the battlefield enact this dance before the idol of Lord Śiva (Shiva). The dance form, Perini, reached its pinnacle during the rule of the 'Kakatiyas' who established their dynasty at Warangal and ruled for almost two centuries.

The Perini Thandavam, Telangana It is believed that this dance form invokes 'Prerana' (inspiration) and is dedicated to supreme dancer, Lord Siva. One can find evidence of this dance in the sculptures near Garbha Gudi(Sanctum Sanctorum)of the Ramappa Temple at Warangal.

Perini is a vigorous dance done to the resounding beats of drums. Dancers drive themselves to a state of mental abstraction where they feel the power of Siva in their body. While dancing they invoke Siva to come into him and dance through him. The Perini Thandavam is indeed believed to be the most invigorating and intoxicating male dance form.

Perini dance form almost disappeared after the decline of the Kakatiya dynasty but Padmasri Dr. Nataraja Ramakrishna brought renaissance in Perini dance, which was on verge of extinction.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perini_Shivatandavam

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Keesaragutta Temple

Keesaragutt Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Siva and his consorts Bhavani and Sivadurga at Keesaraguttain Rangareddy district. It is about 40 km from Hyderabad and 10 km from ECIL. It is located on a small hillock. The temple draws thousands of devotees on Shivaratri.

Legend has it that Sri Rama installed the Siva lingam here to atone for the sin of killing Ravana, a Brahman. He selected this beautiful valley surrounded by hills and verdant greenery for the purpose and ordered Hanuman to bring a Sivlingam from Varanasi. Hanuman was late in arriving with the Siva lingam and as the auspicious hour was nearing, Lord Siva himself appeared before Sri Rama and presented a Sivilingam for installation. Hence the lingam in the temple is called Swayambhu Linga. It is also called Ramalingeswara as lord Sri Rama had installed the lingam.

Hanuman returned with 101 lingams for selection from Varanasi and felt aggrieved at not having his lingam installed. Hence he threw them all over the area. Even to this day several lingams are found scattered all over the place outside the temple.

To mollify Hanuman, Sri Rama ordained that precedence would be given to him for worship at the temple. He also said that the hillock where the lingam was installed would bear his name kesarigiri i.e., Hanuman, the son of Kesari. Over a period of time, it has colloquially transformed and is now known as Keesara and the hill as Keesaragutta. Ever since, the rituals follow the command of Sri Rama.

Twelve statues of Jain Tirthankara idols which could date back to as early as the 4th-5th century AD, have been found at Keesaragutta temple on the outskirts the Indian city of Hyderabad, Indian media reported on Tuesday.

"Twelve panchaloha idols of the Jain Tirthankaras were unearthed during the course of conservation work 18, while the pathways were being laid between two temples near steps at a depth of one foot," the media quotes the director of Archaeology and Museums (Telangana), B Srinivas as telling reporters.

Objects made from Panchaloha are composed of five metals of some sacred significance, and are often used for making Hindu temple idols.

"Twelve idols of varying sizes, along with loose circular prabharahs (auras), circular parasols of different sizes, pedestals and broken elephant have been found.

All the bronzes (idols and other artifacts) are in the Kayotsarga posture (the so-called “dismissing the body” posture, when an idol is depicted standing stiffly) with a hook behind to accommodate chhatras (parasols) and 'prabhavali'," he explained. A Prabhavali is an aura around the deities, Srinivas added.

Judging by the symbols on the chests and on the heads of the idols, the statues of the idols can be dated back to 4th-5th century AD, concluded the director of Archaeology and Museums.

This is the first time “that the idols of Jain religion have been recovered in Keesaragutta, which proves that [the religion of] Jainism co-existed with Hinduism at Keesaragutta during the time of Vishnukundins in the 4-5th century," the official said, adding that chemical treatment would be conducted on the idols.

Keesaragutta, also known as Kesaragiri, is a range of hills that are about 300 feet high (slightly above 90 meters) that rise from the planes; there are flat and undulating areas over the tops of the hills. The temple was enclosed by a fort wall which was constructed during the Vishnukundin period (an Indian dynasty that controlled parts of the country during the 5th and 6th centuries AD).

 www.keesara.com

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keesaragutta_Temple


Read more: http://sputniknews.com/society/20141021/194384072/Twelve-Ancient-Statues-of-Jain-Tirthankara-Deities-Found-in.html#ixzz3wEkRSrmt

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Badankurti

Badankurti village in Khanapur mandal of Nirmal district in Telangana State, India was explored and remnants of a Buddhist monastery were found on a small island of Godavari river near Badankurti. 

Buddhism is believed to have first come to the South through through this island village in Godavari river in Telangana region where the boundaries of Adilabad, Nizamabad and Karimnagar district meet.

The famous marriage of shatavahana king Hala and Srilankan princess Lilavathi is believed to be occured near Badankurti. It is also known as saptha godavari region mentioned in the ancient books.

Badankurti is also famous for Dattatreya temple, which is a very rarest of its kind.it is also famous for Agricultural and milk production.It is in a very strategic location and three districts namely Adilabad, karimnagar and Nizamabad can be easily accessed from here.

The Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC) wanted the government develop a Buddhist memorial at Badankurti village in Khanapur mandal of Adilabad district.

JAC co-convenor Mallepalli Lakshmaiah was instrumental in drawing attention towards the historical importance of Badankurti.

A meeting was organised in this regard on the occasion of Buddha Jayanti that featured many important personalities from the region, who traced the history and depicted relevance of development of the site. Mr. Lakshmaiah recalled the legend of sage Bavari and his 16 disciples who had interacted with Buddha himself. Having been convinced of the tenets of that religion the sage too embraced Buddhism.

The JAC co-convenor also said there was a need for further study of the place by historians and archaeologists. He said development of a national monument of Buddhism was also needed simultaneously. MLC and well-known educationist Chukka Ramaiah suggested inculcation of the element of questioning among children. He said Buddhism was founded on the principle of questioning established tenets.

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/tjac-seeks-buddhist-site-at-badankurti-village/article2028441.ece

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Basara Temple

Gnana Saraswati Temple is a Hindu temple of Goddess Saraswati located on the banks of Godavari River at Basar, Telangana, India. It is one of the two famous Saraswati temples in India, the other being in Jammu & Kashmir. Saraswati is the Hindu Goddess of knowledge and learning. Children are brought to the temple for the learning ceremony called as Akshara abyasam.

Basar is a census town in the Nirmal district in the state of Telangana. It is about 30 km (19 mi) from Bhainsa,15.5 km (10 mi) from Dharmabad, 34.8 km (22 mi) from Nizamabad, 70 km (43 mi) from Nirmal, and 205 km (127 mi) from Hyderabad.

According to some myth, Maharishi Vyas and his disciples and sage Viswamitra decided to settle down in a cool and serene atmosphere after the Kurukshetra War. In the quest for a peaceful abode, he came to Dandaka forest and, pleased with serenity of the region, selected this place. Since Maharishi Vyasa spent considerable time in prayers, the place was then called "Vasara" and turned into Basara due to the influence of the Marathi language in the region.

It is also believed that this temple is one of the three temples constructed near the confluence of the Manjira and Godavari rivers.

Historically, 'Bijialudu' a Karnataka king, who ruled the province of Nandagiri with Nanded as his capital in the sixth century, constructed the temple at Basara.

Many pilgrims come to Basara to perform the "Akshara abhyasam" ceremony for the children before they start formal school education. The children perform the exercise of letters, and devote books, pens, pencils notebooks to the goddess of knowledge. The Puja at the temple starts at 4 am in morning with Abhishekam which carries on for an hour. At 5 o'clock they start the Alankarana whereby the new sarees are adorned to the goddesses. The whole atmosphere is very pious and pure. At 6 am, in the rays of the morning sun, the aarti starts at the temple after which the prasadam is given to the devotees.

Special poojas and celebrations are held at the temple during Maha Shivaratri, beginning 15 days before (Vasantha Panchami) and continuing 3 days after the festival. Devi Navarathrulu is celebrated for ten days during Dasara.

The temple also has a Mahakali idol situated on the 1st floor very near to the main temple. Devotees often go to the nearby mountain which has an Idol of Goddess Saraswati on the top of the rock. The image of Lakshmi stands besides the Goddess Saraswati in the sanctum sanctorum. Due to the presence of Saraswati, Lakshmi and Kali, Basara is considered as the abode of the divine trinity.




https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gnana_Saraswati_Temple,_Basar

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Kazipet Dargah

Syed Shah Afzal Biabani (1793 – 1856 A.D) was a Sufi from Warangal, Hyderabad State (now Kazipet 132 km from Hyderabad, India). He was appointed as Kazi of Warangal during the reign of Nizam Ali Khan (Asaf Jah II). His dargah is among the pilgrimage centers of Warangal, Telangana.

His Shrine (Dargah) at Kazipet is 2 km from Kazipet Railway Station in Warangal District, which is famous world wide. People come from all parts of the world and from all religions to attend the urs celebrations every year. These celebrations are held for 3 days beginning on 26, Safar (second month of the Islamic calendar), every year they are attended by the large masses from India as well from abroad.
Islamic scholars say there are only three such dargahs, coloured in green, in honour of great personalities - one in Baghdad, the other in Madina and the third one - here in Kazipet. Annually, people in large numbers throng this dargah and fulfil their promises and make new wishes.

The word "Biabani" is a plural of Urdu & Persian word "Biaban" which means soonsan (in Urdu) and uninhabited place in English. He received this nickname because he spent 12 years in Tasawwuf (a form of Sufi meditation) in the caves located in the forest of Battupalli near Kazipet.

Hazrath Afzal Biabani Radi Allahu anhu was a saint (Vali Allah) by birth. His mother said that there was something extraordinary in him right from the childhood. Some miraculous incidents were manifested even in his childhood. Once at the residence of her brother, Syed Murtuza Hussaini at Qutbi guda, Hyderabad, playing with children of his age (4 to 5 years old) in the court yard, he dug a small pit (well), like the other children. But to their astonishment water was found in the pit dug by him, where as the other pits were dry. His maternal uncle said that Afzal Biabani would become a saint and a man of miracles in future by the grace of Allah.

Although he was the Qazi of Warangal district and Jagirdar of Kazipet village, he was averse to the life of a feudal Lord and refused to live in the Haveli. He preferred to live in a hut like any other poor man. His mother objected to it. She was of the opinion that he had to maintain the dignity of his social position. He politely convinced her and made the way clear to reside in a hut. This reflected his desire to break the barriers between the life of the master and a servant. He willingly opted for the dress, the food and life style of a poor man.

Haji Mohibullah Khan Saheb from Delhi and Namdar Khan Saheb, a servant in the army at Bolaram in Secunderabad, wished to join the circle of Hazrath Afzal Biabani as a disciples. When they went to his hut at Kazipet, they were informed that he was in the hut of a Hindu weaver (Padmashali) who was his immediate neighbour and friend, when they found the great Sufi resting his head on a stone and sleeping on ground. The eagerness of the Sufi-saint to live closer to the hearts of the people shows nothing except his willingness to share their joys and sorrows as members of one family and thus strengthen the integrated setting of the society.

Some members of the army contingent stationed at Hanamakonda waited upon the Qazi Saheb Hazrath Afzal Biabani and requested him to lead them in Eid prayer at Hanamakonda. They brought a horse for his ride. He asked for two more horses for his friends. People were taken aback to see that those friends were the Hindu weavers riding along with Hazrath. He wanted to share the joys of Eid with his Hindu neighbours.

Hazrath Afzal Biabani used to teach his disciples high morals like simplicity, social equality and to serve people irrespective of their caste, creed, language, religion and region. For this reason lots of people belonging to different religions are devotees and followers.

Thus he proved himself to be a symbol of national integration, communal harmony, social justice and protector of human rights.Even today, Hazrath's Shrine (Dargah) at Kazipet is much thronged and revered by Muslims, Hindus, Christians and Sikhs alike.

It is observed that most of the Hindu families of Kazipet and neighbouring villages bring the bride and bride-groom to this shrine (Dargah) immediately after the marriage to get the blessings for the newly married couple before they get to their homes.

His father was Syed Shah Ghulam Mohiuddin Biabani and mother Ht Qasim Bibi Saheba. Mir Qurban Ali, the then Collector of Warangal suba was his father-in-law.

Shaha Afzal received primary education from his father, he learned Marifat, Tariqat and Zikar-e-Qalbi from his father and received khilafat (spiritual succession) from him.

He learned Quran and Hadith from the Sufi of Fort Warangal Ht Faqirullah Shah.

It is stated from the Kazipet Dargah inscription that in recognition of the meritorious service of Kakatiya King Prola-I, who was responsible for the growth of the kingdom, Trailokyamalla bestowed Anmakonda (Hanumakonda) Vishaya on him in perpetuity

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syed_Shah_Afzal_Biabani

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Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary

Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at Eturnagaram village in the district of Mulugu, Telangana, India.

About: It is known to be one of the oldest sanctuaries in Telangana. In the year of 1952, on 30th January, the erstwhile Hyderabad Government declared it as sanctuary for its rich bio-diversity. Most of the statuary place is plain and one fourth is hilly. Godavari River passes through the sanctuary.

Distance: The distance of this Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary from Hyderabad is about 200 km and from Warangal about 55 km.

Park specifications : It is coverage areas about 812 km,Here Tigers, Panthers, Gaur, Sambar,Cheetal, Nilgiri and Blackbuck are the main attraction of the park.

Flora and Fauna 

Flora: The Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary has teak and other related plants such as thiruman, maddi, bamboo, mdhuca, terminlia and pterocarpus.

Fauna: A perennial water source is known as ‘DayyamVagu’ which separates into two halves. It is a place of Tigers, Leopards, Wolf, Dholes, Golden jackals, Sloth bear, Chousignha, Blackbuck, Nilgai, Sambar, Spotted deer, Chinkara, Indian giant squirrels and plenty of birds. Of course, there are many Reptiles can be seen here such as crocodile, Pythod, Cobra, Kraite and Star.

Best time to visit : October to April

Accommodation : Forest Cottages and Rest House Tadvai, ITDA Guest House at Eturnagaram

Arrival info for Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary: 

By Rail : Warangal railway station is the nearest one which is about 90 km

By Road : It is 55km from Warangal and 200 km from Hyderabad.

By Air : (Hyderabad) Shamshabad airport is nearest to Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary.

http://www.sanctuariesindia.com/eturnagaram-wildlife-sanctuary/

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