Govindarajula Gutta

Govindarajula Gutta is a holy place for the practitioners of the

Hindu faith. A popular tourist attraction, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Ram at the top of the hill (‘Gutta’ in Telugu) while a temple in the name of the Lord’s most prominent devotee, Lord Hanuman is located under it. Steps that amount to a hundred in number are to be climbed in order to reach the top of the hill, and it is advisable to take extreme care as the steps are sculpted out of rock and quite risky to maneuver. During the Sree Rama Navami festival, Govindarajula Gutta sees its most popular period and throngs of devotees can be seen in the vicinity. 

A huge Ratham (or Chariot) made of precious materials rests on top of the hill, and this is believed to have been built by the Hazaris of Warangal.

http://www.yatrastotemples.com/sri-rama-temple-in-govindarajula-gutta-in-warangal/

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Vykuntapuram Temple (Sangareddy)

Located in Sangareddy. Pilgrims from different regions do come here for darshan of Sri Srimannarayana swamy ( Lord Venkateshwara). The Ambiance in the temple makes you to feel like you are in thirupathi temple. The Idol of Lord Venkateshwara swamy is similar to the one in thirumala with 3 muka dhwaras. Especially during Saturdays, Public holidays , and on festivals days will be fully packed with the public who come for darshan. One must visit the temple for its beautiful and peacefull ambiance when you come across this sangareddy city.

JAI SRIMANARAYANA CHARITABLE TRUST
Sri Vaikuntapuram
Sangareddy shivaru, Medak
Telangana-502001
Phone: 08455-275555, 201080
Cell: +91 8125615558






http://svpd-srd.org/gallery/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangareddi

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Nizamabad Museum

The District Archaeological museum in Nizamabad was established in Nizamabad’s Tilak Garden, which was originally constructed in 1936 by VIIth Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan. The District Archaeological Museum was officially opened to the public in October, 2001. It exhibits a wide variety of artefacts and antiquities that represents the evolution of human civilization right from Paleolithic era to Vijayanagara times (16th Century A.D.).

The District Archaeological museum in Nizamabad is broadly classified into three sections namely 

• Archaeological section
• Sculptural gallery, and 
• Bronze and decorative gallery

Archaeological section 

The Archaeological section mainly includes tools of Paleolithic, Neolithic as well as late stone age times, (Microlithic) from 50000 to 5000 B.C. and also the megalithic pottery and iron implements from 1000 B.C. to the 3rd century B.C. The museum displays early historic and cultural material of the Satavahana times such as pottery, Iron implements, bangle pieces, beads, terracotta and bricks dating back from 2nd Century BC to 2nd Century AD. The Coins housed in the Museum are of punch marked varieties (3rd - 4th Century BC to the British period). A hoard of Vijayanagara era’s Gold coins unearthed at Bodhan is displayed here. 

The collection includes coins of Satavahana dynasty, Vishnukundins, Kakatiyas, Ikshvakus, Qutub Shahi dynasty, Vijayanagara, British period etc., along with a Quran Sharif of medieval period. A chart which shows the evolution of Telugu script from the 3rd century B.C. until 16th century A.D can also be seen here.

Sculptural gallery 

This gallery includes sculptures from different Dynasties such as Chalukya dynasty, Kakatiya dynasty, Rashtrakutas, and also the Vijayanagar kingdom (16th & 17th Century AD). The important sculptures here includes Jaina, Ganesha, Parsvanath, Veerabhadra, Chamundi, Secular, Hero Stones, Sculptures, a Sculptural Panel depicting Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswathi and Chennakesava,. A finely carved Door Jamb that was made of Red sand stone, from Vijayanagar dynasty is erected here in front of the Museum.

Bronze and Decorative gallery 

The Bronze and Decorative section at the museum includes Bronze articles from different periods ranging from Chalukyas to Vijayanagara times. Decorative Arts constitute Bidiriware, porcelain and enamel ware. The important objects on display here are Arms and Armour, including swords of different types with gold inlay work, chest plates, shields, curved swords, arrows, daggers etc. from Qutb Shahi and Asif Jahi periods. The paintings on display are miniature paintings of medieval period and contemporary period. 

Bidriware Collection 

Bidriware derives its name from the old town of Bidar. The bidri articles that are displayed here in the Museum are Huqqahas, Pandan, Spittons, Flower vases, Betel Nut Boxes etc. and other items. Most of these artefacts were brought from Hyderabad by the Department of Archaeology & Museum. 

Arms & Weapons Section 

Several armour varieties of ancient world are displayed here such as the Roman, Persian, Russian and Indian Armies of medieval period. These include Persian Indian swords, lances, spears, daggers, chest plates, suns and arrows with damascening ( with an inlay of gold work) workmanship, offensive weapons such as the lances, spears, the axes and heavy swords accompanying double edged flat blades. The weapons were reportedly used by the Nawabs of Golconda during the medieval period. Coins, Manuscripts such as the Holy Quran, Pre-history objects, Stone Sculptures of Early history, Modern Paintings and Miniature painting are also part of the impressive display in the Museum at Nizamabad. 

How to Reach

The District Heritage, Archaeological Museum in Nizamabad is located in Tilak Garden, very near to the Bus stand and Railway Station. Nizamabad can be reached by road from Hyderabad, nearly 175 km away. 

Location

Tilak Garden, Nizamabad

Visitor Facilities

Clean drinking water and rest rooms are available. Seating arrangements have been provided in the garden. A Companion Guide to the Museum is also available.

Timings : 10.30 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Fridays and Public Holidays.

http://www.telanganamuseums.com/dist-museum-nizamabad.html

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Gadwal Samsthanam and Fort

Gadwal Samsthanam was a vassal of the Nizam of Hyderabad.  Gadwal was one of the most prestigious of Hyderabad’s samsthanas, being among the oldest, largest, and wealthiest of them.  

The rulers of the Gadwal belong to Mustipalli dynasty and they were Pakanati Reddis. They followed Veera Vaishnava tradition.

Gadwal state was situated in the " Raichur Doab " between river Krishna and Tungabhadra. it had an area of 864 miles and had a population of 986,491 in 1901.

Pudur or Pundrapura known as Keshavapuram or Keshavnagar was the fort capital of Gadwal Samsthan. He was a great warrior and expert in war strategies. He was appointed as ruler of Manalibeludoni, Raichur, Alampuram Adavani, Aija, Mosalakallu by Kakatiya Ruler Pratapa Rudra.

Pedda Veera Reddy alias Buddha Reddy was the founder of the Gadwal Samsthan.

Gadwal is is situated between the rivers Tungabhadra and Krishna over an area of about 800 sq.miles. Located on National Highway No. 44 in between Hyderabad and Kurnool and is only 16 Kms away from Erravelli Junction. 

After the fall of the Warangal Kakatiya dynasty in the 14th century, Gadwal transferred its allegiance to the new Bahmani kingdom.  Gadwal existed long before the foundation of the Hyderabad State. 

Pedda Veera Reddy alias Buddha Reddy

1290 A.D : A warrior local in the area named Pedda Veera Reddy ( also known as Budda Reddy ) assisted Immadi Reddy in land clearing . Immadi recommended him for rewards to Pratapa Rudra. Pratapa Rudra Deva of Warangal conferred upon Bukka Polavi Reddy the status of Sarnagond over the six parganas

Peddanna Bhupaludu

Sarga Reddy 

Veera Reddy

1696 AD : Sri Pedda Soma Bhupala or Somanna

In 1696 Aurangzeb awarded then ruler of Gadwal , Somanna , the title of raja

Soma Bhupala or Somanadri was particularly well-known for having won many battles and strengthened the state. He improved the infrastructure of the town, and built a great many temples including the Chennakesava Swamy temple inside the Gadwal Fort in the 17th century.

The fort was constructed from 1663 - 1713 AD by Raja Somanadri. The Fort was constructed with huge walls and moats around the fort have made the Gadwala Fort very strong and impregnable. Even after completion of 300 years, the strength of the Fort is not lost. 

Somashekar Ananda Reddy, fondly called Somanadri hails from Poodoor village. 

According to the family history, Pedda Veera Reddy, Peddanna Bhupaludu, Sarga Reddy, Veera Reddy and Kumara Veera Reddy ruled Gadwal between 1553 and 1704.

1704 AD : Kumara Veera Reddy 

In 1704 , Kumara Veera Reddy , the fifth descendent from Pedda Veera Reddy , had been given sanad granting him six mahals in the Kurnool area , just across the Tungabhadra River from the doab .

1712 AD :  Nalla Somanadri Raja 

Their main deity Sri Chennakesava Swamy Temple, Sri Venugopala Swamy temple, Sri Ramalayam and Water Body (Koneru) are located inside the Fort.

Raja has defeated the Nawab of kurnool and brought 32 feet long Cannon which was the biggest in the country is still in the fort.

This Gadwal Samsthanam was protected by Mallichetti vamshiyulu. The Nagi Reddy we fondly know Nagappa was an Angarashak of Gadwal samsthanam (Raja somanadri was a minor). He died in a war with fanatic sultans. Then Narsappa succeeded his father Nagappa as Gadwal Samsthanam Angarashak, but unfortunately for some reason he had to leave the palace
The tradition of the Gadwal weavers’ family presenting vastrams to Lord Venkateswara began during the reign of Nala Somanadri Raja of Gadwal Samstan. He was a friend of Nellore Venkatagiri Rajus and he travelled to Tirumala along with the Venkatagiri Raju family. It was then that the Somanadri Raja promised to offer ‘Sesha Vastrams’ to the Lord on the first day of the Brahmotsavam, recall the family members.

The Konkathi family from this town in Mahbubnagar district has been weaving ‘Sesha Vastrams’ for the past 10 generations, on a decree from the Gadwal royal family. The family brings superior quality cotton from Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu and Chirala in Andhra Pradesh. The weavers, adopting the traditional practice, work for over six hours a day to weave the vastrams. It costs nearly Rs 15,000 for raw materials and the total would jump to around Rs. 40,000 by the time the vastrams are presented to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. It takes more than six weeks for a select group of five handloom weavers to produce the five-metre-long white vastrams (dhoti) with a maroon colour silk border.

1712 AD : Raja Tirumal Rao
Soon dissatisfaction arose among the people due to tirumala Raya's rule. It was the time when Ammakkamba wife of Pedda Soma Bhupla was seated on the throne.

1712 AD - 1742 AD : Rani Ammakka and Rani Lingamma
Ruled as vassal of Nizam
Rani Ammakka and Rani Lingamma, coadministered affairs at Gadwal until their adopted heir came of age.

Amongst the prominent Hindu feudatories, or Samasthans as they were known, was Gadwal, whose allegiance was eventually secured by the first Nizam - the Mughal governor of the region. Gadwal’s military and economic relationships with other groups and the ruling princely elite had historical precedents, Cohen points out. Interestingly, he writes of the first decade of rule of the first Nizam, Nizam ul Mulk Asaf Jah I, who during this period sought to consolidate the uncertain ground that he had only just occupied through imperial legitimacy in 1724 CE (after the death of Mubariz Khan). In this early venture, the Nizam entered into communications with two women, Rani Ammakka and Rani Lingamma of Gadwal, seeking their military support, over the course of a year. The ‘urgent’ request, ‘an earnest requisition’ by the Nizam on 3 September 1727 to the two women was ignored by them, but upon a series of firmer ‘diplomatic entreaties’, they eventually acquiesced in early 1729 CE. Cohen comments that this may seem ‘remarkable’ today but is “less shocking in a more fluid eighteenth century”.

1742 AD - 1743 AD : Rani Mangamma, Rani Lingamma

1743 AD - 1747 AD: Rani Chukamma

1747 AD - 1762 AD : Rama Reddy
Brother of Thirumala Raya

1762 AD - 1793 AD : Chinna Soma Bhupala 

China Somanadri or China Somabhupala was himself a poet of great repute and greatly encouraged literary activities.

1793 AD - 1804 AD : Sri Rama Rayalu 

Mushtipalli Ramabhupala I of the Gadwal dynasty was also a Sanskrit scholar and patronized literature, music and other arts. During his reign as well, scholars and poets from distant places like Varanasi, Mysore and Andhra’s Krishna and Guntur districts would convene. His son Sitarama Bhupala was also a great patron of the arts.

1804 AD - 1840 AD : Raja Sitaram Bhupala I
Said to be one of the best rulers of Samsthana. 

Raja Sitaram Bhupal Bahadur sent three of his weavers to Benaras to learn the tricks of weaving spectacular pallus. They came back suitably inspired and equipped with the know-how, and created their own masterpieces which now go by the name of Gadwal sarees.

After his death in 1840, the samsthana came under the contour of court wards for 10 years as his son was a minor. 

1840 AD - 1844 AD : Raja Soma Bhupala II

1844 AD - 1850 AD : Rani Venkata Lakshmi

1850 AD - May 1919 AD : Raja Sitaram Bhupala II
Nizam VII bestowed on him the title of "Maharaja" and he died in May 1919 AD and was survived by his widow and two daughters. 

1853 AD : Raichur Doab (Gadwal) was assigned to the British under the treaty of 1853

1857AD : The great Indian mutiny took place and Gadwal did not participate in it.

1860 AD:  In 1860 AD Raichur Doab (Gadwal) was restored to Nizam. 

1919 AD - 1949 AD : Maharani Adi Lakshmi Devamma
Queen Sri Aadi Lakshmi Devamma, with her tactics and knowledge revived the glory of the samsthana. 

In 1947, Adi Lakshmidevamma was the feudatory queen of Gadwal Samsthanam during Nizam rule. She aided forces led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to annex Hyderabad state into independent India and let those forces to enter Hyderabad state through Gadwal.


Sri Krishna Rama Bhupala

Gadwal is known for its handloom jari sarees (Gadwal sarees). The local weavers can weave the 5.5 meters of saree fabric in such a way that it can be folded down to the size of a small match box. Gadwal sarees have been worn since the 1930s. There are cotton sarees with an attached silk border and silk pallow. For Lord Venkateswara TTD Brahmotsavam starts with Gadwal weaved Gadwal saree by every year.

At a distance of 1 km from Gadwal Bus Station, 78 km from Mahabubnagar Bus Station and 188 km from Hyderabad, Gadwal Fort is situated in ogulamba Gadwal district of Telangana. Gadwal is one of the popular historical places to visit around Hyderabad.


http://www.thehindu.com/arts/weaving-in-the-service-of-the-lord/article41579.ece



Imperial Gazetteer of India
James Sutherland Cotton Sir Richard BurnSir William Stevenson Meyer



http://mahabubnagar.nic.in/TourismNew.php?t=15

http://www.3quarksdaily.com/3quarksdaily/2012/02/stray-notes-on-medieval-deccan.html#sthash.G26bPeFr.dpuf

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Pillalamarri

Pillalamarri is located about four km from the city and 90 Km away from Hyderabad City.

There is a tomb of a Muslim saint under the tree. The tree presents the appearance of a small hillock with green foliage from a distance but on reaching closer, it looks like a large green umbrella under which about thousand people can easily take shelter.It is 700 year old banyan tree and its branches extend over an area of 3 acres. In Telugu, "Pillalu" means children & "marri" means a banyan tree. 


The banyan tree is so widely spread that one could not see the main trunk of the tree. The Pillalamarri gives an appearance of a small hillock with green foliage from a distance, but as we reach closer it is viewed as a large green umbrella and assumed to be as a shelter for more than about thousand people.

There is also an aquarium, a small zoo and an archaeological museum here. There is a boating facility in the premises of Pillalamarri available only during the rainy season.

Pillalamarri District Archaelogical Musuem consists of numerous historical idols & articles of ancient people, which represents their culture & civilization. Unfortunately beacause of invasions of various rulers many of those are destroyed. But still there is a lot to see.

http://mahabubnagar.nic.in/Tourism.php

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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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