Society Culture Heritage Arts and Literature of Telangana PDF

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Society, Culture, Heritage, Arts

and Literature of Telangana
Introduction to Telangana History
Telangana, as a geographical and political entity was born on June 2, 2014 as the 29th and the youngest state in
Union of India. However, as an economic, social, cultural and historical entity it has a glorious history of at least two
thousand five hundred years or more. Megalithic stone structures like cairns, cists, dolmens and menhirs found in
several districts of Telangana show that there were human habitations in this part of the country thousands of years
ago. Remnants of iron ore smelting found at many places demonstrate the hoary roots of artisanship and tool making
in Telangana for at least two thousand years. The reference to Asmaka Janapada, part of present Telangana, as one of
the 16 Janapadas in ancient India proves that there existed an advanced stage of society.
One of the first five disciples of the Buddha, Kondanna is a typical name from Telangana and though there is no exact
information about his native place, the earliest known Buddhist township of Kondapur in Medak district is believed
to be after him. The Buddha himself famously acknowledged that it was Kondanna who understood him properly.
The Buddhist sources say that Bavari, a Brahmin from Badanakurti in Karimnagar sent his disciples to all the way
to north India to learn Buddhism and spread the message in this region. Megasthenes, who visited India in the 4th
century BCE, wrote that there were 30 fortified towns of Andhras and a majority of them were in Telangana. In the
historical age, Telangana had given rise to mighty empires and kingdoms like the Satavahanas, Vakatakas, Ikshvakus,
Vishnukundins, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Qutb Shahis and Asif Jahis.
The emergence and flourishing of these powerful political formations is in itself a proof of existence of a sturdy
economic, social and cultural structure. Thus Telangana has been a vibrant social entity by the time of the Buddha and
continued to be so for the next two and a half millennia. Endowed with such rich cultural heritage, despite the attempts
by historians and scholars from Andhra region to obfuscate and erase its history, Telangana always retained and fought
for its self respect and self rule. Due to the official efforts to ignore, erase, belittle and look down Telangana history
and turn it into an appendage or a footnote, particularly during 1956-2014, much of Telangana history is either not
properly researched or not recorded even if it was studied. Telangana rose again and secured its political identity now
and is in the process of resurrecting its own glorious past. Here is an attempt to reconstruct the history of Telangana,
the wonderful musical instrument with a thousand strings.
Pre-history (Up to 1000 BCE)

Even though extensive exploration has not been done, particularly subjected to neglect after 1956, the archaeological
department under the Nizams’ government had done tremendous work in discovering the traces of pre-historical
human habitations in Telangana. These studies found that human habitations in parts of Telangana can be seen from
the Paleolithic age consistently. Either the same locations or extended locations showed people continued to live
and develop through the later stages of Mesolithic, Neolithic and Metal ages. Excavations discovered stone tools,
microliths, cists, dolmens, cairns and menhirs. All the ten districts of Telangana showed these traces even when a
proper, scientific and official research and excavations have not been done and thanks to the efforts of either the first
generation researchers before 1950s or individual amateur explorations.
2 Society, Culture, Heritage, Arts & Literature of TS
Pre-Satavahanas (1000 BCE – 300 BCE)

In the historical age beginning from 1000 BCE there are some references of Telangana as a geographical entity as well
as Telugu as a linguistic entity, in the contemporary Buddhist and mythological texts. However, it needs a detailed
research to discover finer aspects and establish the stage of development of pre-Satavahana society. Thought the
official research into this aspect was stalled for about six decades, some enthusiasts like Thakur Rajaram Singh, B N
Sastry and Dr D Raja Reddy did their own painstaking explorations and showed that there was a flourishing society
before the emergence of the Satavahanas. Particularly Dr Raja Reddy proved with numismatic evidence that there
were rulers before the Satavahanas with Kotalingala as capital and issued their own coins. In these excavations the
coins of Gobada, Naarana, Kamvaaya and Samagopa were discovered and at least two other rulers’ names came to
light. Thus Telangana happens to be the first region in the subcontinent to have issued punch-marked coins with even
insignia. The Buddhist texts as well as accounts of foreigners like Magesthenes and Arrian talked about this region as
having thirty forts, many of which have to be explored.
Satavahanas (250 BCE – 200 CE)

After the fall of the Mauryan Empire, around the third century BC there arose the first significant kingdom under
the Satavahanas from this region. The earliest capital of the Satavahanas was Kotalingala and then moved to the
other popular capitals like Paithan and Amaravati (Dharanikota) only after two centuries of their rule. However, the
first capital was either ignored or brushed aside to give prominence to the later place in coastal Andhra. The coins
issued by the Satavahana kings Simuka (BC 231-208), Siri Satavahana, Satakani I, Satasiri, Satakani II, Vasishtiputra
Pulumayi, Vasishtiputra Satakani and their governors were discovered in Kotalingala. Numismatic and epigraphic
evidence showed that the Satavahanas ruled a larger area of the peninsula, with oceans as borders on three sides.
Literature like Gathasaptashati, painting like Ajanta flourished during the Satavahana rule.
Post-Satavahana (200 CE – 950 CE)

After the fall of Satavahanas in the third century AD, Telugu-speaking areas were divided under various small rulers
and till the emergence of the Kakatiyas, for about six or seven centuries this fragmentation continued. Even as
the mainstream Andhra historians maintained that it was a dark period in Telangana history without any political
formation, the current research found that Telangana was ruled by various kingdoms like the Ikshvakus, Vakatakas,
Vishnukundins, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Vemulavada Chalukyas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Mudigonda
Chalukyas, Kanduri Chodas and Polvasa dynasty. A detailed research into this period is yet to take place.
Kakatiyas (950 CE – 1323 CE)

The sub-feudatories of the Rashtrakutas emerged themselves as independent kings and founded the Kakatiya dynasty
around 950 AD and this kingdom became strong and united whole of Telugu-speaking lands and lasted for more
than three centuries and a half. The kingdom saw powerful kings like Ganapatideva, Rudradeva and Prataparudra as
well as the first ever woman ruler in the subcontinent Rudramadevi. The Kakatiyas ruled from Hanumakonda in the
beginning and shifted their capital to Warangal later.
The Kakatiyas are known for their irrigation public works, sculpture and fine arts. Thanks to the well-planned irrigation
facilities and a perfect system of chain tanks to suit the undulating nature of the terrain, the Kakatiya kingdom
flourished economically leading to cultural progress also. Envy of this affluence, several neighbouring kingdoms as
well as Delhi Sultanate tried to wage war on Warangal many times and failed. Finally in 1323, Delhi army could lay
seize on Warangal fort and capture Prataparudra, who, according to the legend, killed himself on the banks of the
Narmada unwilling to surrender when he was being taken as prisoner of war to Delhi.
Post-Kakatiya Interregnum (1323 – 1496)

After Prataparudra was defeated by Malik Kafur in 1323, the Kakatiya kingdom was again fragmented with local
governors declaring independence and for about 150 years Telangana was again under different rulers like Musunuri
Nayakas, Padmanayakas, Kalinga Gangas, Gajapatis, and Bahmanis.
Qutbshahis (1496 - 1687)

Sultan Quli Qutb Shah, subedar for Telangana under the Bahamanis, with Golconda as his capital, declared his
independence in 1496 and seven sultans of this dynasty ruled not only Telangana but the entire Telugu-speaking land
including parts of present day Maharashtra and Karnataka. The Moghul empire waged war and defeated Golconda in
1687 and for about three decades Telangana was again witnessed chaos and fragmented rulers.
Asaf Jahis (1724-1948)

In 1712, Emperor Farrukhsiyar appointed Qamar-ud-din Khan as the viceroy of Deccan and gave him the title Nizam-
ul-Mulk . He was later recalled to Delhi, with Mubariz Khan appointed as the viceroy. In 1724, Qamar-ud-din Khan
defeated Mubariz Khan and reclaimed the Deccan suba. It was established as an autonomous province of the Mughal
empire. He took the name Asif Jah, starting what came to be known as the Asif Jahi dynasty. He named the area
Hyderabad Deccan. Subsequent rulers retained the title Nizam ul-Mulk and were called Asaf Jahi Nizams or Nizams
of Hyderabad. The Medak and Warangal divisions of Telangana were part of their realm.
When Asaf Jah I died in 1748, there was political unrest due to contention for the throne among his sons, who were
aided by opportunistic neighbouring states and colonial foreign forces. In 1769, Hyderabad city became the formal
capital of the Nizams.
Nasir-ud-dawlah, Asaf Jah IV signed the Subsidiary Alliance with the British in 1799 and lost its control over the
state's defense and foreign affairs. Hyderabad State became a princely state among the presidencies and provinces of
British India.
Post-independence
When India became independent from the British Empire in 1947, Hyderabad remained an independent princely state
for a period of 13 months.
The peasants of Telangana waged an armed struggle to liberate the region. Scores of people lost their lives in the
armed struggle. The private militia named Razakars, under the leadership of Qasim Razwi unleashed terror in the state
by resorting to looting and murder.
On 17 September 1948, the Indian government conducted a military operation called Operation Polo to bring
Hyderabad state into the Indian Union. It appointed a civil servant, M. K. Vellodi, as first chief minister of Hyderabad
State on 26 January 1950.
In 1952, Dr. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao was elected chief minister of the Hyderabad State in its first democratic
election. During this time, there was an agitation by locals in the state to ensure proper representation was given to
locals ( mulkis ) of Hyderabad.
First Telangana Movement
In early 1950s, people of Telangana region in Hyderabad state, started organizing themselves with a demand for
separate state. In 1953 the Indian government appointed the States Reorganization Commission (SRC) to look into
various statehood demands in the country. The Commission was headed by Fazal Ali, Kavalam Madhava Panikkar
and H.N. Kunzru
The SRC toured the whole country to seek representations from various sections of the society. People of Telangana
region submitted several memorandums to the SRC and expressed their wish to constitute Telangana as a separate
state. Telangana intellectuals such as late Prof Jayashankar and political leaders such as Sri HC Heda, Sri Konda
Venkat Ranga Reddy gave memorandums containing historic, political, economic, social and cultural justifications
for creating the Telangana state. The Commission submitted its report on 30 September 1955, and recommended
formation of Telangana state.
During the period between 1955 September and 1956 November, the people of Telangana launched a series of protests
demanding statehood by implementing the SRC recommendations. But intense lobbying by leaders from Andhra state
in New Delhi resulted in the merger of Telangana region in Andhra state to form the Andhra Pradesh state.
Telangana leaders insisted on a Gentlemen’s Agreement before the merger could take place. The agreement was
signed by Andhra and Telangana leaders and provided safeguards with the purpose of preventing discrimination
against Telangana by the Andhra leaders.However, the agreement was violated from day one by the Andhra leaders.
1969 Telangana Agitation

Non-implementation of Gentlemen’s Agreement and continued discrimination to Telangana region in government
jobs, education and public spending resulted in the 1969 statehood agitation.
In January 1969, students intensified the protests for a separate state. On 19 January, all party accord was reached
to ensure the proper implementation of Telangana safeguards. Accord's main points were 1) All non-Telangana
employees holding posts reserved for Telangana locals will be transferred immediately. 2) Telangana surpluses will
be used for Telangana development. 3) Appeal to Telangana students to call off agitation.
But the protests further intensified, as more and more students and employees joined the statehood movement. Police
firing on protesters led to the death of about 369 youngsters during this phase of the agitation. Then Prime Minister
Indira Gandhi called for a high-level meeting to discuss the statehood issue. After several days of talks with leaders
of both regions, on 12 April 1969, the Prime Minister developed an Eight Point Plan. Sri M. Chenna Reddy, founded
the Telangana Praja Samithi (TPS) political party in 1969 to spearhead the statehood movement.
Mrs. Indira Gandhi had called snap parliamentary elections in March 1971. In these parliamentary elections, Telangana
Praja Samithi won 10 out the 14 Parliament seats in Telangana. However, Indira Gandhi’s Congress (R) Party scored a
landslide victory on a platform of progressive policies such as poverty elimination (Garibi Hatao). She was reluctant
to accept the Telangana statehood demand at that juncture. Sri M Chenna Reddy then merged TPS in Congress (R)
party, after formulating a Six-Point Formula to safeguard Telangana’s interests. The statehood movement continued
until 1973, but subsided later.
Final Telangana Movement

Since mid 1990s, the people of Telangana started organizing themselves under various organizations with a demand
for separate state of Telangana.
In 1997, the state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) passed a resolution seeking a separate Telangana. Though
the party created the states of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand in 2000, it did not create a separate Telangana
state citing resistance of its coalition partner, Telugu Desam Party.
Sri Kalvakuntla Chandrashekar Rao (KCR), who was then the Deputy Speaker of AP State assembly, had started
background work on Telangana issue in early 2000. And after detailed discussions and deliberations with a plethora
of Telangana intellectuals, KCR announced the launch of Telangana Rashtra Samithi on May 17th 2001.
KCR had resigned to the post of Deputy Speaker and MLA before launching the Telangana Rashtra Samithi party.
Prof Jayashankar, the ideologue of statehood movement extended his support to KCR.
In 2004, TRS entered into a poll alliance with Congress party. The party won 26 MLAs and 5 MPs and entered into
both the AP state and Indian government. Telangana issue found a place in UPA-1 Common Minimum Program.
Statehood issue was also mentioned by President Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in their speeches.
TRS president KCR, was initially allotted the Shipping portfolio. But another UPA ally DMK demanded Shipping
portfolio and threatened to walk out of the coalition, if its demand was not met, KCR voluntarily relinquished the
Shipping portfolio to save the fledgling UPA-1 government. KCR remained as a Union Minister without portfolio,
before being given the Labour and Employment portfolio. As the UPA government continued to dilly-dally on the
decades old demand for Telangana state, KCR resigned to his ministry in 2006.
When a Congress leader made a belittling statement on the statehood movement in September 2006, KCR resigned to
the Karimnagar Lok Sabha seat and won it with a thumping majority. The massive majority achieved by KCR in that
election proved the strong statehood aspirations in the region.
In April 2008, TRS party MLAs resigned also walked out of the state government in protest against the delay in
Telangana formation. But, TRS could retain only 7 MLA and 2 Lok Sabha seats in this by-election.
In 2009 elections, TRS allied with TDP, CPI and CPM parties. The grand alliance did not yield the desired result, as
the Pro-Telangana vote got split between TRS, Congress, PRP and BJP. In the end, TRS could win only 10 MLA seats
and 2 MP seats.
Intensifying the movement

On Nov 29th, 2009 , KCR had announced an indefinite hunger strike demanding statehood to Telangana. But en route,
the state police had arrested him and sent to Khammam sub-jail. The movement spread like wildfire with students,
employees, peoples’ organizations plunging into it. In the next 10 days, the whole of Telangana region came to a
standstill.
The state government, headed by Sri K Rosaiah had called for an all-party meeting on 7th December. Leaders of
TDP and PRP parties promised that they would support a Telangana statehood resolution if it was tabled in the state
Assembly. As KCR’s health was deteriorating very fast, on Dec 9th 2009, the UPA government announced that the
process of statehood for Telangana would be initiated.
But within 2 weeks, resistance from Seemandhra leadership resulted in UPA backtracking on this issue. KCR then
brought all political forces in Telangana region together to form the Telangana JAC – an umbrella body of several
organizations and parties, with Prof Kodandaram as its Chairman. TRS cadre and leaders actively participated in
several agitations and protests launched by TJAC.
State Formation
After 4 years of peaceful and impactful protests, the UPA government started the statehood process in July 2013 and
concluded the process by passing the statehood bill in both houses of Parliament in Feb 2014.
In the General Elections held in April 2014, Telangana Rashtra Samithi emerged victorious by winning 63 of the 119
seats and formed the government. Sri K Chandrashekar Rao was sworn in as the First Chief Minister of Telangana.
The Telangana state was inaugurated formally on June 2nd 2014.
Important Kingdoms
1. Assaka or Ashmaka kingdom - Telugu kingdom of ancient India (700–300 BCE).

• It was one of the shODasa (sixteen) Mahajanapadas in the 6th century BCE, mentioned in the Buddhist text
Anguttara Nikaya.
• The region was located on the banks of the Godavari river, between the rivers Godavari and Manjira. It was the
only Mahajanapada situated to the south of the Vindhya Range, and was in Dakshinapatha. It corresponds to
districts Nizamabad and parts of Adilabad in Telangana and Nanded, Yavatmal in Maharashtra states in current-
day India.
• The Prakrit name of Bodhan is from "bhoodaan meaning "Land given to poor as alms", identified as present day
Bodhan. The capital is variously called Potali, or Podana, which now lies in the Nandura Tehsil.
• The Buddhist text Mahagovinda Suttanta mentions about a ruler of Assaka, Brahmadatta who ruled from Potali.
• The Matsya Purana lists twenty-five rulers of Aśmaka, contemporary to the Shishunaga rulers of Magadha.
• Later, the people spread southward to the territory of the Rashtrakuta empire, which is now in modern Maharashtra.
2. Satavahanas
• In the north-western Deccan on the ruins of the Mauryan empire arose the kingdom of the Satavahanas in the
first century B.C., with its centre at Pratishtana (modern Paithan in Maharashtra).
• The Satavahana was based from Dharanikota and Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh as well as Junnar (Pune) and
Prathisthan (Paithan) in Maharashtra.
Origin:
• The Puranas speak only of the Andhra rule and not of the Satavahana rule. On the other hand the name Andhra
does not occur in the Satvahana inscriptions. There is a lot of controversy regarding the original home of the
Satavahanas.
• A contrary opinion has also been put forward that the family originated in the west and extended its control to
the east coast, finally giving its name, Andhra, to this region. Since the earliest inscriptions of the Satavahanas
are found in the Western Deccan, the later view may be correct. Probably, Satavahanas declared independence
some time after the death of Ashoka (232 BCE), as the Maurya Empire began to weaken
• The Satavahanas seems to begin as feudatories to the Mauryan Empire. They seem to have been under the
control of Emperor Ashoka, who claims in Rock Edict 13 that Andhras were in his domain among them.
Early Satavahanas:
• The Early Satavahanas ruled Telangana and Andhra Pradesh regions which were always their heartland. The
Puranas list 30 rulers. Many are known from their coins and inscriptions as well.
• The founder of the Satavahana dynasty was Simuka.
Simuka (230–207 BCE):

• After becoming independent around 230 BCE, Simuka, the founder of the dynasty, conquered the present-day
Maharashtra and parts of Madhya Pradesh (including Malwa).
• He and his successors established their authority from the mouth of the Krishna to the entire Deccan plateau.
Satakarni (180–124 BCE):

• The earliest of the Satavahana kings to receive wide recognition was Satakarni I, and this was due to his policy
of military expansion in all directions. He is the Lord of the west who defied Kharavela of Kalinga(mentions
him in the Hathigumpha inscription). According to the Yuga Purana he conquered Kalinga following the death of
Kharavela. He extended Satavahana rule over Madhya Pradesh and pushed back the Sunga from Pataliputra (he
is thought to be the Yuga Purana’s “Shata”, an abbreviation of the full name “Shri Sata” that occurs on coins from
Ujjain), where he subsequently ruled for 10 years. His conquests took him north of the Narmada into eastern
Malva, which at the time was being threatened by the Shakas and the Greeks.
• The description of Satakarni I as ‘Dakshina patha-pati in the Nanaghat inscription of Nayanika proves that the
Satavahana dominion was not confined to western Deccan alone, but included other areas of the Deccan and
beyond.
• Satakarni I performed two Asvamedha sacrifices and one Rajasuya sacrifice.
• By this time the dynasty was well established, with its capital at kotilingalaand Pratishthanapura (Paithan).
3.Ishvakus
• The founder of the line, performed Asvamedha, Agnihotra, Agnistoma and Vajpeya sacrifices. Santamula
performed the Asvamedha sacrifices with a view to proclaim independence and imperial status It had become a
common practice among the rulers of the subsequent dynasties to perform the Ashvamedha sacrifice in token of
their declaration of independent status From this fact, it can be inferred that it was Santamula I who first declared
independence and established Andhra Ikshvaku dynasty.
Virapurushadutta :
• He was son and successor of Santamula through his wife Madhari. He had a sister named Adavi Santisri He took
a queen from the Saka family of Ujjain and gave his daughter in marriage to Chutu prince. Almost all royal ladies
were Buddhists An aunt of Virapurushadutta built a big stupa at Nagarjuna Konda. Her example was followed
by other women of the royal family Virapurushadutta son Ehuvula Santamula (Santamula II) ruled after a short
abhira inter regnum His reign witnessed the completion of a Dvi Vihara, the Sihala Vihara, a convent founded
for the accomodation of Sinhalese monks and the Chitya-Graha (Chaitya Hall) dedicated to the fraternities
(theriyas) of Tambapanni(Ceylon) Ceylonese Buddhism was in close touch with Andhra.
Rudrapurushadatta :
• It was one of the name of an Ikshvaku ruler found in inscriptions from Gurujala in Guntur district of Andhra
Pradesh He could have been son of Ehuvula Santamula. Rudrapurushadatta ruled for more than 11 years.
Probably he was the last important ruler of of the Andhra Ikshvaku family. After him there were unknown rulers
according to the puranas Around 278 C.E, the abhiras might have put an end to the Ikshvakus
4.Vakatakas
• The Vakaṭaka Empire was a royal Indian dynasty that originated from the Deccan in the mid-third century
CE. Their state is believed to have extended from the southern edges of Malwa and Gujarat in the north to the
Tungabhadra River in the south as well as from the Arabian Sea in the west to the edges of Chhattisgarh in the
east.
• They were the most important successors of the Satavahanas in the Deccan and contemparanies with the Guptas
in northern India.
• The Vakaakas, like many coeval dynasties of the Deccan, claimed Buddhistorigin. Little is known about
Vindhyasakti (250–270 CE), the founder of the family. In the Cave XVI inscription of Ajanta he was described
as the banner of the Vakataka family and a Dvija. It is stated in this inscription that he added to his power by
fighting great battles and he had a large cavalry.
• The next ruler was Pravarasena I (270-330) was the first Vakataka ruler, who called himself a Samrat (universal
ruler) and conducted wars with the Naga kings. He has become an emperor in his own right, perhaps the only
emperor in the dynasty, with his kingdom embracing a good portion of North India and whole of Deccan.
• It is generally believed that the Vakataka ruling family was divided into four branches after Pravarsena I. Two
branches are known: Pravarpura-Nandivardhana branch and the Vatsagulma branch.
Pravarpura-Nandivardhana branch:
• Rudrasena II (380-385) of Pravarpura-Nandivardhana branch is said to have married Prabhavatigupta, the
daughter of the Gupta King Chandragupta II (375-415). Rudrasena II died fortuitously after a very short reign in
385 C.E., following which Prabhavatigupta (385 – 405) ruled as a regent on behalf of her two sons Divakarasena
and Damodarasena (Pravarsena II) for 20 years. During this period the Vakataka realm was practically a part of
the Gupta Empire. Many historians refer to this period as the Vakataka-Gupta age.
• Prabhavati Gupta’s inscription mentions about one “Deva Gupta” who is her father and the historians equated
him with Chandra Gupta II. However, there is no other source to prove that Deva Gupta is really Chandra Gupta
II.
• Pravarasena II composed the Setubandha in Maharashtri Prakrit. A few verses of the Gaha Sattasai (originally by
Hala) are also attributed to him. He shifted the capital from Nandivardhana to Pravarapura, a new city of founded
by him. He built a temple dedicated to Rama in his new capital.
• The highest number of so far discovered copper plate inscriptions of the Vakataka dynasty pertain to Pravarasena
II. He is one of the most recorded ruler of ancient India.
• Pravarsena II was succeeded by Narendrasena (440-460), under whom the Vakataka influence spread to some
central Indian states. Prithvisena II, the last known king of the line, succeeded his father Narendrasena in 460.
After his death in 480, his kingdom was probably annexed by Harishena of the Vatsagulma branch of Vakataka.
• The Vakataka power was followed by that of the Chalukyas of Badami in Deccan.
Vatsagulma branch:
• The Vatsagulma branch was founded by Sarvasena, the second son of Pravarasena I.
• Sarvasena (330 – 355) took the title of Dharmamaharaja. He is also known as the author of Harivijaya in Prakrit
which is based on the story of bringing the parijat tree from heaven by Krishna. This work, praised by later
writers is lost. He is also known as the author of many verses of the Prakrit Gaha Sattasaioriginally by Hala.
• Vindhysena (355 – 400) was also known as Vindhyashakti II. He is known from the well-known Washim plates
which recorded the grant of a village situated in the northern marga of Nandikata (presently Nanded). The
genealogical portion of the grant is written in Sanskrit and the formal portion in Prakrit.This is the first known
land grant by any Vakataka ruler. He also took the title of Dharmamaharaja.
• Pravarasena II (400 – 415) was the next ruler. The Cave XVI inscription of Ajanta says that he became exalted
by his excellent, powerful and liberal rule.
• Harishena (475 – 500) was a great patron of Buddhist architecture, art and culture. Ajanta is surviving example
of his works. The rock cut architectural cell-XVI inscription of Ajanta states that he conquered Avanti (Malwa)
in the north, Kosala (Chhattisgarh), Kalinga and Andhra in the east, Lata (Central and Southern Gujarat) and
Trikuta (Nasik district) in the west and Kuntala (Southern Maharashtra) in the south.
• Varahadeva, a minister of Harishena and the son of Hastibhoja, excavated the rock-cut vihara of Cave XVI of
Ajanta.Three of the Buddhist caves at Ajanta, two viharas – caves XVI and XVII and a chaitya – cave XIX were
excavated and decorated with painting and sculptures during the reign of Harishena.
End of Vakataka:
• A/C to Dasakumaracarita of Dain, which was written probably around 125 years after the fall of the Vakataka
dynasty, Harishena’s son, though intelligent and accomplished in all arts, neglected the study of the Dandaniti
(Political Science) and gave himself up to the enjoyment of pleasures and indulged in all sorts of vices.
• Finding this a suitable opportunity, the ruler of Ashmaka instigated the ruler of Vanavasi (in the North Kanara
district) to invade the Vakataka territory.
• The king called all his feudatories and decided to fight his enemy on the bank of the Varada (Wardha). While
fighting with the forces of the enemy, he was treacherously attacked in the rear by some of his own feudatories
and killed. The Vakataka dynasty ended with his death
Culture:
• The Vakatakas are noted for having been patrons of the arts, architecture and literature. They led public works
and their monuments are a visible legacy. The rock-cut Buddhist viharas and chaityas of Ajanta Caves was built
under the patronage of Vakataka King Harishena of Vatsagulma branch.
5. VishnuKundina Dynasty
Vishnukundina Empire played an important role in the history of the Deccan during the 5th and 6th centuries
CE. It is believed that they where one of the ancestors of Pusapatis of Vizianagaram and hree other clans of
Kshatriya Raju caste in Andhra Pradesh. The rule of Vishnukundin Empire came to an end with the conquest of
the eastern Deccan by the Chalukyan, Pulakesin II. He appointed his brother Kubja Vishnuvardhana as Viceroy
to rule over the conquered lands. Vishnuvardhana declared his independence and started the Eastern Chalukya
dynasty.
Origin of Vishnukundina Dynasty

• The Sanskrit name for Vishnukonda is Vishnukundina. The origin of this dynasty is shrouded in ystery. One
History states that they belong to Koundinya of Kshatriyas who migrated from Ayodhya during the early 5th
century. During the rule of Madhava Varma they became independent and conquered coastal Andhra from the
Salankayanas.
• It is estimated that the Vishnukudins ruled between the end of the Salankayana and the rise of the Eastern
Chalukyan power in 624 AD.
Kings of Vishnukundina Empire

• According to some inscriptions Indra Varma is the first ruler of the Vishnukundin dynasty. It is believed that he
carved out a small princedom for himself possibly as a subordinate of the Vakatakas in the last quarter of the
fourth century C.E.
• Madhav Varma I I Under rule of Madhav Varma II the dynasty began its imperial expansion who ruled for
nearly half a century. His reign is considered as a golden age in the history of the -Vishnukundins. During his
rule Vishnukundin dynasty rose to great heights. A princess of the Vakataka dynasty was given in marriage to
Madhav Varma's son, Vikramendra Varma.
• This increased the power of the Vishnukundina dynasty. He occupied the areas of Guntur, Tenali and Ongole.
Thereafter he made Amarapura his capital.
• Madhav Varma II annexed the Vengi kingdom that was ruled by Salankayanas. Godavari tract became part of
the Vishnukundin territory. Post conquests he performed sacrifices like Asvamedha, Rajasuya and other Vedic
sacrifices.
• During the rule of Vikramendra Varma I (508-528 C.E.) Vishnukundina dynasty lost its power. The next two and
half decade witnessed constant dynastic struggles during the rule of Indra Bhattaraka Varma (528-555 C.E.). The
dynasty lost Kalinga.
• Vikramendra Varma II After Vikramendra Varma II took over, the Vishnukundin family were able to restore their
power. He shifted his capital from Bezwada to Lenduluru in order to remain close to Kalinga. He restored the
fortunes of the Vishnukundins in the Kalinga region.
• Govinda Varma II (569-573 C.E.) Vishnukundina Empire expanded under its able ruler Janssraya Madhav Varma
IV (573-621 A.D.). He consolidated his position in Vengi. He suppressed the upheaval of his subordinate chief
the Durjaya Prithvi Maharaja in Guddadivishya.
• Madhav Varma IV had to face the Chalukyan assault in his last years of rule. It is believed that Madhava's son
Manchana Bhattaraka might have been expelled by the Chalukyas.
• Vishnukundina dynasty declined by the end of 624 A.D.
6. Vemulavada Chalukyas
Founder : Vinayaditya Yudhamalla I
Capitals : Bodhan (Nizamabad / Podananadu region) Gangadhara, Vemulawada (Karimnagar / Sabbinadu region).
• This dynasty was a branch of the Chalukyas of Badami ruled Telangana region as Rashtrakuta Vassals. One
peculiarity with this family is that it traced its descent from the Sun, while many other Chaiukya families
considered themselves as of lunar descent.
• Tradition associates Vemulawada with poet Bhima Kavi but the famous kannada poet Pampa lived here as the
court poet of Arikesari II and dedicated his famous work Bharata or Vikramarjuna Vijaya to him.
• Vemulawada Chalukyas history is defined by 3 inscriptions, Kollpara copper plates of Arikesari I, Vemulavada
rock inscription of Arikesari II and the Parbhan copper plates of Arikesari III.
• According to the kollipara inscription of Arikesari-I Satyasraya Ranavikrama was the founder of vemulawada
chalukya dynasty.
c.641 - c.660 AD : Satyasraya Ranavikrama :

• Ruled from Bodhan (Nizamabad) as Capital was in service of Pulikesi II.
• c.660 - c.695 AD : Prithvipati
• c.700 - c.725 AD : Maharaja
• c.725 - c.750 AD : Rajaditya
• All the above 3 rulers helped Vinayaditya and Vijayaditya in their wars against the palavers and the Arabs.
• Vinayaditya Yuddhamalla was the real founder and first celebrated king of Vemulawada Chalukya dynasty.
• c.750 - c.775 : Vinayaditya Yudhamalla I (Rajasraya)Ruled from Bodhan (Nizamabad) as Capital.
• Sub-ordinate ruler of Rashtrakutas.
• Yudhamalla and Rashtrakuta Dantudurga planned and carried out the overthrow of Kirtivarman II, the last
Chalukya ruler of Badami in 753 AD.
• Of Yudhamala I we get vert exaggerated eulogy from Kollipara plates issues by his son; he is compared to Rama
in valour and described as visvarat (universal emperor); he is said to have subjugated the whole world with the
aid of the boar-crest obtained by the royal family as a boon from Lord Narayan, and among the kings who bowed
at his feet are counted those of Turushka, Yavana, Barbara, Kasmira, Kambhoja, Magada, Malava, Kalinga,
Ganaga, Pallava, Panda, Kerala and others.
• In refreshing contrast to it from later inscriptions and pampa that he ruled Sapadalaska country and his suzerainty
was acknowleged by many feudatories. He made artificial tanks of brick and mortar in Podana, filled with oil for
the daily bathing of 500 elephants. He captured the natutal fortress of Chitrakuta.
• c.775 - c.800 AD : Arikesari Ruled from Vemulawada.Captured and ruled Vengi together with Trikalinga by the
strength of his arm. Pampa says that this happened in the reign of Nirupama / Dhruva.
• During a civil war of Rashtrakutas, Dhruva(AD 780-93) attacked Vishnuvardhana IV (772 - 808) of Vengi to
punish him for his part in aiding Govinda II (774 - 780). Arikesari aided Dhruva greatly and was duly rewarded.
We may assume that parts of Telangana definitely changed hands as a result of Arikesari's campaign. It is quite
probable that after this Vemulawada became seat of their power.
• c.800 - c.825 AD: Narasimha I
• c.825 - c.850 AD: Yudhamalla II
• c.850 - c.895 AD: Baddega I
• Pampa says that Baddega was victorious in 42 battles and earned title solada-ganda (the soldier who knew no
defeat).
• He constructed a temple of Baddagesvara which is identified with the Bhimeswara temple at Vemulawada.
• Baddega suffered defeat at least once at the hands of Gunuga Vijayadiya (849 - 892).
• Both Pamapa and the Parbhani plates say that he captured Chalukya Bhima I (892 -921)in the war that took place
near the water fort of Kunala(Kolleru) in the Vengi area, who ascended the throne of Vengi after the death of his
uncle Gunaga Vijayaditya III in 892. Bhima effected his escape from captivity with the aid of Kusumayudha of
Mudigonda Chalukyas.
• Baddega's political influences was felt as Bastar where the ancient Chatrakuta mandala was situated.
• 895 - 915 AD : Yudhamalla III
• 915 - 930 AD : Narasimha II
• Wife : Lokambika/Jakavve (sister of Rashtrakuta Indra III)
• The Vemulawada inscription attributes to him the single handed conquest of the Seven Malavas, a victory over
the army of Gurjjara raja and says that he put the final seal on his frame by a victory over a group of kings on
the hill of Kalapriya. Pamper furnishes the name of Gurjara king was Mahipala on whom Narasimha descended
like a thunderbolt, compelling him to escape from his capital. Pampa also mentions a victory over the Latas as
the first of his achievements, and adds that he had caused his horses to drink the water of the Ganges before he
established his fame with his sword at Kalapriya for his overlord Rashtrakuta Indra III (914 - 929).
• 930 - 955 AD : Arikesari II son of NarasimhaII and Jakavve
• Wife : Revakanirmadi (daughter of Rashtrakuta Indra III 914 - 929)
• His reign considered as golden period for Nizamabad and Karimnagar.
• Arikesari is famous as the patron of Pamapa, and for the apparently decisive he played in the political revolution
in which samanthas of Govinda IV (930 - 934) dethroned him and transferred the Rashtrakuta empire to
Amogavarsha III (936 - 939).Arikesari has 2 sons namely, Vagaraja and Bhadradeva / Baddega II from
Revakanirmadi and Lokambika.
• c.955 - c.960 AD : Vagaraja
• Ruled from Gangadhara as Capital
• Patronized Somadevasuri, the author of Yasastilaka Champu who described the king as Pada-padmopajivi
a worshipper of the feet of the Rashtrakuta king Krishna III. indicating the declining power of Vemulawada
Chalukyas.
• c.960 - c.965 AD : Bhadradeva / Baddega II
• Ruled from Vemulawada as Capital
• The bommalagutta region flourished as a center of Jainism during his rule.
• c.965 - c.973 AD : Arikesari III son of Baddega II ruled from VemulawadaVassal of Krishna III (939 - 967)and
makes a grant in 966 to a Jain temple erected by his father in the capital known as Subhadama Jinalava.
7. Kalyani Chalukyas
• After the Chalukyas of Badami were destroyed by Dantidurga, they revived after two centuries in around 972-
73AD. This was known as Chalukyas of Kalyani and is supposed to have the same genealogy as those of the
previous mighty Chalukyas (though this is disputed). This was established by Tailapa-II who was one of the
feudatories of the Rastrakuta. For 200 years they remained in conflict with the Cholas and also the eastern
Chalukyas of Vengi. The Hoyasala Empire finally destroyed them in 12th century. The empire of Chalukyas of
Kalyani is also known as Western Chalukya Empire. This empire has a great contribution in the modern Kannada
literature as well as Sanskrit literature.
Political History of Chalukyas of Kalyani:

• The last ruler of Rastrakuta Dynasty Kakka II (Karaka) was killed by Taila II or Tailapa II the scion of old
Chalukya stock in 973 AD. Thus Taila II founded the dynasty of Chalukyas of Kalyani which lasted for 2
centuries. For 200 years they remained in conflict with the Cholas and also the eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. They
were finally destroyed by the Hoyasala Empire in 12th century. The empire of Chalukyas of Kalyani is also
known as Western Chalukya Empire. This empire has a great contribution in the modern Kannada literature as
well as Sanskrit literature.
Tailapa II
• Tailapa-II was one of the feudatories of the Rastrakutas. He restored the family of his ancestors to its former
glory. Taila reigned for 24 years and during that time was able to recover the ancient territory of his race except
the Gujarat region. We know about his reign from the Gadag records. He patronized a Kannada poet Ranna who
was one the earliest poets of Kannada language. Ranna, Adikavi Pampa and Sri Ponna together are called
three gems of Kannada literature.
• Most of the time, Tailapa II kept on fighting with Munja, a Paramara king of Dhara. Munja was finally captured
and probably killed in captivity. This was in 995 AD. Two years later Tailpa died and his crown was passed on
to his son Satyasraya.
Satyasraya
• The period of reign of Satyasraya was 997 to 1008 AD. Though, to star with, he adopted the aggressive policy of
his father had enmity with the eastern Chalukyas and Cholas. His 11 years reign was disturbed and was finally
faced the disastrous consequence of a war with the great Chola Rajaraja-I. Rajaraja-I overran the Chalukya
country and looted and killed a large number of men, women and children. Satyasraya was followed by
Vikramaditya V and Jaysimha II. The next important king was Someshwara I.
Someshwara-I
• Someshwara I, who was also known as Ahavamalla or Trilokamallareigned from 1042 AD to 1068 AD. The
contemporary Chola King was Rajadhiraja Chola I who became Chola king in the same year i.e. 1042.
Someshwara I had established Kalyani as its capital.
• He faced the attack of Rajadhiraja Chola-I, who overran initially the Chalukyan capital and demolished the
forts and erected the pillars as a memorabilia of the victories, but the Chalukyan counter attack forced them out.
Under Someshwara-I , the Chalukya army raided Chola capital Kanchipuram but it was repelled back. Finally in
the battle of Koppam, Rajadhiraja Chola was killed. But his younger brother took the command and drove
the Chalukyas back. In this attack, brother of Someshwara-I was killed. The reign of Someshwara I is known for
numerous wars.
• This able king of the Western Chalukya Empire ended his life by drowning himself in the river Tungabhadra,
due to his inability to endure a fever. Someshwara I was succeeded by his elder son Someshwara II, but
Someshwara II was soon deposed by his younger brother Vikramaditya VI, whose reign is from 1076 – 1126
AD.
Vikramaditya VI
• Vikramaditya VI ascended the throne in 1076 AD which marks the beginning of Chalukya-Vikram era.
Vikramaditya VI was one of the ablest kings of the Western Chalukyan Empire. He left the maximum number of
inscriptions, all in Kannada. He is the hero of a historical poem (Vikramankadevacharita) by Bilhana, a Kashmir
poet and reigned for around half a century in tolerable peace.
8. Mudigonda Chalukyas
• Founder : Ranamarda
• Capital : Mudigonda
• The Mudigonda Chalukyas were based east of the Kakatiya territories. They hailed from the village of Mudigonda
(located near modern Khammam), and ruled most of modern-day Khamsmam district and east area of Warangal
between the 8th and 12th centuries. They were originally subordinates of the Chalukyas of Vengi, but later
passed under the suzerainty of the Western Chalukyas of Kalyani. From c.1000 onwards, Bottu Beta and his
successors ruled as subordinates of the Kakatiyas.
• The history of family is known to us from the Mogilicheruvula grant of Kusumayudha IV, Kukunuru plates
(krivvaka grant) of Kusumaditya and Nattaramesvaram records.
• Their kingdom bordered the kingdoms of Vengi and Malkhed.
Gonagudu I Kokkiraja, Son

• Ruled from Capital Mudigonda.Kokkiraja was a valorous king who ruled the kingdom with the help of his
brother Ranamarda.
• c.850 AD - 870 AD : Ranamarda, Brother
• He must have served the Eastern Chalukyas first and was given Koravi region by them to rule, with Mudigonda
as Capital.
• According to Mogilicharla inscription he developed Manchikonda, Kondapalli as cities and reportedly wore a
necklace called 'Ranamarda Kantiya' to denote his victories.
• 870 AD - 895 AD : Kusumayudha I
• Kusumayudha I aided the escape of Vengi Chalukya Bhima I (892 - 921) from Rashtrakuta Vassal Vemulawada
Chalukya Baddega I (c.850-895) who showed dauntless courage and remarkable bravery in restoring the Vengi
kingdom to Chalukya Bhima I.
• Kusumayudha has 2 sons Vijayaditya Gonaga and Niravadya.
• 895 AD - 910 AD : Vijayaditya Gonaga / Gonagudu II
• Gonagayya who lost his kingdom went to Arikesari II of Vemulawada Chalukyas for help.
• 910 AD - 935 AD : Niravadya (Nijjayaraja)
• The Koravi grant mentions that Niravadya brother of Vijayaditya Gonaga usurped the throne.Recaptured
Mudigonda in 934 AD. Ruled koravi in warangal as vassal to Vengi Chalukya Bhima II.
• 935 AD - 960 AD : Kusumayudha II son of Vijayaditya Gonaga
• Ruled Koravi region
• 960 AD - 980 AD : Vijayaditya
• 980 AD - 1000 AD : Kusumayudha III
• He had four sons Gonaga, Nijjayaraja, Mallapa and Lobhachalaka. Gonaga and Nijjayaraja came to the throne
successively after the death of Kusumayudha III.
• 995 AD - Bottu BetaViriyala Erra supported by Western Chalukya King Taila II (973 – 997) killed Kakatiya
King Gunda IV (950 - 995) and installed Bottu Beta as the ruler of koravi.
• c.1000 AD - 1025 AD : Gonaga
• c.1025 AD - 1050 AD : Nijjayaraja
• c.1050 AD - 1075 AD : Kusumayudha IV
• c.1075 AD - 1100 AD : Betaraja I
• c.1100 AD - 1125 AD : Kusumayudha V

• c.1125 AD - 1150 AD : Betaraja II
• c.1150 AD - 1175 AD : Kusumayudha VIKaktiya Rudra in his last days deputed his general Recherla Rudra to
subdue the Bottu chief of Koravi. Kusumayudha VI along with his ministers Karunadhi pati, Indaparaju and
Devaraju was forced to retreat to the forest and lived underground for 12 years and later recaptured the kingdom.
• 1175 AD - 1200 AD : NagatirajaNagatiraja was the last prominent ruler in this dynasty.Katakana Mahadeva died
in 1198 AD and his son Ganapatidev captured, Nagatiraja attached Kaktia kingdom. Recherla Rudra came to
the rescue and chased away Nagatiraja. After the release of Kakatiya Ganapatideva, he annexed the Mudigonda
region to the Kaktiya empire. Thus ended the rule of Mudigonda Chalukya dynasty in c.1200 AD.
• 1218 AD : According to the Srikakulam inscription, Nagatiraja who lost his kingdom lived in Konalu region.
Bottu Sriramabhadra : Issued inscription in Gopalaswamy temple at Srikakulam.
9. Kakatiyas
Kakatiya Dynasty
• Capitals : Hanamkonda, Warangal
• Languages : Telugu
• Religion : Jainism, Hinduism (Saivism)Royal Emblem : Garuda, Varaha
• Kakatiyas are descendants of Karikala Chola King of Durjaya clan, who initially started as vassals of the
Chalukyas in India, and later emerged as a ruling dynasty, with their capital at Kakatipura (probably named after
the village diety, Kakatamma) or present day Warangal, in the state of Telangana, India.
• Kakatiyas were the devotees of Goddess Kakati.
• They were said to originate from Chaturthakula and they allied themselves by matrimony to chiefs of the Shudra
caste, although in many documents related to gifts given in the Brahmins, their ancestry has been traced to the
Solar dynasty of the Ikshvaku kshatriyas.
• The Kakatiya period was rightly called the brightest period of the Telugu history. The entire Telugu speaking
area was under the kings who spoke Telugu and encouraged Telugu. They established order throughout the
strife torn land and the forts built by them played a dominant role in the defence of the realm. Anumakonda
and Gandikota among the 'giridurgas', Kandur and Narayanavanam among the 'vanadurgas', Divi and Kolanu
among the 'jaladurgas', and Warangal and Dharanikota among the 'sthaladurgas' were reckoned as the most
famous strongholds in the Kakatiya period. The administration of the kingdom was organized with accent on the
military.
• Though Saivism continued to be the religion of the masses, intellectuals favoured revival of Vedic rituals. They
sought to reconcile the Vaishnavites and the Saivites through the worship of Harihara. Arts and literature found
patrons in the Kakatiyas and their feudatories. Tikkana Somayaji, who adorned the court of the Telugu Chola
ruler Manumasiddhi II, wrote the last 15 cantos of the Mahabharata which was lying unfinished. Sanskrit, which
could not find a place in the Muslim-occupied north, received encouragement at the hands of the Kakatiyas.
Prataparudra was himself a writer and he encouraged other literature.
• The Kakatiya dynasty expressed itself best through religious art. Kakatiya art preserved the balance between
architecture and sculpture, that is, while valuing sculpture, it laid emphasis on architecture where due. The
Kakatiya temples, dedicated mostly to Siva, reveal in their construction a happy blending of the styles of North
India and South India which influenced the political life of the Deccan.
• Building temple and lake (an irrigation tank) side by side was the tradition of the Kakatiya. The remains
of immense irrigation tanks and channels show that the rulers of the country devoted great attention to the
improvement of agriculture.There was enormous accumulations of wealth, consisting of gold, precious stones
(including Kohinoor diamond), and elephants. The people appear to have been brave, happy, and prosperous,
and from west to east thy were scattered around numerous holy shrines which brought together thousands of
pilgrims.
Important points of Kakatiya Dynasty

• Motupalli port was famous for foreign trade during the period of Kakatiyas.
Ministers during the period of Kakatiyas were called as Tirthas.
• Vidyanatha wrote Prataparudra Yashobhusanam.
• Bayyaram Cheruvu inscription was issued by Mailamba.
• Magallu inscription was issued by Danarnava.
• Achitendra was the author of Hanumakonda inscription.
• .Rudradeva issued Hanumakonda inscription about the victories of Prolaraja II in 1163.
• The gold coin during the period of Kakatiyas was called Gadvanam.
750 - 768 : Venna Founder of the Kakatiya line. Mentioned in Bayyaram inscription.
• Ganapatideva completed building Orugallu (Warangal) and shifted the capital from Hanumakonda to Warangal.
• Started Inner stone wall of Warangal.
• March 31, 1213 AD : Contruction of Ramappa Temple Completed by Recharla Rudra during Ganapatideva
reign.
• Ramappa Cheruvu, Pakala Cheruvu, Lakkavaram Cheruvu were dug during Ganapatideva reign
10. Vijayanagara kingdom

• Foundation of Vijaynagar kingdom (1336 – 1646 CE):Vijaynagar kingdom was one of the important kingdoms
in the medieval Indian history. Vijaynagar Dynasty rules over India for 3 centuries. It is a history full of wars with
Bahamani and other muslim rulers of northern Deccan, collectively said as Deccan sultanates.Vijayanagara is in
Bellary District of northern Karnataka. It is the name of the now-ruined capital city of the historic Vijayanagar
Kingdom which extended over the southern part of India that included the territories of Mysore, Trichinopally,
Kanara, Pondicherry, Chingalpet and Kanchivaram.
• Two brothers Harihara (Hakka) I and Bukka Raya laid the foundation of the Vijaynagar city, which was on the
South bank of TungabhadraRiver near Anegudi Fortress. They were also known as Sangama brothers. Vijaynagar
Empire consolidated under Harihara I and began to expand and prosper under Bukka Raya which was more
defensible and secure for its location between 14th and 16th century. It is said that a sage Madhav Vidyaranya
and his brother Sayana were the inspirational source for this empire. The rulers were strict worshipers of the
Hindu Gods and Goddess, but also tolerant towards the other religions. The emperors were great patrons of art
and culture. The region influenced a development in the streams of music, literature and architecture. Many
temples built in the territories of the south represent the style of Vijaynagar kingdom. The economy of the region
flourished and several coins were introduced during the reign of the rulers of the Vijaynagar Empire.
• Kings of Vijaynagara Dynasty: There were four dynasties ruled over Vijaynagar -- Sangama Dynasty, Saluva
Dynasty, Tuluva Dynasty and Aravidu Dynasty.
• Sangama Dynasty (1336-1485) – longest reign Harihar and Bukka were sons of Sangama, feudatories of
Kakatiyas of Warangal. The Hoysala kingdom was conquered and hence, the Vijayanagara empire was extended
under Harihara. Bukka, then succeeded his brother and became the master of Raichur doab after dealing with
Bahmani Sultan. He destroyed the Madurai Sultans and extended the Empire to the whole of South India.
Sāyaṇa and Madhava were learned commentator on the Vedas, were ministers under Bukka I and Harihara
II. The conflict between Vijayanagara and Bahmani kingdoms was a long lasting one. The bone of contention
was the Raichur Doab, between river Krishna and Tungabhadra and Krishna-Godavari delta. The greatest ruler
of Sangama dynasty was Deva Raya II. During his reign, Abdur Razzak, the envoy of Shah Rukh visited the
Vijaynagara kingdom.
• Saluva Dynasty (1486-1505 AD) – smallest reign Saluva Narsimhan was the founder of Saluva dynasty. He
silenced the rebellions of feudatories and kept the kingdom intact. Immadi Narsimha succeeded him. He was a
weak ruler and hence the control of state fell into the hands of Narsa Nayaka. Vasco da Gama landed in Calicut
during his time in 1498.
• Tuluva Dynasty (1505-1570 AD) The son of Narsa Nayaka, Vira Narsimha was the founder of Tuluva dynasty.
He was succeeded by his half brother, Krishnadeva Raya in 1509 AD.
Krishnadeva Raya
• At the time of Krishnadevaraya’s accession to the throne, the condition of the empire was unstable, as he had
to deal with rebellious subordinates and aggression of the Gajapathis of Orissa and the Muslim kingdoms in
the north. Krishna Deva Raya won the Gajapati kingdom in present day Orissa and extended the Vijaya nagara
empire to that region as well. Krishna Deva Raya defeated the Deccan Sultans in the battle of Diwani. He then
invaded Raichur Doab(between Tungabhadra and Krishna river, known for its fertile soil) confronting Sultan of
Bijapur, Ismail Adil Shah. He also captured Bidar. He helped the Portuguese to conquer Goa from the Bijapur
rulers in 1510 and maintained friendly relations with them. This relationship also helped him obtain high bred
Arabian horses and expansion of overseas trade of the empire. Portuguese travelers Domingo Paes and Durate
Barbosa visted his court and have left accounts. Krishna Deva Raya was a contemporary of Babur. So, when the
First Battle of Panipat(1526) was fought, Krishnadeva Raya was was the ruler of Vijayanagar in the southern
India. Krishna Deva Raya was a Vaishainaite but respected all religions. He was a devotee of Lord Venkateshwara
of Tirupati. Vallabhacharya and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the renowned saints of the bhakti movement visited
his court. Madhwa saint Vyasathirtha was the Rajaguru of Krishnadevaraya. He is also known as ‘Andhra
Bhoja’, for his patronage of art and literature. Also known as Abhinava Bhoja, he himself was also a scholar,
he wrote the Telugu work Amuktamalyada and a Sanskrit play, Jambavati Kalyana. In his court, eight eminent
scholars known as ‘Astadiggajas’ were patronized, like – Allasani Peddana (Andhra-kavita-pitamaha) and Nandi
Thimmanna. The imperial court had representatives of Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada and Tamil poets, who made
large contributions to their respective literatures. He built Vijaya Mahal, Hazara Ramaswamy temple and Vithal
Swami temple at Vijayanagar . He also built ‘Rayagopurams’. A new city was built called ‘Nagalapuram’ in
memory of his queen Nagaladevi. Also a reservoir across river Tungabhadra called Vallabapuram and a channel
called Basavanna were constructed. Krishnadevaraya repaired and restored many south Indian temples, hence,
most of the big towers on temples in south India have the name Raya gopuram in his honour. Acchutadeva
suceeded Krishnadeva . The later rulers were Sadashiva Raya but defacto ruler then was Rama Raya. Battle
of Rakshasa- TangadiRama Raya took active part in Muslim politics. In 1565 AD, all the Sultanates joined a
coalition against Vijayanagr except Berar. The Battle of Talikota, also known as Battle of Rakshasa- Tangadi,
led to execution of Rama Raya after being taken prisoner. Thereafter, the city of Vijayanagar was destroyed and
looted.
Aravidu Dynasty(1570-1650 AD)

• Tirumala Raya ruled in name of Sadashiva Raya. They failed to repopulate Vijayanagar and shifted to new capital
at Penugonda and then to Chandragiri. The last ruler of Vijayanagar was Sri Ranga III. Administration under
Vijayanagar Empire: The kingdom was divided into provinces known as Mandalam, headed by ‘mandaleshwar’.
It was further divided into nadu, sthala and grams. Land revenue was fixed at 1/6th of the produce. Land revenue
varied according to nature of cultivated land. There were taxes on various professions. The Ayagar system: It was
an important feature of the village organization in vijayanagar. According to this, every village was a separate
unit and its affairs were conducted by a team of 12 functionaries who were collectively known as the ‘ayagars’.
They were granted tax-free lands (manyams) which they were to enjoy in perpectuity for their services. Once
granted, these ayagars had a hereditary right over their offieces. The ayagars could also sell or mortgage their
offices. For justice, very harsh punishments like mutilation of body, throwing to elephants were delivered. The
army under Vijayanagar Kingdom was well organised and efficient. It consisted of cavalry, infantry, artillary
and elephants. The highest grade officers in army were known as ‘Nayaks or Poligars‘. They were awarded land
in lieu of their services. The Nayakara system: Under this system, the king was considered to be the owner of
the soil and he distributed the lands to his nayakas. Nayakas had to pay a fixed annual financial contribution to
the imperial exchequer which, according to the chronicle of Nuniz, was generally half their revenue. They were
required to maintain a sufficient number of troops for the king and serve them in his war. The nayaka enjoyed
greater freedom in his province. There was no system of transfer from one district to another. Society under
Vijayanagar empire: The city of Vijayanagar was a luxurious society with splendid buildings. Slavery was
prevalent, as mentioned by Nicolo Conti. Silk and cotton clothes were mainly used for dresses. Vijayanagar
markets were noted for dealing in spices, textiles and precious stones. Religious tolerance was shown towards
everyone. Muslims were also employed in the administration. A large number of temples were built during this
time. Epics and Puranas were popular among masses.
• Position of Women: – Women were employed in royal palaces. Some women scholars like Hannamma,
Thirumalamma and Gangadevi, who wrote Madhuravijayam. Subordinate condition of women: Devadasi
system was flourishing under Vijayanagar Kingdom, dancing girls were attached to the temples. Polygamy
was prevalent among royal families. Sati practice was also recounted by traveller accounts. Architecture under
Vijayanagar Empire: It is generally understood that the very location site of Vijayanagara was inspired by the
existence of the shrines of Virupaksha and Pampadevi. This is supported by the fact that, the Vijayanagara kings
claimed to rule on behalf of the god Virupaksha. Vijayanagar rulers began the practice of wall inscriptions
containing stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata on temples. Vithalswamy and Hazara Rama temple has such
inscriptions.
• The chief characteristic feature of Vijayanagar Architecture was the construction of tall Raya Gopurams(gateways)
and kalyan mandapas(open pavilion) with carved pillars. These mandapas were meant for seating deities on
festival occasions. Amman shrines were added to existing temples. The Varadhraja and Ekamparanatha temple
at Kanchipuram are also examples of Vijayanagar style of Architecture.
Foreign Visitors of Vijayanagara Kingdom:

• Ibn Bututa (1333-1347 A.D.) — Moroccan traveller, who visited India during the reign of Muhammad-bin-
Tughlaq. And came to Vijayanagar during the reign of Harihar I.
• Nicolo Conti (1420-1421 A.D.) — Venetian traveller, who gave a comprehensive account of the Hindu kingdom
of Vijayanagar.
• Abdur Razzaq (1443-1444 A. D.) — Persian traveller, who stayed at the court of the Zamorin at Calicut. He
has given a vivid account of the Vijayanagar city, while describing the wealth and luxurious life of the king and
the nobles.
• Duarte Barbosa (1500-1516 A.D.) — Portuguese traveller, who has given a valuable narrative of the government
and the people of the Vijayanagar empire.
• Domingos Paes (1520-1522 A.D) — Portuguese traveller, who visited the court of Krishnadeva
• Fernao Nuniz (1534-1537 A.D) — Portuguese merchant, who wrote the history of the empire from its earliest
days to the closing years of Acchyutdeva Raya’s reign.
11. Bahmani Kingdom

• The Bahmani Sultanate or Bahmanid Empire was a Muslim state of the Deccan in southern India and was one
of the great medieval Indian kingdoms. It was North Deccan region to the river Krishna. According to some
Muslim historian a rebel chieftain of Saulatabad (an area around Ellora), was under Muhammad Bin Tughalaq.
The sultanate was founded on 3rd of August 1347 by the Turkish Governor Ala-ud-Din Hassan Bahman Shah/
Hasan Gangu/ Allauddin Hassan, possibly of Tajik-Persian descent, who revolted against the Sultan of Delhi,
Muhammad bin Tughluq. Nazir uddin Ismail Shah who had revolted against the Delhi sultanate stepped down
on that day in favour of Zafar Khan/ Hassan Gangu who ascended the throne with the title of Alauddin Bahman
Shah. His revolt was successful, and he established an independent state on the Deccan, including parts of
present day Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh within the Delhi Sultanate's southern provinces. The
Bahmani contested the control of the Deccan with the Hindu Vijayanagara Empire to the south. The Bahmani
capital was Ahsanabad (Gulbarga) between 1347 and 1425 when it was moved to Muhammadabad (Bidar). The
sultanate reached the peak of its power during the vizierate (1466–1481) of Mahmud Gawan. About eighteen
kings ruled during the nearly 200 years. After 1518 the kingdom got divided into four smaller ones like Barishahi
(Bidar), Kutbshahi (of Golkonda), Adamshahi( of Ahmadnagar), and Adilshahi (of Bijapur), known collectively
as the Deccan sultanates.
• History of Bahamani Kingdom : Allauddin Hassan, a man of humble origin assumed the name of Gangu
Bahamani in memory of his patron, a brahmin. Hasan Gangu declared the founder of the Bahamani Dynasty
and ruled it under the title of Bahaman Shah. Bahamani was in constant war with south, kingdom of Vijaynagar.
Firuz Shah Bahamani left his remarkable foot prints over the Bahamani history. He was a learned man and
having knowledge of many religions and natural science. He always wanted to develop the Deccan region as
the cultural hub of India. He waged three battles against Vijaynagar Empire, and also extended his territories of
Warangal. He gave up his kingdom and throne to his brother Ahmed shah I.Agriculture was the main economic
activity of Bahamani kingdom for earning the main revenue of the state.The nobles in the Bahamani Kingdom
were classified into two categories, Deccanis (old comers) and the Afaquis (new comers). They were always
having problem of difference of opinion. Mahmud Gawan was a minister in Bahamani Empire who expanded
and extended the Bahamani Kingdom rapidly. He was categorized as Afaqui and hence it was difficult for him
to win the trust and confidence of the Deccanis. He was executed at the age of seventy by Muhammad Shah of
Deccan in the year 1482 for his policy which made matters worse in Deccanis and Afaquis.
• Culture of Bahamani : The Bahamani kingdom flourished in architectural monuments. In the field of
architecture, the Bahamanis paved way for the distinct style by inviting architects from Persia, Turkey, and
Arabia and blended it with local styles. The culture that developed during this time was a blend of both north
and south styles and also had its own distinct styles. Gumbaz (the largest dome in the world) and Charminar
located at Hyderabad are the world famous examples of Bahamani architecture. The Bahanamis of Deccan
left an important heritage of Indo-Islamic art, language, and spread of Islamic tradition in South India. Hazrat
Banda Nawaz (1321 - 1422 CE) the great Sufi saint was patronized by the Bahamani kings and his Dargah of
Gulbarga is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Muslims alike. Mahmud Gawan arrived in Bidarfrom Persia
in 1453. A great scholar of Islamic lore, he founded the Madarassa (institution) from his own funds on the line
of universities of Samarkhand and Khorasan. A selefless worker, he became a prime-minister of Bahamani king
Mahmud III (1462- 82) whom he tutored in earlier days. But Gawan became a victim of the palace intrigue and
was beheaded by the drunken king.
12. Qutub-Shahi Era

• The Qutb Shahi dynasty held sway over the Andhra country for about two hundred years from the early part
of the 16th century to the end of the 17th century. Sultan Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of the dynasty, served
the Bahmanis faithfully and was appointed governor of Telangana in A.D.1496. He declared independence
after the death of his patron king, Mahmud Shah, in A.D.1518. During his 50-year rule, Sultan Quli extended
his kingdom upto Machilipatnam. He was murdered by his third son, Jamsheed, who succeeded Sultan Quli.
Jamsheed reigned for seven years till A.D.1550 but remained maligned by all for his patricidal crime. His
youngest brother, Ibrahim, who was hardly thirteen at the time of his father’s assassination, fled to Vijayanagar
and took refuge there. It afforded him a training ground and he learned the art of administration.
• After Jamsheed’s death in A.D.1550, Ibrahim returned to Golconda and ascended the throne. Ibrahim Qutb Shah,
who was known as Malkibharam in the Andhra country, was the real architect of the Golconda kingdom. He ruled
the kingdom for 30 years from A.D.1550 to A.D.1580. He organised the central and provincial governments and
brought them into close contact. He also introduced an efficient intelligence service which kept him informed on
all affairs. The kingdom was made safe for travel and trade. Ibrahim had also many works of public utility to his
credit. He dug lakes and tanks and laid out towns and gardens. He also encouraged local language Telugu and
patronised Telugu scholars and poets like, Telaganarya and Gangadhara who dedicated their works to him.
• Ibrahim took an active part in the battle of Rakkasi Tangadi in A.D.1565. It immensely benefited him in cash and
territories, and the kingdom was extended to the south as far as Madras and Gandikota.
• The next period of forty years led by Ibrahim’s son and grandson was an era of peace and prosperity. Muhammad
Quli, son of Ibrahim, was a great writer and a builder. The city of Hyderabad was laid in A.D.1591 with
magnificent buildings, straight roads and other civic amenities. For this purpose, he invited many Persians to
settle down in Hyderabad and Machilipatnam. He was a scholar and a poet, composed a large number of poems
in the Deccani language. Muhammad Quli was succeeded by his nephew and son-in-law Sultan Muhammad in
A.D.1612. He was highly religious and a model of virtue and piety. He followed his uncle in promoting learning
and architecture. The great mosque known as Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad was designed and its foundation laid
by him, though the main structure of the Mosque was completed during the next four generations.
• In 1463, disturbances broke out in the Telangana area of the Bahmani kingdom of the Deccan. Sultan Quli
Qutbul-Mulk, a Turk who was a high-ranking military officer under Muhammad Shah Bahmani, was sent to
quell the trouble.
• He was successful and was rewarded by being made the subedar of Telangana in 1495, with Golconda as his
headquarters.
• Subsequently, with the disintegration of the Bahmani Kingdom in the early 16th century, Sultan Quli assumed
virtual independence. Thus he founded the Qutb Shahi dynasty that lasted from 1518 right upto 1687, when
Aurangzebâ€™s armies swept the Deccan.
• Qutb Shahi dynasty spanned 171 years in the history of South India. The eight kings of this royal lineage have
left a firm impression of their strong personalities upon the land and its people.
• The Qutb Shahi rulers were great builders and patrons of learning. They not only patronized the Persian culture
but also the regional culture of the Deccan, symbolized by the Telugu language and the newly developed Deccan
kingdom.
13. Asaf Jahi Dynasty

• The origins of the Asif Jahi dynasty can be traced to Chin Qalich Khan who was the grandfather of the first
Nizam and the commander of the Mughal army during Aurangzeb’s reign. Chin Qalich Khan led the attack of
the Mughal army into the Deccan under his Emperor’s ambitious plans of expanding the Mughal empire. During
Aurangzeb’s last siege of Golconda in 1687, Chin Qalich Khan was wounded. He died in Atapur village near
Himayath Sagar.
• Chin Qalich Khan’s son, Nawab Ghaziuddin Khan, married the daughter of Sadullah Khan, Prime Minister of
Aurangzeb. A son was born, and the Emperor named him Mir Qumaruddin. At the age of six, Mir Qumaruddin
accompanied his father to the Mughal court. Aurangzeb awarded him a mansab, and said to his father, “The
star of destiny shines on the forehead of your son”. Mir Qumaruddin displayed considerable skill as a warrior
and at the age of nineteen, the Emperor bestowed on him the title “Chin Fateh Khan”. At 26, he was appointed
Commander in Chief and Viceroy, first at Bijapur, then Malwa and later of the Deccan.
• Subsequently, the Mughal empire declined. There was much confusion after the death of Aurangzeb, and Mir
Qumaruddin established his position as Viceroy Farukh Siar who was the Mughal Emperor for a brief tenure
conferred on Mir Qumaruddin the title Nizam-ul-mulk Fateh Jung. He thus became the first Nizam. A subsequent
Emperor, Muhammad Shah bestowed on him the title Asif Jah. The dynasty of the Nizams of Hyderabad thus
came to be known as the Asif Jahi Dynasty.
• Unrest and claims to the throne continued after the death of Aurangzeb, and amidst the general confusion, Asif
Jah had little difficulty in asserting his independence from the weak occupants of the Delhi throne. At that time,
Asif Jah was the Sudedar of Malwa. However, his independence was the cause of much jealousy, and the Delhi
court secretly instructed Mubrez Khan, the Subedar of the Deccan, to oppose him. A battle was fought at Shakar-
Khelda in the district of Berer in 1724, where Mubrez Khan was defeated and killed. This battle established Asif
Jah's supremacy in the Deccan. After gaining independence, Asif Jah came to be known as Nizam-ul-Mulk. He
first set up his capital at Auragabad but later moved to Hyderabad, which became the capital of the Asif Jahi
dynasty.
• Nizam-ul-Mulk's greatest achievement was the foundation of the Hyderabad Dominion. He attained his object
by waging a struggle against the Marhattas and by the policy of non-involvement in the rivalry for power
between the British and the French. His policy has been justified by later events as Hyderabad state survived
right through the period of British rule upto the time of Indian independence.
• Asif Jah ruled wisely and established an independent state in the Deccan. He was one of the ablest statesmen.
However, his death at Burhanpur on 21st May 1748 at the age of 78, was followed by a struggle for the throne.
By this time, foreign powers were spreading their tentacles. Asif Jah's second son Nasir Jung was supported by
the British whereas Muzafar Jung, grandson of Asif Jah, was supported by the French. Nasir Jung succeeded; but
after a brief rule he was slain in 1750 in an encounter with the French troops at Arcot. Thereupon, Muzafar Jung
ascended the throne. In the following year he was murdered and his son Salabath Jung was put on the throne. In
1762 Salabeth Jung was dethroned by his brother Nizam Ali Khan, and confined at Bidar where he died in 1793.
• Hence, Nasir Jung, Muzafar Jung and Salabath Jung, who were contestants for the sovereignty of the Deccan in
the short span of thirteen years between the death of Asif Jah and accession of Nizam Ali Khan, have not been
historically recognised as reigning Nizams. If they had been, Nizam Ali Khan would have been known as the
fifth Nizam and not the second.
• Nizam Ali Khan ascended the throne in 1763 and he ruled Hyderabad for almost forty years. This was one of
the eventful periods in the history of India. Foremost among competitors for supremacy in the Deccan were the
Marhattas and it was during this period that the famous French adventurer Monsieur Raymond was employed
by Nizam Ali Khan.
• Nizam Ali Khan died in August 1803 at the age of 72 years after a long and strenuous reign.
• The succession of Sikandar Jah as Nizam was undisputed and he appointed Mir Alam as his Prime Minister.
With the accession to the throne by Sikander Jah and end of war with the Marhattas, there commenced an
entirely new era for Hyderabad. Unfortunately in 1808 the able Minister Mir Alam died and it was he who
was responsible for maintaining good relations wit the British. In 1809, Mir Alam’s son Munir-ul-Mulk was
appointed as Minister.
• Sikander Jah died in May 1829 at the age of 62 after reigning for almost 26 years. Secunderabad was named after
him. Sikander Jah was succeeded by his eldest son Nasir-ud-Daula. It was during his reign that Salar Jung was
appointed as the Minister in 1853. Salar Jung guided the affairs of the Deccan with great wisdom and introduced
several reforms to improve the finances of the Dominion.
• On 17 May 1857 Nasir-ud-Daula died and his son Afzal-ud-Daula became the fifth Nizam. This was the first
time the first war of Indian Independence was fought in the North and there was general disorder in the Deccan.
• After a reign of twelve years, Afzal-ud-Daula expired on 26 February 1869 at the young age of forty three years,
leaving behind the infant prince Mir Mahboob Ali Khan who was hardly three years old.
• Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, who was born on 18 August 1866, was the only son of Afzal-ud-Daula. He was
installed on the masnad by the British Resident and Sir Salar Jung, who also acted as the co-regent. Salar Jung
died in 1883 and a provisional council, consisting of five members, with Mahboob Ali Khan as president and
Mir Laiq Ali Khan, son of Salar Jung, as secretary was appointed for administrative purposes.
• Special attention was paid to the education of Mahboob Ali Khan. With the concurrence of Salar Jung, Capt.
John Clerk was appointed as his tutor. However, the personality of Salar Jung had a great influence on his life.
Brought up under the guidance of this great statesman, Mahboob Ali Khan grew in his later years to be one of the
greatest rulers of his time. He was a respected and dignified personality and was popularly know as ‘Mahboob
Ali Pasha’. He died on Tuesday 31 August 1911.
• Mir Osman Ali Khan, the seventh and the last Nizam of Hyderabad ruled for 37 years (1911 - 1948). His
Dominion was lager than England and Scotland put together, with an area of 86,000 Sq. miles.
• The seventh Nizam led a very simple life, yet he was one of the richest men in the world. He donated generously
to every cause in India as well as abroad irrespective of caste and religion. If it was the Muslim theological
school at Deoband which received financial help, it was also the privilege of the Benaras Hindu University. His
list of donations included Rabindranth Tagore’s Shantiniketan and several other institutions including hospitals,
schools, for famine relief, etc. The golden temple in Amritsar also enjoyed an annual donation.
• The Nizam’s rule saw the growth of Hyderabad economically and culturally. Electricity, railways, roads and
airways developed. Huge reservoirs and irrigation projects such as the Tungabhadra, and Nizamsagar were
completed. The early work on Nagarjunasagar was undertaken. The Osmania University, Colleges and Schools
were founded throughout the state. Nearly all the public buildings currently in such as the Osmania General
Hospital, High Court, Central State Library, Assembly Hall, Jubilee Hall and other buildings in the Public
Garden were built during Osman Ali Khan’s reign.
Culture - Arts and Traditions of Telangana
Introduction
The name ‘Telangana’ is derived from the word ‘Trilinga’ meaning the place of three lingas as according to legends
Lord Shiva’s lingams are found on three mountains Srisailam, Kaleshwaram and Draksharama which form the
boundaries of Telangana. It is mentioned in the Mahabharata as Telingadesha and it is said that the people of this
land sided with the Pandavas in their battle against the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra War. It is also mentioned in the
Aitreyabrahmana, Ramayana and Puranas. The Art, Culture and Traditions of Telangana is a fusion of the Telugu and
Persian culture dating back to the Nizams and Mughals. Hence, there is an influence of Hinduism and Islam. Since
Buddhism was the dominant religion upto the 6th century it was also the home of Mahayana Buddhism. This can be
observed in the monuments of Nagarjunakonda and the World University at the Sri Parvata presided over by Acharya
Nagarjuna. In the 12th century the Kakatiyas and the Chalukyas revived Hinduism and Krishnadeva Raya of the
Vijayanagar Empire restructured old temples and built new ones.
Art
Nirmal Arts Amidst the hills and forests of Adilabad one of the districts of Telangana is the small town of Nirmal. It
has been considered the land of art and crafts. The big community of craftsmen in Nirmal are referred to as ‘Nakkash’.
It is said that this art form originated somewhere around 14th century. By the end of 17th century, this art took a
radical transformation.
This town is famous for its paintings known as Nirmal paintings. These paintings were greatly admired and patronised
by the Mughal rulers in the medieval period and it is said that Lady Hydri later on brought the craftsmen to Hyderabad
to promote their growth and development.
In this, traditional art scenes are painted from the Hindu epics¬ Ramayana and Mahabharata. The paintings have been
influenced by the Indian Schools of Art like Ajanta, Kangra and from Mughal miniatures. The colours used in these
paintings especially the familiar gold colour are produced indigenously from extracts of herbs, gum, vegetable dye
and minerals.
The paintings, whether depicting the grace of a dancer or the rhythm of a musician, enrapture the viewer. It is said that
in the past the Nizam of Hyderabad on visiting Nirmal was given a grand welcome with the artisans decorating the
venue and seat of the Nizam in such a way that an intricately designed banana bud suspended over the Nizam’s seat
unfurled and a cascade of golden petals were showered on the Nizam.
Deccani Paintings Deccani paintings are a style of miniature paintings which flourished among the Deccani
Sultanates in peninsular India in the late 16th century. It was a combination of Vijayanagar wall paintings and Persian
influence with elongated figures and landscapes with floral backgrounds. The colours used were rich and luminous
predominantly in gold and white.
Kalamkari paintings These paintings originated from the word ‘kalam’ meaning pen and ‘kari’ meaning work.
Colourful designs are applied on cloth using vegetable dyes. Scenes from Hindu mythology are depicted though
Persian designs and motifs are included due to the influence of Muslim rulers. Hand carved blocks are used to do the
outlines and main features and the pen is used for finer details.
Cheriyal Scroll Paintings These paintings are stylised versions of Nakashi art which is an art form practised in
Cheriyaldistrict of Warangal in the Telangana region. They are used for storytelling and their themesare drawn from
folklore and mythology like the Puranas and Epics. The format of thesepaintings is narrative like a film role or a comic
strip. They were traditionally used by theballadeer or story telling community known as ‘Kaki Padagollu’. They went
from village tovillage singing and narrating their ballads with music and dance displaying these scrolls in aseries of
horizontal or vertical panels on a stage erected on four poles with a horizontal bar.The length of the scroll depended on
the length of the story and each scroll could have about50 panels. The panel depicting that particular part of the story
would be displayed as the bardwould narrate the story. In modern times instead of a continuous scroll single pictures
arepainted as wall decorations. The making of the canvas is an elaborate procedure with Khadicotton, rice starch,
white mud, boiled tamarind seeds and gum water. The artists then sketchthe outline on the canvas with a brush made
of a stick with squirrel’s hair. They are painted invivid hues with the red colour predominantly in the background.
Sculptures
Sculptures made of stone, marble or wood are made in the Telangana region into various animal and bird forms.
Sculptures of deities in various forms in intricate and aesthetic styles are crafted by the artisans. Examples of fine
sculptures can be seen in the Ramappa temple in Warangal, the thousand pillar temple built by the Kakatiyas in the
town of Hanamakonda in Telangana and the Alampur temples in Mahbubnagar.
Ramappa Temple:
It lies in a valley at Palampet village of Venkatapur Mandal, in erstwhile Mulug Taluq of Warangal district, a tiny
village long past its days of glory in the 13th and 14th centuries.An inscription in the temple dates it to the year 1213
and said to have been built by a General Recherla Rudra, during the period of the Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva.
This medieval temple is a Shivalaya (where Shiva is worshipped) and named after the sculptor Ramappa. It is the
only temple in the world named after its sculptor/architect. Its presiding deity, Ramalingeswara, is the form of Shiva
and a personal god of the Avatar of Vishnu, Rama. The history says that it took 40 years to build this temple. Planned
and sculpted by Ramappa, the temple was built on the classical pattern of being lifted above the world on a high
star-shaped platform. Intricate carvings line the walls and cover the pillars and ceilings. Starting at its base to its wall
panels, pillars and ceiling are sculpted figures drawn from Hindu mythology. The roof (garbhalayam) of the temple is
built with bricks, which are so light that they are able to float on water.
Architecture
The Thousand Pillar Temple is one of the very old temples of South India that was built by the kakatiyas. It stands out
to be a masterpiece and achieved major heights in terms of architectural skills by the ancient kakathiya vishwakarma
sthapathis. It is believed that the Thousand Pillar Temple was built by King Rudra Deva in 1163 AD. The Thousand
Pillar Temple is a specimen of the Kakatiyan style of architecture of the 12th century.
It was destroyed by the Tughlaq dynasty during their invasion of South India. It consists one temple and other
building. There are one thousand pillars in the building and the temple, but no pillar obstructs a person in any point of
the temple to see the god in the other temple.
Alampur Temples: There are a total of nine temples in Alampur. All of them are dedicated to Shiva. These temples
date back to the 7th century A.D and were built by the Badami Chalukyas rulers who were great patrons of art and
architecture. Even after a time span of several hundred years, these grand temples still stand firm reflecting the rich
architectural heritage of the country.
The temples are emblematic of the Northern and Western Indian styles of architecture. They do not reflect the
Dravidian style of architecture as is generally common with the temples in this region. The shikharas of all these
temples have a curvilinear form and are adorned with the miniature architectural devices. The plans and decoration
similar to that of the rock cut temples. The Alampur Navabhrama Temples are historically important and reflect
remarkable architectural skills.
Alampur was previously Known as Halampuram, Hamalapuram And Alampuram. Name of this place as Hatampura,
mentioned in the inscription dated AD 1101 belongs to Western Chalukya
Cultural Sites Museums Telangana has many museums which have prized collections of different civilisations
depicting the culture of the various kingdoms of the state. They are:
Salar Jung MuseumIt is one of the three National museums of India and is located in the city of Hyderabad in
Telangana. The art objects were collected by three generations of the Salar Jung family with the major portion of
the collection acquired by Salar Jung III (Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan) who devoted his entire life to collecting rare
and precious art objects. It was originally stored in his ancestral palace ‘Dewan Deodi’. Thereafter his heirs decided
to form a museum to store the various artefacts, books and manuscripts in 1968. The collection comprises antiques
and art objects not only from India but also from Western, Middle East and Far East countries. It is a treasure house
of art from different cultures like Roman, Greek, Hindu, Jain Buddhist, Islamic and Christian culture and a cultural
centre for research projects, exhibits as well as an educational centre. These include paintings, sculptures, metal ware,
carvings, ceramics, ivory, lacquer ware, porcelain, metal ware, glass etc and a huge library of books, journals and
manuscripts.
Hyderabad MuseumIt is located at Hyderabad’s public garden and is the state’s oldest museum. It has many galleries
containing bronze and stone sculptures, paintings, textiles, manuscripts, arts and antiquities representing Vijayanagara
and Chalukyan period including Buddhist artefacts.
Nizam Museum or City Museum This museum which is situated in the palace (Purani Haveli) of the last Nizam of
Hyderabad Asaf Jah VII (Osman Ali Khan Bahadur) contains treasures which include artefacts of swords, daggers
studded with precious stones, figurines, Neolithic pottery, coins of Satavahana period etc.
National History Museum This museum is located inside the Nehru Zoological Park in Hyderabad and contains
many artefacts and stuffed dummies of extinct animals and birds.
Crafts
Bidri Craft This craft form is said to have originated in Iran centuries ago and brought down by migrants. It has been
nourished and maintained by future generations of practitioners and is said to have derived its name from the town
Bidar of the erstwhile princely Hyderabad state now currently part of Karnataka. It is the unique art of silver engraved
on metal. It involves four stages of manufacturing namely casting, engraving, inlaying and oxidising. Black colours
for surface ornamentation are used for Bidri art which does not fade easily and is accompanied by silver and gold
coatings. An alloy of zinc and copper called gunmetal is used for this art. Flower vases, jewellery boxes, key chains
and other artefacts are made which is very popular all over the world.
Dokra Metal Craft This metal craft could be seen centuries earlier in the artefacts of Mohenjo Daro. It is a bell metal
craft which combines skills of metallurgy with wax technique and though it originated in West Bengal, Chhatisgarh
and Jharkhand it travelled to Orissa and Andhra Pradesh mainly in the district of Adilabad. Dokra is an ancient
technique of casting wherein wax threads are wrapped around an inner core of clay model. Molten brass or bronze is
poured into an opening which has been covered with another layer of clay. It is a very labour intensive work and each
piece crafted is different from the other. Simple art forms and traditional designs are made like tribal Gods, figurines,
caskets, bowls etc and its aesthetic beauty is in great demand in India and abroad.
Nirmal toys and handi crafts Initially the Nirmal artisans restricted themselves to art form. But later local talent was
exploited and decorative and utility articles began to be manufactured. Nirmal toys are carved out of Puniki wood or
‘Puniki Chekka’ which is flexible and light and can be cut into various shapes and sizes. The various parts of the toys
are then coated with ‘Chinta Leppam’ which is a specially prepared glue prepared from boiled tamarind seeds and
sawdust and coated with white clay which smoothens any depressions or ridges present in the toys. The artefacts and
wall plaques are made of teak wood which is well finished on lathe before painting the preconceived design. Then
Duco paint in the desired background colour is sprayed on the plaque and finally the artisan paints the design. The
quality and beauty of the finished products is breath taking. In modern times experimentation with various hues and
shades without moving away from tradition has been evolved. A variety of aesthetic household and office furniture
and decorative furnishings too are made by the craftsmen.
Banjara Needle Craft This needle craft is practised by the Banjaras or tribals of Telangana. It is made up of
needlework with geometric patterns of squares, diamonds and triangles. Colourful and different types of stitches with
mirror work, beads and shells are made on rich and brightly coloured clothes. These are different from the embroidery
and design work of the tribals of Gujarat and Kutch region. These beautiful designs and intricate patterns are used in
clothes, bags, bedspreads and bring an exotic look to the decor of a place.
Bronze Castings The bronze castings of Telangana are world famous and detailed information can be obtained
from the Shilpa Shastras which is a text from the Gupta period on the methodology of casting images in metal. The
Vishnusamhita an appendix to the Vishnu Purana refers to wax modelling for making metal objects. The ancient
Sanskrit text Manasara Shilpa has a chapter entitled Lost wax Method or Maduchhistha Vidhanam giving details of
casting idols in wax. The Abhilasitartha Chintamani or Manasollasa written by King Bhulokamalla Someshvara of
the Chalukya dynasty gives detailed description of lost wax and casting methods. Srikumara’s Silparatna contains
instructions on the hollow casting procedure. Studying all these detailed procedures the craftsmen make the idols
with accurate measurements and descriptions of the deity in proper proportion bringing out the salient features and
characteristics. Several coatings of clay on a finished wax model are used to create the mould which then imparts
intricate curves to the cast image.
Lacquer Ware Lac is said to have been first mentioned in 1590 AD in Aaine Akbari written by Abul Fazl.
Lac is a gummy deposit obtained from insects which are tiny and red in colour and which thrive on certain species
of trees. This craft involves applying lacquer on wood in different colours which is done on a lathe or ‘turned toys’
and can be machine or hand operated. A light species of wood called Ankudu karra is generally used and the lacstick
is pressed against the woodenware to be lacquered. Designs are painted on toys and figures using a brush. The lac is
applied in a dry state. The lac is softened with the help of the heat evolved from the friction during the revolving of
the woodenware and enables the colour to stick. The most popular form of lacquer ware are the lac bangles studded
with mirrors, beads and stones in attractive colours and designs. Besides this many decorative items like bowls, vases,
containers etc are made.
Music
Telangana has a music tradition of Carnatic music and folk music. The different forms of folk music are
Oggukatha
It is a traditional folk singing art carried out by some communities who sing songs in the form of ballads in praise
of their tribal Gods and on Lord Shiva moving from one place to another. They narrate and dramatise the stories of
the Gods. Sarada Kala In this the story tellers or balladeers narrate stories in song form using the Sarada stringed
instruments.
Dances
Perini Shivathandavam Perini Shivathandavam is a dance which originated in the Kakatiya dynasty which ruledfor
nearly two centuries and established their kingdom in Warangal. It was performedin front of the idol of Lord Shiva
before the soldiers set out to fight in the battle. It is called the ‘Dance of Warriors’ and is usually performed only by
males. Evidence of this dance form can be seen in the sculptures of the Ramappa temple in Warangal in the sanctum
sanctorum or Garbha Gruha of the main temple. This dance is performed vigorously to the beats of drums as the
dancers feel the power of Shiva entering their body as they invoke him in a deep abstract way and is considered highly
invigorating and intoxicating. This dance form was on the verge of extinction after the decline of the Kakatiya Empire
but has been revived in recent times.
Gobbi Dance It is performed during the Sankranthi festival and derives its name from ‘Gobbillu’ or ‘balls of cow
dung’ which are placed in the middle of rangoli designs made in front of houses. These are then worshipped along
with rituals, kumkum, turmeric and flowers. In the evening young girls sing and dance around the Gobbillu in a
circular manner similar to the Garbha dance of Gujarat.
Burra Katha This is a form of storytelling using a musical instrument called ‘Burra’. This art evolved from a dance
called Tandana Katha which was a popular means of entertainment for the rural masses. A Burra Katha group consists
of three artistes the main artist being in the centre dressed with a long flowing dress called angaraksha , a colourful
turban with a crest feather, a tight pyjama or dhoti, a colourful waistband and musical bells on his ankles. He holds a
Burra (a kind of Tambura) in his hand and sings the ballads while playing the instrument. He is called the storyteller
or Kathakudu and his
stories are based on mythology or history. He also wears a metal ring called Andelu in his right hand and holds another
ring in his left hand and beats music with them. He is accompanied by two other artistes one on either side called
Vantalu who are similarly dressed and play the instruments called Barralu or Budigalu or dhaki which are earthern
drums of two heads. One of them is called the Rajkiya who enlivens the session with his satirical political and social
commentary and the other is the Hasyam clown for comic relief. The ballad compositions contain a variety of songs
in content and form in different meters.
Dandaria dance This dance is generally performed by the Gonds of the hilly region of Northern Hyderabad with
Dandas or sticks. The male dancers wear colourful costumes and strike their sticks dancing to the accompaniment
of trumpets and drums with musicians leading the procession. They go from village to village and even the hosts
sometimes accompany them in their dance. According to the Gond legend, Dandaria was an ancient Gond hero who
was the creator of this dance and he was originally a descendant of the Pandavas thus the Gonds believe they too are
descendants of the Pandavas and joyously celebrate this dance.
Dhamal Dance This dance is in mime form and performed by the Siddhis of Hyderabad region. The Siddhis are said
to be originally from Africa and Abyssinia who were brought into Andhra as slaves in the 12th century to perform
guard duties in the palaces by the Hindu Kings. The ruling classes used them as sailors, soldiers and guards. It is in
the form of martial art using shields and swords and they perform various steps and is a ceremonial dance performed
during marriages to the accompaniment of various musical instruments. Their exotic dances with special war like
movements and exotic colourful costumes reflect the flavour of their land of origin.
Mathuri Dance This is a special dance performed by the Madhuri tribe of Adilabad during the rainy season of the
month of Shravan. Unlike in most of the dance forms which are performed predominantly by men including roles of
women, this dance is performed by both men and women with men in the outer semi circle and women in the inner
circle. The men strike small sticks while women clap to the accompaniment of secular and devotional songs. These
tribes were said to have been originally from Mathura and hence their dance is said to bear resemblance to the Ras
Leela dances of Uttar Pradesh.
Bhamakalpam and Gollakalapam These are famous folk art forms of traditional drama written by Sidhendra Yogi
in the 7th century. Kalapam is a one act folk play in a simple traditional dance drama form. A Sutradhar gives the main
running commentary of the sequence and each character narrates his story with another character making comments
or asking questions. The main emphasis is Satthvikabhinaya with Bhakti or Shringar Rasa. This dance form with
emphasis on moral values was initiated by Sidhendra Yogi to differentiate it from the dances performed by the nautch
girls of those times. He trained young boys from the Brahmin community with complex expressions and elaborate
gestures as in the Kuchipudi dance form with philosophical stories forming the main theme wherein a simple milkmaid
explains to an erudite Brahmin concepts of Dharma and the philosophy behind the various incarnations of God on
earth.
Festivals Besides the common festivals celebrated throughout the year there are many festivals significant to the
region. They are:
Bathukamma This festival is celebrated by the women of Telangana during Mahalaya Amavasya or Bhadrapada
Amavasya in the month of September – October during Navratri for a period of nine days and is now declared the
State Festival of Telengana. The first day is on Mahalaya Amavasya and the last day culminates on Ashwayuja
Ashtami or Durgashtami two days before Dussehra. This day is called Pedda Bathukamma or Saddula Bathukamma.
‘Bathukamma’ or ‘Divine Mother Gauri– Life Giver’ is said to be the patron Goddess for women. Women dress up
in traditional finery, clean their
courtyard, use cow dung as base and decorate it with various designs of Rangoli using rice flour. For the first five
days five small cone shaped lumps with cow dung are arranged in the courtyard. Men help in gathering various kinds
of flowers including rare and wild flowers found in the various plains of the region. These flowers are decorated and
scented and stacked in a conical mound with a lotus or pumpkin flower on the top along with a symbolic mound of
turmeric depicting Goddess Gauri. In the evening women form a circle around it clapping and singing folk songs
slowly revolving around in small steps. The songs invoke the blessings of the various Goddesses for the happiness,
good health and prosperity of their families.
Boddemma
This festival commences nine days prior to Bathukamma festival and concludes on Mahalaya Amavasya. It is a
festival for unmarried girls. The courtyard is cleaned and decorated with turmeric, flowers and Rangoli. An image of
Boddemma is prepared in seven layers with earth in the shape of a Gopura. In the evening all unmarried girls sing and
dance around it praying to the Goddess for an early and successful marriage.
Bonalu This festival is celebrated to pray to Goddess Mahakali and began during the period of the Nizams. It is said
that during the outbreak of plague in the 18th century in Hyderabad, people prayed that they would instal an idol of
Mahakali if the disease was destroyed and hence this festival is celebrated. Another version states that the Goddess
returns to her parental home in the month of Ashadi and the occasion is welcomed and celebrated as Bonalu. Women
and unmarried girls dress up in traditional finery dancing with Bonam (balancing pots) to the rhythmic beats of drums.
Devotees offer a Thottelu or a small colourful paper structure supported by sticks as a mark of respect. The brother
of the Goddess represented by Pothuraju is a man anointed with turmeric and vermilion draped in a red dhoti with
bells in his ankles who dances to resounding drums and leads the female dancers to the temple. Streets are decorated
with neem leaves and the Goddess is offered cooked rice with milk and sugar in brass or earthern pots decorated with
neem leaves, turmeric and vermillion.
Sadar
The people belonging to the Gola caste or the Yadav community celebrate this festival on the second day after
Diwali and it is also known as the Dunnapothula Panduga or the Buffalo festival. Buffaloes are decorated in festive
colours, turmeric with bells around their necks and are taken around the streets. Competitions are held and awards
are presented to the owners of the buffaloes. Samakka Saralamma This festival is held once every two years in the
month of February and is celebrated for four days attracting a large number of pilgrims to Warangal. Samakka and
Saralamma are the mother and daughter duo revered as tribal Goddesses. According to legends they fought against
the unjust and unfair rulers of the kingdom and are worshipped and revered to this day. All the tribal population
gather together and offer prayers and Thulabaram (offering objects equal to body weight) generally of jiggery to the
Goddesses. They then take a dip in the Jampanna Vagu where Jampanna was said to be the son of Samakka and he
died sacrificing his life for the sake of the tribal people in his battle against the Kakatiya rulers.
Bhimanna or Ayak This festival is celebrated by the Kolam tribes of Adilabad and falls in the Kolam month of Satti.
It lasts for three days. Bhimanna or Ayak is the principal deity of the Kolam tribe. He is represented by a carved mace
of wood crowned with peacock feathers, a pot with a belt of bells or anklets and small dolls made of mud, which are
stored in a thatched shed. On a holy Thursday these relics are then brought to the heart of the village. The deity is then
bathed at a hill stream and brought to the enclosure and animal or fowl sacrifice is carried out and offered to the deity.
The meat is then cooked and offered to everyone.
Yedupayala
This annual festival is held in Medak on the holy Mahashivaratri day in a sacred place where the seven tributaries of
the Manjira River join and flow together.
Nagoba Jathara
The Nagoba Jathara that occurs in the village of Keslapur in Adilabad district. The Jathara is an annual celebration by
the Mesaram clan of the Gond tribes is a five day event. It is a huge event which receives participation from the Gond
tribes of Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Orissa and Madhya Pradesh.Members of the Mesaram clan revere the serpent
God Nagoba which forms the main essence of this Jathara. The Nagoba, also known as Shesh Nag, is the divine
serpent of Lord Shiva.Part of this ritual includes introducing newly married women to the clan by paying tribute to
Nagoba, the serpent God. Women who have been married earlier but for some reason have not been able to participate
in this ritual are also included. The women along with their mother-in-law touch the feet of the priests and carry a
new earthenware pot to fetch water from Hastina madugu of river Godavari in Jannaram mandal near to Nagoba
temple. The water is then used to make an anthill which is subsequently worshipped as a sacred object. The women
then congregate at the ‘Govad’ an enclosure close to the temple and prepare Naivedyam or offering to the Lord on 22
makeshift ovens corresponding to the 22 of the Mesaram clan. The Naivedyam or the offering to the Lord comprises
nine different types of food grains. The women cover their faces with their own saris and reveal their faces to Nagoba
on entering his shrine. This indicates that the Lord is the first person they behold when they enter the clan on the new
moon day. This is considered to be extremely auspicious for the new entrants.
Alai Balai
Alai Balai is a cultural event held during the Navarathri festivities before Dussherah The festival aims to spread
brotherhood among people.The festival was started by MP and Minister Bandaru Dattatreya, at Nizam College, but
is now held at Jal Vihar, Tank Bund.The event is well attended by all sections and politicians of all regions. A typical
ambience of the rural area in Telangana is created and is popular for the food festival for its traditional food delicacies.
Conclusion
Telangana has a rich culture and tradition and the artefacts and crafts made by the artisans are in great demand
throughout the world. Their historical designs on cloth and their folk and traditional arts are well known and have
been passed down to generations of artisans and weavers.
Historic Places of Telangana
1. Charminar
• The Charminar is a monument and mosque in Hyderabad, India. The structure was built in 1591 CE. It is
the most famous building of Hyderabad and also one of the most famous buildings in India. It was built by
Muhammad Quli Qutb Shahi to celebrate the end of a deadly plague. The Charminar lies near the bank of the
river Musi. Charminar is taken from two words Char and Minar which translate as Four Towers in English, soar
to a height of 48.7m each, above the ground.
• The structure is of Indo-Islamic architecture with some Persian elements. It was built with granite and lime-
mortar. It is a blend of 'Cazia' and Islamic style of architecture. The intertwined arches and domes are examples
of typical Islamic style of the architecture. The city of Hyderabad was divided into four divisions equally around
the Charminar.
2. Golconda Fort
• Golconda derives its name from the Telugu words Golla konda meaning ‘shepherd’s hill’. Its establishment dates
about 800 years back and was founded by Kakatiya kings of Warangal. It rose to power and fame when Quli
Qutub Shah of Qutub Shahi dynasty decided to operate from there as his capital fort. It was during this dynasty’s
rule that the fort expanded to a much larger area and turned out be a massive one made of granite.
• An interesting fact about this historical landmark is the mind-blowing acoustic effect it produces. A clap made
at the entrance gate can be heard even at the highest point of the fort called ‘Bala Hissar’ situated a kilometre
away. This engineering miracle during those days is indeed remarkable and was implemented so as to protect the
fort from enemy attacks. In ancient times, this was the only known source of diamond across the globe and was
known for producing Kohinoor, Darya-e-nur and Hope diamonds.
3. SalarJung Museum
• The Salar Jung Museum was established in 1951. The major portion of the collection of the museum was
acquired by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, popularly known as Salar Jung III. In the absence of any direct descendants
of Salar Jung III, the Government of India appointed a Committee to administer the Salar Jung Estate. Later on
with the idea of perpetuating his name, the Salar Jung Museum was brought into existence on 16th December,
1951 in Diwan Deodi, the residential palace of Salar Jung III and opened to the public by Pandit Jawarharlal
Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India. In 1958, the Government of India took over the museum through a
compromise deed. In 1961, through an Act of Parliament, the Salar Jung Museum along with its library was
declared as an “Institution of National Importance”. Mir Yousuf Ali Khan was not only a collector of antiques
but he also patronized poets, writers and artists, encouraging literary and cultural activities. He continued with
his zeal as an art connoisseur till the very end of his life enriching his art collections and died as a bachelor on
2nd March,1949 at the age of 60.
4. Warangal Fort
• Warangal Fort is located in Warangal District of Telangana. This fort was formerly the pride of Andhra Pradesh.
This early medieval historical monument was erected by the Kakatiya Kings of 13th century. Although precise
dating of its construction and subsequent enhancements are uncertain, the historians and archaeologists generally
accept that an earlier brick-walled structure was replaced with stone by Ganapatideva, who died in 1262, and
that his successors - Rudramadevi and Prataparudra - added to its height and added gateways, square bastions
and additional circular earthen walls prior to the death of Rudramadevi in the year 1323. The construction of
Warangal Fort, happened towards the end of the Kakatiya period. There were later modifications between the
15th and 17th centuries, comprising principally the addition of barbicans to the four gates in the stone wall and
the creation of gates in the outer earthen wall
• Warangal Torana was also built by the Kakatiya Kings of Warangal of 13th Century. Now the Torana is the
symbol of the Government of Telangana. The Toranas were present because, Warangal is the erstwhile capital of
ancient Andhra Pradesh during 12th to 14th century. It is one of the fine examples of Kakatiya architecture.
5. Bhongir Fort
• It was built in 10th Century on an isolated monolithic rock by the western Chalukya ruler Tribhuvanamalla
Vikramaditya VI and was thus named after him as Tribhuvanagiri.
• At the foot of the fortified rocks 609.6 meters above the sea level stands the town of Bhongir, it has a unique
egg-shaped construction with two entry points protected by huge rocks, so the fort was considered practically
impregnable by invading armies. The splendid historical fort with the awe-inspiring rock and the aesthetically
fortified courts which have stood the ravages of time stir the imagination of tourists. A moat that encircles
the fort, a vast underground chamber, trap doors, an armoury, stables, ponds, wells etc., can make interesting
viewing. The view from the top of the surrounding countryside can be impressive. The Bala Hisar or citadel on
the top of the hill gives a bird's eye view of the neighbouring area. The fort is associated with the rule of queen
Rudramadevi and her grandson Prataparudra.
6. Medak Fort
• Medak Fort is in Medak district about 100 kilometres from the state capital, Hyderabad. It is a huge structure
located on the top of a hill, which was built about 800 years back in Medak. Built about 90 metres height from
ground level and spread in about 100 acres on the hilly area, the fort attracts ones attention. On the top of the
third gate, at both left and right sides the ‘Ganda Bherunda,' emblem of Vijayanagara Empire built by Srikrishna
Devaraya, stands out. It was believed that the fort built by Kakatiya's was renovated by Qutub Shahis's around
400 years ago. The Medak fort, which was ruled by two dynasties -- Kakatiya's and Qutub Shahi's .
7. Medak Church
• Medak Church stands at 173 feet tall made of solid white granite. The church, the single largest diocese in
Asia and the second largest in the world after the Vatican is built in solid white granite. Medak Church was
constructed between 1914 and 1924 and Thomas Edward Harding who is an architect put in all his best efforts
building the cathedral. For the floor, tiles from famous potteries were shipped from England. The tile's design is
an intricate one in six colours - red, brown, black, yellow, chocolate and grey. The three stained glass windows
makes the church apart, created by Sir Frank O' Salisbury of London who painted them in a small studio for
nearly 40 years.
8. Nirmal Fort
• The region was ruled by Kakatiyas, Chalukyas, The Qutubshahis and Nizams who have contributed immensely
to the growth of cultural heritage.
• This legacy of the heritage is seen in the town where the French established a strong presence by building a
magnificent fort, which stands majestically till date. The French who were reportedly very much fascinated by
scenic beauty of Mother Nature here built the Nirmal fort which is also called as the Shamgarh fort.
9. Kolanpak
• Kolanupaka came into prominence when it was made the capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas in the 11th century
AD. The State Department of Archaeology and Museums established a sculptural gallery, which exhibits
artefacts collected from the various historical monuments of Kolanupaka. Artefacts from both the Chalukyan
and Kakatiyan styles are displayed in the museum. The museum has more than 100 images collected around
Kolanupaka.
• Situated here is the renowned Jain Mandir with a 1.5 metre high idol of Lord Mahavira, built during the Rastrkuta-
Kalyani Chalukyas times. Other attractions here include the Sri Veeranarayana Swamy temple built around 1104
A.D., Someswara Swamy temple which is a splendid example of the Chalukya architecture. Kolanpaka Museum
where artefacts from the Chalukyan and Kakatiyan period are on display.
10. Pembarthi
• Pembarthi village in Warangal District is the hometown of this art. This art form, as the name suggests was
popularised by the Pembarthi village sheet metal workers of modern day Warangal during the reign of Kakatiyas.
• During the Kakatiya rule, sheet metal work adorned the chariots of the kings and noblemen and the idols of the
Gods. With the increasing number of temples during the Kakatiya rule the Pembarthi sheet metal work reached
the peak of its popularity. With the decline of the Kakatiya kingdom, the subsequent Muslim influences resulted
in the entry of the sheet metal wares into the house holds in the forms of 'Pandans' (small boxes for carrying
beetle nuts), 'Itar' pots (scent containers), vases, hanging metal lamps, plaques etc. The following years saw a
mixture of both the cultures in Pembarthi articles. The art wore a secular look.
11. Falaknuma Palace

• One of the finest palaces in Hyderabad, India. It is located in the common capital area shared between the states
of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. It belonged to Paigah Hyderabad State, and it was later owned by the Nizams.
It is on a 32-acre (13 ha) area in Falaknuma, 5 km from Charminar. It was built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra,
prime minister of Hyderabad and the uncle and brother-in-law of the Nizam VI, Nawab Mir Mahboob Ali Khan
Bahadur.[2] Falak-numa means "Like the Sky" or "Mirror of the Sky" in Urdu. An English architect designed this
palace. The foundation for the construction was laid by Sir Vicar on March 3, 1884. He was the great grandson
of Khuddus, a scientist who was a friend of Sir Charles Darwin.It took nine years to complete the construction
and furnish the palace. Sir Vicar moved into the Gol Bangla and Zanana Mahel of the Falaknuma Palace in
December 1889 and closely monitored the finishing work at the Mardana portion.It is made completely with
Italian marble and covers an area of 93,971 square meters.The palace was built in the shape of a scorpion with
two stings spread out as wings in the north. The middle part is occupied by the main building and the kitchen,
Gol Bangla, Zenana Mehal, and harem quarters stretch to the south. The Nawab was an avid traveler, and his
influences show in the architecture. The Falaknuma palace is a rare blend of Italian and Tudor architecture. Its
stained glass windows throw a spectrum of colour into the rooms.
• One of the highlights of the palace is the state reception room, whose ceiling is decorated with frescoes and
gilded reliefs. The ballroom contains a two-ton manually operated organ said to be the only one of its kind in
the world. Thepalace has 220 lavishly decorated rooms and 22 spacious halls. It has some of the finest treasure
collections of the Nizam. Falaknuma houses a large collection of rare treasures including paintings, statues,
furniture, manuscripts and books.The jade collection of the palace is considered to be unique in the world.
The famed dining hall could seat 100 guests at its table. The chairs were made of carved rosewood with green
leather upholstery. The tableware was made of gold and crystal to which fluted music was added. The length
of the table is 108 feet, and breadth is 5.7 feet and height is 2.7 feet. The palace has a library with a walnut
carved roof: a replica of the one at Windsor Castle. The library had one of the finest collections of the Quran in
India.The ground floor of the palace housed the living quarters. A marbled staircase leads to the upper floor. It
has carved balustrades, which supports marble figurines with candelabra at intervals. There is a billiards room.
Burroughs and Watts from England designed two identical tables, one of which is in Buckingham Palace and
the other in the Falaknuma palace.On the walls of the landing are many oil paintings and photographs of notable
personages.The Falaknuma Palace also has the largest collection of Venetian chandeliers, with 40 138-arm Osler
chandeliers in the halls.The telephone and electrical system was introduced in 1883 by Osler and the palace has
one of the largest electrical switchboards in India.The palace was the private property of the Nizam family, and
not normally open to the public, until 2000.
12. Qutub Shahi Tombs

• The tombs of the seven Qutub Shahi rulers in the Ibrahim Bagh (garden precinct) are located close to the
famous Golkonda Fort in Hyderabad, India. The galleries of the smaller tombs are of a single storey while the
larger ones are two storied. In the centre of each tomb is a sarcophagus which overlies the actual burial vault in
a crypt below. The domes were originally overlaid with blue and green tiles, of which only a few pieces now
remain.They lie about a kilometre north of the outer perimeter wall of Golkonda Fort and its Banjara Darwaza
(Gate of the Gipsies, or itinerant merchants), amidst the Ibrahim Bagh.The tombs form a large cluster and stand
on a raised platform. The tombs are domed structures built on a square base surrounded by pointed arches, a
distinctive style that blends Persian, Pashtun and Hindu forms. The tombs are structures with intricately carved
stonework and are surrounded by landscaped gardens. The tombs were once furnished with carpets, chandeliers
and velvet canopies on silver poles. Copies of the Quran were kept on pedestals and readers recited verses from
the holy book at regular intervals. Golden spires were fitted over the tombs of the sultans to distinguish their
tombs from those of other members of the royal family.
13. Thousand Pillars Temple

• The Thousand pillars temple which is located in Hanamkonda is one of the most important parts of the Warangal
City. The temple was constructed in the 1163 AD by the great Rudra Deva. Every part of the temple depicts the
typical Chalukya style of architecture. The Thousand Pillar temple has three shrines inside the temple called the
Trikutalayam with presiding deities, Lord Vishnu, Shiva and Surya Deva. The temple stands as a statement of
the finest of arts of the Kakatiyas. It was desecrated by the Tughlaq dynasty during their invasion of the Deccan.
14. Badshahi Ashurkhana

• Badshahi Ashurkhana is one of the most important structures of Telangana. This ancient monument shows
the architectural grandeur of Mughal era. It is a mourning place for Shias during the festival of Moharram
near Charminar in Hyderabad, India. It is a house of mourning constructed in memory of martyrdom of Imam
Hussain. It was built by Muhammed Quli Qutb Shah in 1594, three years after building the Charminar. The
Ashur Khana stands today with enamel tiles that have retained their lustre and vibrant colours even after four
centuries. The intricate design in hexagons is exquisite.
15. Gandhari Khilla (Gandhari Kota)

• Gandhari Khilla is a hill fort located near Bokkalagutta, in Mandamarri Mandal in Adilabad district in the
south Indian state of Telangana. The fort was built in the 12th century by the Gondu tribals with the help of the
Kakatiya people of Warangal. Archaeological work suggests that construction of the fort was begun early as the
Rastrakuta era (prior to 1200 A.D.) and continued until 16th century. All the sculptures, gate (thoranam) and
pillars were constructed in Kakatiyas style. By observing the decorations, the shanku and chakra, beside every
sculpture we find that they are dedicated to Vishnu, while Kakatiyas worshipped Shiva. The script of Shree Oddi
raju anantha raju shasanam. Basically it belonged to the Kingdom of Gondus, but later on Oddi raju anantharaju
occupied it. Later it was controlled by the Qutub Sahi Sultanate (1518–1687). In 1656, the ruler of Golconda.
• The fort was built within a thickly forested area which has a wealth of plant species which includes many
medicinal herbs. The fort has not been fully excavated and is still partially covered by forest. Mahankali Jatara
(quarry jatara) is conducted every year which attracts more than 10,000 people. Gandhari maisamma jatra is done
in the temple on the fort of Gandhari for every 2 years and tribal people from Vindhya region i.e Maharastra,
Chattisghad on the other bankside joins it.
16.Alampur
• Alampur is a town situated on the banks Tungabhadra River, and is considered as the western gateway of
Srisailam. The popular temple stands as a testimony to Chalukya Art and Culture. The Tungabhadra and Krishna
are seen in a confluence near Alampur, and hence it is also know known as Dakshina Kailasam. It is also said
that Brahma had performed a great penance at today’s Alampur for thousands of years, and he pleased Lord Siva
who conferred the powers of creation for him. Hence, the deity is also called Brahmeswara and the goddess as
Yogini or Jogulamba, a synonym for mother Parvathi.
17.Elgandal Fort
• Originally known as Veligundula, Elgandal is a hillfort built during the Kakatiya dynasty (1083–1323) and
served as a stronghold for the warrior Musunuri Nayaks and Recharla padmanayaks. The Qutb Shahi dynasty
occupied the fort in the 16th century and posted Quinamul Mulk as commander. Subsequently, it fell under the
administrative control of the Mughal Empire.Amin Khan was appointed as Khiledar of Elagandal during the
reign of Nizam of Hyderabad Nizam-ul-Mulk, Asaf Jah I (r. 1724–1748) followed by Muqarrab Khan. Mirza
ibrahim dhamsa became Khiledar during the reign of Nawab Salabat Jung. Dhamsa rebuilt and strengthened the
fort in 1754 during the reign of Sikindar Jha (r.1803-1823). Bahadur Khan and Karimuddin served as Khiledars.
Karimnagar was named after Karimuddin. While reorganizing the districts, Mahbub Ali Khan, the Sixth Nizam,
shifted the District Headquarters from Elagandal to Karimnagar in 1905. Elgandal Fort is situated amidst
palm groves on the banks of the Manair River (a tributary of the Godavari River), approximately 10 kms from
Karimnagar
18.Jagtial Fort
• Jagtial Fort also throws light on the rich history of rulers but stands out because it is the only star-shaped fort in
Telangana that is fitted with canons.
• The Mughal dynasty used it as a Defence Fort in the 17 century. During the 17th century, the fort was designed by
two European engineers – Jack and Tal. It is surrounded by four water bodies – Mote pond, Dharma Samandar,
Mupparaap and Kandla Palli. The place, later known as Jagtial, was inspired by the names of these two engineers.
True to its name, the fort is a must visit for heritage lovers and tourists keen on culling out the history of rulers
and dynasties. It bears a strong resemblance to the castles of Europe.
• According to Archaeological Department officials, it was built during the reign of Nawab Ibrahim, a Governor
in the Mughal dynasty. The fort has two wooden gates, which were lifted by using pulleys. This is the only star-
shaped fort in the State with a moat (water body).
• History says that there used to be a row of rooms for the storage of ammunition at this fort. Though a majority
of structures of the fort have been destroyed over the years, the well is safe and provides water to locals in the
region
19. Nagunur Fort

• It was a fort built by the people of the Kakatiya dynasty in the village of Nagunur, around 8 km north of
Karimnagar. The fort is testimony to the imperial powers of the Kakatiyas. It was one of the most important forts
of the emerging Kakatiya dynasty and contains ruins of a cluster of Kalyana and Kakathiya temples. The origin
and style of these temples can be traced back to the era of the Kalyani, Chalukyas and Kakatiyas. However, it is
strongly believed to have been built during 1200- 1300AD under the patronage of the Kakatiyas. At one point
of time the place was believed to house around 400 temples. Hence it came to be known as Nalugunovalu (400).
This was later changed to Nagunur.
• The biggest and the most prominent among these is the triple-shrine temple of Lord Shiva.The temple is made
of red stone and comprises three shrines of Lord Shiva. The shrines are placed on a raised pedestal or Upapitha.
20.Khammam Fort
• Khammam Fort is a fort in the city of Khammam, Telangana, India. The fort is believed to have been built by
the Kakatiya rulers in 950 AD. It served as an impregnable citadel during various regimes of different dynasties,
including the Kakatiyas, Qutb Shahi’s and Asaf Jahis.
• Although Khammam fort was majorly under the Kakatiya dynasty, it slowly became an independent territory
within the kingdom.
• After the decline of the Kakatiya dynasty, 74 Telugu speaking feudatories of the region under the leadership of
Musuluri fought for 10 long years to unify the Telugu land and they did not succeed.
• Shitab khan, the army commander of the Humayin shah of the Bahmani sultanate declared Khammam as his
jagir(a land fief) along with Rachakonda and Warangal in the year 1503 and ruled this fort city without getting
into any troubles with the then rulers between 1503 A.D to 1512 A.D. He maintained good relations with the
Qutb shahi. During this time Khammam became major city of the region and Shitab khan rose to high stature in
the eyes of other rulers and this fort city was declared the regional administration capital of the kingdom.
• In the turbulent regional politics of the time, Quli Qutb Shah ruler of Golconda Fort (in modern Hyderabad) was
asserting his dominance and Shitab Khan had to face invasions from Golconda which was just shaking off the
suzerainty of the Bahmanis.Warangal succumbed to the Golconda ruler and Shitab Khan had to flee, about 1512.
He joined the service of Prataparudra Gajapati, King of Kalinga (Orissa). When the legendary Vijayanagara
Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya went on his Kalinga campaign, 1516–1517, his triumphal progress was effectively
hindered by the archers of Shitab Khan at the mountain pass near Simhadri(modern Visakhapatnam district). But
Shitab lost the battle and, very likely, his life there.
• Khammam fort fell into the hands of the Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya during 1515 A.D. According to Nandi
Thimmana (15th and 16th centuries CE), a Telugu poet and one of the Astadiggajas in the court of the king
Sri Krishnadevaraya, described this historical incident in his notable work called 'Parijathaapaharanam' as
Ghambham mettu (Stambhadri or Khammam mettu) grakkuna gadalche..Raja Puthrude Sri Krishnadevaraya
vibhudu’.
• Meaning, The Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya invaded the City or the Fort of Khammam.
• Sultan Ibrahim Qutb Shah, the fourth ruler of the kingdom of Golconda in southern India invaded this fort
around 1550 AD. Later on four Qutb shahi ruled over this historic land namely Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah
(1580–1612), Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah (1612–1626), Abdullah Qutb Shah (1626–1672) and Abul Hasan
Qutb Shah (1672–1689) popularly known as Tana Shah.
• Mughal emperor Aurangajeb invaded this fort in the year 1687 A.D and subsequently went into the hands of the
Asaf jahi rulers.The Asaf jahis appointed a Subedar named Nizam Mulki Asal ji.He later declared independence
in the year 1722 A.D.
• Zafar-ud-doula was appointed as the Tahasildar in between the years 1761 to 1803, under whose rule this fort
has been renovated and all the new constructions including the roads took place.
• In the year 1768, Zafar-ud-doula – II was appointed as the Tahasildar. He is also the younger brother of the
former. The urban settlement of Dhamsalapuram was named after Zafar-ud-doula-I (also known as Dhamsa).
• The Fort and the City went into the complete control of the Government created by the Nizam's during the 1800s
and by the time of the Asaf Jah VII, Mir Osman Ali Khan the fort was under complete control of the Government
of Nizam in the year 1937.
21. Nelakondapalli
• Nelakondapalli is a historic site encompassed by a mud fortification wall covering nearly one-hundred acre.
Excavations there have unearthed several foundations of brick-built viharas, wells, cisterns, a mahastupa,
terracotta figurines, a bronze idol of Buddha, a miniature stupa carved in limestone and other materials from the
3rd and 4th centuries.
• Also of historical and, particularly, cultural significance are two archaeological sites located approximately 1.6
km from Nelakondapalli. According to local Hindu folk tradition, the sites referred to as Virataraju Dibba and
Keechaka Gundam were contemporaneous to certain events described in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The
discovery of archeological relics at the sites seems to corroborate the local Hindu folk account.
22. Parnasala
• When Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana went for their Vanvasa, they stayed in this place called Panchavati in the
forest. They built a hut on the banks of River Godavari. It is said that sage Agastya in Panchavati amidst Dandaka
forest chose the site. The Gowtami River, which is another name for River Godavari, flowed nearby. It is said
to be the place from where Ravana abducted Sita Devi while on their exile. A small hermitage of a structure has
been constructed as a replica of the Hut used by Lord Rama. The local people believe that "Sita Vaagu" a place
near by is the same location where Sita used to take bath, collect the kumkum and other necessities from the
forest.
• Marks on the stones of the mountain are believed to be those of Sita and the chariot wheel types of Marks on the
other side of the mountain are believed to be those of the chariot of Ravana when he was taking Sita forcibly on
his chariot after abducting her form the parnala after tricking her. As this place witnessed the sad mood of Lord
Rama this place is called as Soka Rama.
23.Pillalamarri
• Pillala Marri is an 800-year-old banyan tree located in Mahabubnagar. The tree had original main trunk and
many prop roots which resemble like many trunks, like its children, hence the name. Main trunk either died out
or cannot be recognized among many prop roots, It is spread over three acres of land.
24. Nandikonda
• Nandikonda is a small village located along the banks of Krishna River in Nalgonda district. It is located close
to the magnificent Nagarjuna Sagar dam. Nandikonda was part of the Ikshvaku Dynasty and the village shot into
prominence after scores of ancient Buddhist structures like pillared halls and monasteries were unearthed. There
are also ruins of a fort dating back to Ikshvaku Dynasty. The citadel consists of gates, strong fortifications, water
trenches, and even as rectangular-shaped stadium were found during archeological excavations. The Nagarjuna
Sagar dam was initially called Nandikonda project and the place finds place in the Buddhist circuit of Telangana.
25. Deverakonda Fort

• Devarakonda Fort acted as a prominent fortified defensive structure of the rulers of Recherla Velama dynasty
that rules parts of Telangana after Kakatiyas. It was built in the 14th century by the Velama Kings. The territory
of Devarakonda was developed by the Padma Nayaka Velama rulers. The fortress was controlled by the ruling
family from 1287 AD to 1482 AD. Then the fort was ruled by Maada Naidu who was the 8th king among the
Padma Nayaka rulers. He was a great warrior and an educationist apart from being a kind ruler. During his reign,
Devarakonda flourished with many temples and heritage sites.
• This fort is famous for its architectural brilliance. The fort is surrounded by seven hills with some great rocks
and boulder and few forest. The fort built over a hilltop has large walls with curved bastions along with it. The
fort ramparts were built with artillery and cannon points. The fort complexes are built up to 2 storeys. There are
many granaries found here. It has a magazine house, large living area and few small houses. There are temples of
Lord Rama and Lord Shiva inside the fort. Also there is a small lake that provided water source to the residents
of the fort. Now the fort lies in ruins and acts as a tourist attraction.
26. Rachakonda Fort

• The Rachakonda Fort was constructed by the Padmanayaka Velama King Anapotanayaka in the 14th century
AD. Till that time the Padmanayakas had their capital at Anumagallu. At around 1360 AD the capital was shifted
by Anapotanayaka from Anumagallu to Rachakonda where he built a strong fort.
• Anapotanayaka split the Kingdom into two for administrative convenience and his brother Madanayaka ruled
from Devarakonda. Devarakonda was subservient to Rachakonda. The Padmanayakas lost control of Rachakonda
in 1430 AD to the Bahamanis but held onto Devarakonda till 1475 AD when the Padmanayaka kingdom was
finally extinguished and they joined the court of Hampi Vijayanagara Kingdom.
• The Rachakonda kingdom stretched upto Godavari in the North, Srisailam in the South, Bahamani kingdom in
the West and Kondaveedu in the East.
• The Rachakonda kings initially supported the Bahamani Kingdom but later in the war between the Bahamanis
and Vijayanagara kings in 1424 AD, they switched their allegiance to the Vijayanagara Kingdom. This enraged
the Bhamani sultan Firoz Shah who later signed a peace treaty with Vijyanagara and attacked the Rachakonda
kingdom and conquered it. By the year 1433 AD, only a few forts remained in the control of kings of Rachakonda.
• The Rachakonda kings then sought the help of Kapileswara Gajapati of Orissa and also promised him large
amounts of money. He sent his son Hamviradeva (known as Ambar Roy to the Muslims) along with a large army
to help the Rachakonda kings. By 1461 AD, the Rachakonda kings recovered all their lost forts and became
kings of Orugallu with the help of Hamviradeva but in turn lost their independence and became tributaries of the
Gajapatis of Orissa.
• The Bahamni kingdom under Nizam Shah again attacked Orugallu in 1475 AD and the Kingdom was annexed
by the sultan. Thus the Rachakonda kingdom originated in 1350-60 AD and was finally consumed by the
Bahamanis in the year 1475 AD.
27.Domakonda Fort
• Domakonda Fort was constructed initially during the age of Qutub Shahis and Asaf Jahis in Nizamabad which
was remodeled in the 18th century. It is also said that the Domakonda Fort was built by the Reddy rulers of
Domakonda Samsthanam in the 18th century on a spot where a fort existed earlier. Domakonda was a princely
region under Qutb Shahis and Asaf Jahis. The Reddy rulers of Domakonda built the fort in the 18 century at a
sight where a fort existed earlier. Domakonda Fort was primarily used as a fortified defensive structure. This
fort is also called Gadi Domakonda or Killa Domakonda. It is one of the beautiful forts present in Telangana.
The architecture of the fortress displays both Hindu and Muslim styles. It has an elevated compound of granite
rocks that forms the fort wall, followed by the beautiful two-storied fort structure.
28.Dhulikatta
• Dhulikatta Buddhist Centre – Dated back to 2nd Century BC
• Located on the banks of Hussainimiya Vagu in Peddapalli Taluk of Karimnagar District, Dhulikatta Buddhist
Centre is an ancient Buddhist site. The presence of this ancient site bearing important relics and artifacts helps
to add a different dimension to Karimnagar Tourism. Tracing its origin back to the Satavahana era, Dhulikatta is
a rich repository of ancient relics and reminiscences which keeps history alive.
• Known to be one of the thirty metropolitan areas which find mention in the ancient account of Megasthenes,
Dhulikatta (a corrupted version of Dhulikota) was named after the mud fort (kota) found in its vicinity. As a
result the area also came to be known as the Kota area. Rich excavations have helped unearth valuable artifacts
which bring to light various mysteries of the bygone eras. The biggest and most interesting excavation has been
that of a Buddhist Stupa on a mound and that of a Vihara. Both of these can be traced back to the 2nd century
BC.
• The excavation of the Stupa has also been accompanied by interesting relics like the embellished drum with
sculptured veneer slabs and limestone slabs and the Ayaka platforms. These are platforms that extend out from
the drums and are found at entrance gateways. The dome of the Stupa was built with the help of 47 stone slabs.
• A study of the excavated remains reveals rich stories of the Satavahana period. The excavations have also
revealed coins and seals belonging to the Romans and Satavahanas indicating the prevalence of trade relations
between the two countries.
• In the month of January, Dhulikatta celebrates the Satavahana festival which is held for three days.
29. Ramagiri Khilla

• The Ramagiri Fort, also known as Ramagiri Khilla, located over a mountain top, is in the Peddapalli district.
The fort was built in the 12th century by the Kakatiyas of Warangal. Later, it was controlled by the Qutub
Sahi Sultanate from 1518 to 1687. In 1656, the ruler of Golconda, Abdullah Qutb Shah, gave the fort to his
son-in-law, one of Aurangzeb's sons. The fort came under the control of the British Raj in 1791. Tradition has
it that Kalidasa, one of the greatest Sanskrit poets, was motivated to compose his Meghadūta, a lyrical poem,
by the Ramagiri Fort; however, Kalidasa is thought to have lived in the fifth century CE, well before the fort's
construction.
Telangana Literature
Telugu literature or Telugu Pandityam is the body of works written in the Telugu language. It consists of poems,
novels, short stories, dramas and puranas. Telugu literature can be traced back to the early 11th century period when
Mahabharata was first translated to Telugu from Sanskrit by Nannaya. It flourished under the rule of the Vijayanagara
Empire, where Telugu was one of the empire's official languages.
Telugu split from Proto-Dravidian between 1500-1000 BC. Telugu became a distinct language by the time any literary
activity began to appear in the Tamil land, along with Parji, Kolami, Nayaki and Gadaba languages. Telugu is a
Dravidian Language native to India.
Narrative Literature
The genre of narrative literature is classified into four in the Agni Purana – Akhyayika (real/historical story), Katha
(imaginary story with little truth), Khanda Katha (short story), Parikatha (fairy tale) and Kathanika (small tale).
Nowadays, Kathanika is one which is dialogic and modern in language and expression of feelings. But in practice, all
of these are in vogue as Katha only. Fictional narrative has become the most popular of all the literary genres. Over
the last decade the genre of story has seen an exuberant bloom and international status.
Among the pioneers of modern Telangana, Vattikota Alwarswamy occupies a unique place, as he inaugurated the
era of popular literature. The cultural and literary resurgence in Telangana was spearheaded by Komarraju Laxmana
Rao, Ravichettu Ranga Rao and others at the turn of the 20th century. The founding of Sri Krishnadevaraya Andhra
Bhasha Nilayam heralded a new epoch in literary renaissance in vernaculars and spread of socio-cultural awakening.
The assertion of Telugu identity in terms of ethnicity and language gave rise to the growth of library movement and
Andhra Mahasabha.
Poetic literature
Lyrics or ballads have become an integral part of the poetic literature. The story of Sarvaya Papanna, a cowherd
who took up cudgels against the atrocities of the alien rulers heady with power and money, has been preserved in
the ballads. He even ascended the throne and ruled for a day. The ballad of Sarvaya Papanna, though it relates to the
Rayalaseema region, is the main root of the Telugu folk literature and of the present day poetic community. The
Telangana Telugu literary movement, influenced by the trends in the ancient, the Prabandha, the lyrical and the
modern fictional literature, is flowing on with a progressive ethos. The Telangana literary history may be classified
under four periods – the early, the later, the modern and the post-modern. There are quite a few significant features in
the Telangana literary edifice built during the last decade (2005-2014) on the superstructure of its long history.
To begin with, the Andhra Jana Sangam was established in 1921 with the objective of establishing more libraries in
Telangana region of the erstwhile Hyderabad State. It organised several conferences and established Telugu medium
schools, reading rooms in order to spread literacy among the Telugus. During the first quarter of the 20th century,
library movement in Telangana emerged as one of the most significant socio-cultural movements and contributed to
public awakening. Several individuals and scholars like Madapati Hanmantha Rao, Suravaram Pratapa Reddy, Kodati
Narayana etc., played a significant role in the spread of the library movement and Telugu journalism in Telangana.
Suravaram Pratapa Reddy had proved beyond doubt that Telugu literature had rigorously kept up its momentum
and survived the critically testing times. His literary magazine ‘Golconda Patrika’ was a trend-setting journal that
published some of the finest literary works of that time.
Vattikota Alwarswamy, known as the Father of Telangana Grandhalaya Udyamam, single-handedly championed the
cause of people’s library and literary movement. He occupies a unique place in the literary and intellectual world of
modern Telangana for his contribution to the spread of libraries in the villages of Telangana. Although the Telangana
region has the famous libraries of more than 100 years old, such as Krishna Deva Raya Andhra Bhasha Nilayam,
Raja Raja Narendra Andhra Bhasha Nilayam, the credit for starting village and mobile libraries goes to Vattikota
Alwarswamy.
In order to make available the printed literature to village people, he personally carried books on his head and toured the
villages and enabled the village folk to access modern knowledge. He also established the Deshoddaraka Granthamala
and published low-cost books and distributed them among the people. The popularisation of library movement at the
gross-level by Swamy had contributed to the new socio-cultural and political awakening in the Telangana rural areas.
Thus, it also contributed to the growth of anti-feudal struggles under the leadership of Andhra Mahasabha.
As an active participant in the people’s movement, Alwarswamy also produced popular literature depicting the
socio-economic conditions of peasantry in Telangana as well as the social evils like Vetticahkiri, Jogini, Adapapa,
and championed the cause of emancipation of oppressed classes and communities. He wrote the famous novel,
Prajalamanishi, in which he portrayed the socio-economic conditions in Telangana villages, feudal exploitation, the
role of educated middle classes, Andhra Mahasabha and progressive forces in anti-Nizam struggles.
The novel realistically represented the prevailing socio-economic-cultural conditions, customs, traditions, and people’s
resistance movements against autocratic-feudal domination in the villages. Hence, Alwarswamy was considered the
first Novelist of Telangana. In the making of modern Telangana, the role and contribution of intellectuals like Vattikota
Alwarswamy is immense and praiseworthy. He was instrumental in facilitating the growth of public awakening
through the popularisation of libraries, journalism and popular literature.
Poets of Telangana
1. Bammera Potana
Born: 1450, Bammera,Warangal District Died: 1510.
Pothana was an Indian Telugu poet best known for his translation of the Bhagavata Purana from Sanskrit to
Telugu. He was a Telugu and Sanskrit Scholar. His work, Maha Bhagavatamu, is popularly called as Pothana
Bhagavatam in Telugu. He was considered to be a natural Poet (Sahaja Kavi), needing no teacher. He was known
to be very polite and was an agriculturist by occupation. Though he was a great scholar, he never hesitated to
work in the agricultural fields.
Accomplishments
- At an early age he wrote Bhogini Dhandakam a poem wrote in praise of king Sri Singa Bhoopala’s
concubine Bhogini. This was his first poetic venture which had the seeds of his great poetic talents. Bhogini
Dhandakam is the earliest available Dhandaka (rhapsody which uses the same gana or foot all through) in
Telugu.
- His second work was Virabhadhra Vijayamu which describes the adventures of Lord Virabhadhra, son of
Lord Shiva. The main theme was the destruction of a yagna performed in absence of Lord Shiva by Daksha
Prajapathi.
2. Kaloji Narayana Rao

Born: 9 September 1914 Madikonda, Warangal Died: 13 November 2002 Warangal.
Kaloji Popularly known as Kalanna was an Indian poet, freedom fighter, Anti-fascist and political activist of
Telangana. He completed his primary education in Madikonda and higher education in Warangal and Hyderabad.
Rao wrote poetry in the Hindi, Marathi, Telugu and Urdu languages. He was popularly known as Praja Kavi,
meaning "people's poet". He started writing poetry from an early age. He composed his first poem, in 1931 while
still in his teens, in reaction to the execution of Bhagat Singh, and very soon became a voracious reader and a
prominent writer.
Accomplishments
- Kaloji was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest award given by the Government of India,
for his service in the literary and social fields.
- He is a recipient of Tamarapatra in 1972.
- He received the best translation award of the Andhra Pradesh Government for his work Jeevana Geetha in
1968 and Burgula Ramakrishna Rao memorial first award.
- He was felicitated by the Andhra Pradesh Government in 1981.
- He was honored with the title 'Praja Kavi' and has been felicitated by various literary associations of Andhra
Pradesh.
- In 1992, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Kakatiya University.
3. Dr. C. Narayana Reddy

Born: July 29, 1931 Hanumajipeta, Karimnagar district.
Well Known Indian poet and educational minister and is considered to be an authority on Telugu literature. He is
known as Cinare. Naryana Reddy married Susheela and with her had four daughters. He has instituted an award
named after his wife and this is presented annually to female writers. He lives in Film Nagar, Hyderabad.
Accomplishments
- Narayana Reddy won the Gnanapeet award in 1988 for his poetic work, Viswambara.
- He had been awarded an honorary Kala Prapoorna by Andhra University in 1978.
- Having been a recipient of the Padma Shri in 1977.
- He was conferred with the Raja-Lakshmi Award by the Sri Raja-Lakshmi Foundation in 1988 and in 1992.
- He was honoured with India's third-highest civilian award, the Padma Bhushan.
- Narayana Reddy was nominated to the Rajya Sabha - the upper house of the Indian Parliament - in August
1997.
4. Dr. Ande sri

Born: 1961, Rebarthi villagenear Jangaon in Warangal district Telangana state, India.
Ande Sri (or Andesri) his original name is Ande Ellaiah. He is an Indian poet and lyricist. Telangana state
Geyam(song) "Jaya Jaya he Telangana Janani Jaya ketanam" written by Andesri. He grew up as an Orphan and
did not have any formal education. He received an honorary doctorate from Kakatiya University.
Accomplishments
- A song, Maayamai Pothundamma Manishanavadu which was penned by him for the film Erra Samudram
has inspired the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh University syllabus committee to include it in the Telugu second
year graduation text books for the next academic year starting in 2009. This is the third song to feature in
Telugu syllabi after Maa Telugu Thalliki and Telugu Jathi Manadi in the 77 years of Telugu cinema.
- Kakatiya University conferred him an honorary doctorate for his contribution as a lyricist.
- Nandi Award for a telugu film Ganga in the best lyrics category for the song Vellipotunnava.
5. Daasarathi Krishnamacharyulu
Born: July 22, 1925 Warangal district, Telangana state, India. Died : 1987
Popularly known as Daasarathi, was a Telugu Poet and Writer. Daasarathi holds the titles Abhyudhaya Kavi and
Kalaprapurna. he was an erudite scholar of Indian mythology (puranas) with a fine grip on Telugu, Sanskrit and
Tamil languages. He matriculated from the Khammam Government High School but gave up higher education
to join the movement against the autocratic Nizam rule in the Hyderabad Kingdom.
Accomplishments
- He was also the recipient of Sahitya Academy Award for his poetic work book Thimiramtho Samaram
(Fight against Darkness) in 1974.
- He was also chosen as Aastana Kavi of the Andhra Pradesh Government.
- Daasrathi obtained fame through his revolutionary poetry. His first book Agnidhara (Flowing Fire) was
published in 1947. This book is about the Telangana Armed Struggle against Nizams rule, in which young
Daasarathi served as a revolutionary. Daasartathi wrote part of his book Agnidhara while he was in jail and
completed it after his release.
6. Kancherla Gopanna
Born: 1620, Nelakondapalli Village,Khammam district Died : 1680
Kancherla Gopanna(Goparaju) renowned as Bhaktha Ramadasu was born in an affluent Telugu Niyogi Brahmin
family to Linganna Mantri and Kamamba in Nelakondapalli village of Khammamett Taluk (Warangal Division
of erstwhile Hyderabad State) of Telangana (Deccan region). His devotional lyrics toRama are famous in
South Indian classical music as Ramadaasu Keertanalu. Even the doyen of South Indian classical music Saint
Thyagaraja learned and later improved the style now considered standard krithi form of music composition.He
also wrote Dasarathi Shatakamu with a 'makuTamu' 'Dasaradhee Karuna payonidhi', a collection of nearly 108
poems dedicated to the son of Dasaratha (Lord Rama).
Accomplishments
Ramadasu composed nearly 300. Some of them are as follows:
- Tarakamantramu in Dhanyasi
- Ye Teeruga Nanu in Nadanamakriya
- Adigo Bhadradri in Varali
- Anta Ramamayam in Mohanam
- O Rama ni namamu in Poorvi Kalyani
- Paluke bangara mayena in Ananda Bhairavi
7. Mallinātha Sūri
Born: Kolcharam, Medak District
Mallinātha Sūri was an eminent critic, known for his commentaries on five mahakavyas (great compositions)
of Sanskrit. During his times, he is said to have received the titles of Mahamahopadyaya and Vyakhyana
Chakravarti. He lived during the reigns of Racakonda king Singabhupala and Vijayanagara king Deva Raya I.
Based on the evidence from the inscriptions, it is estimated that he lived between 1350-1450 CE.
Accomplishments
His Commentaries on Classical Epics of Sanskrit
- Sanjīvanī - Commentary on Kalidasa's Raghuvamsa, Kumarasambhava and Meghaduta
- Ghaṇṭāpatha - Commentary on Bharavi's Kiratarjuniya
- Sarvaṅkaṣa - Commentary on Magha's Sisupalavadha
- Jivātu - Commentary on Sriharsa's Naisadhiyacarita
- Sarvapathīnā - Commentary on Bhaṭṭikāvya
His commentaries on Śāstric works-
- Tarala - commentary on Vidyadhara's Ekavali - alamkara Sastra
- Niskaṇṭakā - commentary on Varadaraja's Tarkikaraksa tika
8. Gummadi Vittal Rao (Gaddar )

Born: 1949 Toopran
Gummadi Vittal Rao popularly known as Gaddar (born 1949) is a poet, pseudonym of a revolutionary Telugu
balladeer. The name Gaddar was adopted as a tribute to the pre-independence Gadar party which opposed British
colonial rule in Punjab during the 1910s. He attended his early schooling in Bodhan of the Nizamabad district.
After completing Pre University Course (then equivalent of 12th class) from a government junior college in
Hyderabad, he joined RECW to pursue Bachelor’s degree in civil Engineering. It is also said he has a bachelor’s
degree in LAW as well.
Accomplishments
- Gaddar is awarded the year’s best male playback singer award for his song “podusthunna poddumeeda..”
in film Jai Bolo Telangana.2012.
- Numerous songs were written, mostly by Vittal. They printed their first songbook. It was entitled
"GADDAR"; after the famous Gadar Party of Punjab. Soon, whenever they went to perform on streets, the
people began to say that the "Gaddar people have come". The name stuck, and from then on Vittalrao is
known as Gaddar.
9. Suravaram Pratapa Reddy

Born: May 28, 1896 in Boravelli village in Gadwal Died : 1953
He wrote a social history of the Telugu people, Andhrula Saanghika Charitra, which was first published in 1949
and has since gone through many editions. It was the first Telugu language book that to win the best national
book award (Kendra Sahitya Academy Puraskaram). Pratapaareddy was a scholar in Sanskrit, Telugu, Urdu
and English languages. He is famous for his research articles, novels, poetry, story writer, and literary critic.
He compiled a list of 354 Telangana poets under the title "Golconda Kavulu" to prove that Telangana also had
literature and poetry. Pratapareddy wrote approximately 40 books.
Accomplishments
- Won prestigious "Kendra Sahitya Academy Award," a federal Indian government award for literature.
- Editor and founder of Golconda Patrika, a journal in Hyderabad State.
- Launched Telugu language journal "Golconda" for the benefit of Telangana people. Some of the short
stories and poetries
- Golconda Kavula Charitra, Raamayana Visheeshaalu,Hinduvula Pandagalu, Hindava Dharma Viirulu
10. Pamulaparthi Sadasiva Rao

Born: July 17, 1921 in in Warangal district Died : August 26, 1996
A thinker, philosopher, and free-lance journalist. He started the magazine Kakatiya Patrika in Warangal, India, in
1948 with his cousin P. V. Narasimha Rao, later Prime Minister of India. PV Narasimha Rao wrote a story 'Golla
Ramavva' in which an ordinary old woman, to express her protest against the Nizam rule, protects an anti-Nizam
fighter. So also PV's another story 'Blue silk sari' written in English had awakened the educated.
Accomplishments
Among his Telugu writings were GatiTarkika Bhotika Vadam (on dialectic materialism), Charitra, Sanskriti, Kala
(history, tradition, culture and art), and Tatva Shastra Praadhamika Paathalu (fundamentals of philosophy).
He translated Theory of Knowledge, an English language book by Maurice Cornforth, into the Telugu Gyana
Siddhantam, published by the Visalandhra Publishing House.
11. Venkanna
Born: 1963, Mahbubnagar
Goreti Venkanna is a popular Indian poet and folk singer. He became popular after his song "Palle Kanneru
Peduthundo" in Khubasum Telugu movie had moved the masses and virtually prevented TDP to retain power in
erstwhile Andhra Pradesh State in 2004. He also became popular by acting as a judge for the folk song program
Rela Re Rela on Telugu TV channel, Maa. He is one of the main Telangana separation activists. He is one of the
icons of Telangana culture.
Accomplishments
- Venkanna's songs are published: Eku naadam Motha, Rela Poothalu, Alasandra Vanka
- 2006 Kalaratna Hamsa Award for Literature from AP State Government.
- Filmography: Sriramulayya, Kubusam, Vegu Chukkalu, Maha Yagnam, Batukamma, Mysamma IPS,
Nagaram Nidra Potunna Vela.
12. Suddala Hanmanthu

Suddala Hanmanthu was born in Paladugu village, Mothkur mandal, Nalgonda district. His poetry inspired
the people of the Telangana to participate in the Communist-led peasant struggle against the oppressive rule of
feudal lords and the Nizam. This struggle was famous in Indian history as the Telangana Rebellion. His themes
were freedom from the bonded labour known as Vetti Chakiri, democracy, liberation, equality and communism.
His Telugu folk song, Palletoori Pillagada, mobilised the people of his region.
The speech given by Comrade Ravi Narayana Reddy, the then president of Andhra Mahasabha in 1944 inspired
Hanumathu and he joined Andhra Mahasabha and became a leftist. He took charge of the arts wing of the party
and began writing songs for all folk forms like Burra Katha , Golla Suddulu , Pittala Dora that penetrated deep
into rural minds.
13. Makhdoom Mohiuddin

Makhdoom Mohiuddin or Abu Sayeed Mohammad Makhdoom Mohiuddin Khudri (4 February 1908 – 25 August
1969) was an Urdu poet and Marxist political activist of India. He was a distinguished revolutionary Urdu poet.
He founded the Progressive Writers Union in Hyderabad and was active with the Comrades Association and the
Communist Party of India, and at the forefront of the 1946–1947 Telangana Rebellion against the Nizam of the
erstwhile Hyderabad state.
He is best known for his collection of poems entitled Bisat-e-Raqs ("The Dance Floor"), for which he was
awarded the 1969 Sahitya Akademi Award in Urdu. His published works include the essay Tagore and His
Poetry, a play, Hosh ke Nakhun ("Unravelling"), an adaptation of Shaw's Widowers' Houses, and a collection of
prose essays. Bisat-e-Raqs is a complete collection of Makhdoom's verse including his two earlier collections
Surkh Savera ("The Red Dawn", 1944) and Gul-e-Tar ("The Dewdrenched Rose", 1961)
He is known as Shayar-e-Inquilab' ('Poet of the Revolution'). His ghazals and lyrics have been used in many
Hindi films. Among his notable are the romantic ghazals:Ek Chameli Ke Mandve Taley, Aap Ki Yaad Aati Rahi
Raat Bhar and Phir Chhidi Raat, Baat Phoolon Ki.
14. Gona Budda Reddy

Gona Budda Reddy, also known as Ranganatha, (13th century CE) was a poet ruled a kingdom in Mahbubnagar
district from Vardhamaanapuram (currently known as Nandi Vaddemaan) and Khilla Ghanpur (Fort Ghanpur)
in modern-day Ghanpur, Mahbubnagar district. He and his family, the Gona dynasty, was mostly loyal to the
Kakatiya dynasty. When he died, his brother Gona Lakuma Reddy took over the kingdom and rebelled against
the Kakatiya, but his son Gona Ganna Reddy remained loyal to them in Vardamanapuram, (1262-1296 AD)
indirectly supporting the rule of Kakatiya Queen Rudrama Devi against opposition to female rule.
His Ranganatha Ramayanam was a pioneering work in the Telugu language on the theme of the Ramayana epic.
Most scholars believe he wrote it between 1300 and 1310 A.D., possibly with help from his family. The work
has become part of cultural life in Andhra Pradesh and is used in puppet shows.
15. Dasaradhi Rangacharya

Dasaradhi Rangacharya, popularly known as Daasarathi (24 August 1928 – 8 June 2015), was an Indian writer
and politician. He was an active member of the Telangana movement against the autocratic rule of the Nizams.
He went underground and took part in the Telangana Armed Struggle till Hyderabad was liberated. He wrote
Chillera Devullu, Modugupulu and Janapadam.[3] Out of those Chillera Devullu won a National Literature
Award. He translated 4 Vedas, a precious of Hindu Literature, into Telugu language and Jeevanayanam is his
autobiography. Srimadramayanam and Sri Mahabharatam are also his works in Telugu.
Considering the feudal background and 'poor literacy rate', the two novels are widely accepted as the 'rarest of
the great novels' produced in Telangana. He wrote the novels in the typical Telangana dialect, against the advice
of traditional writers because he wanted them to be easily understood by people.

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HYDERABAD | DELHI | BHOPAL | PUNE | BHUBANESWAR | LUCKNOW | PATNA | BENGALURU | CHENNAI | VIJAYAWADA | VIZAG | TIRUPATHI | KUKATPALLY | KOLKATA | AHMEDABAD

Society, Culture, Heritage, Arts

Pre-history (Up to 1000 BCE)

Pre-Satavahanas (1000 BCE – 300 BCE)

Satavahanas (250 BCE – 200 CE)

Post-Satavahana (200 CE – 950 CE)

Kakatiyas (950 CE – 1323 CE)

Post-Kakatiya Interregnum (1323 – 1496)

Qutbshahis (1496 - 1687)

Asaf Jahis (1724-1948)

1969 Telangana Agitation

Final Telangana Movement

Intensifying the movement

1. Assaka or Ashmaka kingdom - Telugu kingdom of ancient India (700–300 BCE).

Simuka (230–207 BCE):

Satakarni (180–124 BCE):

Origin of Vishnukundina Dynasty

Kings of Vishnukundina Empire

c.641 - c.660 AD : Satyasraya Ranavikrama :

Political History of Chalukyas of Kalyani:

Gonagudu I Kokkiraja, Son

• c.1100 AD - 1125 AD : Kusumayudha V

Important points of Kakatiya Dynasty

10. Vijayanagara kingdom

Aravidu Dynasty(1570-1650 AD)

Foreign Visitors of Vijayanagara Kingdom:

11. Bahmani Kingdom

12. Qutub-Shahi Era

13. Asaf Jahi Dynasty

Culture - Arts and Traditions of Telangana

Historic Places of Telangana

11. Falaknuma Palace

12. Qutub Shahi Tombs

13. Thousand Pillars Temple

14. Badshahi Ashurkhana

15. Gandhari Khilla (Gandhari Kota)

19. Nagunur Fort

25. Deverakonda Fort

26. Rachakonda Fort

29. Ramagiri Khilla

2. Kaloji Narayana Rao

3. Dr. C. Narayana Reddy

4. Dr. Ande sri

8. Gummadi Vittal Rao (Gaddar )

9. Suravaram Pratapa Reddy

10. Pamulaparthi Sadasiva Rao

12. Suddala Hanmanthu

13. Makhdoom Mohiuddin

14. Gona Budda Reddy

15. Dasaradhi Rangacharya

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