Warangal
History
Earlier this district was called as Orugallu. Warangal, 157 km from Hyderabad, is noted for its beautiful lakes, splendid temples and wildlife. It was once the capital of the legendary Kakatiya kingdom. Warangal has direct rail connections with all important cities of India. Warangal is well connected by rail and road. It lies on the Vijayawada-Hyderabad section of the South Central Railway. The nearest airport is Hyderabad. This place was under the rule of Sathavahana,Yadhava, Chalukya and Kakatiya kings. The period of Kakatiya rule is termed as Golden Era. Forest area in this district is nearly 29% of the total district area, and produces quality Timber and other Vegetation useful to common man in his day-to day life. Wildlife Sanctuary at Yeturi Nagaram protecting wildlife at an area of 1000 Sq.km. Coal is the chief mineral found in this part of the state, and Singareni Collieries Company a Public sector undertaking is looking after the extraction of the coal from the mines to be used in power generation. Apart from this Iron ore is also found in some parts of the district. Warangal and Kazipet are the twin cities. Kazipet is the major railway junction. Kakatiya University established in the year 1976 at Head quarters Warangal, Regional Engineering College, and a Medical College are the educational Institutions based in the dist head quarters.
Interesting Places
Kush Mahal
Located near Warangal Fort, Khush Mahal is an outstanding achievement of Shitabh Khan of Qutab Shahi Dynasty. Built in 16th century this grand structure shelters the idols. A mute testimony to a glorious past is the Khush Mahal.Located close to the Warangal Fort, this magnificent edifice houses idols excavated inthe surrounding areas. How to Reach This Place Road: Warangal is easily accessible by road from Hyderabad and Vijayawada. Regular bus services connect Warangal with Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Tirupati and Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh. Rail: Warangal and the adjoining kazipet fall on the Chennai - New Delhi Grand Truk route. Air: The nearest airport is Hyderabad, which is 130 Kms away.
Kota Gullu
Located in Ghanpur of Warangal District, Kota Gullu is famous for a 13th century temple complex noted for its Kakatiya temple architecture. Kota Gullu in Ghanpur, have impressive temple architecture of the Kakatiyas consisting of about 20 temples in various designs and sizes. Locally known as "Kota Gullu", the temple complex is a veritable museum of the Kakatiya temple architecture. The main temple is dedicated to ganapesvara. It is believed that Ghanpur got its name from the illustrious King Ganapatideva who ruled between 1199-1260 A.D. Exposed to the vagaries of nature and continuous battles, the temple complex is in a dilapidated condition but speaks volumes of the architectural proficiency of the Kakatiyas. Now the temples are being renovated by the Dept. of Archaeology.
Ramappa Lake
Ramappa Lake constructed at the time of Kakatiya Ganapati. The Ramappa lake is a magnificent irrigation work of the 13th century AD, and the place, where the lake stands, is surrounded by thick forests and presents a beautiful natural scenery making it a popular holiday resort. The lake holds a great scenic beauty, with its serene surroundings, giving a mystical air to the Ramappa Temple. The Kakatiya rulers followed the tradition of costructing a tank adjacent to a temple. In line with this tradition, the Ramappa Lake was also constructed adjoining the temple.
Warangal fort
Warangal is the mighty capital of the Kakatiya Kingdom. Just about 157 kms from Hyderabad, lies the legendary city of Warangal, which has found its way into Mareo Plo's travel diaries! Cross the threshold through the impressive huge stone gateways, A Kakaitya King Ganapathi Deva and his daughter, Rani Rudrama, built the Waragal Fort in the 13th century, the once impregnable fort combines geometrical intricacies and beautifully carved arches. The fort has 45 towers and pillars spread over a radius of 19 km, and a temple of Mother Earth called 'Swayambhudevi Alayam' in the middle. The famous 'Ekasshila', a beautifully carved gateway located within the fort, symbolizes the Kakatiya empire and Warangal even till date like Charminar does for Hyderabad.
Bhadrakali Temple
at Hanamkonda is significant Devi temple located on the hilltop between the twin cities of Hanamkonda and Warangal. The Bhadrakali temple is noted for its stone image of the Goddess Kali. She is depicted with eight arms and carries a weapon in each hand. Bhadrakali Cheruvu is adjacent to this temple. The temple is held in high esteem by devotees of the of Goddess Bhadrakali popularly called the ‘Grant Mother Goddess’. Remarkable feature of the temple is the square shaped stone image of the Goddess (2.7 X 2.7 meters). In the image goddess is seen in a sitting posture with fierce looking eyes and face. The Goddess can also be seen wearing a crown and having eight hands holding various weapons. Major Attractions of Bhadrakali Temple: High point of Bhadrakali Temple is an artificial lake of 2 ½ kms radius in the vicinity of the temple. Number of natural rock formations in the surroundings add to the spiritual charm of the temple and are the most dominant feature of the temple. Some of the unique shaped rocks are said to carry immense spiritual powers. The structure of the temple is said to be 250 years old. Though the image of the deity is called the Bhadrakali, the goddess is said to have been transformed by the mantras into a very rare form called the Tripura Sundari, which includes the Kali form. Tripura Sundari is regarded as the supreme manifestation of Prakriti - the feminine power which is the vital energy of the universe. Literal meaning of Tripura Sundari is 'The Beauty of the Three Worlds' or more precisely the three Cites or 'Pura'. Best Time to Visit Bhadrakali Temple The best time to visit the famous Bhadrakali Temple in Warangal is the Telegu month of ‘Sravana’ which corresponds to the month of August - September according to Gregorian Calendar. At this time a festival is organised and the deity is aesthetically decorated in various forms. Housing about 8 major and 12 minor temples surrounding mountains of Bhadrakali Temple exude a sacred aura when a large number of devotees gather to offer prayers. People who visit Bhadrakali Temple also visit Hanamkonda Fort which is just a kilometer away from the another well known thousand pillared Hanamkonda Temple. Inside the fort is the Siddeshwara Temple housing a small Linga shrine.
Ramalineshwara Temple
This is located at Palampet near Mulug in Warangal district. This is of tourist importance owing to the existence of the renowned and exquisitely carved sculptures of the Ramappa Temple. Temples in the complex: Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple, Kaaleswara Temple, Nandi Mandapam, Kalyana Mandapam, Pakasala, Sheshanam & Kameswari Temple. Ramappa or Ramalingeswara temple situated in Palampet village,70 km from Warangal town, is a magnificent monument dating back to 1213 AD. It documents the glory and grandeur of the Kakatiya kingdom. An inscription at the temple reads that it was built on behalf of the King Ganapati Deva by his chief commander Rudra Samani.This temple is known for its bracket figures.
Thousand Pillars Temple
Very near from Hanamkonda crossroad. The temple is a fine specimen of Kakatiya architecture and sculpture. Built by Rudra Devan in 1163 A.D, in the style of Chalukyan temples, star shaped and triple shrined. The 3 shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. The temple is famous for its richly carved pillars, screens and detailed sculpture. The black basalt Nandi, a monolith, has a lovely polished finish.
Eturunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
Andhra Pradesh occupies a strategic position in the Indian subcontinent. It’s varied to pography from high ranges of the Eastern Ghats and the Nallamalais to the shores of Bay of Bengal, has given rise to a variety of flora and fauna. In the Eastern Ghat ranges are found moist to semi evergreen forests, which give way to the dry thorn scrubs of the Ananthapur plateau. This variation in turn has given rise to a varied fauna including tigers, panthers, wolves etc.,
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is located 50 Km from Warangal, along the shoreline of Pakhal Lake and is named after it. It is a manmade lake, excavated in 1213 AD by the Kakatiyas. The sanctuary is spread over 880 sq.km consisting of a large plateau surrounded by low hills. The environment and the Pakhal Lake form the core area of the sanctuary. The vegetation consists of tropical dry deciduous mixed forests, bamboo and mixed teak forests. Its natural scenic beauty and landscape is extremely beautiful and captivating, which makes this place worth visiting. This sanctuary is home to Spotted Dear, Sambhar, Nilghai, Wild Boar, Guar, Python, Wild Dogs, Foxes, Jackals, Hyena, Sloth Bear, Panther, Tiger, Ducks, Teals, Cormorant, Spoon Bills, and Storks etc. It has wide variety of jungle birds and several water birds that spend the winter here.
Nalgonda
History
Palaeolithic Age
During this period, people fashioned tools and weapons by chipping hard stones of convenient size and shape. This feature is testified by the findings of unifacial Palaeolithic implements of the Soan type at Yeleshwaram.
Neolithic Age
Traces of Neolithic culture were found at Chota Yelupu, where sling stones and other objects of interest were unearthed. The existence of Megalithic culture was revealed by the discovery of innumerable burials at various places like Tipparti, Nakrekal, Nalgonda etc.
Mauryas and Satavahanas (230 BCE - 218 CE)
The political history of the district commences with the Mauryas. Mauryas, during the reign of Asoka the Great held their sway over this region. Later the region came under the overlordship of the Satavahanas who ruled between 230 BCE - 218 CE. It was during this period the region established trade contacts with the Roman empire.
kshvakus (227 - 306)
The Ikshvakus attained control over the region and ruled with their capital Vijayapuri. During this period Sakas and Scythians settled in this region. Buddhism flourished during thi
Pallavas and Vishnukundinis
After the Ikshvakus, Pallavas and Vishnukundins fought for supremacy over the region. Luck favoured the Vishnukundins in the form of Samudragupta's invasion of the South. Vishnukundins ruled from first quarter of the fifth century to the first decade of the seventh century. Later Kubja Vishnuvardhana ruled this territory with Vengi as his capital.
Rashtrakutas
A major portion of the district appears to have passed from the Chalukyas of Badami to the Rashtrakutas. Rashtrakutas fell in 973 and gave room to the Chalukyas of Kalyani. The sway of the Chalukyas continued until the end of the 12th century.
Medieval period
The district passed under the control of the Kakatiyas from the western Chalukyas. During Prataparudra's time the kingdom was annexed to the Tughluq empire in 1323. During Muhammad bin Tughluq's period, Musunuri chief Kapayanayaka ceded a part of Nalgonda to Ala-ud-din Hasan Bahman Shah. Later the region came under the rule of Recherlas of Rachakonda and Devarakonda. During Ahmad Shah I's period the region was annexed to Bahmani kingdom. Jalal Khan in 1455 declared himself king at Nalgonda, but it was a shortlived affair. The region was brought back to the Bahmani kingdom.
Qutubshahi
During the time of the Bahmani Sultan Shihabud-din Mahmun Sultan Quli was appointed as tarafdar of Telangana. From him the region was taken by his son Jamshid. Later the district remained under the control of Qutub Shahis until 1687.
Modern Period: Mughals and Asaf Jahis
Nizam-ul-Mulk (Asaf Jah I) defeated Mubasiz Khan at Shaker Khere in Berar and ruled the Deccan in an autonomous capacity. This district, like the other districts of Telangana, passed under the Asaf Jahis and remained under them for a period of nearly two hundred and twenty five years.
Interesting Places
Ethipothala Waterfalls
These beautiful and refreshing waterfalls are about 60metres high originate from the Chandravanka river. They are about 21 km east of Nagarjuna Konda (Nalgonda District) and named after a priest (ethi) who meditated in the caves above (apathalla-upper place). There are also some cave temples in the area, worshipped by the locals. Eleven km. Downstream from the dam are the Ethipothala waterfalls, set in a beautiful valley. The Chandravankas stream here plunges from a height of 21.3 meters into a lagoon, and flows on through a green valley much frequented by tourists, the Ethipothala waterfalls are a radiant sight of the power and beauty of nature.
Ethipothala also boasts of a crocodile breeding centre where you can get a fascinating glimpse of these reptiles from close quarters and observe their behavior in their natural habitat.
Ethipothala bounded on the North by Medak and Warangal districts, on the South by Guntur and partly by Mahbubnagar districts; on the East by Khammam and Krishna districts, on the West by Rangareddy and Mahabubnagar districts.
Bhongir Fort
This fort is located upon a single hill at Bhongir. More than 500 feet high and spread over an area of 40 acres, Bhongir fort was built on an isolated rock by the western Chalukya ruler Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya VI and was thus named after him as Tribhuvanagiri. This name gradually became Bhuvanagiri and subsequently Bhongir. At the foot of the fortified rocks 609.6 meters above the sea level stands the town of Bhongir. 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 the tourists. 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 herioc queen Rudramadevi and her grandson Prataparudra's rule.
Kolanupaka
Kolanupaka was made the capital of the Kalyani Chalkyas. Tourists can see Kolanupaka Museum and Kolanupaka Jain Temple at Kolupaka.
Kolanupaka Museum
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.
Kolanupaka Jain Temple
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.
Meenakshi Agasteswara Temple
This town is located at the confluence of the Krishna and Musi rivers. The place is known for the temple of Sri Meenakshi Agasteswara Swamy which was constructed by the Kakatiya rulers in the 12th century. The significance of the temple is that there is a crevice on top of the Shivalinga which is always full of water. Even if some water is removed the original level of the water is maintained. There is no logical reason that can explain this phenomenon especially since the Shivalinga is situated about 120 metres above the water level in the river.
Panchala Temple
The Pachchala Someswara and Chaya Someswara temples. built in the 11 th 12th centuries are situated here. The former has excellent inscriptions on the pillars and walls, depicting stories ITom the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Erotic images on the walls are similar to the ones found in Khajuraho. Beautiful architecture is also the hallmark of Chaya Someswara temple besides an unexplained phenomenon of shadow of a pillar visible behind the Shivalinga, origin of which is a mystery.
Nearest tourist place is Gajulabanda:
Extensive Buddhist structures have been revealed here which include a Stupa, Vihara complex and a Chaitya. The noteworthy aspect of Stupa is it is devoid of ayaka pillars unlike those at Amaravati & Nagarjunakonda. Two sculptured lions carved in limestone have also been found here apart from rich collection of antiquities comprising of stucco figurines.
Pochampally
Pochampally is historical place. Acharya Vinobha Bhave visited this place and started Bhudan Movement here. Pochampalle situated at a distance of about 14.48 kilometres from Bhongir and 9.66 kilometers from the Bibinagar railway station. Pochampalle assumes significance as it is the place of origin of the popular Bhoodan movement led by Acharya Vinoba Bhave in 1950, when offerings of land were donated to the landless poor on his plea. The impetus to a great movement led by Vinobaji has a humble but a noble beginning at this place. It so happened in 1951 that during Vinobhaji's tour, 2 Harijans complained that they did not have any land at all. Then a local Deshmuk readily offered 100 acres of his own land for the distribution among the poor. This is said to have given Vinobaji the idea of propagating Bhoodan Yagna. Out of 13,100 acres of donated land nearly 8,290 acres have been distributed among the landless poor.
Ramagiri Ramalayam
This is the site of the Sri Seeta Ramachandra Devasthanam, which was shifted here about 200 years ago from Malboului. Over the Years , an idol of Andalamma (Godavari ) has been installed in the same premise. Presently, Andalu Kalayanam is celebrated on a grand scale. Nearest Tourist Place is Sri Rama Temple. A temple of Sri Rama is also situated here. It is also historical place of Buddist sculptures.
Yadagirigutta
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple of Yadgirigutta siuated majestically atop the Raigiri hill is a favorite pilgrim centre.Long ago Sri Yada Maharshi son of Sri Rushyashrunga Maharshi with the Blessings of Anjaneya Swamy had performed great penance for Lord Narasimha Swamy (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) in a cave on the hill currently known as Yadagirigutta. Pleased with his deep devotion, Lord Narasimha appeared before him in five different forms as Sri Jwala Narsimha, Sri Yogananda Narasimha, Sri Ugra Narasimha, Sri Gandaberunda Narasimha, and Sri Laksmi Narasimha.According to a legend a prince by the name Yadava, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu craved for his darshan. To attain this, he did penance on this hill and the Lord granted him darshan. Yadav pleaded the Lord live here permanently on the hill, thus the hill got its name Yadgiri. The sanctum sanctorum is nestled insiqe a cave formed under a huge rock. It is said that the Lord fulfills all wishes and even incuraqle diseases get cured if the devotees worship the Lord here for 40 days.
Medak
History
Medak, a historic town originally called Siddapur, later it known as Gulshanabad also, reached its pinnacle during the Kakatiya dynasty reign. Medak has a citadel dating back to the Kakatiyas. It was built during the reign of Kakatiya emperor Pratapa Rudra. Strategically built on a hillock, it was called the Methukudurgam (and Methukuseema), from the Telugu word Methuku - meaning cooked rice grain. The main entrance proudly displays the double-headed bird "Gandabherundam" of the Kakatiyas. The Medak fort stands as an epitome of architectural excellence of the Kakatiya dynasty. The water to the fort was served through a pipeline from a well inside the fort. It has three main entrances, the "Prathama Dwaram", the "Simha Dwaram" or Lions Entrance that has two snarling lions at the top of the entrance and the "Gaja Dwaram" or Elephant's Entrance that has a sculpture of two elephants interlocked on both sides of the entrance. At the fort one can see a 17th century cannon that is 3.2 meters long. The cannon has a trident etched on it. This fortress uses the natural topography to the maximum advantage with the rocky face offering it natural defenses.
Medak Church
Medak is endowed with archaeological treasures. In ancient times it was a teeming metropolis of Buddhist culture as revealed by several archaeological excavations. The main landmark of Medak is the church. Standing firm and awe inspiringly tall amidst sylvan surroundings, the church dominates the skyline beckoning the faithful. Built on an immense scale in solid white granite, the gothic structure is one of the largest and one of the best in the country. It is chiefly known for its large pointed stained glass windows that tell the story of the Bible in blazing colored pictures.
Legend has it that this church was born out of a famine that struck Medak during World War I. Mr. Charles Walker Posnett, a dedicated English missionary from England, was posted as the Reverend of Medak which was reeling under an unprecedented famine that continued for as long as three years. Hundreds of families approached the Reverend for food and blessings. Their pathetic condition moved him and he provided them with enough food. AS an act of thanks giving to God who helped him provide sustenance for the starving people of Medak, he proposed building a church. The grateful inhabitants of Medak instantly accepted the proposal. Thus with the labour of love from those simple peasants, the church rose. Started in the year 1914 it was built continuously for ten years. It was consecrated in 1924 during Christmas.
With its massive dimensions the church can accommodate as many as 5000 people. It’s bell tower rises to a height of 175 feet. The church has an impressive style of vaulting and large painted stained glass windows, the most fascinating feature of the Church. They serve as a picture book of the Bible artist; Sir O. Salisbury took 40 years creating this work art at his studio in London. The pictures glow vibrant and lifelike. Each window is made up of several bits of painted glass, which has been glued into a single piece and then delicately set into the stone windows. The window to the north, which offers a canopy to the altar, is the most moving. It depicts the scene of ascension of Jesus-towering above the altar- dwarfing everything, Jesus ascends to heaven. The other two windows decorating the east and west façade depict the scenes of the birth of Jesus and his crucifixion. The colour spectrum produced by these windows inside by the early and late afternoon sun is beautiful and beyond all description. With its immensity and beauty, this century old church stands out as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in India.
Edupayalu
Edupayalu is situated at a distance of 8 kms. from Medak and is connected by road and there are frequent buses from Medak. Private transport is also available from Medak.All of them meet here to form river Manjeera. This picturesque spot marks the confluences of seven rivulets in to Manjeera River and hence the name Edupailu. In Telugu edu is seven and pailu is stream. It is said that Parikshit Maharaja performed Sarpayagam at this place for which Garuda brought snakes the place, which were burnt in the yagam. Except one all the snakes were burnt. And the blood of the had fallen in 7 places, which became 7 rivers & met at this place forming River Manjira. In Telugu ‘Edu’ means ‘seven’ as 7 rivers meet at this place it has come to be known as ‘Edupayalu’. Temples in the complex: Lord Shiva & Kanaka Durga. Dasara, Diwali and Karthikapournami festivals celebrates at Edupayalu.
Kondapur
Kondapur was a very important Buddhist center in 2nd and 3rd centuries A.D. It locates 63 kms. from Medak. Kondapur is well connected by road from Medak. Lead coins of the Satavahana kings were discovered here. All the antiquities are on display in the local museum managed by the ASI. The other findings at this place include a gold coin of the Roman Emperor Augustus (37BC – 14 AD) About a dozen silver coins, 50 lead coins, several beads, broken pieces of bangles of terracotta, shell, ivory, copper and glass embossed with designs. Iron implements and weapons such as sickles, forks, spear heads, chisel and nails. Hollow figurines of kaolin made in moulds also have been found in considerable quantities.
Medak Fort
Description about Medak Fort
The Medak fort, originally called Methuku durgam derives its name from the Telugu word "Methuku" meaning cooked rice. Originally it was built in typical Hindu style during the reign of the Kakatiyas. The later additions and modifications carried out by the Qutub Shahis exhibit Muslim architecture. It is essentially a dry masonry wall. The fort has wide ramparts with several natural bastions carved out of the boulders and rocks on the hillock. The fort has three significant entrances - the Prathama dwaram (first entrance), Simha dwaram (Lion's entrance) & the Gaja dwaram (elephant's entrance).
Nacharam Narasimha Temple
The important one is that when Narasimha swamy killed the asura no one was able to pacify Him. So Lakshmi Devi came to this place and on seeing her Narasimha regained His original form of Vishnu.
At Nacharam, or Nachagiri, earlier called Swetagiri is a centuries old temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha. It is also called as Swetagiri or Gargeya Thapovanam. This temple is built on the banks of the sacred River Haridra. The temple got its name from a sincere devotee N achar. A large number of devotees come from far to visit this temple. Other temples in this complex are of Lord Siva, Sita Rama, Lakshmana, Garuda, Sri Anjaneya Swamy, Bhairava and N avagrahas. It is believed that devotees who visit the temple after a dip in the River Haridra not only get rid of their sins, but also of skin diseases. There is deep faith among the devotees that the temple has miraculous power to heal chronic diseases.
Pocharam Wild Life Sanctuary
Protecting the flora and fauna at Pocharam Wild Life sanctuary. It is very famous sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh for Bar Headed Goose, Brahminy Ducks, Painted Storks, Open Billed Storks, White Necked Storks, Spoon Bills, Black Ibis, White Ibis and a variety of Teals and Pochards.The lake abutting the sanctuary attracts large flocks of migratory birds. The flora of the sanctuary is of mixed dry deciduous forest with patches of scrubs and grassy lands. Preventing removal of forest produce from the sanctuary. Pocharam wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 130 sq. km. Medak and Nizamabad districts. It is an undulating terrain with low hills and small water pools. It is located a distance of 120 km. from Hyderabad.
Rameswara Temple
RAmeswra Temple located at Nandikandi.The temple known locally as the Rameswara or the Ramalingeshwara Temple is a unique star shaped temple of the Kalyana Chalukyan period. The four exquisitely sculptured pillars in the centre of the hall (Navaranga) depict the figures Bramha, Vishnu, Siva, Narasimha, Varaha, Nataraja, Devi Mahishasur Mardini, Devi Saraswati and Gaja Lakshmi in various forms. There are also sculptures of Dikpalakas, Apsaras. Here one can see a Shivalinga Made with sand. There are 5 more temples to see besides the Ramaligeswa Swamy temple.
Sangameswaram
Zarasangam is Known as Sangameswaram is situated at a distance of 26 kms. from Medak. As per the local belief Bramha, Vishnu, Maheswara got united at this place. It is known as Sangameswram. Once Lord Shiva gave ‘Shrapa’ to Kubera, Brahma and Ketaki the remedy was to pray to Shiva. After many years of penance Shiva appeared and Ketaki asked Shiva to make him an orchard. Even today it is visible and flowers from this are used for pooja purpose. Kubera became King Kupendra. King Kupendra constructed the temple. Temples in the Complex are Hanuman, Ganesh.
Prakasam
Prakasam Life
August 23, 1872 :
Born at maternal Grand father's house, at Vinodarayudpalem a hamlet of Kanuparti in Ongole taluk now in Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh.
Early Education at Valluru, Addanki, Naidupeta and Ongole; came under influence of Immaneni Hanumantha Rao Naidu in stage dram activities at Ongole.
1886 - 1904 :
Prakasam went to Rajahmundry along with Hanumantha Rao Naidu, continued his studies and stage drama activities at Rajahmundry; proceeded to Madras and qualified himself as a Second Pleader from Madras Law Collee.
1900 :
Prakasam was elected as Muncipal Councilor of Rajahmundry with the support of Sri R. Subbaraidu.
1903 :
Became Chairman of the Rajahmundry Municipality after defeating Sri M. Achyutaramayya.
1904 December :
Left for the U.K. to study Law; there came into contact with Dadabhai Naoraji, Ramesh Chandra Dutt, Shyamji Krishna Varma and Lala Lajpat Rai and others.
1906 - 1907:
Returned to India as Barrister and setup practice in Madras, started taking interest in Indian politics; presided over a meeting addressed by Bepin Chandra Pal at Madras.
1907 :
Attended the Surat Session of the Congress. In the Surat split, Prakasam's sympathies were with Tilak whom he admired.
1912 :
Prakasam and his lawyer colleagues purchased the Madras Law Times.
Prakasam, C. Madhavan Nair and M. Devadas were the joint Editors of the Journal.
1916 :
Joined the Home Rule League launched by Dr. Annie Beasant.
February 1919 :
Gandhiji issued the famous Satyagraha pledge and Prakasam came forward to sign it along with C. Rajagopala Chari.
Presided over the Nellore District Political conference held at Atmakuru.
Organised the "Nationalist Group" inside the Congress and donated Rs. 5,000/- to it.
December 1919 :
Attended the Amritsar Session of the Indian National Congress.
1920 :
In his Presidential address to the conference of the Andhra Provincial Congress at Mahanandi, Kurnool district, Prakasam pleaded for linguistic resdistribution of provinces.
January 1921 :
Give up his lucrative practice at the Bar in response at the Nagpur Congress Resolution inspired by Gandhiji.
October 29, 1921 :
a) launched from Madras nationalist English daily, Swarajya which continued for 14 years, though not very successfully, closed in 1935 under financial distress and British Government's repression.
b) Undertook constructive programme - Basic education, Khadi etc., at Ongole and other places.
c) Congress propaganda all over the country.
March 1922 :
Elected President of the Andhra Provincial Congress Committee (APCC); Between 1922 and 1946, Prakasam was President of APCC for a record number of years; except on two occassions, he was always elected unanimously.
In 1931, he defeated the Raja of Gampalagudem; but in the middle of the same year he handed over charge to the latter.
June 1922 :
Elected to the All-India Congress Working Committee. When Prakasam was President of APCC (1922-23), Andhra topped the list of Khadi producing States in India.
December 1923 :
Prakasam played a leading part in the Kakinada Session of Indian National Congress: Resigned the APCC Presidentship over council-entry issue.
Settled Hindu-Muslim Communal Dispute in Nellore.
December 1926 :
Elected to Central Assembly, Delhi Member of that Assembly during 1926-30.
February 3, 1928 :
Simon Commission arrived in India.
Prakasam made history during the boycott and hartal at Madras.
The boycott of the Commission was organised thrice, first of the day of the arrivial of the Commission in India on 3-2-1928 and twice latter when the Commission actually visited Madras. on the first occassion the Police resorted to firing and one person was killed. Prakasam bared his chest to the bayonets of the British Soldiers, and went to see the body of the person killed which was laid before the High Court Buildings, Madras - became famous as Andhra Kesari.
December 1929 :
Visited South-East Asian Countries for about eight months.
April 1930 :
Resigned the membership of the Central Legislature and coutosted independently and won. Again at the time of Dandi Satyagraha, he resigned to join the movement Organised Salt Satyagraha in Madras City at Udayavanam Building; courted arrest.
1935 :
Prakasam lost his properties to the creditors of Swaraj Paper, Swarajya closed down.
Elected as one of the Aldermen to the Madras Corporation. Became Revenue Minister headed by Sri. C. Rajagopalachari in the Ministry that was in office till 1939.
September 1937 :
Initiated Zamindari Abolition in Master Prince. A 9 member committee with Prakasam as Chairman was constituted to enquire into the conditions of Zamin riots.
The Committee was directed to "divise suitable legislation in order to bring about a complete and lasting understanding between the Zamindars and the tenants".
December 1937 :
Accepted Sribagh Pact ratified by the APCC.
"Sribagh" was the name of the house of Sri Kasinadhuni Nageswara Rao where the fact was signed. It was signed by Sri K. Reddi, Kallur Subba Rao, L. Subba Rama Reddi, H.H. Sitarama Reddi, Pappuri Ramacharyulu and R. Venkatappa (all belonging to Rayalaseema districts) and Konda Venkatappayya and Dr. B. Pattabhi Sitaramayya (representing the coastal districts).
1940 :
Prakasam launched a weekly called "Village Republic" and its counter parts in Telugu and Tamil. It, however, ceased publication in 1942.
The paper was started with the object of educating the masses and also the classes on the lines that should be adopted not only for reviving the ancient village republic but also to propagate the idea of establishing the republican sysem in towns and cities as well as in villages. Participation in Individual Satyagraha; and Jailed for eight months.
August 1942 :
"Quit India" movement, Prakasam detained at Cuddapah while on his way to Madras from Bombay.
August 1945 :
Prakasam released along with other national leaders.
In view of his unparalleded sacrifices, purses were presented to Prakasam for his personal use.
January 1946 :
Gandhiji, in his letter to Prakasam, raised the purses issue for the first time. Prakasam defended himself with his characteristic courage.
April 1946 :
Prakasam elected leader of the Legislature Congress Party against the wishes of Gandhiji, became Prime Minister of Madras on April 30, 1946.
During his tenure of office, Prakasam took up Gandhian constructive programme Firka Development scheme, and produce-cum-consumer co-operative societies etc., all forming part his Gram Swaraj concept and programme. He gave up the quota of mill spindles for encouraging Khadi, setup a Khadi development department in government.
August 1946 :
Delivered convocation address to the graduates of Madras University.
"Education should enable the students to create a society .... where there is no exploitation of class by class, of caste, of man by man" he said.
December 1946 :
Delivered convocation address to the Graduates of Andhra University.
Gandhiji wrote to Prakasam on December 5, 1946.
"Please keep me informed of what is going on about the (Khadi) scheme and do not hesitate to make a concrete suggestion if you expect me to do anything concrete".
March 1947 :
Resigned the Prime Ministership of Madras.
August 31, 1947 :
Prakasam along with other Andhra Members of the Constituent Assembly presented a petition to Sardar Patel, the then Union Home Minister urging the formation of Andhra State.
1947 - 1948 :
Prakasam visited the "Union Villages" inside the Nizam's territory.
November 1949 :
J.V.P. Report accepted by the Andhra Provincial Congress Committee, the resolution was moved by Prakasam.
December 7, 1949 :
Madras Government constitued a Partition Council; Prakasam, Kala Venkat Rao, B. Gopal Reddy, N. Sanjeeva Reddi, K. Madhava Menon, T.T. Krishnamachari, M. Bhaktavastalam and P.S. Kumaraswami Raja (Chief Minister) were on the council.
January - March 1950 :
Partition Council finalised its report to the Government of India, Prakasam appended a note of dissent.
He maintained that inter alia the temporary capital of Andhra State should be in Madras city.
March 1950 :
Prakasam and his followers asked for seats in the opposition benches in the Legislative Assembly of Madras, makring the beginning of his severance with the Congress.
November 1950 :
Prakasam and J.B. Kripalani, Rafi Ahmed Kidwai and P.C. Ghosh organised "The Congress Democratic Party" inside the Indian National Congress.
January 1951 :
The Congress Democratic Party met at Tirupati.
April 14, 1951
Praja Party formed.
May 1951 :
Prakasam, J.B. Kripalani, P.C. Ghosh and K.Kelappan formed the Kisan Mazdoor - Praja Party (KMPP); its formation was officialy declared after the new party's Patna Convention in June 1951.
May 1952 :
Prakasam interrupted the Governor's address to the Joint session of the Madras Legislature for ignoring his claim to form Government as leader of United Democratic Front.
June 12, 1952 :
English weekly "Praja Patrika" was launched.
The weekly ceased publication in 1953 a few months after the announcement of the formation of Andhra State.
September 1952 :
Praja Socialist Party (PSP) was formed by the fusion of the K.M.P.P. and the Socialist Party of India-Prakasam becam the leader of Madras state P.S.P.
December 15, 1952 :
Potti Sreeramulu passed away after 58 days of fast.
Prakasam in a signed editorial in the Praja Patrika said: After 58 days of taps, he had laid down his dedicated life on the altar of a cause that should inspire the living. By his one supreme act of self immolation Sri Sreeramulu has carved out for himself a glorious niche in the annals of the Andhras.
December 19, 1952 :
The Prime Minister announced the constituttion of one man Wanchoo Commission in Parliament.
January 1953 :
Prakasam submitted a detailed memorandum to Justice Wanchoo at Madras on Andhra State.
February 26, 1953 :
With Prakasam as Editor "Praja Patrika" a new Telugu daily made its debut.
March 25, 1953 :
The Prime Minister announced in Parliament that the Andhra State would be inaugurated on October 1, 1953.
May 1953 :
With Prakasam as presiding officer, Andhra Members of the Madras legislature elected Kurnool as the Capital of the new Andhra State.
October 1, 1953 :
Prakasam was sworn in as the first Chief Minister of Andhra State.
The highlights of the Prakasam administration were inauguration of the High Court at Guntur on July 5, 1954, Sri Venkateswara University on September 2, 1954 and the Krishna Barrage on February 13, 1954.
November 6, 1954 :
The Prakasam Ministry fell.
November 1, 1956 :
Andhra Pradesh was formed. Prakasam participated in the Celebrations.
May 20, 1957 :
Prakasam passed away at Hyderabad. Soon after returning from a town in Ongole District.
Vizag
Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam pronunciation (help·info)(telugu - విశాఖపట్నం) (also Viśākhapattanamu, shortened and anglicized: Vizag or Vizagapatnam) is a port city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is located on the eastern shore of India, nestled among the hills of the Eastern Ghats and facing the Bay of Bengal to the east. The city is about 650km northeast of Hyderabad. The city is the administrative headquarters of Visakhapatnam District.
Alternatively, it sometimes goes by its now mostly defunct colonial British name, Waltair. During the colonial era, the city had at its hub the Waltair railway station, and that part of the city still goes by the name of Waltair. It is also popularly referred to as "Vizag", a shortening of its full name. It is sometimes also referred to as the "City of Destiny".[citation needed]
The city is home to several state owned heavy industries, one of the most advanced steel plant and has one of the country's largest ports and its oldest shipyard. It has the only natural harbour on the eastern coast of India.
Andhra University, a prominent seat of education in Andhra Pradesh, is located here.
Vizag is primarily an industrial city, apart from being a tourist destination. Tourists are attracted by its unspoilt beaches, nearby scenic Araku Valley and Borra caves, the 11th-century Simhachalam temple and ancient Buddhist sites like Totlakonda & Bavikonda spread across the area.
The city boasts a submarine museum, the first of its kind in South Asia, at Rama Krishna Beach.
Visakhapatnam is also the headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy.
Visakhapatnam Beaches
Bheemunipatnam Beach
Bheemunipatnam Beach is about 24 kms from Visakhapatnam located at the mouth of river Gosthani.
Lawsons Bay
A beautiful beach and the vast blue sea that falls on the way to Kailasagiri Hill, Lawson's Bay is an ideal spot for sea bathing and surfing.
Ramakrishna Beach
Ramakrishna Beach is ideal for those seeking fun, away from the city crowd in a cool atmosphere at a reasonable price. This beach has golden sands, surf, sea and hill cottages overlooking the grand vista.
Rishikonda Beach
A golden, unspoilt beach, washed by the sun-warmed sea, Rishikonda 8km’s from Vizag is ideal for swimmers, water skiers, and wind surfers, tourists can enjoy a holiday in picturesque settings.
Visakhapatnam Buddhist Places
Sankaram
Sankaram has numerous monolithic votive stupas, rock-cut caves buildings and images of Buddha and non-tantric form of Hariti.
Thotlakonda
In Telugu thotti means'cistern' & konda means 'hill' and Thotlakonda means hill of cisterns. This Buddhist settlement is located on the hill-top of Mangamaripeta village, 16 km. away from Visakhapatnam town along Vizag-Bheemli beach road.
Visakhapatnam Historical Places
Borra Caves
Borra Caves discovered by William King George from the Geological Survey of India in 1807. Caves are located at 43km from Srungavarapukota, 90-95 km from Vishakhapatnam.
Pavuralakonda
Pavuralakonda or 'the hill of the pigeons' is a hillock lying to the west of Bhimli, at about 24 km from Vizag,where a Buddist site identified.
Visakhapatnam Modern Attractions
Dolphin's Nose
Traipse down in the southern part of Visakhapatnam, facing the cool, blue ocean, is a rocky promontory about 174 mts, high and 358 mts above sea level.
Kailasagiri
Kailasgiri also known as Thomas' Folly, became the most attractive tourist spot in Visakhapatnam.
Mudasarlova
Mudarslova is a attractive parks in Visakhapatnam.
Vuda Park
Vuda Park is the best place for kids in Vishakhapatnam.
Visakhapatnam Temples
Simhachalam Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy, is covered in a thick layer of sandalwood paste. The real shape of the deity can be viewed only during Chandanayatra Festival (March - April).
Visakhapatnam Wildlife Places
Jungle Bells / Tyda Nature camp
Tyda Nature camp located 75 kms from Visakhapatnam on the Araku road. Tyda is being developed with camping facilities at jungle bells to provide an enchanting experience in the wilderness to the tourists.
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
Located 650 km from Hyderabad and 350 km from Vijayawada. The park covers an area of 625 acres. It is presently one of the largest zoo located in the natural settings of a reserve forest about 4 km. from the Visakhapatnam railway station on the National Highway at Mathurawada.
