Historical Background: Khilashapur Fort was constructed around 1690 CE by Sardar Sarvai Pappanna, popularly known as Papadu. A warrior and chieftain, Papadu controlled a large territory in Telangana and made Khilashapur his capital. The fort reflects his military ambitions and defensive strategies. According to researcher and heritage enthusiast Aravind Arya Pakide, the fort was built with a square layout, featuring massive bastions at the four corners and five buruzus (towers) designed to mount cannons.
Papadu also built forts at Bhongir, Thatikonda, Kolanpak, Cheriyal, Karimnagar, Huzurabad, and Husnabad. However, Khilashapur was his preferred seat of power. The outer walls were constructed of stone, while internal structures used dung sunnam (lime mortar mix). The fort also has secret tunnels believed to have been used for escape during sieges. Currently, only two cannons remain; two others are missing. The fort reflects Papadu’s war capabilities and his aspiration to establish an independent kingdom.
Architectural Features
Khilashapur Fort is a classic example of late‑medieval Deccan military architecture, combining stone masonry with strategic planning.
Defensive Design: The square plan with massive corner bastions allowed defenders to cover all approaches. The five buruzus were positioned to mount cannons for maximum coverage. The ramparts were built with convenient embrasures for cannon fire. The outer stone wall was thick and high, while inner structures used lime mortar (dung sunnam) – a cheaper but durable material.
- Square Plan with Corner Bastions: The fort is laid out in a square, with each corner guarded by a massive bastion, providing mutual supporting fire.
- Five Buruzus (Towers): In addition to corner bastions, the fort has five fortified towers (buruzus) along the walls, designed for mounting cannons and archers.
- Two Surviving Cannons: Two old cannons still exist on the ramparts. They are made of cast iron and date from the late 17th century. Two other cannons are missing, likely looted or removed.
- Secret Tunnels: Local tradition holds that the fort has underground escape tunnels leading to safe locations outside the fort. These have not been fully excavated but are believed to exist.
- Stone Outer Wall: The outer fortification was built using large stone blocks, laid without much mortar, typical of regional military architecture.
- Lime Mortar Internal Structures: Inside the fort, walls and buildings were constructed using dung sunnam (lime mortar mixed with organic binders), which has proved durable over centuries.
- Ramparts for Cannon Fire: The top of the walls was designed with crenellations and firing platforms, allowing cannons to be placed at strategic intervals.
- Recent Restoration: Deep pointing work has been carried out recently, removing tree overgrowth and strengthening the walls to prevent further collapse.
Key Historical Figure – Sardar Sarvai Pappanna (Papadu)
Born around 1650, Papadu was a warrior‑chief who rose to power in Telangana during the late 17th century. He served as a military commander under the Qutb Shahis and later the Mughals after the fall of Golconda in 1687. However, he rebelled and carved out an independent territory. He built or fortified several forts, including Bhongir, Thatikonda, Kolanpak, Cheriyal, Karimnagar, Huzurabad, Husnabad, and his capital at Khilashapur. He was known for his guerrilla tactics and strong fortifications. He died in 1709 CE, and after his death, his kingdom was absorbed into the Mughal and later Nizam domains.
Restoration Efforts & Recent Events
Government Intervention: Authorities of the State Archaeology department have planned to develop the fort (Quilla Shapur) at Khilashapur village in Raghunathpally mandal, Jangaon district. Thanks to the Telangana government’s commitment to conserve monuments, deep pointing works have been carried out, and tree overgrowth has been removed to strengthen the walls.
October 2020 – Wall Collapse: On October 16, 2020, a portion of the historic Khilashapur fort wall collapsed due to heavy rains. The incident highlighted the urgent need for conservation. News reports from The Hans India and The News Minute covered the collapse, prompting authorities to expedite restoration work.
According to heritage enthusiasts, the fort has potential to become a tourist attraction if proper pathways, signages, and lighting are installed. The surviving cannons and the square layout with corner bastions are unique features not commonly seen in Telangana forts.
Visitor Information & How to Reach
Getting There
By road: Khilashapur is about 5 km from Raghunathpalli town, approximately 90 km from Hyderabad (via Warangal highway). From Jangaon town, it is about 25 km. Buses and taxis are available from Jangaon, Warangal, and Raghunathpalli.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Raghunathpalli Railway Station (approx. 5 km), well connected to Hyderabad, Warangal, and other cities.
Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (approx. 100 km).
Best time to visit
October to March (cool weather; ideal for exploring the fort).
Entry Fee
No entry fee (protected monument under State Archaeology).
Nearby Attractions
- Bhongir Fort – Another Papadu fort with a unique egg‑shape, about 40 km away.
- Kolanpak Fort & Jain Temple – Ancient Jain pilgrimage site, approx. 30 km.
- Cheriyal Scroll Painting Centre – Famous for traditional scroll art, about 50 km.
- Warangal Fort & Thousand Pillar Temple – Approx. 60 km.
Note: The fort has undergone recent restoration, but some areas remain sensitive. Do not climb on the crumbling bastions. The secret tunnels are not accessible. Carry water and wear sturdy shoes.
References & Further Reading
- The Hans India – Historic Khilashapur Fort wall crumbles (Oct 2020)
- Telangana Today – Quilla Shapur: Preserving the remnants
- The News Minute – Historic Quilashapur fort’s wall collapses due to rains (Oct 2020)
- Research by Aravind Arya Pakide (heritage enthusiast)