Kolanupaka (Kollipaka): Jain Basadi & the Chalukya‑Choda Legacy
Panuravadi-27,000 | Kollipaka-7000 | Mahamandalesvaras | Jaina Mettugutta | Western Chalukya Secondary Capital
Kolanupaka (also Kollipaka, Kollipakanadu, Bimbavatipuram, Kottiyapaka) is a historic village in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, Telangana. For over four centuries (c. 846–1163 CE) it served as a strategic administrative and military secondary capital, first under the Rashtrakutas (753–973 CE) and later under the Kalyani Chalukyas (Western Chalukyas) (973–1163 CE). While the imperial capitals were at Manyakheta (Malkhed) and Kalyani (Basavakalyan), Kollipaka functioned as the eastern hub governed by Mahamandalesvaras, Mahasamantadhipatis and powerful feudatory families such as the Panara (Panuravadi) Rattas, Kanduri Chodas and the Paramara prince Jagaddeva. The town’s extraordinary administrative unit Panuravadi-27,000 (27,000 villages) and the later Kollipaka-7000 covered vast parts of modern Medak, Nalgonda and Warangal. Kolanupaka is equally renowned as a multi‑faith centre – a Digambara Jain tฤซrtha with the ancient Jaina Basadi at Mettugutta (attributed to Sankaraganda I, 888 CE), a Shaiva heartland with the Svayambhu Somesvara temple, and a Vaishnava seat with the Jagaddeva‑Narayana shrine built by the Paramara prince.
The Rashtrakutas established the Panuravadi-27,000 division – an enormous territory governed by the Panara (Panuravadi) Ratta chiefs. The family produced military generals (Mahasamantadhipati) who controlled Jaffarghad, Warangal and the Medak–Nalgonda corridor.
Administered areas including Jaffarghad and Warangal.
846 CE (25 Sept): Land grants at Mallikarjuna Palli, Medak.
888 CE: Jain inscription at Mettugutta hillock, Kazipet – records the Jaina Basadi (attributed to Sankaragandaras). Many ruined Jain temples, shrines and sculptures in Warangal, Hanmakonda, Kazipet and Madikonda reflect the strong influence of Jainism.
Mettugutta (Khazipet) inscription: Satyasraya Bhimarasa obtained the privilege of the pancha‑maha sabdas (five musical instruments) and the status of mahasamantadhipati by serving his overlord Amoghavarsha Sri Prithvi Vallabha. The title “Satyasraya” indicates that branches of the Chalukya family were already integrated into the Rashtrakuta state as high‑ranking military governors.
1 April 907 CE: Velmajala, Bhuvanagiri Mandal. Refers to Akalavarsha (Krishna II) and records a gift of 100 marttars of land to a basadi and a garden by Ravi Chandrayya, a subordinate of the king.
Padaturu, Nalgonda: Kannada inscription of Rashtrakuta king Nityavarsha (Indra III). It refers to mahasamanta Nurmadidhavala and his subordinate chief Gommarasa, who was administering the Kollipaka nadu-7000 division. Records the grant of several lands with the siddhaya tax by Chamangamunda (son of Aydamayya) to a temple. Aydamayya is stated to have been ruling over Padaturu.
30 August 946 CE: Stone slab in front of Mallikarjuna Swamy temple (worn). Mentions Maha Samantha Kommana of Panduravadi gifting wetland as siddhaya after washing the feet of Bankeyabhattaraka of Isvaralaya. Also refers to Rechayya of the Ayyavamsa making a corollary gift.
With their main capital at Kalyani (Basavakalyan), the Chalukyas transformed Kollipaka into a major administrative and military centre governed by Mahamandalesvaras and royal princes. The city became the seat of the Kollipaka-7000 division and, for a time, the residence of crown prince Somesvara III.
979 CE: Ghanpur inscription identifies him as “Crown Prince” validating land grants in Jangaon/Warangal.
987 CE: Mention of a merchant guild (likely the Five Hundred Lords of Ayyavole) indicates Kolanupaka was already a flourishing trade centre.
992 CE: Choppadandi record refers to Anungu Duggarayya as a “follower of Irivabedenga,” revealing close personal loyalty networks.
Subordinate ruler Gamgeyarasar (Gangeyarasa) served under Gunagarasa. The 1004 CE Narayanagiri inscription provides insight into military titles and feudal hierarchy of the Western Chalukya administration.
Chola army sent by Rajendra Chola I to help his nephew Rajaraja I defeated Jayasimha II at Musangi (1020‑21 CE). Cholas occupied Kollipaka; Jayasimha II later recaptured it. An inscription records Annayya-mavanta, the lemka (elite bodyguard) of Jayasimha II, who died in service, urging soldiers to follow his example.
Administered the Kollipaka-7000 division. 1032 CE record (Kannada) in the reign of Jagadekamalla (Jayasimha II) refers to an endowment of the village Gadicheruvu (in Anemargge-70, adjoining Kollipake-70) by Nannapaya for offerings to the god Nanni‑Narayana.
4 June 1034 CE, Aleru‑40 in Kolliapka‑7000: record of Vaidyaratnakara Pranacharya Aggalayya, a physician expert in both Sastra (surgery) and medical theory. A devout Jain, he constructed the Buddhasena Jinalaya (Mucchanapalli) and the Vaidyaratnakara Jinalaya (Ikkuriki). The king gifted land to these institutions, demonstrating state support for Jainism.
1046 CE: remission of taxes by the settis, gamundas and prajes of Kollipake while Kommanayyarasa ruled Kollipake-7000.
1047 CE: Record of the “Lavan‑agamu” (salt levy) – the Six Settis and 120 Nagara directed salt tax income to maintain the Piriyakere (Great Tank). This reveals the tripartite power: Mahamandalesvara (political), Nagara (commercial) and twelve Gaundas (agricultural).
1050 CE: Vipra Somi‑bhattaraka, Sthanadhipati of Podarupaka, gifted 60 mattars of black soil to Chandimayya, a lemka of Gangamaraja. Mentions Mahavrati Sobadeva proficient in Soma Siddhanta.
24 December 1056 CE: While Somesvara I camped at Malikonda-appayaแนavidu, at the instance of Perggada Chavu‑(ndayya), the nine puras of Kollipaka, the pancha‑matha‑sthanas, basadis and degulasthanas were exempted from minor taxes (balli pannasakere, nirkkala‑ratanam, tomtakeri, mannevam).
1047 CE: Kolanupaka – gift of land to god Svayambu Somesvara; prasasti claims defeat of many Telugu Cholas.
1067 CE: Grant of income from kirudere taxes of Gadicheruvu (in Anemarga-70) for worship in Svayambhu Somesvara and Nanninarayana‑Vishnu temples.
1065 CE Mulugu record: Asagarasa, bearing the title Kollipakeyagova, conferred headmanship on Kati Raddi and Mini Raddi in the presence of the Mahajanas of Baliya Molugu‑30 (part of Chandanapura‑1000).
1075 CE bilingual record (Telugu‑Kannada): Asagamarasa, governor of Kollipaka-7000, granted setti‑sumka (customs duties), house‑sites near the granary and palace, and jagatigere to the merchant Trailokyamalla Rebbi Setti.
Ruled Kollipaka-7000 under Chalukya overlordship. 1088, 1089 CE: Records mention Ramesvara Pandita, a pontiff of the Kalamukha sect, receiving money from officials and shops for the Uttaresvara temple.
1091 CE: Kandura Tondaya Chola Maharaja of Kasyapa gotra, lord of Kodurupura, gifted Baliya Duddandi (in Manemagga‑70) to god Somesvara of Kollipaka-7000 for renovation and feeding ascetics.
Vikramaditya VI brought Jagaddeva from Dhara (Malwa) out of affection, treated him as dharma‑tanaya and gave him half the Kuntala kingdom. 1104 CE Kolanupaka record: Jagaddeva, residing in his capital Kollipaka, granted the village Goshttipalu in Aleti‑Kampana to god Somesvara and the attached matha built by Bammadeva‑nayaka at Bhuvanagiri fort. He also consecrated the Jagaddeva‑Narayana temple. 1108 CE Vemulawada inscription records Jagaddeva staying at Lemulavada as Paramarakula‑tilaka.
The future emperor Somesvara III (author of Manasollasa) was stationed at Kollipaka as viceroy. 1109 CE record: his “first stay” at Kollipaka, with his entire household (Antahpuraverggade). 1112 CE: explicitly titled Lord of Kollipaka desa. 1125 CE Ubagadda pillar inscription: records his conquest of Trikalinga (setting up a Jaya‑stambha) and defeat of the Dravila (Chola) forces. The commander Sayimayya is praised for supporting Chatus‑samaya (Jainism, Buddhism, Shaivism, Vaishnavism) – a rare mention of Buddha in 12th‑century Telangana. Grant of village Panupurayi to goddess Ambikadevi (Jain Yakshini) as the “Crest Jewel of the Chalukyas”.
Manevergade Nannapayya and Muppana Nayaka governed Kollipaka; gifts for perpetual lamps recorded. 1279 CE (27 Dec): Nissamka Poti Nayaka (subordinate of Indusekhara of the Durjaya line) dug the Vamsavardhana canal and made land gifts at Somanatha temple.
Main Shaiva shrine of the Chalukya capital, continuously patronised from 1047 CE to 1279 CE. Contains several inscribed pillars, including the 1077 CE Sankaraganda record and the 1125 CE Ubagadda pillar (Chatus‑samaya). The temple still has a Nandi mandapa and a large tank (Piriyakere) mentioned in the 1047 CE salt‑tax grant.
Open 8 AM – 6 PM | Free
Built in 1104 CE by Paramara prince Jagaddeva. Unique Vaishnava shrine with elaborate revenue inscriptions detailing three grades of villages (Uttama, Madhyama, Adhama). The deity is a rare Narayana form consecrated by a Malwa prince under Chalukya suzerainty.
Open 8 AM – 6 PM | Free
Scattered remnants of a Digambara Jain temple complex within the village. Includes broken pillars with chaturmukha images, a small shrine of Parshwanath and a later structure dedicated to Ambikadevi. The 1107 CE inscription refers to this as the “Parshwanath Jinalaya”.
Always accessible | Free
Two highly significant epigraphical pillars near the old granary (Kotthara) and the palace site. The 1075 CE Telugu‑Kannada pillar records Asagamarasa’s grant of merchant tolls and house‑sites. The 1047 CE pillar details the Lavan‑agamu (salt tax) assigned to maintain the Great Tank.
Ask priest / ASI guide to locate
Small but ancient Shaiva shrine built by Dandanayaka Tikamayya (attested in 1046–1111 CE records). Later grants by Kalimayya (1111 CE) and mentions of lemka Chandimayya. The temple has a fine Chalukyan stepped superstructure.
Open 8 AM – 6 PM | Free
Hillock site with the earliest Jain inscription of the region (888 CE) attributed to Sankaraganda I. Rock‑cut cells, ruined brick shrines and a panoramic view. The Jaina Basadi is the spiritual anchor of Rashtrakuta‑era Jainism in Telangana.
9 AM – 5 PM | Short trek | Free
⏰ Visitor Information – Kolanupaka (Kollipaka) Heritage Site
๐ Address & Access
Kolanupaka (Kollipaka), Yadadri Bhuvanagiri District, Telangana – 508116.
Near Bhuvanagiri (Bhongir) town, about 8 km from Bhongir railway station.
Distance from Hyderabad: ~80 km (via NH 163, 1.5 hours).
๐ Enquiries
Archaeological Survey of India (Hyderabad Circle): +91-40-2323 4333
District Tourism Officer, Bhuvanagiri: +91-8688-123456 (representative)
๐ Official Info
๐ Timings & Entry
Somesvara Temple & Jain Basadi (ruins): Open 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
Mettugutta Jain Basadi (Kazipet): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (on hillock, requires short trek).
Entry Fee: Free for all monuments.
Best season: October – March (pleasant weather).
Time needed: 2–3 hours for village temples; add 1 hour for Mettugutta.
Dress code: Modest attire; remove footwear before entering active temple sanctums.
๐ How to Reach Kolanupaka
By Road: Well connected from Hyderabad (80 km) via Uppal – Bhongir – Kolanupaka. TSRTC buses from Hyderabad (MGBS) to Bhongir; local autos to Kolanupaka (8 km).
By Train: Nearest railway: Bhongir Railway Station (8 km) on the Secunderabad – Warangal line. Many express trains stop.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (85 km).
๐งญ Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary (Heritage & Pilgrimage)
- 8:00 AM: Depart Hyderabad. Arrive Kolanupaka by 9:30 AM.
- 9:30 AM: Visit Svayambhu Somesvara Temple – main Chalukyan Shiva shrine, see in situ inscriptions.
- 10:30 AM: Explore the ruined Jaina Basadi and Ambika Devi shrine within the village.
- 11:30 AM: Walk to the Jagaddeva‑Narayana temple (Veeranarayana) – note the three grades of village tax system inscribed on pillars.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at local dhaba or pack lunch (limited restaurants).
- 2:00 PM: Drive to Mettugutta hillock (Kazipet, 20 km) – 9th‑century Jain Basadi attributed to Sankaraganda I. Panoramic view and rock inscriptions.
- 4:00 PM: Return to Kolanupaka; visit the Mallikarjuna temple and the pillars with 1047 CE salt‑tax record.
- 5:30 PM: Depart for Hyderabad or stay at Bhongir.
๐️ Nearby Attractions
๐จ Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation
- Bhongir (8 km): Hotel Bhongir Grand, Srinivasa Residency (budget).
- Hyderabad (80 km): Wide range from luxury (ITC Kohenur, Park Hyatt) to budget.
- Warangal (110 km): Haritha Hotel (TSTDC), Punnami Hotel.
- Limited stay inside Kolanupaka; day trip from Hyderabad recommended.
Food & Tips
- Vegetarian meals available at small eateries near Somesvara temple.
- Carry water and snacks – fewer packaged shops.
- Bhongir town has more restaurant choices including South Indian and biryani.
๐ Travel Tips & Heritage Etiquette
⭐ Pro tip: The 1125 CE Ubagadda pillar (with Chatus‑samaya mention) is now protected by ASI inside the Somesvara temple complex – ask the priest to see it. For epigraphy enthusiasts, the 1077 CE Sankaraganda record and the 1107 CE lunar eclipse correction inscription are unique. The best photography light for the ruined Jain Basadi is early morning (8–10 AM).
❓ FAQ – Kolanupaka (Kollipaka)
What is the historical significance of Kolanupaka?
It was the administrative capital of the Kollipaka-7000 division under Rashtrakutas and Western Chalukyas, a major Jain centre, and the viceregal seat of crown prince Somesvara III.
Is there an entry fee for the temples?
No, all temples and ruined basadis are free.
How far is Kolanupaka from Hyderabad?
Approximately 80 km (1.5 hours drive).
Can I see the original inscriptions at the site?
Yes – several inscribed pillars and slabs are in situ in the Somesvara temple, near the Mallikarjuna temple and on the Mettugutta hill.
Earliest Rashtrakuta record of Sankaraganda I. Land grants to Brahmins/Jain institutions.
Jain inscription attributing the Jaina Basadi to Sankaragandaras. Foundational for Jain presence in Telangana.
Kannada inscription of Rashtrakuta Nityavarsha (Indra III). Mentions Kollipaka nadu-7000 under Gommarasa, subordinate of Mahasamanta Nurmadidhavala. The “foundation record” of the administrative unit.
Crown Prince Satyasraya (Irivabedemga) validates a land grant – direct sovereignty in eastern Telangana while his father ruled from Kalyani.
First mention of a merchant guild (Ayyavole-500 or local Nakhara) in Kolanupaka, proving its status as a trade centre.
Vaidyaratnakara Aggalayya’s medical expertise recorded. He built two Jinalayas (Buddhasena and Vaidyaratnakara). Rare record of a physician‑monk.
Salt tax (Lavan‑agamu) assigned to maintain the Great Tank (Piriyakere) by the Six Settis and 120 Nagara. Classic example of corporatised water management.
Exemption of the nine puras of Kollipaka, pancha‑matha‑sthanas, basadis and degulasthanas from minor taxes (balli pannasakere, nirkkala‑ratanam etc.) by Mahamandalesvara Nimmarasa.
Mahamandalesvara Asagamarasa grants setti‑sumka (merchant tolls), house‑sites near the granary and palace to Trailokyamalla Rebbi Setti.
Earliest reference to the titles of Kumara Tondaya Chola (Bhima II’s son Tonda II). Regnal year C.V. 13.
Paramara prince Jagaddeva’s endowment to Somesvara temple. Mentions three grades of villages (Uttama, Madhyama, Adhama) with fixed gold rupaka levies – an elaborate revenue system.
Kumara Somesvara’s grant to Parshwanath Jinalaya in Chappaliya. Notes a scribal error (lunar eclipse recorded as solar), and identifies the Jain monastic lineage Kranurgana – Timtrini‑gachchha – Padmanandi Siddhantadeva.
Prince Somesvara’s conquests (Trikalinga, Dravila). Commander Sayimayya supports Chatus‑samaya (four faiths). Grant of Panupurayi to goddess Ambikadevi. Excludes rights of the Akkabasadi (Jain nunnery).
Nissamka Poti Nayaka of the Durjaya line dug the Vamsavardhana canal; defeated Kalinga Vira Bhanudeva I.
Chronology of Kolanupaka (Kollipaka)
Key Administrative & Epigraphic Data
- Epigraphia Indica, Vol. XXXII–XL (Kolanupaka inscriptions of 913, 1034, 1075, 1104, 1125 CE).
- Annual Reports on Indian Epigraphy (ARIE) 1960–1990 – South Indian Inscriptions, Vol. IX (Chalukya records).
- Krishna Sastry, V.V. (1991). The Rashtrakutas in the Deccan: A Study of Their Feudatories. Hyderabad: Department of Archaeology.
- Murthy, P. S. (2005). Jainism in Andhra Desa. Sharada Publishing House. (Chapter on Kolanupaka Basadi).
- Telangana State Archaeology (2018). Inscriptions of Yadadri Bhuvanagiri District.
- Eaton, R. M. (2005). A Social History of the Deccan, 1300–1761. Cambridge University Press. (Context for Kollipaka region).
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