Telangana360

Gandhari Khilla, also known as Gandhari Fort, is a remarkable hill fort located near Bokkalagutta in Mandamarri Mandal, Mancherial district, Telangana, India. A geological and architectural marvel, the fort is perched atop rocky hillocks, offering panoramic views, deep gorges, and narrow valleys that thrill visitors with a sense of adventure. A small stream flows through the hills, feeding the hill-bounded Medi Cheruvu (tank), adding to the fort’s scenic charm. The fort houses ancient temples, rock-cut wells, and sculptures, making it a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture. With its unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance, Gandhari Khilla stands as a testament to medieval engineering, tribal heritage, and devotional traditions. Gandhari Khilla is a unique convergence of geology, architecture, history, and culture. From prehistoric petroglyphs to medieval temples and tribal traditions, the fort offers a multi-layered experience for historians, ad...

Devarakonda Fort is located in Devarakonda town in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. Devarakonda, serving as a Mandal headquarters, is a small village that is home to one of the most astonishing forts in the region. Once a towering symbol of the village’s glory, the fort now lies in ruins due to neglect, yet it continues to attract tourists from across the world. Historically, Devarakonda Fort served as a prominent defensive structure for the Recherla Nayaks dynasty, who ruled parts of Telangana after the fall of the Kakatiya dynasty. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Devarakonda Fort is like stepping into a living historical narrative, where every corner of the fort tells tales of bravery, struggles, and the triumphs of its rulers. Inside the fort premises stand the Rama and Shiva temples, constructed by Maada Naidu, adding a sense of spirituality and serenity to the historic site. Visitors are also treated to the picturesque view of a small pond within the fort area. Arc...

The Domakonda Samsthanam (1636 CE - 1948 CE), initially known as Bikkavolu Samsthan, was a princely state situated in the Nizamabad region (now Kamareddy district) of Telangana. It was ruled by the Kamineni dynasty of the Pakanati Reddis, who were close relatives of the Gadwal and Atmakur rulers. The Samsthan was a significant administrative and cultural center under the ultimate authority of the Qutb Shahis and later the Asif Jahis (Nizams). The focal point of the Samsthanam is the Domakonda Fort, which received the UNESCO Asia – Pacific Award of Merit for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2022. Founder : Raja Kama Reddy or Kamineni Chaudary in 1636 AD Capitals : Bikkavolu, Kamareddypeta, Domakonda Dynasty : Pakanati Reddis. Family Relation: Close relatives of Gadwal and Atmakur rulers. Gotra : Rachulla was their Gotra. Presiding Deity : Bikkavolu Siddarameshwar a . Ruled from Domakonda 1786 CE - 1948 CE 1. Origins and Rise The history of the fort predates the Kamineni rulers. c. 10...

Palvancha Samsthanam (1324 CE - 1948 CE), also known as Palwancha or Paloncha, is located in present-day Bhadradri Kothagudem district, Telangana, India. During the Nizam’s reign, it was part of Warangal district. Covering an area of roughly 800 square miles, Palvancha neighbored the Gadwal Samsthan and included the Hasanabad-Sankaragiri zamindari, which comprised the present-day Bhadrachalam and Rekapalle estates. The capitals of the Samsthan were Polancha, Bhadrachalam, and Ashwaraopet, all ruled by descendants of Annappa (or Appanna) Aswarao, the founder. The town of Palvancha was situated in a rich, luxuriant valley about four miles wide, surrounded by lofty mountain ranges. The mountain passes were the only access routes, making the region naturally strong but isolated. 1. Origins and Rise The Palvancha Samsthan was established by Annappa Aswarao (also called Anapa Aswa Rao) in 1324 A.D., who received Bhadrachalam as a free jagir from the Emperor of Delhi. He was required to maint...

The Atmakur–Amarchinta Samasthanam (c.1268 / 1660 CE -1948 CE), also known simply as Amarchinta Estate, was one of the prominent tributary Samasthans under the dominion of His Exalted Highness, the Nizam of Hyderabad. Covering an area of about 190 square miles, it lay along the left bank of the Krishna River, bordered by Wanaparthy on the east, Makthal on the west, Koilkonda on the north, and Gadwal across the river to the south. Renowned for its irrigation works, forts, and fine muslin weaving, Amarchinta exemplified the agrarian prosperity and cultural vitality of the Deccan’s smaller principalities. Founder: Sri Gopal Reddy (Mukkaravaru family) Traditional capitals: Thippadam Valley (initial) → Atmakur (later), on the left bank of the Krishna River Area: ~190 square miles Boundaries: East — Wanaparthi samasthan; West — Makhtal; North — Koilkunda; South — Krishna River (separating Amarchinta from Gadwal) Principal town / residence: Atmakur (fortified town) Noted products: Fine muslin...

The Jatprole (Kollapur) Samasthanam The Samasthan of Jatprole, also known as Jataprolu or Kollapur Samasthanam (c.1527 CE - 1948 CE), was one of the most ancient and historic estates in the erstwhile Hyderabad State. Located in the present-day Nagarkurnool district of Telangana, the Samasthan covered several square miles and was among the most prominent feudal estates under the Nizams. Its capital was Kollapur town, which grew into a flourishing administrative and cultural center. Kollapur lies amidst the scenic Nallamala forest on the banks of the River Krishna and has long been famous for its mango orchards, broad roads, and lush green plantations. The region was so beautifully planned that people affectionately called it the “Telangana Mysore.” As early as 1900 A.D., Kollapur had an aerodrome and helipad, reflecting its early modernization under enlightened rulers. 1. Origins and Rise The Samasthan traces its origins to Pillalamarri Bethala Reddy, belonging to the Recherla Nayaks, w...

Somandri Dynasty or Gadwal Samsthanam (c.1662 CE - 1948 CE) was a historically significant vassal state (samsthana) under the Nizam of Hyderabad. It was considered one of Hyderabad's most prestigious samsthanas due to being among the oldest, largest, and wealthiest. The rulers belonged to the Mustipalli dynasty, who were Pakanati Reddis and followed the Veera Vaishnava tradition. Gadwal was strategically located in the Raichur Doab, the fertile land between the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers. Its key historical significance lies in its longevity, dating back to the late 13th century, its military strength (exemplified by rulers like Soma Bhupala), and the prominent roles played by its Rani-rulers (Rani Ammakka and Rani Lingamma) who initially resisted the authority of the first Nizam of Hyderabad. The state is also famous for the development of the distinctive Gadwal handloom sarees. The fort capital was Pudur (Pundrapura), also known as Keshavapuram or Keshavnagar. The chronology...