Telangana360

Shitab Khan (c.1480 CE - 1517 CE) also spelled Chitapu Khan or Chittapa Khana stands as one of the most resilient and complex figures in the history of early 16th-century Telangana. Ruled independently from 1503 CE -1512 CE. His career, spanning nearly four decades, unfolded during a period of imperial collapse and realignment. He successfully navigated the treacherous politics between the declining Bahmani Sultanate, the rising Qutb Shahis of Golconda, the powerful Gajapati Kingdom of Orissa, and the imperialist Vijayanagara Empire. 1. Origins and Rise: From Soldier to Governor Birth and Identity: Shitab Khan was born as Sitapathi Raju into a Hindu family of the Boya community, traditionally associated with cow-herding and warrior hood. The later assumption that he was Muslim, based solely on his title, is incorrect. Military Career: He began his career as a foot soldier in the army of the Bahmani Sultan Humayun Shah. His merit and prowess led to a rapid rise, earning him a senior ...

Sirpur Tandur, also known as Sarbar or Sirbar and formerly Suryapuram, is a town and mandal in the Komaram Bheem district of Telangana. It was once a prominent ancient center of power and culture, successively ruled by Hindu, Buddhist, Gond, and Maratha rulers before being integrated into the Nizam’s dominion and finally into independent India. Sirpur Fort is built by King Bhim Ballal Singh, Sirpur Fort was the original capital stronghold of the Gond dynasty before the capital shifted to Ballarsha and then Chanda. The fort, located on the right bank of the Wardha River, served as a strategic defense center and royal seat for eight generations. It symbolized the transition of tribal authority into organized monarchical power in Central India. 1 Early History – Bhadravati and the Buddhist Era In very early days, a great Hindu city known as Bhadravati, dedicated to Bhadra (a name of Shiva), flourished here. It served as the capital of the Vakataka kings. The Chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang (A...

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 Gurgunta Samasthanam was an influential Nayaka principality that existed from 1620 CE until 1948 CE, centered in Gurgunta (modern Karnataka). It was distinguished as one of the three primary Peshkash Guzar (tribute-paying) Samasthans under the Nizam of Hyderabad, along with Gadwal and Anagondi, giving it significant autonomy. The Samasthanam was strategically vital as its territory straddled the Krishna River. Its lands included key areas in modern Telangana, specifically the Maktal (Makthal) and Kodangal regions in the present-day Narayanpet district. 1. Origins and Rise Origin (Founder) Jadi Linga Naik Desai. Foundation Year 1620 A.D. (1035 H.). Overlord Mohammed Adil Shahi, Sultan of Bijapur. Rise to Power Jadi Linga Naik rendered good service to the Sultan, gained several victories, and was rewarded with the jagir (land grant). Capital & Naming The estate was named after its capital town, Gurgunta (modern Karnataka), the seat of the ruler and the main fort. 2. Rulers The Sa...

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...

Wanaparthy Samsthanam (1512 CE - 1948 CE) , formerly known as the Samsthan of Sugur, was one of the most important and influential feudatory estates under His Exalted Highness the Nizam’s Dominions. Located in present-day Mahbubnagar (now Wanaparthy) District of Telangana, it spanned an area of 440 square miles and included 150 villages and 29 hamlets, with a population exceeding 81,000. With a recorded history stretching back to the 16th century, it originated from the Vijayanagara Empire and later became a key vassal under the Qutb Shahis of Golconda and the Asaf Jahi Nizams. Located in the Mahboobnagar district, it covered 440 square miles and comprised 150 villages and 29 hamlets. The samasthan was known for its effective administration, military prowess, and cultural patronage, leaving a significant legacy in the Telangana region. Boundaries: East: Jatprole Samsthanam West: Amarchinta Samsthanam North: Khalsa Talukas of Mahbubnagar and Nagar-Kurnool South: River Krishna (across wh...

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...