Telangana Navodaya Schools

Telangana Navodaya Schools are part of Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti  an Autonomous Body Under Ministry of Education, Government Of India with head quarters at B-15, Institutional Area, Sector 62, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201307. 

The JNV system was founded in 1986 by then Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi and brain child of the then Human Resources Minister, P. V. Narasimha Rao. The system provides free residential education for grades six to twelve to rural populations and affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).

Vision : To provide good quality modern education-including a strong component of culture, inculcation of values, awareness of the environment, adventure activities and physical education- to the talented children predominantly from the rural areas without regard to their family's socio-economic conditions

As per the policy of the Government, one Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya is to be established in each district.

The first Navodaya Vidyalayas were established in 1985-86 in Amravati (Maharashtra) and Jajjar (Haryana).

 

List of Schools in Telangana

1. JNV Nalgonda established in 22nd December, 1986 at Chalakurthy, District Nalgonda, Telangana State PIN -508202, Phone: 08680-275430 Email : jnvnalgonda@gmail.com
2. JNV Karimnagar inaugurated on the 31st of December 1986 at Choppadandi, District Karimnagar, Telangana PIN -505415. Phone : 0878-2281476, Email: nvknr@gmail.com. 
3. JNV Kamareddy Nizamabad established in 1986 at Nizamsagr Mandal, Nizamabad Dist.,Telangana - 503 302
4. JNV Khammam established in 1987 at Palair Village, Kusumanchi Mandal, Khammam District, Telangana - 507157, Phone : 9246469246, Email : jnvkhammam1@gmail.com
5. JNV Kumaram Bheem Asifabad established 1987 - 88 at Trishul Pahad, Sirpur Kagaznagar, Dist.Kumuram Bheem Asifabad, Telangana, India PINCODE-504296. Phone : 9441264035, Email : jnvkumurambheem1987@gmail.com
6. JNV Rangareddy established 1987 - 88 at Gachibowli, HCU Campus, Near Gopanpalli Village, Serilingampalli, Ranga Reddy - 500046, Telangana, India, Email : jnvrangareddy@gmail.com, Phone : 040-29700558, 040-29700559
7. JNV Siddipet established in 1987 at Wargal Village and Mandal, Pamulaparthy post, District Siddipet, Telangana state, INDIA PIN - 502279, Email : jnvmedak@gmail.com
8. JNV Warangal established in 1992 at Mamnoor, District Warangal, Telangana, INDIA PIN – 506166, Phone :+91-0870-2556373 , Email : jnvmwarangal@gmail.com
9. JNV Nagarkurnool established in 1994 at Vattem, District Nagarkurnool, Telangana PIN -509 203, Email: jnvnagarkurnool@gmail.com
10. JNV Jagtial
11. JNV Nizamabad
12. JNV Bhadradri-Kothagudem
13. JNV Medchal-Malkajgiri
14. JNV Mahbubnagar
15. JNV Sangareddy
16. JNV Suryapet 

Dec 7, 2024 : Telangana secures 7 new Navodaya Vidyalayas in Jagtial, Nizamabad, Bhadradri-Kothagudem, Medchal-Malkajgiri, Mahbubnagar, Sangareddy, and Suryapet districts.

Enrollment Policy
Admission in Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya is made on the basis of a Selection Test, designed and conducted by the CBSE for all 6th, 9th and 11th class students.

Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Selection Test (JNVST) conducted in Telangana in Hindi, English, Telugu, Kannada, Marati, Urdu languages

It is of non-verbal nature, class-neutral and designed so as to ensure that talented children from rural areas are able to compete without facing any disadvantage. Special care is taken to ensure that children from far flung areas get admission forms free of cost, without any difficulty. 

Every JNV offers around 80 seats for the students to get admission in

 
Eligibility Conditions

1. Only the bonafide resident candidates from the district concerned where the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya has been located are eligible to apply for admission.
2. No candidate is eligible to appear in the selection test for the second time, under any circumstances
3. At least 75% of the seats in a district will be filled by candidates provisionally selected from rural areas of the district. The remaining seats are open which will be filled on merit from both Urban and Rural Area candidates of the district as per reservation criteria.
4. A candidate who has studied in a school located in an urban area even for a single day of session in Class-III, IV and V will be considered as an urban candidate.
5. Minimum One third of the total seats are filled by girls. In order to ensure 1/3rd selection of girls, girls may be preferred than boys as per NVS selection criteria, wherever necessary.
6. SC/ST Reservation of seats is provided in proportion to their population in the district concerned provided that in no district, such reservation will be less than the national average (15% for SC and 7.5% for ST) but subject to maximum of 50% for both the categories (SC & ST) taken together.
7. OBC reservation is 27% as per central list over and above reservation of SCs and STs. 
8. There is a provision for reservation for Divyang children (i.e. Orthopedically Handicapped, Hearing Impaired and Visually Handicapped) as per GOI norms.

1. Class VI
1. A candidate seeking admission for Class VI must be within the age group of 10 to 12 years 
2. The candidate who has not been promoted and admitted to class V before 31st July of the session in which he/she is applying for selection test is not eligible to apply. 
3. The candidate who has already passed/studied class V in all previous academic sessions is not eligible to appear in the selection test.
4. A candidate seeking admission to class VI must have studied and passed classes III, IV and V from a Govt. /Govt. aided/ recognized school spending one full academic session in each class.
2. Class IX
1. A candidate seeking admission must be between the age group 13-15 years on 1st May of the year of admission for which the Selection Test is conducted.
3. Class XI
1. For 2024 Date of Birth of the candidate is to be between 1st June 2006 to 31st July 2008 (both days inclusive).

Objectives of Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti 

To establish, endow, maintain, control, and manage schools (hereinafter called the 'Navodaya Vidyalaya') and to do all acts and things necessary for or conducive to the promotion of such schools which will have the following objectives:

1. To provide good quality modern education-including a strong component of culture inculcation of values, awareness of the environment, adventure activities and physical education- to the talented children predominantly from the rural areas without regard to their family's socio-economic condition.
2. To provide facilities, at a suitable stage, for instruction through a common medium, viz., Hindi and English, all over the country.
3. Offer a common core-curriculum to ensure comparability in standards and to facilitate and understand the common and composite heritage of our people.
4. To progressive bring students from one part of the country to another in each school to promote national integration and enrich the social content.
5. To serve as a focal point for improvement in quality of school education through training of teachers in live situations and sharing of experiences and facilities.
6. To establish, develop, maintain and manage hostels for the residence of students of Navodaya Vidyalayas.
7. To aid, establish and conduct other institutions as may be required for the furtherance of the Society's objects in any part of India.
8. To do all such things as may be considered necessary, incidental or conducive to the attainment of all or any of the objects of the society.

https://navodaya.gov.in/nvs/en/Home1

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Natavati or Natavadi Chiefs

1104 AD - 1269 AD : Natavadi Chiefs

Capital : Madapalle / Madhira (Khammam district, Telangana), Nandigama (NTR district, AP)

Madapalle, Madhira (Khammam, Telangana) is part of Natavadi Vishaya and extended until Nidikonda, Raghunathpalle, Jangoan district at some time.

The Natavadi records are at Nidikonda, Tripurantakam, Draksharama and Simhachalam.

Beta Kshanipalaka

Inigurthi Inscription

Muppabhupa
Kakatiya Prola II (1116-1157 CE) married Muppmamba daughter of Natavadi King Muppa Bhopal

1104 AD - 1157 AD : Durga or Duggabhupa or Natavadi Duggaraja
Durga was the founder of the kingdom of the Natavadis and its first ruler. He issued records of him own. His earliest inscription is from Nidikonda in Raghunathpalle, Jangaon district dated in the cyclic year Tarana and the 29th year of C.V. era. Corresponding to December 24, 1104 A.D. Durga is mentioned as Dugga and Duggarasa in the record and as Duggabhupathi in the Inugurti record of his son Buddha. He bore the epithets—Mandalika and Nathavatidhatnnatha. 

1117 AD : Feudatory of Vikramaditya VI

The Nidikonda inscription definitely shows that Dugga was a subordinate of Vikramaditya VI of the Chalukyas of Kalyani, spoken of, as a greater warrior and conqueror of many fortresses, Durga must have served Tribhuvanamallavikramaditya VI in his wars faithfully and was bestowed with the rulership over Natavadivishaya with its capital at Madapalle. It has been said that “this (Nidikonda) inscription is the only definite evidence of the actual extent of the Western chalukya kingdom about this time. “Durgaraja’s loyalty to the Chalukyas might have continued throughout the reigns of Vikramaditya VI and Somesvara III till about AD. 1140 as the chalukyan power prevailed in Vengi up to that date.

In A.D. 1157 as seen from a record at Navepotavaram (Bezvada taluq) Prodamadevi made grants for the merit of her deceased husband—Durgaraja. This Durgaraja, was probably Natavadi Durga and consequently his reign lasted up to A.D. 1157.

1157 AD - 1201 AD : Buddharaja

Buddha was the son and successor of Durga and had a reign of forty-six years from A.D. 1157 to 1201 when he was succeeded by his second son Rudra, which suggests that his eldest son predeceased him. Buddha is known from the records of his successors. His only record is from Inugurti, removed from the wall in the old fort and now preserved in the local Vishnu temple, mentioning Betakshompalaka, Durgabhupati and Buddha kshompati.

Buddha acknowledged the supremacy of the Kakatiyas under Rudradeva which is attested by his Inugurti stone inscription mentioning Rudradeva and his general Sikhmayaka ruling over Natavadi simha.

The Kundavaram inscription says that Mahadeva married his daughter Kundamika to Rudradeva son of Buddha As for the date, the cyclic year Pramadi is given. This measure of alliance speaks for the political wisdom of Buddha and Mahadeva, for it eliminated any fear for the Natavadis from the Kakatiyas.

Buddha maintained amicable relations with Ganapati, the son and successor of Mahadeva. We may note that Natavadi Buddha cannot have had any relationship with Buddha, the author of Ranganatharamayana, for chronology is against it, as Gona Buddha lived fifty year after the Natavadi Buddha,

The Chagis claim lordship over Natavadivishaya, as is evidenced from their inscriptions. Buddha must have been on friendly terms with the Chagis, and the Kona kandravadis.

1201 AD - 1248 AD : Natavadi Rudra

Natavadi Rudra also known as Vakkadimalla Rudra , the son of Buddharaja

1201 AD : Natavadi prince , Vakkadimalla Rudra found in the Kanakadurga mantapa at the foot of the Indrakila hill and dated A.D. 1201 , indicates the presence of Natavadi troops and presumably also those of the Kakatiyas in the city at that time

The Kundavaram inscription says that Mahadeva married his daughter Kundamika to Rudradeva son of Buddha. Rudra’s earliest inscription is from Bezwada dated A.D. 1201 mentioning him as the brother-in-law (marundi) of Ganapati of the Kakatiyas. 

Rudra I was the greatest of the Natavadis. His prasasti is imperialistic and indicative of independent rule. His reign lasted for a period of forty seven years from A.D. 1201 to 1248 when he was succeeded by his son and successor Rudradeva II.

His next inscription also from Bezwada dated A.D. 1205 mentions him as Natavadi Rudra, and his father Budhaaraja. 

Rudra’s inscription from Tripurantakam dated A.D. 1209 is issued in the reign of Ganapati of the Kakatiyas. It mentions the king as Vakkadimalla Rudra the second son of Buddha and his queen as Melambika / Mailamba, the sister of Ganapati of the Kakatiyas. 

No doubt Vakkadimalla Rudra and Rudra I are identical. Rudra’s Amaravati record dated A D.1234 mentions Bayyalamahadevi, the queen of Kota Keta III and daughter of Natavadi Rudra. 

Rudra’s last inscription is from Tripurantakam dated A.D. 1242. Two inscriptions of the reign, one incomplete and the other undated from Tripurantakam and Nudurupadu respectively mention Vakkadimallarudra devamaharaja, queen Mailala mahadevi and Bayyaladevi Yammangaru and her daughter. A record at Mudunur mentions kma Rudra, lord of Nathavati, his queen Kundamba, daughter of Mahadeva of the Kakatiyas, their son king Mahadeva and his queen Mahadevi. Though no records of Rudra after A.D. 1242 are available, his reign may have extended up to A.D. 1248—the earliest date of his sons.

Natavadi Rudra had founded the Village Buddhapura after his name by clearing the forest and furnished it with a tank

1248 AD - 1269 AD - Rudradeva II

Natavadi Dorapanayaka was ruling in Bezawada



https://www.wisdomlib.org/south-asia/book/the-history-of-andhra-country/d/doc219781.html

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Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi

624 AD -1189 AD : Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi

Capitals : Pistapuram, Vengi, Rajamahendravaram

Religion : Hinduism

Languages : Telugu, Kannada, Sanskrit

Mudigonda Chalukyas are the vassals ruling in Mudigonda in current Khammam district and Koravi in Mahabubabad district of Telangana.

The Chalukyas of Vengi branched off from the Chalukyas of Badami. The Badami ruler Pulakeshin II (610–642 CE) conquered the Vengi region in eastern Deccan, after defeating the remnants of the Vishnukundina dynasty. He appointed his brother Kubja Vishnuvardhana the governor of this newly acquired territory in 624 A.D

624 - 641 AD : Kubja Vishnuvardhana I

641 - 673 AD : Jayasimha I 

673 AD, seven days : Indra Bhattaraka

673 - 682 AD - Vishnuvardhana II

682 - 706 AD : Mangi Yuvaraja

706 - 718 AD : Jayasimha II

718 - 719 AD, six months : Kokkili 

719 - 755 AD : Vishnuvardhana III

755 - 772 AD : Vijayaditya I Bhattaraka

The Alluvalu Grant of Vijayaditya I
The find spot of the inscription is not known. It is now deposited in the State Museum, Hyderabad
Palli-nandu-vishaya, in which the gift village Alluvalu and its boundaries Chuvikandhi, Juvikalu, Chintapali, and Muparu are situated, is roughly identical with the present Palnad taluk of the Guntur district. There are two villages in the Palnad taluk named Chintapalli and Zukallu. It is not possible to state whether these are adjacent, and if so they are identical with Chintapali and Juvikalu mentioned in the inscription respectively. The situation neither of the gift village Alluvalu, nor the other two boundary villages Chuvi -kandhi and Muparu is known. Paranthuru, the residence of the donee Golasarman is probably identical with Parachuru in the Bapatla taluk.

772 - 808 AD : Vishnuvardhana IV Vishnuraja

808 - 847 AD : Vijayaditya II

Varppomgu Plates of Vijayaditya II
These plates were discovered in the village of Maddar in the Madira taluk of the Khammam district, and are now deposited in the State Museum, Hyderabad. 

The seal is quite interesting. The image of the boar, the lanchhana of the Eastern Chalukyas and other emblems of the royal insignia usually found on the seals of the copper- plate records, do not find a place here. On the upper part of the seal is an engraved emblem of the crescent moon with a knob on either side and a lotus with open petals at the bottom. In between the two right in the middle of the seal is embossed the Eastern Chalukya sign manual Tribhuvanam Kusa. The crescent is probably intended to indicate the affiliation of the E. Chalukya family to the lunar race.

The language of the inscription is Sanskrit.  The inscription records that, the Eastern Chalukya king Samasta-bhuvanasraya Sri Vijayaditya Maharajadhiraja Paramesvara Bhatara, dear son of Sarva-lokesraya Sri Vishnuvardhana Maharaja and grandson of Sri Vijayaditya Maharaja, on the occasion of a lunar eclipse (Chandra-grahana) in the temple Trikoteswara, granted to the brahmana Chandasarman Chaturvedi, son of Potasarman, and grandson of Reva Sarman of Kasyapa- gotra, and a resident of Intupurevu the village of Varppomgu in the Pishtapura -vishaya, Vijayaditya, the donor of this grant is the second Eastern Chalukya king of that name, usually referred in the inscriptions of his successors as Narendramrigaraja or the lion to the deer viz., the enemy kings. The title maharajadhiraja, paramesvara and bhatara and the statement samasta-samantachakra chakravarti-lakshan=opatah seem to indicate that he was a paramount sovereign who aspired to the status of an emperor, the overlord of a circle of a feudatory chiefs. Nothing is, however, said of his achievements, although his reign as can be seen from the other, recorded in this collection, was quite eventful. The donee Chandasarman was a chatur-Vedi, a scholar proficient in the four Vedas; but his ancestors appear to be ordinary brahmanas without any distinction.

847 - 849 AD : Kali Vishnuvardhana V

849 - 892 AD : Gunaga Vijayaditya III with his two brothers : Yuvaraja Vikramaditya I and Yuddhamalla I

892 - 921 AD : Bhima I Dronarjuna

921 AD, six months : Vijayaditya IV Kollabiganda

921 - 927 AD : Amma I Vishnuvardhana VI

927 AD, fifteen days : Vijayaditya V Beta

927 AD, one month : Tadapa

927 - 928 AD, eleven months : Vikramaditya II

928 - 929 AD, eight months : Bhima II

929 - 935 AD : Yuddhamalla II

935 - 947 AD : Bhima III Vishnuvardhana VII

947 - 970 AD : Amma II Vijayaditya VI

970 - 973 AD : Danarnava

973 - 999 AD : Jata Choda Bhima (usurp.)

999 - 1011 AD : Shaktivarman I Chalukyacandra

1011 - 1018 AD : Vimaladitya

1018 - 1061 AD : Rajaraja Narendra I Vishnuvardhana VIII 

1061 - 1063 AD : Shaktivarman II

1063 - 1068 AD, 1072–1075 AD : Vijayaditya VII

1075 - 1079 AD : Rajaraja II

1079 -1102 AD : Virachola Vishnuvardhana IX

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Zafar Baoli Stepwell

Zafar Baoli stepwell is located inside Khammam Fort built by Kakatiya rulers in 950 AD . Khammam Municipal Corporation which in along with the district administration and archaeology department is restoring the 13th Century Zafar Baoli or stepwell in Telangana.

The officials want to make this well located inside the Khammam Fort a tourist attraction without affecting the original structure and design. Neglect over a period of time has damaged this historic place and made it dirty. Once a source of drinking water, the well turned into a dumping ground as the locals dumped garbage in it.

The well measuring 60 feet in length, 20 in width and 60 in depth was constructed by the Kakatiya rulers and is located in the southern part of the Fort which itself is spread in four square kilometres.

The original objective of this well was to provide drinking water to people and soldiers living in the fort. Though the construction took place under the Kakatiya regime it was developed by the Nizams with help from the French when Jaffer-ud-doula was the Khammam tahsildar.

https://www.indianarrative.com/culture-news/13th-century-khammam-fort-in-telangana-being-spruced-up-to-woo-tourists-144200.html

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Jamalapuram Temple

Jamalapuram is a small village situated close to Yerrupalem town of Khammam district, Telangana,

India. 

Located about 85 km from Khammam town and 6 km from Yerrupalem railway station in serene atmosphere near the Pedda Cheruvu tank, the historical shrine attracts devotees from various parts of  Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

The village has an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Here Lord Venkateswara is manifested in the form of swayambhu. The temple also boasts of Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Sivalayam, Ganesh Temple, Anjaneya Swamy temple, Sri Alivelu Amma vari Temple and Ayyappa Swamy Temple. 

The temple’s location amidst pleasant weather surrounded by lush green hills is an added attraction.
The shrine in Khammam district, said to be over 800 years old, attracts devotees in droves. The ancient Swayambhu Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple at Jamalapuram is believed to be more than 850 years old, says Uppala Srinivasa Sarma, main priest of the shrine.

The historical Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple, popularly known as ‘Telangana Tirupati,’ at Jamalapuram in Yerrupalem mandal, visited by Kakatiya ruler Prataparudra and Vijayanagara emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya in the bygone era, holds promising potential for promotion of temple tourism in the new State.

An impressive statue of Sri Krishnadevaraya was installed in front of the Pongali Mandapam near the temple as part of the celebrations of 500th anniversary of the Vijayanagara emperor’s coronation organised by the then government in 2010.Choultries in bad shape

The shrine, said to be more than eight centuries old, was taken over by the Endowments Department way back in 1969. However, most of the development works at the shrine were taken up with the support of the donors.

Although Pedda Cheruvu, the major tank situated about half a km from the shrine, was developed during the previous regime, a grand plan drawn up by the Tourism Department to develop a tank bund park at the site remains on paper.

The ancient Swayambhu Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple at Jamalapuram is believed to be more than 850 years old, says Uppala Srinivasa Sarma, main priest of the shrine.

It received the patronage of emperors of various kingdoms. Kakatiya Prataparudra worshipped the presiding deity of the shrine on his way to Tiruvuru in the bygone era, he says citing some historical references.

Sri Krishnadevaraya offered prayers at the historical temple en route the Kondapalli fort during his “Jaitra Yatra” several centuries ago, he adds.

Jamalapuram flourished as a famous gurukulam under the aegis of Maharshi Jabaali, he recalls.

The historical temple town will emerge a major centre of temple tourism in the entire Telangana State if developed comprehensively, says M. Srinivasa Rao, vice-sarpanch of Jamalapuram.

The Tourism Department should take the initiative to develop a tank bund park abutting Pedda Cheruvu, construct a tourism guest house, set up a food court and introduce boating services at the tank, he suggests.


Source
http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/regions/khammam.html
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/telangana-tirupati-needs-a-makeover/article6725264.ece

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Sthambadri Temple

The temple of Sri Narashima Swamy is located in the heart of the Town, which is popularly known to

local people as guha gudi. The ancient temple is believed t be existing from Tretha Yuga.

According to legends, the Narsimha Swami or Narsimhadri temple, situated on a hill called Stambhadri, is said to have existed since 1.6 million years.

The town is located on the banks of the River Munneru, which is tributary to River Krishna.

During Tretha Yugam Mouthgalya Maharishi with his disciples penance here in a cave and he was blessed by Lord Vishnu. Mothgalya Maharishi requested Lord Vishnu to stay back in this place along with Lakshmi. Lord came out of the pillar as Sri Lakshmi Narashima Swamy. Hence the place was known as Sthambadri.

The temple is on a vertical rock which is known as Khamba which means Pillar. The temple is on khamba so it was originally known as Sthamba Sikari which later turned into Sthambadri. At present the place is known as Khammam, which was derived from the word Khammam Mettu.

Sthala Purana says in16th century, King Pratapa Rudra, who was ruling the place was blessed by Lord here. King developed the temple and pooja was arranged according to Vaikasana Agama Sthara. Panaka Abishekam on Sundays is important here. Public believe that all their wishes are fulfilled when they worship here the Lord for 40 days.

Source

http://shamalak.blogspot.com/2013/02/sthambadri-sri-lakshmi-narashima-swamy.html

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Lakaram Lake

Lakaram Lake is a lake nestled in the calm and serene ambience of Khammam District in Telangana.

It is one of the major tourist attractions in Telangana and can be a wonderful place for a family picnic. Surrounded by lush green trees and plants, the Lakaram Lake offers scenic views of the beauties of nature and several reasons to admire it. The location of the lake is very convenient as it is just 4 kilometres away from the bus stand.

15 years ago, it was just a lake with waste trees and herbs, but now it has been developed as an amazing tourist spot. The lake also features with a lush green park where you can enjoy and relax in the lap of the nature. You can also enjoy boating in the calm and tranquil water of the lake and witness the beautiful lush green surroundings.

Lakaram lake is the biggest lake among all which had been chosen under the prestigious project Mission Kakatiya for restoring of the lakes in Telangana.

Source

http://www.touristlink.com/india/lakaram-lake/overview.html

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Kusumanchi Temples

Kusumanchi is a town and Mandal in Khammam district, Telangana, India, which was popularly
known as Krupamani during the Kakatiya period. The Shivalingam in this shrine is one of the largest in Telangana. There is a 15 ft high idol of Lord Venu Gopala Swamy on the southern side of the temple.

Jakkepalli, Kistapuram, Kokya Thanda, Lokya Thanda, Mallaigudem, Munigepalli, Naikangudem, Narasimhulagudem and Palair are some of the tribal villages located in the vicinity of Kusumanchi which can be visited.

Kakatiya rulers built Ganapeshwaralayam, Mukkanteswaralayam in Kusumanchi

After being neglected for decades, the historical Siva temples of Kakatiya era in Kusumanchi mandal headquarters are set to undergo renovation.

Sri Ganapeshwaralayam and Mukkanteswaralayam, the two Siva temples built by Kakatiya rulers during 12th and 3th centuries in Kusumanchi stand testimony to the architectural acumen of the great Kakatiya kings.

The historical shrines resemble the famous Ghanpur and Ramappa temples of Kakatiya period in Bhupalpalli district. Although declared as protected monuments by the Department of Archaeology several decades ago, the Mukkanteswaralayam situated near Ganapeshwaralayam continue to lie in utter neglect.

Thanks to the patronage of some devotees and heritage conscious persons, the daily rituals are being held without any interruption at Ganapeshwaralayam. This particular temple attracts devotees from far off places in Warangal, Nalgonda and other neighbouring districts during Sivaratri festivities every year.

A group of philanthropists including Venkatapratap Reddy, a retired police officer, initiated several development works at Ganapeshwara temple in the last couple of years.

Scores of devotees throng the temple during Sravanamasam and other auspicious occasions more particularly during the Sivaratri jatara here, says Devulapalli Seshagiri Sarma, the priest of Ganapeshwara shrine. There is a dire necessity for a kalyana mandapam on the premises of the temple to perform special rituals and also provide seating arrangements for devotees during celebration of festivities, says Mr Sarma.

The government has released Rs. 30 lakh each for Ganapeshwaralayam and Mukkanteshwaralayam for renovation and development more than a month ago, says Rangacharyulu, consultant, Department of Archaeology.

 A detailed project report has been finalised to lay a pathway between the two historical shrines and take up renovation works such as strengthening the foundations including platform and other structures of the temples, he says.

Sources
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/historical-siva-temples-in-kusumanchi-to-get-a-facelift/article5806358.ece

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Khammam Fort

Khammam Fort is located in the city of Khammam, Telangana, India. 

The fort is believed to have been built by the Kakatiya rulers in 950 AD. It served as an impregnable citadel during various regimes of different dynasties, including the Kakatiyas, Qutb Shahi’s and Asaf Jahis. 

The fort was situated in a very vast area in the heart of the City of Khammam. It was notified as a protected monument by the Archaeology Department several decades ago.Despite decades of neglect, the historical edifice, which once flourished with regal opulence, presents its alluring charm due to its architectural splendor.

The funds to build this Fort complex were procured by three army men Lakshma Reddy, Ranga Reddy and Velama Reddy of the Kakatiya dynasty.

It is believed that gold coins used in construction of this fort were unearthed from their farm near Khammam and Upon receiving the news from these men, the then Kakatiya king ordered them to build a Fort on the Hill in Khammam which is known as the second capital of the kakatiya dynasty. In order to have a secured second capital due to the repeated attacks from the enemy kingdoms on the capital city Orugallu (Present day Warangal).

Lakshma reddy, Ranga reddy and Vema reddy started construction of the fort on the Hilltop located in the heart of the city. A 100-acre massive lake was constructed during this period to satisfy the drinking water needs of the city called the Lakaram lake, named after its Builder Lakshma Reddy.

In the year 997 A.D, when the Gajapati kings arrived in Khammam, the construction was continued under the leadership of Akki Reddy and Aska reddy of Kondapur Taluk.

This fort was under the Kakatiya reddy kings for a very long period of 300 years. Due to the rift between the Army generals of Kakatiya kings of that time, This fort went into the hands of the Padmanayaka dynasty(velama kings) for a brief period and then ruled by different independent rulers such as the Nandavani, Kalluru, Gudluru kings.

Sultan Quli Qutb Mulk the founder of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, which ruled the Sultanate of Golconda in southern India from 1518 to 1687 occupied this city and the fort in the year 1531 A.D after defeating the Shitab Khan, the independent ruler of the jagir of Khammam. The fort remained under the Qutb shahis until 17th century and then passed it over to the hands of Asaf jahi dynasty.

Although Khammam fort was majorly under the Kakatiya dynasty, it slowly became an independent territory within the kingdom.

After the decline of the Kakatiya dynasty, 74 Telugu speaking feudatories of the region under the leadership of Musuluri fought for 10 long years to unify the Telugu land and they did not succeed.

Shitab khan, the army commander of the Humayin shah of the Bahmani sultanate declared Khammam as his jagir(a land fief) along with Rachakonda and Warangal in the year 1503 and ruled this fort city without getting into any troubles with the then rulers between 1503 A.D to 1512 A.D. He maintained good relations with the Qutb shahi. During this time Khammam became major city of the region and Shitab khan rose to high stature in the eyes of other rulers and this fort city was declared the regional administration capital of the kingdom.

In the turbulent regional politics of the time, Quli Qutb Shah ruler of Golconda Fort (in modern Hyderabad) was asserting his dominance and Shitab Khan had to face invasions from Golconda which was just shaking off the suzerainty of the Bahmanis.[5] Warangal succumbed to the Golconda ruler and Shitab Khan had to flee, about 1512. He joined the service of Prataparudra Gajapati, King of Kalinga (Orissa). When the legendary Vijayanagara Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya went on his Kalinga campaign, 1516–1517, his triumphal progress was effectively hindered by the archers of Shitab Khan at the mountain pass near Simhadri(modern Visakhapatnam district). But Shitab lost the battle and, very likely, his life there.[6]

Khammam fort fell into the hands of the Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya during 1515 A.D. According to Nandi Thimmana (15th and 16th centuries CE),a Telugu poet and one of the Astadiggajas in the court of the king Sri Krishnadevaraya, described this historical incident in his notable work called 'Parijathaapaharanam'

‘Ghambham mettu (Stambhadri or Khammam mettu) grakkuna gadalche. Raja Puthrude Sri Krishnadevaraya vibhudu’.

Meaning, The Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya invaded the City or the Fort of Khammam.

Sultan Ibrahim Qutb Shah, the fourth ruler of the kingdom of Golconda in southern India invaded this fort around 1550 AD. Later on four Qutb shahi ruled over this historic land namely Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah (1580–1612),Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah (1612–1626),Abdullah Qutb Shah (1626–1672) and Abul Hasan Qutb Shah (1672–1689) popularly known as Tana Shah.

Mughal emperor Aurangajeb invaded this fort in the year 1687 A.D and subsequently went into the hands of the Asaf jahi rulers.The Asaf jahis Appointed a Subedar named Nizam Mulki Asal ji.He later declared independence in the year 1722 A.D.

Zafar-ud-doula was appointed as the Tahasildar in between the years 1761 to 1803,under whose rule this fort has been renovated and all the new constructions including the roads took place.

In the year 1768, Zafar-ud-doula – II was appointed as the Tahasildar. He is also the younger brother of the former. The urban settlement of Dhamsalapuram was named after Zafar-ud-doula-I (also known as Dhamsa).

The Fort and the City went into the complete control of the Government created by the Nizam's during the 1800s and by the time of the Asaf Jah VII, Mir Osman Ali Khan the fort was under complete control of the Government of Nizam in the year 1937.

This Fort is located in an area of 4 Sq. miles in the heart of the City of Khammam on top of a massive granite Hill.It is surrounded by a huge rock wall averaging between 40 and 80 feet(13 to 25 Meters) in height and 15 to 20 feet(4.5 to 6 Meters) in width.

There are steps from each buruju (bastion) to enter into the fort.The Fort was considered practically impregnable by invading armies.

A number of balconies and windows are constructed along the wall in order to use the artillery during wartime. It has a capacity of mounting at least 60 cannons at a time.

The fort 10 large gates most of them in poor shape now. Each gate has cannons mounted on them along with a water pot made of rocks. They are built such that an impact of a cannonball could not break it.

The main entrance is a 30 foot tall entrance known as the Khilla darwaza(meaning fort gate in Urdu).It has 2 cannons on either side of the entrance. One of them still mounted with a head. They are now partially destroyed due to the negligence of the archeology department.

The east gate or the secondary entrance is equally large and is popularly known as the Raathi Darwaza(meaning stone entrance in Urdu) or Potha Darwaza.

All other gates are smaller than the main entrance and could have been constructed to avoid large cavalries to enter the fort in case of an attack.

A huge rainwater catchment system and well have been constructed on the Khilla during the period of Zafar-ud-doula, well known for construction of tanks during Qutb shahi dynasty. This massive tank is now known as the ‘Zafar well’. It is 60 feet X 30 feet stepped well with a bridge across it for men and horses to move around. He also built the walls using Bricks and limestone along the fort.

As soon as we enter the Khilla darwaza, one can see the Fort at a distance of 300 feet. There are small steps carved out of this hill to reach the top of the Hill fort. They are later renovated with railings for the steps by the Tourism department and Archaeological Survey of India in 2005 during the 1000 year celebrations of this historical fort. A lot of small gates known as ‘Dalohiswar’ are all around the walls of the fort.

Fort has at least 15 bastions constructed with two massive walls as a military strategy to take the impact of the cannonballs and to counter the enemy from the top. A 15 foot deep trench is dug in some places for the army to store and use as a hiding place.

The huge blocks of stone used for the walls are as long as 10 feet and are believed to be transported using elephants and men. No mud or limestone is used in this huge wall and the rocks are tightly placed and leaving the viewers amazed by the construction

A permanent Gallows has been erected on this prominent hill fort, where the estimated seat of justice could have been inside the fort.The platform is made of Stone and appears like a well,due to which the locals call this 'Nethi bhavi' ('నేతి బావి 'meaning Ghee well).This stone structure could be seen from allover the city of khammam.

Stone Gallows, locally believed to be a Ghee well on top of the fort

The fort is believed to have a secret tunnels to the Warangal Fort with multiple entrances in different locations at the fort. One such entrance is 10 feet in diameter and the steps to enter the tunnel are closed due to damage over the years. The local folklore includes stories about valuables being transferred between the kings from here using the secret passages and escaping enemy attacks through them.

Sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khammam_Fort

http://www.hoparoundindia.com/andhra-pradesh/attractions-gallery/23007/khammam-fort.aspx

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Nelakondapalli

Nelakondapalli is a town and a mandal headquarters in Khammam district, Telangana, India, located at a distance of 21 km from Khammam.

Nelakondapalli is a historic site, which includes a mud fortification wall that covers 100 acres. Excavations by archaeologists have unearthed the foundations of viharas, cisterns, wells, one Mahastupa, terracotta idols, a bronze idol of Lord Buddha and a miniature stupa carved in limestone, and other historic materials from third and fourth centuries. Archaeological sites of historical importance dating back to the days of Mahabharata such as Virataraju Dibba and Keechaka Gundam are located within one and a half kilometer from Nelakondapalli. The relics, which were found at this place, strengthen the belief that it was a prominent place right from ancient times.

Nelakondapalli also has ancient temples like three Shiva temples as well as two Vaishnava temples. The Dusshera festival celebrations in Nelakondapalli attract devotees from other places. 

Nelakondapalli is also the birthplace of Kancharla Gopanna, popularly called Bhakta Ramadas. Bhakta Ramadas Memorial Building was constructed here at Sri Bhaktha Ramadasu’s birth place in 1955, which is now called Bhakta Ramadasu Dhyana Mandiram is run by Sri Seeteramachandra Swamy Devastanam, Bhadrachalam from 1983. Sri Ramanavami is celebrated with pomp and gaiety at Bhaktaramadas Dhyana Mandiram with arrangements made by Bhadrachalam Sri Rama temple and the local devotees. Annually, Sri Bhaktha Ramadas memorial festival is organised between 28th April and 2nd May. Nelakondapalli is located at a busy junction on the way from Khammam to Kodad and Kusumanchi. 

Tourists can use buses and cars from Nelakondapalli to nearby historical sites like Bodulabanda, Anantanagar, Aregudem and Kattukachavaram.

Nelakondapalli can be reached by road from Khammam, which is nearly 20 km away. Khammam is connected to Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, located at a distance of approximately 195 km, through road and rail transport.

There are few eateries on the way to Nelakondapalli. Good restaurants are available at Khammam.

There are few local made handicrafts and idols of Hindu gods which shoppers can buy here.

Khammam town is suitable for accommodation with many private lodges and hotels.

http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/heritage-spots/khammam/nelakondapalli.html

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Nelakondapalli

Nelakondapalli is a town and a mandal headquarters in Khammam

district, Telangana, India, located at a distance of 21 km from Khammam. Nelakondapalli is a historic site, which includes a mud fortification wall that covers 100 acres. Excavations by archaeologists have unearthed the foundations of viharas, cisterns, wells, one Mahastupa, terracotta idols, a bronze idol of Lord Buddha and a miniature stupa carved in limestone, and other historic materials from third and fourth centuries. Archaeological sites of historical importance dating back to the days of Mahabharata such as Virataraju Dibba and Keechaka Gundam are located within one and a half kilometer from Nelakondapalli. The relics, which were found at this place, strengthen the belief that it was a prominent place right from ancient times.

Nelakondapalli also has ancient temples like three Shiva temples as well as two Vaishnava temples. The Dusshera festival celebrations in Nelakondapalli attract devotees from other places. Nelakondapalli is also the birthplace of Kancharla Gopanna, popularly called Bhakta Ramadas. Bhakta Ramadas Memorial Building was constructed here at Sri Bhaktha Ramadasu’s birth place in 1955, which is now called Bhakta Ramadasu Dhyana Mandiram is run by Sri Seeteramachandra Swamy Devastanam, Bhadrachalam from 1983. Sri Ramanavami is celebrated with pomp and gaiety at Bhaktaramadas Dhyana Mandiram with arrangements made by Bhadrachalam Sri Rama temple and the local devotees. Annually, Sri Bhaktha Ramadas memorial festival is organised between 28th April and 2nd May. Nelakondapalli is located at a busy junction on the way from Khammam to Kodad and Kusumanchi. Tourists can use buses and cars from Nelakondapalli to nearby historical sites like Bodulabanda, Anantanagar, Aregudem and Kattukachavaram.

Nelakondapalli can be reached by road from Khammam, which is nearly 20 km away. Khammam is connected to Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, located at a distance of approximately 195 km, through road and rail transport.

http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/heritage-spots/khammam/nelakondapalli.html#parentHorizontalTab4

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Daasarathi Krishnamacharyulu

Name         : Dasarathi Krishnamacharyulu / Daasarathi

Born       : July 22, 1925 Chinnaguduru, Maripeda, Mahabubabad
Died       : Nov 5, 1987
Education  : B.A degree from Osmania University, Hyderabad.
Profession : Freedom Fighter, Poet and Lyricist
Titles     : Abhyudhaya Kavi and Kalaprapurna


నా తెలంగాణ, కోటి రతనాల వీణ (Naa Telangaana, Koti Ratanaala Veena)

An orthodox, but discreet, Vaishnava bhakta, he was an erudite scholar of Indian mythology (puranas).

He was interested in linguistics and mastered Sanskrit, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Urdu, Persian, English languages.

He matriculated from the Khammam Government High School but gave up higher education to join the movement against the autocratic Nizam rule in the Hyderabad Kingdom.

Freedom Fighter and Poet
As a volunteer in the left-wing Andhra Mahasabha movement, Dasarathi travelled from village to village in Telangana to enlighten the public. Mahatma Gandhi and Kandukuri Veeresalingam influenced him. However, he joined the political left, as most of his friends were leftists and communist revolutionaries.

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