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Hans India
6 days ago
- General
- Hans India
Golkonda: Unifying Telangana's capital region
Placenames reflect their historical and cultural identities, and Hyderabad, a dynamic metropolis in southern India, is no exception. Debates persist over its origins, particularly the narrative that Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah founded it in 1591 as Bhagyanagar after his alleged Hindu wife or courtesan, Bhagmati—a claim lacking historical evidence. This article examines Hyderabad's nomenclature, challenges the Bhagyanagar story, and proposes renaming the urban agglomerate—encompassing Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Cyberabad—as Golkonda to honour its Kakatiya and Golla (Yadav) heritage, fostering a unified regional identity. Golkonda and the Kakatiya legacy: Golkonda Fort, founded by the Kakatiya dynasty in the 12th century as a strategic western outpost, became the cornerstone of Telangana's capital region, shaping its political, historical, and cultural prominence. Renowned for their contributions to culture, architecture, economic prosperity, the Telugu language, and efficient governance, the Kakatiyas developed innovative tank irrigation systems for agriculture. Golkonda, a strategic western outpost, protected against invasions. Its name, from the Telugu words Golla (shepherd or Yadav) and Konda (hill), reflects the region's pastoral heritage and the Golla community's role as herders, farmers, and warriors. The Kakatiya empire fell to Islamic invaders in the early 14th century, with the Delhi Sultanate, under Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad bin Tughlaq, annexing the Deccan. By the mid-14th century, Golkonda came under Bahmani Sultanate control. After its disintegration, the Qutub Shahi dynasty, founded by Sultan Quli Qutub Shah in 1518, made Golkonda its capital, leveraging its strategic location along the Musi River and natural defences. In 1591, Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth ruler, established Hyderabad, named after Ali, the fourth Caliph of Islam (with Hyder referring to Ali's title, 'Lion of God'), about eight kilometers east of Golkonda. With the iconic Charminar as its centrepiece, Hyderabad became the political and economic hub, while Golkonda remained a key military and cultural site. The Bhagyanagar narrative-Fact or fiction? The claim that Hyderabad was originally named Bhagyanagar after Bhagmati, lacks credible historical evidence. Primary Qutub Shahi sources, such as the Tarikh-i-Qutub Shahi and Tazkirat-ul-Muluk, make no mention of Bhagmati or Bhagyanagar, possibly due to a preference for Islamic nomenclature (Sherwani, 1974). However, 17th-century European accounts by travellers like Jean de Thévenot (Travels in India, 1687) occasionally refer to the city as 'Baghnagar,' suggesting some basis for the oral tradition preserved among local Telugu communities. Cultural improbability: The Bhagyanagar narrative raises cultural questions. It is unlikely that a Muslim ruler would name his capital after a Hindu woman, whether a wife or courtesan. Islamic rulers typically chose Persian or Arabic names for their cities, reflecting their religious and cultural identities, as seen in Ahmedabad (named after Sultan Ahmad Shah) and Aurangabad (after Emperor Aurangzeb). Naming a city after a Hindu woman would have been an anomaly. Moreover, the claim that Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah married a Hindu woman named Bhagmati is questionable, as conversion to Islam was typically required for marriage (Nikah). Even if Bhagmati existed, naming a city after a courtesan would have been considereddishonourable in both Hindu and Muslim cultural contexts, further undermining the narrative's credibility. Alternative explanations for Bhagyanagar: If the Bhagmati story is fictional, how did the name Bhagyanagar arise in the first place? One plausible hypothesis is that Hyderabad was built on a pre-existing village named Bhagyanagar, possibly named after a local deity or temple. The Bhagyalakshmi temple within the Charminar premises supports this theory. Given the historical prevalence of Islamic iconoclastic destruction of Hindu temples, a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagyalakshmi may have been demolished to construct the Charminar, explaining the site's religious significance for local Hindus. The name Bhagyanagar, derived from Bhagya (fortune or prosperity) and Nagar (city), could have been a local name preserved in oral traditions but absent from official records. Archaeological considerations: Verifying the Bhagyanagar hypothesis requires archaeological excavations under and around the Charminar and other historical sites in Hyderabad. Such investigations could uncover evidence of pre-existing Hindu temples or settlements. However, excavations near the Charminar are impractical due to urban constraints and communal sensitivities. The Bhagyalakshmi temple's location within the Charminar complex remains a tantalising clue, but without further evidence, the Bhagyanagar narrative remains speculative. Cultural and political implications: Even if the Bhagyanagar story were true, its implications for Hindu cultural identity are problematic. Naming a city after a Hindu woman associated with a Muslim ruler, whether as a wife or courtesan, could be perceived as undermining Hindu pride. Such relationships often symbolised conquest or subjugation and commemorating them through a city's name would conflict with Hindu pride. Moreover, the lack of historical evidence for Bhagmati undermines the legitimacy of Bhagyanagar as Hyderabad's original name. Thus, insisting on Bhagyanagar is problematic, and a more inclusive, historically accurate nomenclature is needed to honour the region's indigenous heritage. Golkonda-Etymology and cultural significance The name Golkonda offers a compelling alternative for restoring the identity of Hyderabad's urban agglomerate. Derived from the Telugu words Golla (shepherd or Yadav) and Konda (hill or mountain), Golkonda reflects the region's pastoral and agrarian roots. The Golla community, traditionally cattle herders, played a vital role in Telangana's economy and culture. Their association with Lord Krishna imbues Golkonda with spiritual significance, drawing parallels to Govardhan Parvat, the sacred hill lifted by Krishna in Hindu lore. Golkonda Fort, established as a Kakatiya western garrison outpost, represents a tangible link to Telangana's past. The Kakatiyas were champions of Telugu culture, constructing iconic monuments like the Warangal fort, Ramappa temple, and promoting literature, art, and architecture. Reviving the name Golkonda would pay homage to their legacy while fostering regional pride that transcends religious and communal divides. Golkonda as the urban agglomerate's name: This sprawling urban agglomerate today comprises three distinct cities—Hyderabad, the historical and cultural core; Secunderabad, a colonial-era cantonment; and Cyberabad, a modern IT hub—along with several other suburban localities. Naming the entire urban agglomerate Golkonda would celebrate the Kakatiya dynasty as the founders of Telangana's capital region, honouring their enduring legacy in shaping a unified identity that reflects the area's historical continuity and cultural diversity. This approach mirrors New York City's structure, which unifies its five distinct boroughs: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. Adopting Golkonda as the overarching name would honour the Golla community's contributions, restore the region's Kakatiya roots, and embrace its modern and Muslim heritage. To begin, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority a(HMDA) and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB) could be renamed as the Golkonda Metropolitan Development Authority and the Golkonda Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board, respectively, as the jurisdiction of these entities encompasses areas beyond the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) jurisdiction. Benefits of the Golkonda nomenclature: • Historical accuracy: Golkonda, unlike Bhagyanagar, is a documented name from the Kakatiya and Qutub Shahi eras, free from the speculative Bhagmati narrative. • Cultural inclusivity: Golkonda honours the Golla (Yadav) community and Kakatiya legacy, appealing to locals while remaining religiously neutral. • Regional unity: Golkonda unifies Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Cyberabad under a shared identity. • Global recognition: Golkonda's historical significance and diamond trade legacy (e.g., Kohinoor, Hope diamonds) enhance the region's cultural and economic brand. Addressing potential concerns: It may be argued that changing Hyderabad's name could disrupt its established identity or create other challenges. However, this proposal does not advocate renaming Hyderabad itself but rather adopting Golkonda as an overarching name for Telangana's capital region, similar to the Delhi-NCR model. This approach preserves the individual identities of Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Cyberabad while providing a unifying framework. The Bhagyanagar narrative, while popular among some Hindu groups, is divisive. By contrast, Golkonda is rooted in Telangana's pre-Muslim history and avoids religious connotations, making it a more inclusive choice. Notably, the Qutub Shahi dynasty was also known as the Golkonda Nawabs, ensuring the name acknowledges their legacy as well. Conclusion: The debate over Hyderabad's nomenclature reflects broader questions of history and identity. The Bhagyanagar narrative, though evocative, lacks evidence and carries divisive implications. Golkonda, rooted in indigenous heritage, offers a unifying and historically accurate alternative. As Capital Region Golkonda, Telangana can celebrate its diverse past, foster regional unity, and inspire a future of shared pride and recognition. (The author is a retired IPS officer, and a former Director, CBI. Views are personal)
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Laughter Chefs 2: Bharti Singh receives a heartfelt birthday surprise on set; the actress says 'The team gave me a day I will carry in my heart forever'
For someone who's made the nation laugh for years,'Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment' turned the tables on Bharti Singh by gifting her an unforgettable surprise — her very first birthday celebration on national television! What began as an ordinary shoot day was turned into a deeply emotional and joy-filled rollercoaster that brought together the people closest to her heart — from celebrity friends to her Laughter Chefs family, and most importantly, her real family including her beloved son Golla. The day kicked off with Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi dedicating a special dish — Aam Papad Chaat with roasted Aam Panna — just for her. But before Bharti could fully savour the moment, the entire cast surprised her with a flash mob-style dance performance, with Bharti right at the centre of the fun and frolic. The surprise crescendoed when two young fans ran up to her, tightly hugging her and calling her their "favourite ever", leaving the usually witty Bharti visibly teary-eyed and speechless. But the most moving moments were yet to come. Her long-time friend and co-star Krushna Abhishek unveiled a special countdown video with hilarious and heartfelt birthday wishes from the Laughter Chefs celebrity contestants. That was followed by an emotional montage of messages from some of her closest friends in the industry — including Kapil Sharma, Jasmin Bhasin, Chandan Prabhakar, and others — all sharing little stories, memories, and the admiration they hold for her. However, what truly tugged at her heartstrings were the surprise appearances of two people she hadn't seen in over a decade — an old school friend and a college buddy — who popped up in the video with messages that took her back to her early days, before the fame, the stage lights, and the laughter. And then came the moment that made time stand still. Led by her mother Kamla Singh, Bharti's entire family — including her little son Golla and her dedicated team and support staff — walked onto the set. It was the first time they had all come together on a shoot, and the energy was nothing short of magical. As Bharti stood surrounded by her Laughter Chefs family and her real-life loved ones — wrapped in a bubble of warmth, nostalgia, and pride — Krushna, true to form, lightened the moment with his signature wit: 'Bharti, tumhare sasur ko dekh ke laga Ranjeet from Houseful 5 aa gayi!' The whole set erupted in laughter, a perfect reminder that even in the most emotional moments, laughter finds its way. The emotions peaked when her mentor Sudesh Lehri stepped in with one final surprise — a closing video from all the contestants filled with touching messages about Bharti's resilience, her big heart, and her unwavering support to everyone around her. Overwhelmed with emotion, Bharti shared: 'I've celebrated birthdays before, but never like this. To be surrounded by my entire family, my friends from the industry, my on-screen LC family, and my Golla — all in one place, on one set, was truly magical. The Laughter Chefs team gave me a day I will carry in my heart forever. From food made just for me, to seeing friends I hadn't spoken to in over 10–15 years, to hearing people talk about the small, beautiful things they remembered about me, it filled me up in ways I didn't know I needed. I was crying and laughing at the same time, and it just made me feel so seen, so valued, so deeply loved.' Bharti Singh: I wish there were more women doing comedy on television
Hans India
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Cabinet Berths…Aspirants with followers knock at PCC chief's doors in protest
Hyderabad: Aspirants and their followers who failed to get cabinet berths made a beeline to register their protest with PCC president B Mahesh Kumar Goud on Thursday. Leaders from Munnuru Kapu, Yadav and Golla Kuruma communities, who were hopeful of getting representation in Cabinet, were not properly represented. Followers of Govt Whips Beerla Ilaiah, Aadi Srinivas demanded that they be given opportunity in Cabinet from the remaining three positions. Following his meeting with Mahesh Goud, Beerla Ilaiah briefed the media at Gandhi Bhavan. He emphasised that social justice was possible only with the Congress and reminded that under United Andhra Pradesh, Golla and Kuruma communities were always represented in the Cabinet. He said that currently there are 22 lakh Yadavs and 6 lakh Kurumas in Telangana. Ilaiah demanded from the PCC that Gollas and Kurumas be given cabinet berths, a position of government advisor, an MLC, five corporation chairman posts, five commission members, a working president, three vice presidents, eight general secretaries and five DCC presidents in the party. They expressed their grievance that though justice was done to the BCs, injustice was done to the Gollas and Kurumas. He praised CM Revanth Reddy for giving priority to BC, SC and ST in government and party posts. He reminded the PCC chief that had assured that he would definitely provide opportunities to Gollas and Kurumas in the upcoming party posts. Meanwhile, Munnur Kapu leaders demanded that Aadi Srinivas be given a ministry post from the three unfulfilled Cabinet berths. Representatives of different associations of Munnuru Kapu and Aadi Srinivas's constituency, Vemulawada also visited Gandhi Bhavan and held meetings with Mahesh Kumar Goud. The leaders reminded PCC president about their contribution to Telangana's struggle and later bringing to power the Congress in 2023. Similarly, Muslim leaders expressed dissatisfaction over the State leadership's failure to accommodate a Muslim face in cabinet. However, they hoped that in the near future at least there will be one Minister from the Muslim community who will also handle Minority Welfare.
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Bharti Singh takes Laughter Chefs' stars Samarth Jurel and Abhishek Kumar shopping; shares behind-the-scenes clips
Bharti Singh , who is currently winning hearts with Laughter Chefs 2 , often shares vlogs on YouTube, offering glimpses into her personal life. In her latest video, Bharti treated fans to a fun shopping outing with Laughter Chefs co-stars Samarth Jurel and Abhishek Kumar . She was also seen enjoying quality time with her son, Golla. Bharti uploaded the vlog on her YouTube channel, where she first shared sweet moments with her husband Harsh Limbachiyaa and their son Golla at home. She then gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at her Laughter Chefs 2 preparations, showing how she gets ready for shoot days. Later in the vlog, Bharti picked up Samarth and Abhishek in her car, and the trio set off for a lively shopping trip. Their fun banter, camaraderie, and lighthearted jokes won fans over, with clips from the outing quickly making rounds on social media. Fans couldn't get enough of the trio's energy. One fan commented, 'Bharti, Samarth, and Abhishek together is pure chaos and joy! We need more content like this.' Another user wrote, 'This vlog felt like a mini episode of Laughter Chefs! Loved seeing their off-screen bond.' Many fans also praised Bharti for keeping things so real and relatable. 'Bharti never fails to entertain and connect with her audience. Watching her with her son and then with the boys was such a wholesome experience,' a viewer shared in the comments.
The Hindu
21-04-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Educate, organise and agitate should be our mantra, says Karnataka CM
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah inaugurated the centenary celebrations of the All-Karnataka Yadav, Hanabar, Golla Sangha in Chikkodi on April 20. He urged the community members to remain united at all costs, and to adopt the principles of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar — educate, orgainise and agitate for their rights — to ensure all-round development. In fact, this should be the mantra for all backward classes in India to escape exploitation, to strive towards a life of self-respect and growth, he said. The lives of leaders like Dr. Ambedkar show us that education can eliminate slavery and lead a life of self-respect. It is heartening to know that the Sangha has completed a hundred years and has been instrumental in organising the society and bringing it into the mainstream. All castes have become known through their professions. Vested interests used such nomenclature to divide the society. The Golla community now has many sub-castes, including Golla caste, Kadu Golla, Adavi Golla. But all of them need to develop equally and at the same pace, he said. 'Dr. Ambedkar said that education is essential for the downtrodden, backward classes, minorities, and the underprivileged to move towards progress. He observed that there is debilitating inequality in society. The majority are deprived of literacy. By following the Manusmriti, the four-caste system of Brahmins, Vaishyas, Kshatriyas, and Shudras was introduced in society, and the Shudras were not given the opportunity for education. Only those classes who had opportunities got educated and achieved progress in society. Now that we live in a democratic welfare state, it is our responsibility to see that all communities get such opportunities and access to education, health and livelihood,' the CM said. 'Our government is striving to create an equal society. Since I took charge, I have been trying to provide equal opportunities to everyone. I have represented the economic progress of backward communities. Therefore, I am trying to ensure equal distribution of wealth for all,' he said. The CM traced the history of reservation in Karnataka. 'In 1918, Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar formed the Miller Commission to provide representation to various communities in government jobs and education. 75% reservation was given to non-Brahmin communities in jobs and education. Later, many commissions were formed for reservation facilities. If one does not get education, slavery will increase and a life of self-respect will not be possible.' Mr. Siddaramaiah shared his experience and explained to the audience the importance of education, saying that it was only because of education that he was able to become the Chief Minister of Karnataka. The CM said he had received a memorandum from the community for the formation of a separate development corporation for the Yadav community. A decision will be taken after consulting community leaders, he said.
