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Deccan Herald
03-07-2025
- General
- Deccan Herald
An enduring fortress of stone and history
Shahabad is a historical town about 26 km from Kalaburagi, where the two major rivers, Kagina and Bhima, flow. Old Shahabad was once a major administrative and cultural centre during the Bahmani Sultanate. .It also served as a sub-divisional administrative hub under the Nizams of Hyderabad, governing nearly 300 villages. In order to preserve the originality of Old Shahabad, a new township, New Shahabad, was developed around 3.5 km away, primarily due to the establishment of a railway station. .Shahabad is especially notable for its limestone, widely known as Shahabad stone, which comes in different shades such as yellow and grey, each possessing a distinctive visual in many nearby villages are built using this stone. The tradition of using limestone blocks for building construction in this region spans centuries. The stones have been used by various historical dynasties, including the Mauryas of Kanaganahalli (notably for the Ashoka-era stupa), the Rashtrakutas (in Malkhed Fort), the Bahmanis (in Shahabad Fort), and the Nizams in their palaces in Kalaburagi..A 14th-century fort, locally known as gadi, is a rare and historically significant example of early Shahabad stone architecture. The Shahabad Fort was built during the reign of the Bahmani rulers, sometime between 1397 and 1422 AD. The fort is one of the lesser-known but important regional monuments from the Bahmani period. Shahabad, along with other towns, formed a network of strategic settlements that were regularly used by the Bahmani Sultans for military campaigns. .When this ancient structure is compared to the recently constructed houses in the area, the basic construction method remains surprisingly similar. Limestone blocks are carefully stacked and aligned to form solid structural walls. The fort itself contains a row of gun slits embedded into the walls — an early form of defensive architecture. The fort features four watchtowers: Two cylindrical towers at the main entrance and two square-shaped towers at the rear. .The upper level of the bastions includes tapering three-layered stone supports that provide both functional overhang and architectural elegance. The western wall and its corresponding bastion remain relatively intact. The fort's layout is irregular, suggesting it may have been expanded over time without a fixed design plan. .At the southeast corner of the structure stands a square bastion, while the rear exit of the fort includes a small wooden door topped by a large stone arch. Once a thriving seat of local governance and military strength, the fort has now deteriorated and, regrettably, is often used as a dumping ground. .The eastern wall, connected to a bastion, is in particularly poor condition, though the top of the bastion has somehow endured. A portion of the fort compound is currently occupied by a private the walls of the fort lies a mosque known locally as the Gadi ki saat sutun Shahi Jama Masjid, constructed using locally quarried white stone. Although not widely documented in scholarly records, this mosque is an important religious structure preserved by the local the masjid is supported by 32 intricately designed pillars and 28 arches. Each arch displays a unique style, inspired by Persian and Turkish architectural traditions, indicating the cultural exchanges with these regions during the Bahmani roof of the mosque includes 21 domes. The front elevation features chajjas (stone eaves) attached to the roof, supported by stone slabs. These designs follow the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition and are also seen in older homes throughout the historic fort and its mosque currently do not fall under the protection or maintenance of any official heritage this, the structure remains an example of regional fort architecture, blending defensive engineering with cultural and religious heritage. With proper support, particularly from the State Archaeology Department, this neglected monument could be preserved, restored, and recognised as a valuable piece of Karnataka's historical and architectural legacy.
Hans India
02-07-2025
- Hans India
8 Popular Places to Visit in Lonavala on Your Weekend Getaway! Explore Famous Places to Visit in Lonavala Away From the City's Hustle and Bustle!
Are you looking for an escape from the city chaos near Mumbai? Lonavala is the place for you. Surrounded by the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra, it is a popular hill station located around 90 kms from Mumbai. The place is filled with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, misty hills and lakes, offering a magnificent retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily routine. It is a haven for adventure seekers, nature lovers and bird watchers, as there are various activities you can do in Lonavala. These activities include trekking, hiking, boating, flying fox, ATV rides, bungee jumping and birdwatching. The places to visit in Lonavala also hold historical significance, dating back to the Maratha rule. Here is a list of places to visit in Lonavala for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Also, don't forget to check out budget-friendly hotels in Lonavala for a comfortable and convenient stay. 1. Tiger's Leap: Located 8 kms away from Lonavala, Tiger's Leap is a popular viewpoint. This clifftop resembling the shape of a tiger leaping into the valley, with a sheer drop of over 650 mts is famous for breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Another highlight of the Tiger's Leap, is the echo point, where you can hear your voice bouncing back. While looking for a stay near Tiger's Leap, you can book Treebo hotels in Lonavala near the viewpoint for a comfortable and relaxing experience. 2. Lohagad Fort: The famous places to visit in Lonavala include various forts that hold great significance in the course of the history of the region. One such important fort is Lohagad Fort, also known as 'Iron Fort', located at a height of 3,389 ft above sea level. The fort was under the rule of various rulers, including the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas, Bahmanis, Nizams, Mughals, and Marathas, which makes it an important site for history enthusiasts. While embarking on a 2-3 hour trek uphill, you get to witness the bounty of nature and historic Bhaja caves, making it a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The Treebo hotels near Lohagad Fort, Lonavala, are best-suited for travellers looking for affordable yet comfortable accommodation. 3. Visapur Fort: A popular hill fort near Visapur village close to Lonavala, Visapur Fort is one of the best weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune. You can reach the fort by climbing the rocky hill for around 2-3 hours starting at Bhaje Village. Standing at a height of 1084 mts above sea level, it offers a panoramic view of the surroundings covered in lush greenery. For the best travelling experience, monsoon is the best time to visit the fort as the trek will be covered in thick greenery, brimming waterfalls and mist. For a relaxing stay before and after the trek to the Visapur Fort, you can book Treebo hotels near Visapur Fort Lonavala, which are ideal for solo travellers, couples, groups of friends, family and business travellers. 4. Tungarli Lake: Along with the historic forts, Lonavala is also known for its sparkling lakes and dams. Tungarli Lake, formed due to the construction of Tungarli Dam in the Rajmachi region, is one of the famous places to visit in Lonavala for camping and picnics. You can enjoy a relaxing time by the lake and admire the mesmerising views of the city, or take leisure walks and short treks to the Tungarli Dam. You can look for hotels in Lonavala near Tungarli Lake to enjoy easy accessibility to the lake. 5. Lonavala Lake: Another famous lake located around 1.6 kms away from the city centre is the Lonavala Lake. It is a popular site for food hopping, birdwatching, swimming and angling and is a base camp for famous treks to Tiger Point, Lion Point and Aamby Valley. The beauty of the lake is at its best during and post monsoon season when you can enjoy the views of flowers, grazing animals and lush greenery. There are numerous Treebo hotels in Lonavala offering travel desk facilities to help you explore the city in the best possible way. 6. Rajmachi: If you wish to experience the culture and tradition of the region, then Rajmachi is the perfect place for you. It is a small village situated in the Sahyadri mountains near Lonavala and is famous for two forts, including Shrivardhan Fort and Manaranjan Fort. Ruled by the famous rulers like Shivaji Maharaj, Emperor Aurangzeb, Shahu Maharaj and the British, the village holds significance for history enthusiasts. To reach the village, you can either trek for 3-4 hours starting from the Kondhane caves or drive to the village from Lonavala. From the village, the forts are just a 20-30 minute trek away. Numerous Treebo hotels near Rajmachi Point, Lonavala, offer private cab facilities to help you explore the places to visit in Lonavala at your leisure. 7. Karla Caves: The ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, Karla Caves, are one of the most famous tourist places in Lonavala, attracting a large number of history enthusiasts, devotees and nature lovers. The caves, also known as Karli Caves, Karle Caves or Karla Cell and are known to be one of the oldest Buddhist cave shrines in India, which is believed to have been built around the 2nd century BC. It houses one of the largest Chaityas (prayer hall with a stupa) in India and the Ekvira Temple dedicated to Goddess Ekveera. To reach the caves, you have to climb around 350 steps from the base hill or 200 steps from the car park around halfway up the hill. You can book a stay at hotels near Karla Caves, Lonavala, offering private cab facilities for a convenient travel towards the caves and other tourist attractions in the city. 8. Bhushi Dam: One of the significant dams built on the Indrayani River in Lonavala, Bhushi Dam is a must-visit destination, especially during the monsoon season. The water in the dam overflows during the season, creating a sort of waterfall which flows through the steps of the dam and then the rocky terrain, making it a breathtaking sight to behold. It is also a perfect spot to enjoy picnics and spend relaxing time with your loved ones. If you are looking for a family-friendly stay in the city, then Treebo hotels near Bhushi Dam Lonavala offer a home-like experience to the guests by offering them modern amenities and complimentary services like breakfast, Wifi and toiletries. Thus, the places to visit in Lonavala not only offer an escape from the city chaos but also offer an insight into the rich heritage of the region. So, whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast or an adventure seeker, these places are perfect for you. Moreover, for the ideal accommodation, you can easily find numerous Treebo hotels in Lonavala, which you can directly book from Treebo Club's website or app.
News18
30-06-2025
- News18
'Dynasties of Devotion': All About Forgotten Whispers Beneath Temple Spires
Last Updated: The author has turned the spotlight on the rulers who shaped the seven iconic temples in her book -- the Cholas, Hoysalas, Cheras, Rashtrakutas, and Khmers When we visit a grand Hindu temple, most of us do the predictable: we marvel, we click pictures, we leave. But author Deepa Mandlik's book, Dynasties of Devotion, urges us to pause, dig deeper and listen to the whispers of stone, chisel, and myth. Because behind every towering gopuram and intricate carving lies a saga of devotion, not just to the divine, but to the art, architecture, and empire. In this beautifully written travel-history hybrid book, Deepa Mandlik retraces her family's footsteps through seven iconic temples — Ellora's Kailasa temple, Thanjavur's Brihadeeswara, Airavatesvara, Chennakeshava, Padmanabhaswamy, and Cambodia's Angkor Wat and Bayon. Mandlik's book takes us through lessons that integrate history and architecture, but more than that, weaves heart into stone, tracing dynasties, decoding sculptures, and listening for forgotten whispers beneath temple spires. The book is not a dry archaeological log. It's a storytelling feast, rich in legend, behind-the-scenes stories and civilisational exchange. When you walk through the ancient corridors of Hindu temples in Cambodia or south India, the intricate carvings of deities, the echo of chants long silenced, and the sheer audacity of stone carvings make you wonder: how did Hinduism travel this far? What winds carried these gods across oceans and dynasties? Most temples are known for their presiding deity, but the author refreshingly turns the spotlight on the remarkable rulers who shaped them — the Cholas, Hoysalas, Cheras, Rashtrakutas, and Khmers. Their architectural visions were not mere constructions but cosmic declarations, each temple a testament to power, piety, and profound cultural exchange. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on the Brihadeeswara temple. Mandlik takes you to the court of Rajaraja Chola, where a group of sea-faring traders return from Cambodia after a profitable trip. The merchants complain about being robbed by the navy of the Cheras of Kerala and presented the king with a golden miniature replica of a Hindu temple built in Cambodia and sang its praises. Rajaraja had been thinking of making a grand temple, and seeing the miniature stirs something deep inside him. He had dreams of building a magnificent temple and, thus, begins the saga of Brihadeeswara — a temple that would take years, weather palace and family intrigues and eventually stand as a monumental embodiment of that vision and sacred grandeur. Everyone talks about its towering vimana and grandeur. But, Mandlik also delightfully explains the dancing sculptures of Hindu deities, Shiva and Parvati, and explores how this Chola dynasty temple was once a prestigious stage for Bharatanatyam with nearly 400 dancers and 250 musicians in residence. The temple wasn't just sacred, it was sensory. This blending of fact and folklore is her magic. You don't just learn, you imagine. The book is peppered with fascinating stories and she tackles popular myths with gentle clarity. One enduring legend is that the Brihadeeswara temple is so huge that its shadow never touches the ground. Advertisement While this is not true, the origin of the myth is even more delightful. Mandlik narrates the story of how when the temple was completed, Rajaraja was inspecting it accompanied by the chief architect. He was quite impressed since it was exactly how he had envisioned it. However, looking at the stupendous temple, he asked his chief architect: 'Will this temple ever fall?' To which, the architect quipped: 'Forget the temple, even its shadow won't fall on the ground.' This conversation between the king and his architect became a legend that has endured. Sometimes, legends endure because we need them to. In later chapters, Mandlik travels to Angkor Wat, where the visual poetry of the Mahabharata and Ramayana is carved into stone. But she doesn't stop there, she also explores the Buddhist Bayon temple, which is not Hindu but is still included in her list for its symbolic connection to Mount Meru. advetisement The Bayon was at one time also converted into a Hindu temple. Its carvings still reflect the shared motifs and deities of Hindu cosmology. On a side note, 'meru' in Sanskrit means 'high" and the 'Sumeru Throne" is a common feature in Chinese pagodas. Mahameru, the sacred five-peaked mountain, is central to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist cosmologies, and is imagined as the axis of the universe — the abode of Brahma and the celestial realm. While modern academics often dissect Hinduism and Buddhism with surgical precision, I applauded Mandlik's inclusion of Bayon because it reminds us that the origins of both practices were, for centuries, entwined, and still are. Coming back to the book, it has been written with affection not abstraction. It preserves the bhaav, the emotion of faith, while offering rich historical and architectural context and massive amounts of data. The anecdotes are compelling, the research strong, and the writing warm and accessible. The book is interspersed with full-page photographs and you feel like you are standing in the mandapas, touching the cool stone hearing the distant rhythm of temple drums. advetisement top videos View All If you ever plan to visit these temples, carry this book along. It is better than any guidebook. Even if you're not planning a trip anytime soon, read it anyway. Because this is time travel. This is devotion, dynasty, and drama, and I wish history was taught like this in school. When you finish the book, I guarantee goosebumps and a warm feeling at the sheer magnificence of the architecture and the wonder that was Bharat. (The writer is a lawyer, author and founder of YogaSmith, whose next book, 'Dharma Ecology of Bishnoi Warriors', will be out in July. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views) tags : hindu temples Hinduism religion Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 30, 2025, 07:00 IST News opinion Book Review | 'Dynasties of Devotion': All About Forgotten Whispers Beneath Temple Spires
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First Post
15-06-2025
- General
- First Post
How Bengaluru's expansion threatens Tumakuru's glorious heritage
One hopes that if it were to ever become an official extension of Bengaluru, the chaos of that urban jungle does not engulf the peace of Tumakuru read more A few days ago, Karnataka's Home Minister G Parameshwara announced that he had submitted a report recommending conversion of Tumakuru district into 'Bengaluru North'. While the state capital has been growing organically, this formal expansion could see dramatic changes. And while real estate companies will be eagerly waiting to pounce, the danger is that the laidback, rural character of Tumakuru will change. And not necessarily for the better! When a tsunami of urbanisation comes upon a rural area, heritage sites rarely get discussed. Possibly because the government agencies charged with their protection keep a low decibel level. And by the time common people look beyond real estate valuations, it is too late. Tumakuru district is dotted with heritage sites, and while they will not be swept away, they may find themselves surrounded by buildings within a few years. The temple sites, which thrive on tranquil surroundings, could be stuck in concrete hubs. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The district is filled with nuggets of heritage – a result of having been touched by varied dynasties like the Gangas, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Nolambas, Cholas, Hoysalas and various others, each leaving their imprint on the place. While 'development' is always welcomed, one hopes it comes with a degree of respect for the past. Here is a snapshot of some of the sites that thrive in Tumakuru's hitherto peaceful setting and which, one hopes, will continue to thrive: Kunigal: The place is home to three temples – the Narasimha, Padmesvara and Somesvara. The Narasimha was originally a Hoysala shrine but witnessed significant additions in the Vijaynagara period. Though named after Narasimha, the central deity appears to be an icon of Janardana. The linga in the Somesvara shrine has been dated to the 12th century CE. Near a beautiful water body are memorial hero-stones, small icons that are still in worship, pillars of lost temples as well as shrines of Nagas. While the larger temples are in their compounds, it is the tiny and isolated shrines that are extremely vulnerable. And of course, the water body might tempt builders the way Bengaluru's lakes have been systematically built over. Restored pillars at the Somesvara Temple in Kunigal Nagalapura: While the Kedareshwara Temple lies outside the main inhabited area, the Channakeshava is in the middle of the village. While both are Hoysala temples, the carvings on the former are more detailed. The outer wall of its sanctum forms a sixteen-pointed star, a classic design of the Hoysala period. Inside a Shiva linga. The Channakeshava is less intricate but is missing its main idol. What else may vanish if the area changes character is anyone's guess. Marvellous Hoysala carvings on the soapstone exterior of the Kedareshwara Temple at Nagalapura Turuvekere: The quiet village of Turuvekere houses the Channigaraya, Shankareshvara and Gangadhareshvara temples. The first two are Hoysala temples, and in the first is an image of Channakeshava that stands over five feet in height. The Gangadhareshvara is a later shrine whose noteworthy feature is a huge Nandi icon placed in its mandapa. Carved out of locally found black stone called Turuvekere-kallu, the Nandi is stunningly embellished with garlands and a bell around its neck. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Aralaguppe: The Channekeshava Temple here is one of the most magnificent works of the Hoysala period. On its outer walls are rows of carved icons – horsemen, elephants, divine beings and various gods, especially Vishnu in different forms. Amazingly, in its carved panels is the name 'Honoja' – apparently the artist who made these carvings. It may not be a UNESCO World Heritage site, but temples such as this complete the Hoysala narrative. The Channekeshava Temple at Aralaguppe Settikere: The Yogamadhava Temple here was originally Hoysala but was modified in the Vijaynagara period. Standing on a high platform, this shrine's standout feature is the presence of three cells or sanctums. While the north and south cells house a Lakshminarayana and a Venugopala icon, respectively, it is the cell in the west that is central. With a tower rising above it, this has a rare icon of Yogamadhava on a Garuda, giving the temple its name. Facing the shrine is a gateway that is sans a gopuram above. Further away, outside the temple compound, is a mediaeval column. The temple grounds are quite bare, almost artificially so. Perhaps something else stood here that has been removed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Sira: This place was a provincial centre under the Mughals, under the Bijapur state and even under Mysore. Unlike the other forts in this district, which are hill forts, Sira's fort is on flat land, its moat having served as a protection. One needs to hunt a bit to find the fort today. Its walls and gateways stand strong, but little else remains, a victim of the battles of the mediaeval era. Spread across the town are a Jama Masjid, the Barakki Masjid and the dargah of Malik Rihan. Predictably, these have their own following and are hence, in better shape. Remains of the Fort at Sira, now a forgotten and little visited part of the town Tumakuru district is also home to numerous hill forts, such as Madhugiri, Midigeshi, Nidugal, Huliyurdurga and others. But being harder to access, in varying degrees, these should be able to escape the ground-level changes. The challenge that the hill forts already face comes from erosion by the elements and neglect. If one were to include other places such as Vignasanthe, Gubbi, Nonvinakere, Chiknayakaahalli and Pankajanahalli, to name but a few of several, this list could be extended considerably, but the sites mentioned are substantial to establish the antiquity of the Tumakuru region. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Kalleshwara Temple at Nonvinakere - already sunken below road level One can also add the point that Palaeolithic remains have been found in Kibbanahalli, near Tiptur, taking back the region's history to a much earlier era. One hopes that if it were to ever become an official extension of Bengaluru, the chaos of that urban jungle does not engulf the peace of Tumakuru. The author is a heritage explorer with a penchant for seeking obscure sites. A brand consultant by profession, he tweets @HiddenHeritage. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
New Indian Express
10-06-2025
- General
- New Indian Express
Kakatiya-era sculpture of warriors unearthed in Telangana's Polasa
JAGTIAL: A rare sculpture dating back to the Kakatiya period, depicting two warriors locked in horseback combat, came to light following the recent rains in Polasa village, about seven kilometres from the Jagtial district headquarters. Villagers discovered the half-buried artefact under a bush near Sri Poulastheswara Swamy temple during their early morning farm work on Monday. The partially damaged stone shows a warrior overpowering another in battle. Speaking to TNIE, historian Sankepalli Nagendra Sharma urged the government to initiate excavations in the area, stating, 'There is a treasure trove of history buried here. The sculpture belongs to the Kakatiya period. Further excavation will reveal valuable insights for future generations.' Assistant archaeologist S Raviteja told TNIE that the region, especially Polasa, is rich in historical remnants, many of which date back to the 11th century and could be linked to the Kakatiya dynasty. 'Polasa has seen the rule of several dynasties, including the Chalukyas and Kakatiyas.' An inscription was found etched on the stone beside the sculpture. Though the script appears faded, early observations suggest it could be in Devanagari, although this is yet to be confirmed. Nagendra Sharma said they have informed the epigraphy department, which will ascertain the excavation and provide a detailed report. 'We will visit the site to study and attempt to decipher the script,' Raviteja said. In 2021, research scholar Pyata Srilatha of Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University presented a paper identifying Polasa as once being the capital of Polavasadesa, ruled by chiefs affiliated with the Rashtrakutas. The village still bears ruins of ancient temples, sculptures and a mud fort with a surviving moat. (With inputs from Akhil Kumar)
