Latest news with #VijayanagaraEmpire
The Hindu
06-05-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Historian calls for restoration of Penukonda Fort
Historian MyNaa Swamy on Tuesday called for immediate restoration of Penukonda Fort, one of the largest forts in Andhra Pradesh. He inspected the inscriptions on the walls and appealed to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to take up works to safeguard the fort and inscriptions. The fort wall has reportedly shifted and the stone containing the inscription split over the years. The Penukonda Fort played a crucial role in the Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1647 CE) and its earliest inscription dates back to 1354 CE. This inscription is particularly significant as it provides insight into the fort's construction. Inscription detailing the fort's construction is located on the inner side of the northern entrance gate. However, the most important inscription detailing the history of Penukonda Fort is becoming obscured in a garbage heap, as the municipality is dumping waste directly in front of it, Mr. MyNaa Swamy alleged. The historian has urged the authorities to clean the area and erect a fence, and install a signboard explaining its historical significance. He emphasised that it is the responsibility of every citizen to protect monuments. He said the fort wall is on the verge of collapse, having been previously damaged by a lorry that struck it near the Gorantla entry gate, and urged the ASI to take immediate action.
Time of India
27-04-2025
- Time of India
Ever heard of India's ‘City of Thousand Temples?' Here's why it's a must-visit
Kanchipuram, also known as the City of a Thousand Temples , is well-known for its magnificent temple architecture, imposing halls with a thousand pillars, tall gopurams (temple towers), and its famous silk saris. The city, which was once the seat of the Pallava empire, is now one of the most important tourist attractions in India, drawing not just pilgrims but also tourists from other countries and history aficionados. Kanchipuram 's spiritual aura and cultural diversity draw tourists from across the world. It is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India and holds immense spiritual, historical, and cultural significance. It is one of the seven sites among the 'Moksha-Puris,' Moksha meaning that you can skip the cycle of life and death, attaining Nirvana. Kanchipuram is believed to offer salvation to its devotees. Kanchipuram's history dates back more than two thousand years. It was once the capital of the Pallava Dynasty,' which ruled from the 4th to the 9th century, and they were great patrons of art, history, architecture, and literature. Later on, this city came under the governance of the Cholas, the Vijayanagara Empire, and the Nayaks, all of whom contributed to the city's spiritual and architectural landscape. Kanchipuram has developed over the centuries into a significant hub for education in spirituality, religion, and culture. It is also very significant to the Shaivya sect, who worship Lord Shiva in particular, and Vaishnavism, who worship Lord Vishnu. Among its various and distinct temples, some stand out for their religious significance. Read more: 3 places in India where Amrit is said to have fallen after Samudra Manthan Ekambeshwarar Temple Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the Pancha Bhoota stalas, representing the element 'Earth.' This temple spans over 25 acres and is among one of the largest temples of South India and features a 59-meter-high gopuram (tower). Kamakshi Amman Temple This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a form of Parvati. Considered to be one of the three holy abodes of the Goddess, the other two being Varanasi and Madurai. Read more: 5 places where time zone, traffic, or logic don't work like you expect Varadharaja Perumal Temple This temple is the home to the 108 Divya Desams (holy shrines for Vaishnavites). It is also known for its beautifully carved sculptures, pillared halls, and religious festivals. Kailasanathar Temple Constructed in the 8th century by the Pallava king Rajasimha, it is the oldest temple in Kanchipuram. It is revered for its sandstone carvings and is an excellent example of early Dravidian architecture. Apart from its spiritual importance, this place is also a major center of silk weaving, renowned for its Kanchipuram silk sarees . Intricately woven beautiful patterns, heavy gold work, and their rich colors are regarded as among the finest and most durable sarees in India. A Kanchipuram saree is often considered a family heirloom and is a must-have in South Indian bridal trousseaus. The spiritual environment in Kanchipuram is saturated with devotion and history. Ritual festivals like Brahmotsavam, Panguni Uthiram, and Vaikunta Ekadasi are organized with pomp, attracting pilgrims and tourists from across the country. Today, though urbanization has reached areas of the city, Kanchipuram has still managed to maintain its age-old charm. The combination of living traditions, ageless temples, and expert artisans makes it a very special place. Kanchipuram isn't just a city of a thousand temples but a city where time, faith, traditions, and culture live in harmony
