The Proceedings of the 82nd session of Indian History Congress held at the Kakatiya University (1)

The Proceedings of the 82^nd session of the Indian History Congress held at the Kakatiya University (1)

Delegates arriving Kakatiya University: The Kakatiya University hosted the 82^nd annual session of the Indian History Congress (IHC) from December 28^th to 30^th 2023 after 30 years[1] i.e, after 1993. Registrations commenced on December 27^th, with dedicated desks set up at Warangal and Kazipet Railway Stations and the university premises[2]. These stations facilitated delegate pickups, ensuring a smooth transition to the Kakatiya University venue. It is reported that 1,500 delegates registered for the Conference. The delegate fees of Rs 5,000/- was considered to be heavy by the delegates[3]. After registration, they were allotted accommodation at different places – within the University campus and outside. As the organizers expected more than 1500 delegates would come, they arranged accommodation at various lodges, hostels and guest houses. Food was provided at the conference venue within the Kakatiya University campus.

Kakatiya University is a very frequently visited place: The Kakatiya University campus has not been new to me, as I visited many times to attend national and international seminars and conferences for the last 30 years. In fact, I attended the 53rd session of IHC in 1993 and presented a paper, “Self-determination, secession and sedition.” Arjun Singh, the then Minister descended there by helicopter to inaugurate the session, as there was a Naxalite threat. The delegates were virtually kept in the security zone, till he came and went away after inauguration. The IHC organizers were so happy, as he announced funds of Rs  5 lakhs. As long as Dr Badru Naik was in charge of the Dr Ambedkar Study Centre, I used to come every year to present papers. After his retirement, I stopped receiving any messages from them. The last seminar attended was in 2020[4], when the seminar was cut short abruptly and the outstation delegates to leave, as the Government declared a complete “Lock down” because of Corona spread. Had I delayed one day, I might have locked up at the campus of Kakatiya University. Fortunately, I left by evening to catch a train and return to Chennai. This time, I could not attend, as I was preoccupied with other work.

28-12-2023 (Thursday): The inaugural session of the IHC was held at the KU auditorium with the office bearers and KU VC and others. As usual, the inaugural session went on with the routines. The lighting of lamp also went on with the learned historians with their shoes on. Though, I have been watching this for the last 40 years and recording in the blogs, this continues. Only one or two conscious persons remove their shoes or chappals and light the lamps. The rituals of installation of a new President etc., facilitations, releasing proceedings, books, booklets continued. Then, the best paper awards were also given. Though Ramachandra Guha was to be honoured for the “Life-time-Achievement” Award, he did not turn up. However, it was reported in the media.

Jawaharlal Nehru in Our Past, Present and Future – Aditya Mukherjee: Expressing grave concern over the growing communal politics in the country, the newly elected General President of the Indian History Congress (IHC), Prof Aditya Mukherjee stressed the need to embrace the ideology of former Prime Minister late Jawaharlal Nehru which will help ‘to explain our present and chart out a vision of the future’[5]. Delivering the General President’s address on “Jawaharlal Nehru in Our Past, Present and Future” at the 82nd Session of Indian History Congress soon after his installation at the Kakatiya University (KU) campus here on Thursday, Prof Mukherjee said[6], “It is because of what Nehru stood for that he is demonized so blatantly by the communal forces today. All kinds of lies and abuse are spread about him using the massive propaganda machinery that the communal forces command today. Nehru is blamed for all of India’s problems for the partition of the country.”

A book called 97 Major Blunders of Nehru has now been expanded to “Nehru Files: Nehru’s 127 Historic Blunders: Detailing the attempts to tarnish the image of Nehru by the RSS, he said, “A book called 97 Major Blunders of Nehru has now been expanded to “Nehru Files: Nehru’s 127 Historic Blunders”. The list keeps growing as new ‘facts’ are invented. He is even said to have a secret Muslim ancestry.” “The demonizing of Nehru and the values he stood for could only be done by distorting history and that is what communal forces have done blatantly,” Prof Mukherjee alleged. Summing up his speech, Mukherjee said “Nehru’s fantastic efforts to raise India from what Tagore called the ‘mud and filth’ left behind by the British has now been replaced with the Indian people being pushed back into that same ‘mud and filth’ of ignorance, obscurantism, dis-empowerment, unfreedom and above all communal hatred.”

S.A.N.Rezavi – reduction of historical events to mythology and the divisive forces attempting to warp historical truths: S.A.N Rezavi, the Secretary of the Indian History Congress (IHC), accentuated the organization’s commitment to safeguarding a factual comprehension of history[7]. He warned against the reduction of historical events to mythology and the divisive forces attempting to warp historical truths[8]. In his address, Rezavi hailed the IHC for its steadfast role in upholding historical understanding, even during trying times such as the Emergency period in India.

Chief Guest also repeated the same details: Guest of Honour Mridula Mukherjee and presidential speaker Aditya Mukherjee both articulated their concerns against the emergence of exclusionary nationalism. They championed the values of equity, secularism, and democracy, as enshrined in the Indian Constitution, advocating for a history that reflects these values. She flayed the incumbent government at the Centre for its attempts to misuse and distort Indian history. She stressed the need to stand up against the assault on democracy. Really, it is surprising as to why they hd chosen to attack their political opponents, instead of delving upon the issues related to Indian history. As most of their discourses appeared to have been spent only to condemn the BJP, RSS etc., it is evident that perhaps, they had set an agenda to come and delivered their speech accordingly.

What Mridula Mahajan and Aditya Mukherjee told to the media: Mridula Mahajan says, “IHC is the largest and most representative organization of Indian historians, very large number s and it always played a leading role in setting a path fooor Indian history in this country and it stands against any kind of attempt topush Indian history revivalist, sectarian, narrow directions. It always recognized scientific approach to history, broad approach to history, linking with history of other countries…”

Aditya Mukherjee says, “…it is the biggest professional historians. It started in as early as 1930s during the national movement. It is the most representative professional body.it stands up for the values of our national movement that democratic, scientific values of our national movement and as promoted history in this country in a manner across the country that we are proud that the Indian historiography is considered one of the best in this world. Today. The role of Indian History Congress in that way is very great and we are very very grateful that Kakatiya  University  is once aain holding this Indian History Congress……”

KU VC stressed for secular and scientific history: KU VC, Prof T Ramesh, who presided over the programme, has praised the IHC for its secular and scientific study of history. He reminded the audience that the KU hosted the IHC in 1993. Registrar Prof Srinivas Rao, outgoing General President of IHC Prof Kesavan Veluthat, and several other noted historians were present. The slogan, “secular and scientific study” of history has also been going on for many years, perhaps from Goa session, 1987, none could understand the so called “secular and scientific ” procedure applied in their historical research, writing and discourses.  By blaming BJP, RSS, Bajrang Dal, VHP and all other Right wing ideologists, these self-claiming secular-scientific brigades too have not changed during the last 40-50 years, as I have been carefully noting and watching.

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

31-12-2023

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[1] The Hindu, Kakatiya University to host IHC 82nd annual session from December 28-30, Hanamkonda, The Hindu Bureau, , December 27, 2023 12:45 am | Updated 12:45 am IST –

[2] https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/kakatiya-university-to-host-ihc-82nd-annual-session-from-december-28-30/article67677375.ece

[3] Delegate Fee for All (with Hotel Accommodation) Rs 5000/- on Sharing Basis,

Delegate Fee for All (with KU Hostel Accommodation) Rs 2500/- on Sharing Basis,

Delegate Fee for Research Scholars / Students (Without accommodation) Rs 2000/- .

[4] The National Seminar on Rural Society, Culture and Economy in Telangana – Historical Perspective – held at the Kakatiya University on March 14th and 15th 2020.

I presented a paper on “Quarrying, granites and politics: Internal consumption for cultural development or export for economic exploitation?”.

[5] The Hindu, Indian History Congress calls for a scientific approach to our past, Serish Nanisetti, Warangal, December 28, 2023 12:48 pm | Updated 12:48 pm IST 

[6] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/indian-history-congress-calls-for-a-scientific-approach-to-our-past/article67682642.ece

[7] BNN, 82nd Indian History Congress Commences, Emphasizing Secular and Scientific Perspective, By: Dil Bar Irshad, Published: December 28, 2023 at 5:36 am EST.

[8] https://bnnbreaking.com/world/india/82nd-indian-history-congress-commences-emphasizing-secular-and-scientific-perspective/

The National Seminar on Rural Society, Culture and Economy in Telangana – Historical Perspective – held at the Kakatiya University on March 14th and 15th 2020 [1]

The National Seminar on Rural Society, Culture and Economy in Telangana –  Historical Perspective – held at the Kakatiya University on March 14^th and 15^th 2020 [1]

From Chennai to Kajipet: On March 14^th, I had to leave Chennai for Kakatiya University to attend the National Seminar on Rural Society, Culture and Economy in Telangana –  Historical Perspective to be held on March 14^th and 15^th 2020 at the Kakatiya University, Warangal, Telangana. However, there were calls from my friends and relatives from Hyderabad and other places informing to avoid going considering the prevailing conditions of Carona virus spread. I contacted Prof K. Vijaya Babu and he informed that there was no problem at KU and Warangal. As I had already booked tickets I decided to proceed. Some of my friends, who supposed to come, backed out on one or the other personal reasons. When I reached Central, I could find that the young persons, evidently working with IT industries, were conscious of and worried about, as they have to contact with foreigners, even in day-to-day dealings and interactions at the place work. In the compartments also, they were seen covering their faces with masks of different colours, varied shapes and various sizes. Of course, I too brought consciously, the regular one. Anyway, my conscious informed me that there was no necessity to get panic.

Kazipet Railway station, KU Guest House: I reached Kajipet in time. Slowly, I came out to get an auto. I reached the Guest House of Kakatiya University by auto, it was about 5 am. None was there. I went inside, switched on lights and fan and sat down. By 5.30, I contacted Prof Vijaya Babu and he informed that one student-volunteer would come to take to a room. After some time, one student came and he took to Room no.10. I started to complete my daily routine. But, I found that there was no heater and it was taken away cutting the wires and water connection tubes. So I informed the student-volunteer that as I have nervous problem and he changed my room to 9. Evidently, he knew that heater was not there etc., but yet, he had chosen it first and then changed. I got ready and came out by 9 am.

Prof K. Vijaya Babu, convenor, 11.00 to 11.07 am: The inaugural function was held at the Senate Hall. They were waiting for the Vice-Chancellor, but, he did not come. So they decided to start the function. The seminar coordinator Prof K. Vijaya Babu explained the theme of the seminar on March 14th at the time of inauguration[1].  During the Qutub Shahi (1518-1687), the Mughal (1687-1724) and the Asaf Jahi (1724-1947) rule several administrative reforms were introduced in Telangana. The Revenue Administration was redesigned and Revenue Farming (Contract) System was introduced by the Qutb Shahi and Asaf Jahi rulers. Their Revenue Reforms resulted in the emergence of dominant Sudhra Communities like Reddies and Velamas[2] as revenue farmers. The dominant landed gentry had established their power centers in the form of ‘Ghadies’ in all the villages throughout Telangana[3]. There was a concentration of revenue, and judicial powers in the hands of these aristocratic families and they established their firm control over the people. The village officials like Patwaries and Patels used to serve the Land Lords in revenue administration, collection of taxes and maintenance of law and order in the villages. The Jagirdars as they were powerful could grab the lands by fraud from the actual cultivators. There was a concentration of land in the hands of certain caste groups like Reddy and Velama communities. These Jagirdars (Doras) also exploited the village people with an evil practice of ‘Vetti’ or forced labour[4]. These ruling families enjoyed the position and privileges as Jagirdars, Deshmukhs[5] and Deshpandias. Traditionally the artisan and service castes were bound to the landlords in terms of certain caste obligations[6]: Carpenters and Blacksmiths (Vadla / Kammari) prepared and repaired agricultural implements, the Shepherds (Gollas) used to supply sheep and goats on the festival and other ceremonial occasions; the Washer men (Chakali) worked as messengers, the Mangalis served as barbers, the Toddy tappers (Goundla) supplied toddy, the Madigas used to provide leather goods. The Malas and Madigas worked as agricultural laborers. The agricultural communities, pastoral, communities, artisans, service castes, dalits, dependent castes a the rural areas, were leading a miserable life, though they were extending their services as per their traditional occupations. These poor people without any landed properties had become either tenants at will or landless labourers. Thus, the agrarian structure of Rural Telangana was marked by extreme inequalities in ownership of land and other means of production. Change taken place[7]: It is observed that in the specific context of Telangana, the evolution of land tenure systems and agrarian relations were shaped by certain historical developments which facilitated the concentration of landed property in the hands of certain castes. Since they owned landed property they could invest their surplus income in developing commercial and industrial establishments and emerged as modern capitalist class. These families have settled in urban areas and also developed modern educational Institutions with the support of the Government to provide advanced technical education to their children. After accumulating a lot of wealth as capitalists, they entered into democratic politics and became political leaders and have been enjoying the higher positions and privileges at the state and central level. The Weaker Sections and Dalits have also joined these modern educational institutions with the support of social welfare schemes introduced by the government. These modern educated youth entered into government services as subordinate staff. Some of them emerged as intellectuals and trying to bring social change in our society during the last several decades in independent India. Fairs and Festivals[8]:  In Telangana, one can clearly witness the composite, pluralistic and inclusive culture and traditions. Be it Bathukamma, Sankranthi, Moharram, or Christmas, the region is known for secular traditions. Bathukamma is a colourful and vibrant floral festival of Telangana, celebrated by women, with flowers. The festival is the pride of Telangana’s cultural identity. Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, is celebrated with traditional fervour, devotion across Telangana. Mother goddess worship is very popular in all the villages of Telangana. Bonalu is a Hindu Festival where Goddess Mahakali is worshipped. It is celebrated in Telangana state, especially in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The Tribal people in Adilabad district celebrate Nagobha festival. Sammakka Saralamma Jatara is a world-renowned tribal festival celebrated at Medaram in Mulugu district. In Warangal Inavole, Kommala, Komaravelli Jataras are popular folk fairs. Seminar sub-themes[9]: The seminar brings to light the locally dominant castes and the kind of dominance they exercised over the Socio-Economic life of the people. The Rural society and Caste System in Telangana have to be analyzed from Political, Economic, Social and Cultural Perspectives. The Sub –Themes are : 1. The Geo- Historical aspects of Telangana. 2. Social Structure and Economic Conditions. nomadic groups, who were involved in the production process in 5. Dependent Castes and Folk Arts. 6. Tribes and their Culture. 7. Conditions of Weaker Sections, Dalits and Women. 8. Artisans and Handicrafts. 9. Fairs and Festivals. 10. Heritage Sites- Tourism Potential.   © K. V. Ramakrishna Rao 17-03-2020

[1] From the brochure sent by the organizers. He read from the brochure, as I could follow him carefully.

[2] : Tradition says that the velamas were in race of Khastriya, who ruled over the country to the north of Narmada river. As they vanquished by a mightier people Raja Pratapa Rudra of Kakatiya dynasty attracted by their physique and commanding features welcomed them to his Kingdom and conferred on them the command of 77 forts in his kingdom. They gradually became agriculturists and traders. In Telangana their main occupation is agriculture. Many of them held lands and worked as tenants. A few of the velamas were rich landlords and village officers.

[3] The social conditions of Jagirdari village are revealed round the Gadee in 19th, and first half of the 20th century. Gadee is the residue place of Dora, in which he lives with his family members, Adabapa and Dasis (slave girls) and their children and a large number of vetti workers and bhagelas This place is the centre of political, social and economical activities. What decision was taken in Gadee is implemented in Jagir village. These Gadees persisted in 19th century and first half of the 20th century.

[4] This system prevails in Telangana during 19 th century and first half of the 20th century. By the 18th century in deccan, political stabilisation was established by Asafjahs. They initiated various tenures to bring the land under cultivation. “Like most of the Deccan states, in Telangana too “bara balutadars” played an important role in colonising the region and setting up villages and developing agriculture”

[5] The deshmukhs in the process of becoming landlords with their own patta lands practically usurped the authority of the state and kept the whole country side in their possession to establish their Rajyam. They established their authority over government property. They established their supremacy over wastelands, government lands, trees, tanks, steams in the village. They imposed restriction on peasants and shepherds grazing their cattle and on labourers collecting firewood from such common resource lands.

[6] From the brochure sent by the organizers. He read from the brochure, as I could follow him carefully

[7] From the brochure sent by the organizers. He read from the brochure, as I could follow him carefully

[8] From the brochure sent by the organizers. He read from the brochure, as I could follow him carefully

[9] From the brochure sent by the organizers. He read from the brochure, as I could follow him carefully

[10] Komatis are an integral part of the peasant society. This is the name for Telugu traders, shopkeepers and money lenders mostly found in Telangana. They played crucial role in agricultural finance and benefitted immensely. It is considered to be a wealthy and prosperous caste. They were mainly found in their traditional occupation i.e. trade, commerce and money lending. Very few of them worked as cultivators and agricultural labourers.

[11] During late nineteenth century the deshmukhs in the process of becoming land lords usurped the authority of the state and kept the whole country side in their possession and established Dorala rajyam. In Nalgonda District the most notorious, dora families were Rapaka, Janna Reddy, Nukala, Rama Sahayam, Pingali and Lingala. The number of families increased in last quarter of nineteenth century through the matrimonial relations established with the doras and following the doras practices. New Doras converted these services castes as “Vetti workers”. Untouchables and low caste peoples were converted as “bhagela”s. As the landlords owned large land fields due to reforms of Salarjung and they were forced to cultivate commercial crops like castor and groundnut by the British. These circumstances forced the landlords to introduce vetti and bhagela system.

The Fifth Telangana History Congress held at Nadigudem, Suryapet, Telangana on January 19th and 20th 2020 – DACRI overtook THC! [2]

The Fifth Telangana History Congress held at Nadigudem, Suryapet, Telangana on January 19^th and 20^th 2020 – DACRI overtook THC! [2]

The contents of research should reach the public: Mandali Buddha Prasad started giving details of Nayani Venkat Rao as a Diwan, pointing out that it was just like a Sultan. He was using the expression, “Telugu jati / caste,” just like that of “Tamil inam / race” as that of the Dravidian politicians. He praised Jitendra Babu like anything and then explaining the activities of Nayani Rangarao about his contribution to Telugu promotion, attempt to collect inscriptions etc. He pointed out that the research done by the researchers are not reaching the public. The research papers should be translated into other languages so that the researched contents could reach others. Telugu people do not care for their language, unlike Tamil and Kannada people.

The concepts should be Indianized for easy understanding: On Saturday, the renovated fort / palace was inaugurated by Hampi Sri Virupaksha Vidyaranya Mahasamsthanam pontiff Sri Vidyaranya Bharathi Swami[1]. He elaborately explained how the British, through, Macaulay system, has spoiled the Indian society[2]. The educational system should be Indianized to suit Indian ethos and culture. He gave examples of how the teaching of numbers could be linked with Indian factors / concepts.

1.       God is one 2.      Two epics 3.      Trimurti 4.      Four Vedas

5.      Pancha Pandavas 6.      Shamata 7.      Sapta Rishis 8.     Asta Dik palakas

9.      Nine grahas / planets 10.  Dasavatara

The linguistic pride and love are required to protect the language speaking to survive[3]. In today’s society, people who have been seduced by Western culture are ignoring the mother tongue[4]. The country is evolving with all creatures doing good in creation[5]. People who say they are doing good to all deities are ignoring them today. As the history and culture of Telangana is narrowing, the Telangana History Congress wants to preserve and preserve them. In today’s society, people are suffering from serious illnesses and financial difficulties towards linguistic craze. It is urged to reduce such cravings. Ashtalakshmi is a constant place where the three mothers of the country, India, Gomata and Gayatriman are worshipped. Worshipping Gomata is like worshipping Goddesses. Some states in the country are trying to increase the number of toads. Brazil owns 90 per cent of the worlds. Saudi Arabia is home to some of the world’s largest spheres. Read the history .. Get the power said the same is Sriramaraksha for India. Today, education and medicine have gone to corporate level.

India – Indian Nation Declared In August is not INDIA: India is nor Bharath, as we respect Bharath as our mother, “Bharat Mata.” We have to respect three mothers[6] –

1. Bharatmata- Desa, nation
2. Gomata – the Cow
3. Gayathrimata – temples, schools etc.

These three mothers are important for Indians. The cow would not eat anything and everything, whatever is offered, first, it would smell it and if it is acceptable to it only, it would eat. Brazil has 90% breeds of famous cows. Saudi Arabia has big gosala, from where the ruling sheikhs get good cow milk they drink. Whereas, we Indians do not give importance to cow. For the medicinal value, foreign companies get patents for cow urine products.

Chennuri Ajaneya Reddy IPS pointed out that though Nizam followed Persian etc., the Sammasthanamas followed Telugu only. The Telugu script should be modified. Now, the news appearing in the dailies are taken up and mixed with the write-up of the proceedings of mine.

How the Munagala gadi has gone to DACRI: Once a fort of Raja Nayani Venkata Ranga Rao of Munagala Paragana (province), located at Nadigudi in Suryapet district, is now a research centre of the Deccan Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute (DACRI). The DACRI was set up in the fort of Rajanayani Venkata Ranga Rao in Mungala mandal, which is familiarly known as “Nedigudem gadi”, on Saturday, 18-01-2020[7]. On the request of Director of DACRI Kurtra Jithendra Babu, the sons of late Ranga Rao came forward to give the ancient and historical structure for setting up the research centre. It houses over 2.5 lakh rare books and over one lakh palm-leaf manuscripts. The fort, built in 1870, was handed over to the DACRI six months ago [July 2019] after its director, Kurra Jitendra Babu, requested Santosh Reddy, the grandson of Nayani Venkata Ranga Rao, to do so to develop it into a research centre[8]. This implies that the work had been going on since July 2019.

The Deccan Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute (DACRI) was given importance than THC: Though there was a demand from the local people to develop the structure as a historic tourism spot, the successive governments have not shown interest. With the initiative of DACRI, Nadigudem gadi was renovated at last. When Pingalai Venkaiah who was working in Nadigudem gadi, designed the flag for the Indian National Congress, which spearheaded the freedom movement. A two-day Telangana History Congress was being conducted by DACRI on its premises. Viroopaksha Vidhyaranya Peethan priest Jagdguru Vidhyaranya Bharatahi formally inaugurated the centre. Speaking on the occasion, Jithendra Babu said that their institute in Nadigudem gadi would facilitate as a reach centre for history and culture. About 2.5 lakh books would be made available in the centre. Telangana History Congress president Vaikuntam and historians were also attended the programme.

The speakers at the DACRI inauguration function: Among those who were present include Santosh Reddy, Veamana Peetham president Ch Anjaneya Reddy, Telangana History Congress president Vaikuntham, former MLC Mandali Buddha Prasad and others[9]. Speaking on the occasion, the DACRI director said it would take around 200 years to translate and print all the books that were at the research centre[10]. Meanwhile, the residents of Nadigudi expressed happiness over their village housing the research centre. The two-day meeting of the Telangana History Congress too began at the newly-inaugurated research centre on Saturday. As many as 10 books were released during the meeting. Thus, the press covered the event.

Temple architecture – Special lecture by Sivanagi Reddy[11]: After inauguration, there was a special lecture by Sivanagi Reddy, who delved upon the temple architecture, different types of temples etc. He started quoting from Swami Vivekananda, “The more you look behind, the more sakti you would get.” The architectural principles of Hindu temples in India are described in Shilpa Shastra. Shilpa Shastra mentions three main type of temple architecture – Nagara or the Northern style, the Dravida or the Southern style and the Vesara or Mixed style. The form and meanings of architectural elements in a Hindu temple are designed to function as the place where it is the link between man and the divine, to help his progress to spiritual knowledge and truth, his liberation it calls moksha. Temple architecture evolved slightly differently in a different region. Shilpa Shastras mentions three main type of temple architecture. Three main styles of temple architecture are the Nagara or the Northern style, the Dravida or the Southern style and the Vesara or Mixed style. But at the same time, there are also some regional styles.

1. Nagara (in North India) is associated with the land between the Himalayas and Vindhyas.
2. Dravida (in South India) is associated with the land between the Krishna and Kaveri rivers.
3. Vesara style as an independent style was created as a hybrid of Nagara and Dravida styles. It is associated with the land between the Vindhyas and the river Krishna

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

20-01-2020

[1] Indian Express, 150-year-old fort at Telangana’s Nadigudi springs back to life as research centre, Published: 19th January 2020 09:22 AM | Last Updated: 19th January 2020 09:22 AM

[2] Namaste Telangana, Racial [linguistic pride] existence requires history, Sun, January 19, 2020 02:00 AM

[3] http://ntnews.com/TelanganaNews-in-Telugu/telangana-history-congress-conferences-in-nadigudem-1-2-621434.html

[4] Andhrabhoomi, The source of racial instability is history, Published Sunday, 19 January 2020

[5] http://andhrabhoomi.net/content/satate-117

[6] SWAMIJI’S MESSAGE- 1. Respect parents, call them as mother and father buy not mummy and daddy. 2. Serve go-mata. 3. Serve bharatmata. 4. Serve gayatrimata i.e temples. http://hampividyaranyamutt.org/message.html

[7] TelanganaToday, Suryapet: DACRI centre set up in Nadigudem gadi, | Published: 19th Jan 2020 12:31 am.

[8] http://telanganatoday.com/suryapet-dacri-centre-set-up-in-nadigudem-gadi

[9] https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2020/jan/19/150-year-old-fort-at-telanganas-nadigudi-springs-back-to-life-as-research-centre-2091508.html

[10] Enadu-Suryapeta, History should reach common people, January.21, 2020.

https://www.eenadu.net/districts/latestnews/Suryapet/693/120009179

[11] His full paper has been printed in the Souvenir of the Telangana History Congress, th Annual Conference 2020, pp.9-23.

The Fifth Telangana History Congress held at Nadigudem, Suryapet, Telangana on January 19th and 20th 2020! [1]

The Fifth Telangana History Congress held at Nadigudem, Suryapet, Telangana on January 19^th and 20^th 2020! [1]

The Ayyappa groups have been developed manifold in Andhra-Telangana and lakhs of devotees going and coming back through Tamilnadu

From Chennai to Nadigudem: After attending IHC at Kannur and APHC at Kurnool, then, I had to go to Nadigudem to attend THC session, as I had planned, papers prepared and tickets booked. The Fourth / Fifth Telangana History Congress [తెలంగాణ చరిత్ర కాంగ్రెస్] was held at Nadigudem, Suryapeta Mandal, Telangana. As I always book tickets, make confirmation about accommodation, after sending my paper, I used to proceed to attend any conference / seminar. This time also I did the same, as usual, to attend the Telangana conference held at Nadigudem, Suryapet. However, I did not receive any response from them. I sent a letter requesting for a room and the paper by e-mail and by post. Earlier, I rang up for the Local secretary, “9490663333” dozen times, there was no response. When I reminded again by e-mail on 13-01-2020, I received a mail from Veerender Mallam, “Thank you for showing interest in THC and also presenting s paper. As mentioned by you, when you reach Munagala or before reaching please contact us so that we can arrange somebody to receive you. My phone number is 9440747957. Best, Veerender Mallam.” Actually, I have been a life member of THC and attending the previous sessions held at Warangal and Hyderabad presenting papers. As I planned, I started from Chennai to Khammam by train. Here, I had to record the experience I had in the train with the Ayyappa baktas. When the Korba express came to central, the reserved compartments were full of Ayyappa baktas in hundreds. They were virtually blocking incoming passengers entering inside. They were occupying all seats without any order. After reaching the reserved berth also, they again swarmed us in dozens sitting and laying down o the floor without leaving any space. If at all, we had to go to the bathroom, we had to rummage and lurch through them, touching their bodies. Of course, they did not mind! I could not have proper sleep. At Vijayawada only, they had disappeared! Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa!

Location of the venue, where the THC session was held

From Khammam to Godada to Munagala to Nadigudem: The train reached Khammam on 17-01-2020 by 8.00 am. Instead of Munagala, I was asked to go to Godada, as there was no bus from Khammam there to Muagala and also suggested by the organizers. So I caught a bus to reach Godada. After reaching Godada, I had to catch another bus to Munagala. Then, I had to get down at the police station stage, as there were four stages, as suggested by the organizers. When I got down there at “Police station” stage, I saw Dr Jai Kishan, whom I met earlier several times in different conferences. Last time, I met him at the “Iron in India” seminar held at the Dravidian University, Kuppam. He took me in his car going through paddy fields. At last, we reached the venue – Kalaprapurna Nayani Venkata Rangarao Bhawanam.” I recollected about the building, the deserted building complex known as “Munagala gadi, fort, palace,” and so on, as I saw two videos on the internet. It was almost a deserted building complex, known as “Munagala gadi,” as described in the video[1].

Nadigudem gada, fort, or  palace as looked before renovation

Wood has been used extensively for long life and aesthetic value with carved designs for supporting pillars, hand-rails, steps, rafter etc

The Nadigudem gadi: From the court cases[2], we can get a lot of information about the owners of the building / gadi / fort complex. Munagala Province was in longer existence than the other Samasthanams of Nizam State. It came into being as a part of the army officers who had displayed valour in the battlefield were given Estates as gifts. Munagala was one of them. The Munagala Zamindar existed as a subordinate to the Kakatiya rulers between 1262 and 1323; in 1300 it was under the rule of Cheruku Jagadadu Marayya Ganapathi. Reddy. From 1306 onwards Cheruku Jagadadu Annayya Reddy inherited the rule, according to Tadavai inscription. As per the historical evidence available, the region enjoyed provincial status during the reign of Rachakonda, Devara konda Velama Rayalu and Golkonda kings. At the time of Aurangazeb, it passed into the hands of Moghuls. The District of Kistna in which Munagala is situated forms part of the Northern Circars, which was at first under the Hindu Rajas, and then formed part of the Kingdom of Golconda which was conquered by Aurungazebe at the close of the seventeenth century.

The view from the top – the main building of the palace, horse stables can be seen. In other way, it was built in that way for observation.

From the French to the British to independence[3]: Subsequently, the Circars were included in the Subbah of the Deccan and were governed by the Nizam until the middle of the eighteenth century, when they passed for a time into the hands of the French. Then after Col. Forde’s successful operations, Lord Clive obtained a Sannad from the Imperial Court at Delhi assigning them to the East India Company. There is no reason to doubt that at the time the District or Pergunah of Munagala was in the possession of the last survivor of a very ancient Reddi family who held it as deshmuk or Chauduri under the ruling power. In 1759 AD Munagala was given to the East India Company. In 1802, East India Company adopted the method of “Permanent Settlement “ permanent “Sanad” was issued in the name of Keesara Vekata Narasimha Rao. From 1766 the proprietary right of the Zamindar of Munagala does not seem to have been questioned. From 1900 onwards, Raja Nayani venkata Ranga Rao was the ruler of the zamindari. there used to be 22 major villages including three Mukhasa Villages.There were a total of 17 hamlets for some major villages. Nayani lachamma‟s adopted son Ranga Rao was minor and the Estate passed into the Court of Wards. Venkata Ranga Rao ascended to the power in 1900 and continued ruling the Estate. The Zamindari System was abolished in 1948, thus bringing an end to Ranga Rao‟s regime. He died in 1958 and in 1959 the Province of Munagala was added to the Nalgonda District from Krishna District. Thus the History of Munagala Samsthanam crossed so many landmarks in the hands of Jamindar‟s and finally merged in Nalgonda Dist. of Andhra Pradesh. Now, it is in the Telangana State.

First floor where wooden chair can be seen.

From pre-independence date to independence and thereafter – reaching 2020: During 1925-1935, the Jamindar was reportedly occupied many fertile areas and exploited labour. He even prevented water flowing to other fields, but diverted to his lands. The issue had even gone to court. Now, it has been sprawling over 5.5 acres area with the two-storied buildings. Earlier a school was functioning in the buildings for about 10 years. Then, there was a proposal to establish a polytechnic, but, for some reasons, the idea was shelved and forgotten. Anyway, now, the heirs have leased the complex to the Deccan Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute (DACRI) and they have renovated to hold the THC in 2020.

The horse stables or prion, incidentally, one of these rooms was allotted to me without any current connection!

View of the Darbar hall / Diwan’s main building.

I went to nearby streets to observe the condition of the Nadigudem village. This is LHS of the view of the street, where the palace stands.

Going still further in the street….one depilated old house and another house, its entrance has been whitewashed recently, can be seen.

View of the same from other side

Closer view of the house recently whitewashed

the other side of the road

An old house can be seen..

The room allotted to me at Nadigudem without electricity connection: He dropped me at the venue and also showed a room, where I could stay. A cot, bed, pillow etc., were provided. He told that by evening, they would provide current connection and fan. There had been hundreds of workers working at different places within the Fort complex. Actually, it was one of the horse stables, also used to keep the prisoners inside. It had only one door and window at the top about 20 feet from the ground. I was sitting and going here and there to spend time watching them. I had gone through the nearby streets taking photographs. Still, there have been many old houses in the dilapidated conditions. With urgent and haste, they were rushing through the processing of whitewashing, painting, levelling, cleaning, pandal constructing and so on. The work continued even in the evening and there was no sign of giving electrical connection to the room allotted to me. Slowly, delegates started coming. They were so busy with other work. The organizers had also definitely avoiding the delegates. Actually, they could have informed through mail about the prevailing condition, but, they did not do.

 

The outer compound wall leading to the entrance of Raja gadi / Munagala gadi, the fort or palace of Nayani Rangarao.

The entrance of Raja gadi / Munagala gadi, the fort or palace of Nayani Rangarao, just going inside

The reception building leading to the main building. It has very big doors of 20 x 10 feet dimension!

The reception building leading to the main building. It has very big doors of 20 x 10 feet dimension! The doors can be seen partially.

The Raja / Jamindar darbar hall, house getting facelift after renovation, here, not much difference noted, except whitewashing and painting.

Work going on, part of the entrance – reception building can be seen.

The stage / podium in between the reception and main buildings has been getting final touch-ups, painting etc.

Clearing and construction of toilets on LHS

The backyard of the gadi

The backyard of the gadi – corner

The horse stables / prison, as viewed from the backside

The horse stables / prison

 

Srinivasulu, Raakrishna, Veerender and others could be seen, 17-01-2020 evening before moving out to Suryapeta.

Moving to Suyapet: Therefore, I was thinking to decide to move out. When I saw S/Sri Ramakrishna and Srinivasulu, I requested them that I would also join them, if they wanted to move out. After some time, they came to me to inform that we would go to Suryapet and take a room. So somehow, we reached the main road / national high way to catch a bus to reach Suryapet. There was demand in getting a room, as local elections were held the next day i.e, 19-01-2020. Somehow, we got a room at the Tirumala Grant and settled down. Then, only, I could sleep to some extent, because of the last night disturbances on the train.

The first-day proceedings at Nadigudem on 19^th Jan.2020: Got up by morning, got ready and started going to Barkargudem by bus. Actually, as I was not familiar with the names etc., I just had gone with Srinivasulu. We got down there at Barkatgudem junction. Fortunately, a car was returning from the main road and we could get dropped at the venue. Took breakfast and sat at the pandal. We got registered ourselves paying the delegate fees of s 500/- per head. Inside the bag, one souvenir, booklet of papers of the sectional presidents, pen and badge were there. The list of papers was missing. First, there was the inaugural function of the Deccan Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute (DACRI).

Registration done here…

The function was to start by 10 am, but, it started at 11.15 am. There was a lengthy list of VIPs,

SSS Jagadguru Vidyaranya Bharathi Swamili, Virupaksha Vidranya Mahasamasthanam, Hampi,

Sri Mandali Buddha Prasad, Former Dy speaker, Govt of AP,

Sri Chennuri Anjaneya Reddy[4] IPS, former Chairman, APTDC, Govt.of AP,

1. Rajendra Prasad, General President
2. P. Rao, sectional president – Ancient section
3. Rekha Pande, Medieval section
4. Deepak kumar, Modern section
5. Jitendra Babu, Local history

Swamiji lit the lamp by striking a match to matchbox – after many years. I saw this, as usual, a candle is used to lit lamp. In fact, when Swamiji asked for a matchbox, they could not provide and then, a person came running towards him with a matchbox. Sivanagi Freddy was compeering with his highly wordy Telugu flow of words. Others followed to complete the wicks of the lamp as usual.

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

20-01-2020

 

[1] V6 News Telugu, “Munagala Gadi”, http://youtube.com/watch?v=QlAnW5MUqgY

[2] Madras High Court, Raja Keesara Venkatappayya Alias … vs Raja Nayani Venkataranga Rao And … on 1 May, 1919, Equivalent citations: (1920) 38 MLJ 149, Author: Wallis, JUDGMENT Wallis, C.J. http://indiankanoon.org/doc/1199541/

[3] P. Lingaiah, The History of Munagala Samasthanam, International Journal of multidisciplinary Empirical Research, Vol.VI, Issue 1 (1), January, 2013, pp.134-141.

[4] He resigned, as he was not given the DGP posting before retirement.

The Fourth session of Telangana History Congress held at the Kakatiya University on January 27th and 28th 2019 [3]

The Fourth session of Telangana History Congress held at the Kakatiya University on January 27^th and 28^th 2019 [3]

11.47 to 12.02 – A. Shyamala: She presented a paper on the rights of women drawing attention to the UN declaration made on women in 1945, 1975 (Mexico), 1980 (Coenhagen), 1985, (Nairobi), 1995 (Beijing) etc., at different places, where conferences were held. The Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action, adopted unanimously by 189 countries, is an agenda for women’s empowerment and considered the key global policy document on gender equality. It sets strategic objectives and actions for the advancement of women and the achievement of gender equality in 12 critical areas of concern: Women and poverty, Education and training of women, Women and health, Violence against women, Women and armed conflict, Women and the economy, Women in power and decision-making, Institutional mechanism for the advancement of women, Human rights of women, Women and the media, Women and the environment and the girl-child[1]. However, she did not bother about the recent Supreme Court judgment that have bearing on Indian women – consent to sex, living with other, living together relationship, hereditary rights after conversion, etc., as I pointed out.

28-01-2019 .Post lunch session – paper presentation.

12.03 to 12.23 am – Subash: He stressed that the folk paintings had narratives hidden behind. Jitendra Babu added points to his paper.

12.30 to am – Kanakaratnam: He presented a paper on Kakatiyas.

12.25 to 1.05 pm – D. Suryakumar: He claimed that there were factories manufacturing huge stones used for inscriptions. He belies that whatever mentioned in the inscriptions were true and facts. He also explained as to how the inscriptions were made. First, the content of the script was written by the Brahmins on paper, then, it was read and accepted; the inscriber started  cutting on the stone under supervision; the name of the inscriber / cutter was mentioned below the inscription or at the corner.

1.05 to 1.15 pm – On medical tourism, one paper was resented.

28-01-2019 audience

28-01-2019 audience.second day

After lunch, the paper reading session started.

28-01-2019 .Lunch.

28-01-2019 Lunch

28-01-2019 .coins displayed

2.28 to 2.40 pm: …………………..Presented a paper on Sculptural art of Kakatiyas As Kakatiyas were Saivites, they built temples to Siva mainly. Here, in this paper, he studied manly about “Nandis” in the temples built by the Kakatiyas.

2.41 to  2.50 pm : ……………..presented a paper on “Lambadi”…

There were papers presented by the B.A. M.A, M.Phil and other students for the first time also. Some papers were presented in Telugu. They were encouraged  by the audience and others.

Valedictory function invitation with the details of speakers etc 28-02-2019

28-01-2019 . Valedictory function

hakkalapalli Purushothama Rao was chief Guest, former Minister speaks

Valedictory function – 4. 00 pm: The function started by 4.30 pm, when one “Swamiji” like person the hall entered with others. Later, he was know to be an ex-minister of AP. K. Purushotham, Registrar lamented that students do not want to study history, he asked why? Now they read maths, science, engineering and other subjects, but, not history, why? Perhaps, history is not properly taught in colleges. The worry of history teaches, professors etc., are visible. Every subject has history, but, history student, lecturer, professor or historian cannot write history of other subjects, as they do not know and understand the nuances of other subjects.

Vireendar, General Secretary of THC: He thanked Vijaya Babu for hosting the fourth session of THC at the Warangal University premises by history department. He appraised the proceedings – 190 registered, more than 100 attended memorial lecture; 37 papers presented and 9 not presented, because of lack of time and they would be treated as presented. THC would publish the proceedings and he requested the sectional president to edit the papers presented. The General Body meeting and EC meeting could not be conducted, as the quorum was not there. Within few days, the proceedings would be set right as per the bye-laws. It is a fact that the history is neglected in schools and colleges and most of the students do not like to read, study history. The position should change.

Opinion of the Participants: Then, P. Hymavathy, Surya Kumar, Kanakaratnam, K. Srinivasulu and Babu Rao Naik gave their opinion about the proceedings of the THC session. Surya Kumar openly told that te Guest house isnot maintained properly in many aspects. In fact, he could not take  bath, as the geyser was not working and the he managed with his friend’s room . Kanakaratnam opined that workshops should be conducted to know more about history, historiography, epigraphy and related subjects, so that all could come, attend and understand the subject matter. Babu Rao Naik spoke in his own way, just like a politicians getting applause from the audience . B. Srinivas was thanked for sponsoring to provide bags by donating Rs. 25,000/-

Opinion of Dr Dayakar and other delegates appeared in local daily

Thakkalapalli Purushothama Rao was chief Guest, former Minister[2]: He spoke philosophically citing examples from the Sanskrit literature. He wanted to explain with four examples of characters from the literature. He explained about Satyakama Jabali[3] and Astavakra[4]. Because of his digressive narratives, he forgotten the other two examples. Perhaps, he tried to emphacize the importance of lineage, dynasty, roots, sources, for history and historiography through Jabali paradigm. Through, Astavakra, perhaps, he tried to stress that history should not be distorted and the sources, particularly, Indian literary sources might appear as “astavakra – a form bent awkwardly in eight ways,” the truth has to be brought out by analyzing critically with the available evidences.

Sudharshan Rao, chief guest: Taking clue from his yesterday’s memorial lecture, he started speaking in Telugu, he told that he would have delivered his lecture in Telugu, had he been informed so. He wished that THC should grow in coming years. He recalled as to how even the APHC suffered in the 7^th year of its starting, when 200 came from outside. Therefore, the 2^nd or 4^th session of THC should gather strength to grow. He proposed that a “Telangana Council for Historical Research” should be formed on the lines of ICHR. The TCHR would foster the interest of Telangana. He wished that the 5^th session of THC would be conducted with more vigor and strength.

After the facilitation of the VIPs, the following resolutions were passed:

1. History subject should be introduced in all schools and colleges.
2. “Indian culture” should be in the syllabus of all academic curriculum in all educational institutions.
3. “Telangana Council for Historical Research” should be constituted immediately to proceed further.
4. Even in 10^th and +12 level, history should be included.

6.55 to 7.00 pm – Vijaya Babu: Vijaya Babu vote of thanks to all participated, took part and helped in all ways. The next THC may be held in Khammam / Nizamabad. All started moving away. I felt that I was alone. I requested one known friend to drop me at the Guest house, so that I could collect my luggage and proceed to station by auto. One volunteer dropped me at the guest house and he contacted Dr Rajakumar and then informed that he would come and drop me at the station. As the time was already 8.00 pm, I was little bit worried.  Around 8.30 pm, he came and dropped meat the station. Of course, the train came late by half-an-hour.

How and where does the Telangana history go?: Some of the remarks made by the VIP speakers have been intriguing.

1. Kurra Jitendra Babu asserted that, “The papers presented so far has been useless…” Can he simply decide in this way? Had he any doubt, he could have questioned every paper presenter and expose theso-called “useless” nature of such papers!
2. Sudharshan Rao, “With the recent division of the state into Telangana and Andhra Pradesh sharing Telugu population, perhaps, the entry of third genre of ‘invented history’ as rampant in the West may have to wait in our regional sphere.” The Telangana history writers should take note of it, as how their historiography has to be combatable with the counterpart of Andhra Pradesh.
3. Of course, two worried about the status of history subject in the schools and colleges. Here, unless, awareness is created and the subject is updated to suit the current job-market, definitely, there would not be any improvement in the status.

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

02-03-2019

[1] http://www.unwomen.org/en/how-we-work/intergovernmental-support/world-conferences-on-women

[2] Thakkalapalli Purushothama Rao is an Indian politician. He was the cabinet minister for Roads, Buildings and Ports, Government of Andhra Pradesh from 1993 to 1994. Presently he is the Chairman for High Power Committee on Remote Interior Area Development. Rao was instrumental in persuading Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy to have peace talks with maoists and was the government representative during the peace talks. The AICC has made him the chairman of Gandhipatham of APCC to propagate the ideals of Gandhiji, in intellectual circles he is called Gandhian Marxist. The Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University honored Rao with Doctorate in 2008 for his service to the society.

[3] Satyakama Jabala is a boy, and later a Vedic sage, who first appears in Chapter IV of the ancient Hindu text, the Chandogya Upanishad. As a boy, he enquires about his father from his mother. His mother Jabala, tells him that she went about many places in her youth, and did not know who his father was. Satyakama graduates and becomes a celebrated sage, according to the Hindu tradition, and a Vedic school is named after him, as is the influential ancient text Jabala Upanishad – a treatise on Sannyasa (Hindu monk, monastic life).[5] Upakosala Kamalayana was a student of Satyakama Jabala, whose story is also presented in the Chandogya Upanishad.

[4] Ashtavakra (Sanskrit: अष्टावक्रः, IAST Aṣṭāvakra) is a revered Vedic sage in Hinduism. His name literally means “eight bends”, reflecting the eight physical handicaps he was born with. His maternal grandfather was the Vedic sage Aruni, his parents were both Vedic students at Aruni’s school. Ashtavakra studied, became a sage and a celebrated character of the Hindu History(Itihas) Epics and Puranas. Ashtavakra is the author of the text Aṣṭāvakra Gītā, also known as Aṣṭāvakra Saṃhitā, in Hindu traditions. The text is a treatise on Brahman, Atman and monism (Advaita).

The Fourth session of Telangana History Congress held at the Kakatiya University on January 27th and 28th 2019 [2]

The Fourth session of Telangana History Congress held at the Kakatiya University on January 27^th and 28^th 2019 [2]

1. S. S. Seshan’s paper continues………………………………………………..

Judicial Enquiry Commission: The Resident, instituted a Commission of Enquiry consisting of 6 members; three were nominated by the Resident and the other three were the nominees of the Nizam’s administration. The Commission finally found that Mubarez was engaged in a conspiracy with the Nawab of Kurnool and several others with a view to overthrow the Nizam and declare himself as the ruler and also to bring an insurrection against the British.

Network of spies[1]: The Enquiry Commission became central in unearthing the contemplated insurrection of the Nawab of Kurnool. There was a letter written by Mubarez to the Nawab of Kurnool that was intercepted by the British agents. Mubarez in that letter had spelled out his plans for the final assault on the British requesting the Nawab to dispatch the needed arms for such an attack. If only that letter has reached the Nawab, and had he acted, the Enquiry Commission felt, “the results would have been very disastrous”. The letter was concealed in an amulet and was to be delivered to the Nawab of Kurnool. But on the way to Kurnool, fearing the capture by the British, Muhammad Khan the spy, tied the amulet to the hand of an old beggar woman living in a sarai, where he himself took shelter in the guise of a traveller. The amulet was recovered by the guards while combing the area and thus the entire conspiracy came to light. The letter thus brought to light the role of the Nawab of Kurnool, in the conspiracy against the English. The British at Madras, immediately sent a large military contingent to deal with Kurnool. The Nawab’s armies were defeated in October, 1839 and the Nawab was deported to Tiruchirapalle (formerly Trichinopoly in English), where he was imprisoned and Kurnool was taken over by the Company administration. Rasool Khan was murdered by one of his own servants in the prison. The Enquiry Commission also felt that Mubarez, apart from being a hand in glove with the Nawab of Kurnool, also tried to spread sedition among the Muslim sepoys stationed in Secunderabad. As a result, Mubarez had to spend the rest of his life as a prisoner in the Golconda fort till he died on June 25, 1854[2].

27-09-2019- after lunch session – Dr Raja Reddy

Raja Reddy on the richest Nizam of the world: Osman Ali Khan, Mukarram Jahs grandfather, was crowned the eighth Nizam of Hyderabad to become the richest ruler in the world with an inheritance worth US $2 billion, lost a wife to AIDS and turned his incredible fortune to dust in the Australian outback, all in the course of 30 years.

 

Now a balding 72-year-old Mukarram Jah, leads a secret life, with very few people in his own neighbourhood in Turkey aware of his existence or his whereabouts. Mukarram Jah was anointed the Nizam of Hyderabad and Berar, the richest and most powerful state in the sub-continent. It is said that Mukarram could trace his lineage back 34 generations on his fathers side to the First Caliph of Islam, Abu Bakr. According to Zubrzycki, Mukarram Jahs grandfather Osman Ali Khan, was once described as being richer than all the Fords, Rockefellers and Morgans put together. Ironically, says Zubrzycki, Jah was short of cash. There were very few rupees in the kitty to pay maintenance for the 14,792 relatives, harems with 42 ageing concubines, hundreds of illegitimate children, and 14,000 staff consisting of retainers, guards, cooks and other employees his grandfather had been caring for.

Helen Simmons asked Mukarram for a divorce but was soon diagnosed as being HIV-positive, like her homosexual friends. She died of AIDS in 1989, the first Australian woman to do so, at the age of 41, but Mukarram was cleared of the virus after tests in Switzerland. Nizam used to send convicts to Andaman and Nicobar islands and the British collected transport and maintenance charges from him. For more details on the Nizam with photographs etc., read here[3].

5.00 to 7.00 pm – Y. Sudharshan Rao: He delivered the Prof Mukkamala Radhakrishna Sarma Memorial lecture. He was talking with philosophical sting and much abstract issues, the students obviously did not like. Based on Benard Lewis book, he started interpreting as to how, “history – is remembered, recovered and invented” in the context of Telangana. He concluded[4], “Again, there was a great spurt in writing history of Telugu people when the linguistic states were formed. Regional histories and local histories are pursued with cultural, social and political themes. While mainstream Indian historiography has changed its perspective from national to Marxist, the regional histories continued to be biographic, sectional and local. With the recent division of the state into Telangana and Andhra Pradesh sharing Telugu population, perhaps, the entry of third genre of ‘invented history’ as rampant in the West may have to wait in our regional sphere”.

27-09-2019- Memorial lecture.VIPs stand together

In fact, they were busy with their cellphones, but he continued for two hours. As I used to listen to many-many such memorial lectures, I find that this has become a ritual as the speaker goes on talks or reads from his paper without caring for others. And  mostly, the listeners were forced to sit and listen to him, of course, 50% of them would be sleeping also. Later, he himself expressed that his speech was taken by the students differently!

7.00 to 8.30 pm – Cultural programme: The troupe depicted in an emotional way, “The origin of Telangana state,” projecting K. Chandrasekhara Rao since his early days, as to how he spearheaded the movement. However, too much “separatist” ideology injected in their narrative made others uncomfortable. Particularly, those who come from other states might not find any difference between the Telugu speaking people of  both states.

The second day 28-01-2019 proceedings – 10.00 to 10.42 am: Jaikishan gave a lengthy presentation on iron, steel, paper etc of Telangana. He claimed that he was the only archaeo-metallurgist doing research in industrial archaeology etc. First he was telling about the iron and steel manufactured in India that were famous in the medieval period. He was telling the story of “Damascus sword,” how it roused the interests of the Europeans to test for anti-rustic properties etc. He pointed out based on Pliny as to how Romans decided not to buy Indian steel and so on. He was mentioning about “kotla” paper manufactured in the villages of Telangana that was used by the Moghuls and also nexported to London. Most the paper manufacturers had been Muslims. The ingredients for paper manufacture were soaked and kept for 24-30 hours and then used for rolling. When I pointed out that he did not mention that Indian steel as “Wootz” and also about Dr S. Kalyanaraman who has done exhaustive research in these areas, he tried to manage and told that he knew him and he has all the books of him. Meanwhile, somebody intervened and said that he had been an expert in the field and he could talk hours together on the subject!

10.53 to 11.08 am – Kurra Jitendra Babu: He asserted that, “The papers presented so far has been useless…” Yesterday, one expert talked more than one-and-half hours and when the students were asked  what they has understood, they replied “nothing…..,” and some commented that, “…….they could have gone for a movie………………” Then, he tried show that Indians knew everything before westerners. Neils Bohr and others were indebted to Acharya Nagarjuna, Einestein dedicated his work to Thikkanna for his E = mc², and so on. He went on to assert[5], that “Sanskrit itself is a refinement of different types of Prakrit used by the different people of India…The very fact that there are no Sanskrit manuscripts found in Kalinga kingdom (modern day Odisha) is evidence enough to say that Sanskrit is not the linguistic ancestor of Telugu…… No research is being done to prove or disprove these new theories,……..unless the material is available to scholars of both the States there will be no more research”. Itappears that he has been voicing in this way at other places also[6]. The Telangana dancers have been depicted in the gopuram of Big temple Tanjore. Giriraja kavi’s grand son of Tyagaraja went to Thanjavur and thus, they were also influenced by the people of Telangana[7].  And thus, he tried to glorify Telanga for origin of everything. While Pali was the linguistic ancestor of Telugu spoken in Andhra region, a form of Prakrit was the linguistic ancestor of Telugu spoken in Telangana, he said.

I thank my friend Sudhakar Kundur for providing the following four photographs of my presentation

KVR presenting paper – locating Telangana- on “Kunjarakunjadesa of South India and its connection with the South East Asian Civilization”

 

11.00 to 11.30 am – K. V. Ramakrishna Rao: I resented my paper on “Kunjarakunjadesa of South India and its connection with the South East Asian Civilization,” and located it at the border of Andhra and Kalinga with the following conclusion:

1. The Changgal inscription proves the close, well-connected maritime trade contacts of the importers-exporters one side and the warriors, religious groups on the other side.
2. The language used, grantha script applied and the grammar-syntax exploited prove that the migration of such knowledge transfer must have taken place at least 50-100 years to attain such status far away from India. However, such transfer must have taken place natural, peaceful and acceptable to the local people.
3. Kunjarakunjadesa expression has been used associating with elephants, elephant like wrestlers and great architects. As the elephants have been used significantly connected with forest-wooden industry, building temples and other secular structures, such elephant connected experts were adorned with titles of Kunjaramallar, Kunjaramallan, Kunjaramalla Peruntacchan and so on.
4. Elephant (Kunjaram) and dwarf (Kunjaran) have been associated with Siva, as here, Agastya was associated with the building of temples on the hill and creator of Lingam, acting as Dhaksha, Architect, Brahma, or Viswakarma.
5. Cholas engaged elephant army, as they required for battles and as well as for infrastructure development.
6. The Andhra-Kalinga area had been centrally located on the Coromandel Coast between the Sri Lanka and numerous islands and Bengal and beyond, the Cholas wanted to control and exploit the area strategically. The erection of victory pillar on the Mahendragiri hill can also be noted in the context.
7. The Cholas knew evidently, the Sailendras’ connection with Sumatra / Java / Kedah and also with the Palas and the Chinese, and hence had cardial relationship initially, through the Buddhists (Vihara constructed at Nagappattinam).
8. As during the first centuries, the Palavas had been so active in those areas, they had all sorts of experts migrated already there and settled down. Here, Kalinga-Andhra coastal areas played a crucial role.
9. The Satavahanas and the Pallavas were dominating the coastal areas and as well as maritime areas till the first centuries ton 7^th-8^thcenturies and the Cholas thereafter till 13^th century.
10. Thus, the study of Kunjarakunjadesa, clarifies the cultural, commercial, religious and maritime contacts of the Coromandel Coast with that of SEA countries during the first centuries to the medieval period.

KVR responding to querries

There were querries and I answered.

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

02-03-2019

My PPT presentation

I thank my friend Sudhakar Kundur for providing the above four photographs of my presentation

[1] K S S Seshan Mubarez-ud-Daulah’s era: Of passion, rebellion and conspiracy, in The Hindu, Hyderabad, JUNE 10, 2017 15:32 IST; UPDATED: JUNE 10, 2017 15:32 IST.

[2] https://www.thehindu.com/society/history-and-culture/mubarez-ud-daulahs-era-of-passion-rebellion-and-conspiracy/article18955189.ece

[3] His Exalted Highness Prince Mukarram Jah Bahadur, 8th Nizam of Hyderabad- Interviews and feature stories from American, Australian, British and Indian newspapers and magazines, http://cvxmelody.50webs.com/

[4] Based on the paper circulated to the delegates of THC on 27-01-2019 evening in the hall.

[5] The Hindu, Call for common Telugu research centre, by G. Venkataramana Rao Vijayawada:, AUGUST 19, 2014 00:21 IST; UPDATED: MAY 08, 2017 12:00 IST

[6] https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Vijayawada/call-for-common-telugu-research-centre/article11205607.ece

[7] Giriraja was born in Kakarla village, Cumbum taluk in Prakasham district (AP) has produced many of the important cultural figures of South India. Among the greatest of those was Tyagaraja, whose mother was a daughter of Giriraja Kavi. Giriraja Kavi played a major role in influencing the formative years of his celebrated grandson Tyagaraja. He was instrumental in securing a place at court for his grandson, a position that Tyagaraja soon abjured. It is to Tyagaraja’s credit that Giriraja Kavi’s musical work, created during an era that was dominated by the trinity of Carnatic music, has secured him a lasting place of honour among the greats of Carnatic music.

The Fourth session of Telangana History Congress held at the Kakatiya University on January 27th and 28th 2019 [1]

The Fourth session of Telangana History Congress held at the Kakatiya University on January 27^th and 28^th 2019 [1]

Humanities building, where History department is situated.

Registration done by Manohar and friends

Note: As I was attending seminars continuously in January (APHC at Rajamahendravaram Jan.5^th and 6^th) and February (SIHC at Hyderabad 8^th to 10^th, Chronology at Bangalore on 18^th and 19^th and Iron technology at Kuppam on 25^th and 27^th), this (preparing and posting of the proceedings) was delayed. Moreover, my laptop stopped working and I had to keep my work pending. It took two weeks to recover data from the old laptop to transfer to new and start preparing.

Reaching Kakatiya University campus: The Telangana History Congress was held at the premises of Kakatiya University, Warangal under the auspices of the Department of History and Tourism Management on January 27^th and 28^th, 2019. As I have been coming here for several times, it has been very familiar to me. Earlier Dr Badru Naik used to invite me for the seminars conducted by the Dr. Ambedkar Study Centre there.[1] Dr Rajakumar[2], Assistant Professor received me at the Kajipet station and took me to the University guest house, where I was accommodated. After registration, I moved to the Senate Hall by 10.10 am, where inauguration was to be held. Arrangements were going on. T. Manohar and his colleagues were at the registration counter. The break fast, lunch and dinner were arranged at the backside of Humanities building by setting up a samiana. Dr Dayakar[3] sat there personally and took care of food.

Invitation for the inaugural function with the details of the speakers etc 27-01-2019

Getting ready for inauguration and the function: By 11.10 am only the VC, Prof V. Sayanna, K. Purushotham, registrar, and others came to the hall.

By 11.20, the lamp was lit and the inauguration started. As usual, the VIPs on the stage were with shoes while lighting the lamp with candle. Incidentally, the volunteer who was looking at the lighting was without chappals or shoes! Arjun Rao Kuthadi, Kanakaratnam, Sudharshan Rao and others were sitting in the front row. Arjun Rao, who hosted the last session disappeared after the session, as I could not talk with him.

11.25 to 11.29 am:  G. Venkat Rajam briefed about the history of “Telangana History Congress,” (Regd. No. 959 / 2008) as the first session was held in the Osmania University in 2008 and then the second in 2009 and then it was discontinued due to the Telangana agitation[4].As no session was conducted since 2009, after nine years, it was revived. When APHC has been conducted regularly, it is not known what is the problem with THC. He also briefed about the “history of Telangana” starting from Satavahana period.

11.30 to 11.44 am: Kishan Rao[5] spoke. This time, the sectional president addresses are printed in a single booklet and it is a good idea, as for the first time, I note that it is circulated so.

27-09-2019- Inauguration – VIPs on stage.lighting lamp.

THC souvenir released – Courtesy – Dr Vijaya Babu

THC – Andhra Jyoti cutting-inauguration – Courtesy – Dr Vijaya Babu

Enadu cutting-inauguration.lamp

11.45 to 11.54 am: Raja Reddy: He briefed his paper[6], “Satavahana chronology and the rule of Rastrakutas and Paramars in Telangana.” He concluded that, “the study of ancient coins found in Telangana would contribute greatly for the reconstruction of Telangana. There is a need to complete the entire history of Telangana which starts with Asmaka Janapada from early historic period based on real sources such as coins and inscriptions in addition to the literary works”. However, most of the papers delved upon Qutub Shahi and Nizam periods.

11.55 to 12.10 am : T. Tirupati Rao: He has been the former VC of the Osmania University. The Chief guest lamented about the history subject loosing importance from the academic curriculum in recent days. Many people started telling that, “There need not be history,” some give importance only to modern period.  This is also not correct, as all periods and areas should be given importance, instead of giving importance to one particular…………….

12.10 to 12.20 Hrs: N. S. Ramachandra Murthy[7]: read his paper, “Inscriptions of Telangana – A Study,” giving many inscriptional references meticulously, starting with Mauryan period and covering Western Chalukyas of Badami, Western Chalukyas of Kalyani, and Kakatiyas. The way he spoke on the details of inscriptions prove his expertise on the subject.

12.25 Hrs: Souvenir, proceedings and books on art and architecture of temples, Qutub Shahi and Nizam  rulers were released.

 12.30 Hrs: The VIPs were facilitated as usual with mementos etc.

1.00 to 1.20 pm: Lunch break.

27-09-2019- Lunch

27-09-2019- Lunch

Technical / paper reading session held in one hall: After lunch, the technical session started. As only about 40 papers received, they decided to hold the technical session in the same hall, so that all could listen and interact with all paper presenters. All the four sectional presidents sat together and the papers were presented in cyclic order, one from each section. As pointed out the papers of sectional presidents were given in a single booklet.

1.25 to 2.00 pm – P. Hymavathy[8]: She started reading from the printed booklet “Studies in Kakatiya History Avenues and Sources” reproducing what had already been printed, but, switched over to Telugu to attract the students. She took 45 minutes in such an exercise. She concluded, “since we believe that history is a store-house of all knowledge, we can take up research on any aspect which the contemporary society demands out of its need or query. Equally the regional histories serve as potent sources to arouse cultural consciousness, strengthening self-respect, self-confidence, and patriotism due to the inherent element of cultural proximity. If one is seriously enthusiastic in research, the scope is wider and sources are abundant for the study of the history and culture of Kakatiyas.”

2.00 to 2.30 pm – K. S. S. Seshan[9]:   He read his paper on “Rebel prince Mubarez-ud Daulah and the Wahabi conspiracy: 1839.” Most of the struff that appearing in the booklet also appeared in “The Hindu” dated June 17, 2017[10]. The Wahabi Conspiracy of prince Mubarez-ud-Daulah is a forgotten chapter in Hyderabad history[11]. While the attack of Turrebaz Khan on the British Residency in Hyderabad during the 1857 Revolt is well documented in the pages of Hyderabad’s history, a similar bold revolt planned to overthrow the British by Prince Mubarez-ud-Daulah, the younger brother of the Nizam, though foiled in the last moment, is hardly remembered. The Wahabi conspiracy in Hyderabad was a serious secret movement aimed against the English around 1838. Prince Mubarez-ud-Daulah had the support of Rasool Khan, the Nawab of Kurnool, who like Mubarez also hated the presence of the British. But as ill-luck would have it, before they could strike, the British were able to unearth the conspiracy through their intelligence agencies and the entire plans, went awry. Mubarez was imprisoned till death and Rasool Khan was captured, exiled and his territory, confiscated. However, the well-planned attempt they made served as an inspiration at a time when the very idea to oppose the British authority was in a nascent stage in these parts of the country. Wahabi Movement was a 17th century reform movement that began in Persia with a view to see the basic tenets of Islam were followed strictly and with sincerity. The movement was started by one Wahab in the 18th century and therefore it was named after him. Wahabi movement was popularised in India by the Islamic religious leader, Shahwaliullah. Wahabis opposed the British presence in India and their slogan was: “Jan ko denge- vathan ko bachayenge” (Let us sacrifice our lives; but safeguard our motherland”).

Role of Mubarez-ud-Doulah: Mubarez–ud–Doulah, the Hyderabadi prince was one of the first in south India to come under the influence of the Wahabi movement. Mubarez, born in 1800, was the second son of Sikander Jah, the Nizam of Hyderabad (1803-1829). As Mubarez had greater access to wealth and also had a private army of more than a lakh, he could devote all his time and resources for the Wahabi movement in Deccan. From his childhood, Mubarez disliked the presence of the British in Hyderabad. As a result he was imprisoned for nearly five years from 1815 by his father, Sikander Jah at the behest of the British. Mubarez was incarcerated once again, this time during the period of his brother, Nasir-ud-Doulah (1829-57). In 1830, Mubarez collected a large army of Arabs and Afghans and started an insurrection against the British. Then a contingent of British troops under Col. Stewart marched against Mubarez and arrested him. The prince was sent to the fort of Golconda and imprisoned for several months in 1830. The hatred of Mubarez-ud-Daulah towards the British, even as an young boy was such that once his father Sikandar Jah wanted a British sentry to be posted as a guard at his palace. But the young Prince replied that he would prefer to die rather than to see a British guard at his palace gate.

Alliance with Nawab of Kurnool: Rasool Khan the Nawab of Kurnool too was attracted towards the Wahabi movement. When Mubarez came to know of Rasool Khan’s opposition to the British, he sent his men to strike a secret alliance with the Nawab of Kurnool. Rasool Khan agreed to establish a secret arsenal to manufacture arms and ammunition that was needed for any concerted insurrection which they contemplated. Mubarez, on his part assured monetary help for the manufacture of such arms. Rasool Khan, being of the same age as Mubariz was drawn close to the Hyderabad Prince as both hated the presence of the British power. The activities of the Wahabis greatly increased by 1838 when it was widely believed that the Russian troops were advancing from Central Asia towards India. It was the plan of the Wahabis that Mubarez will take command of the combined armies at Kurnool and overthrow the British through insurrection. Wahabis also believed that the Shah of Persia would appoint Mubarez-ud-Doulah as the Subedar of the Deccan after driving away the British and deposing the Nizam, Nasir-ud-Doulah. Gen. Fraser, the then British Resident at Hyderabad, as soon as he came to know of the suspected involvement of Mubarez–ud-Doulah, ordered a strict watch on him. Mubarez started sending his emissaries to several places like Lahore, Sindh, Gwalior, Bombay, Kurnool, Madras, Sholapur etc. Fraser spoke to the Nizam, Nasir-ud-Doulah and convinced him of the conspiracy being attempted by his brother against both the British as well as the government of the Nizam. Mubarez-ud-Doulah was taken into custody and put under guard in the fort of Golconda. All his close associates who were involved in the spread of Wahabi movement, numbering 46 were captured and imprisoned.

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

02-03-2019

Andhra Jyoti cutting – Opinion of G. Venkat Rajam, V. Sadanandam, K.V.Ramakrishna Rao, and N. Kanakaratnam – Courtesy – Dr Vijaya Babu

Andhra Jyoti cutting-inauguration – Courtesy – Dr Vijaya Babu

News cutting – opinion of the participants – Courtesy – Dr Vijaya Babu

THC coverage – Jathra – – Courtesy – Dr Vijaya Babu

[1] I had good opportunity to interact with many Ambedkarites and activists to interact with them and exchange of ideas and details. After the seminars, Badru Naik brought out the proceedings in the form of book also.

[2] He has been so kind enough to help me to bring to Guesthouse and also drop me on 28^th evening at the Kajipet railway station. Incidentally, I met his relatives on that day and two of them have been practicing law.

[3] Dr Dayakar hosted many conferences and seminars – APHC, SIHC etc., at Warangal.

[4] https://kvramakrishnarao.wordpress.com/2018/06/30/the-proceedings-of-the-first-or-third-annual-session-of-telangana-history-congress-held-at-osmania-university-on-june-25th-and-26th-2018-1/

[5] He has been the grandson of P. V. Narasimha Rao.

[6] Dept.of History& Tourism,  Addresses delivered in the Inaugural session, Warangal, 2019, pp.3-14.

[7] N. S. Ramachandra Murthy, Inscriptions of Telangana – A Study, Dept.of History& Tourism, in   Addresses delivered in the Inaugural session, Warangal, 2019, pp.15-38.

[8]  P. Hymavathy, Studies in Kakatiya History Avenues and Sources, Dept.of History& Tourism, in   Addresses delivered in the Inaugural session, Warangal, 2019, pp.39-54.

[9]  K. S. S. Seshan, Rebel prince Mubarez-ud Daulah and the Wahabi conspiracy: 1839, Dept.of History& Tourism, in   Addresses delivered in the Inaugural session, Warangal, 2019, pp.59-80.

[10] K S S Seshan Mubarez-ud-Daulah’s era: Of passion, rebellion and conspiracy, in The Hindu, Hyderabad, JUNE 10, 2017 15:32 IST; UPDATED: JUNE 10, 2017 15:32 IST

[11] https://www.thehindu.com/society/history-and-culture/mubarez-ud-daulahs-era-of-passion-rebellion-and-conspiracy/article18955189.ece

The Proceedings of the First or Third Annual session of Telangana History Congress held at Osmania University on June 25th and 26th 2018 [2]

The Proceedings of the First or Third Annual session of Telangana History Congress held at Osmania University on June 25^th and 26^th 2018 [2]

The significance of the two-mast ship-type coin: After lunch, the Sectional presidents presented their papers. Dr Raja Reddy almost repeated the details, which he already pointed out in the morning except “telangana”. The other papers on Kakatiya forts, ornaments etc., had been already known details. Ironically, one lady paper presenter was telling that “Muslims were in Telangana since ancient times”! When pointed out, she was not relenting, but, repeating the same. Obviously infuriated, another scholar from the audience objected and commented on her insistence. It is already well-known that the Indian historians have been divided based on ideologies and that is why the History congesses themselves started getting divided into, IHC, SIHC, TNHC, APHC, KHC, and so on. As now, AP has been divided, the defunct THC has been revived after many years. When historians do not want “objectivity,” there is no meaning in talking about “scientific approach” in history, and there are no “good or bad” historians, as, all have been biased, prejudiced and oriented towards their respective ideologies and agendas. Therefore, none could advice to others, when, all have been in the same ghetto. As for as “Telangana” history is concerned, it is intriguing as to how they could differ from AP history or Telugu people history or south Indian history?

Evening cultural program: First, Kutchippidi dance was performed by female students. Then, the Perini Shivatandavam (Perini Śivatandavam) or Perini Thandavam was performed by a group. It is an ancient dance form from Telangana which has been revived in recent times.It originated and prospered in Telangana during the Kakatiya dynasty, performed by males and it is believed that in ancient / medieval times this was performed before the soldiers set to war. As mentioned, the Perini Thandavam is performed by males. It is called ‘Dance of Warriors’. Warriors before leaving to the battlefield enact this dance before the idol of Lord Śiva (Shiva). It reached its pinnacle during the rule of the ‘Kakatiyas’ period, who ruled for almost two centuries, however, it is intriguing that they disappeared by the Mohammedan ransacking of Warangal. It is believed that this dance form invokes ‘Prerana’ (inspiration) and is dedicated to supreme dancer, Lord Siva. One can find evidence of this dance in the sculptures near Garbha Gudi(Sanctum Sanctorum)of the Ramappa Temple at Warangal. Perini is a vigorous dance accompanied with resounding beats of drums. Dancers drive themselves to a state of mental abstraction where they feel the power of Siva in their body. While dancing they invoke Siva to come into him and dance through him. It is indeed believed to be the most invigorating and intoxicating male dance form. Perini dance form almost disappeared after the decline of the Kakatiya dynasty but Padmasri Dr. Nataraja Ramakrishna brought renaissance in Perini dance, which was on verge of extinction.

First, girls performed Kuthuppidi dance………

depicting the different Gods like Vinayaka, Shiva…………………….

Then boys performed Shiva thandava……………………………………

Then both girls and boys performed Shiva thandava….

26-06-2018 – THC second day: The second day session started with paper presentation, and I presented my paper first – “The Cholas and Telengana: The interactions and encounters of the Cholas with that of Rulers of “Telengana” area during 950-1250 CE.” Next, V. M. Reddy presented his paper “Satavahana coins of Malwa region.” With the data, details, and discussion, he made the following deductions and conclusions:

1. The Cholas were having contacts with the medieval “Telengana” areas, as discussed above, as it had been part of other dominant rulers also.
2. The geographical areas of “Telengana” were covered as depicted in the maps with the changing longitudes and latitudes, as the reign, dominance and control of the rulers changed frequently.
3. The geographical locations, areas and boundaries have been amorphous, overlapping and coinciding, as could be noted in the maps.
4. The bringing of Nolamba pillars from Hamavati to Tiruvaiyaru had been significant event proving the logistics of the imperial cholas.
5. The north-India campaign or march towards Ganges by Rajendra Chola proves the existence of well-known pathway known as “Cholamandala Coast” or Coromandel Coast extending up to Burma. In fact, the Eastern Ocean was known as “Cholas Ocean.”
6. If the rulers are taken into account, their origins, reign, marital relations coincicide, merge and appear to be same due to inherent evidences.
7. The interactions of the Cholas with that of Rulers of “Telengana” area during 950-1250 CE had been cordial and friendly.
8. The encounters of the Cholas with them also natural without any military motive. They had accommodative policy of restoring the won or conquered territory back to the ruler, thus, maintaining friendship and relationship for political and commercial purposes.
9. In spite of the language differences, the dynasties may appear different, but, the inherent factors like influence of Tamil, marital relationships and accommodative spirit of the rulers prove that they belonged to common origins and dynasties also.
10. History of any Indian ruler, dynasty and reign could only be studied in an inclusive, embracing and comprehensive manner.

Locating “Telangana” with latitudes and longitudes during the medieval period…..

How the “Telangana” area was covered under the western and Eastern Chalukyas, who were related to the Cholas for three generations….

Rajendra Cholas march towards Ganges crossing the areas…..

Sports and games in the medieval Telangana: We know much about the trade relations, economy and warfare of the State in the medieval era. But have you ever wondered how the nawabs or the rajas and maharajas used to wind down after a hard day of ‘ruling’? Presenting his research paper, ‘Sports and games as gleaned from the literary sources of Medieval Telangana’, on the second and concluding day of THC. Dr G Anjaiah, said, “There are references in Telugu and Sanskrit literature of contemporary period to the popular indoor and outdoor games played by rich and common people alike in Andhra Desa[1]. The travel accounts of Niktin, Barbosa Nilcolo-de-Conti, and other foreigners also contain such information.” During Kakatiya age, officials and the public enjoyed playing games such as dice, chigava gunthalata, ashta-chemma, and thokkudu billa. “Polo was played mostly in medieval Muslim kingdoms. But it was also played in Telangana during Kakatiya rule,” Anjaiah said. Called Kanduka Kreeda then, it was a popular game of not only Kakatiyas but also of Reddy kings who ruled the state in the 14th century. When Maharaja Ganapati Deva, a major king of the Kakatiya dynasty, defeated and killed Parthiswara, inscriptions say that a type of football game was played with Parthiswara’s dismembered head[2]. Apart from those duels or malla yuddham were also a popular sport during Reddy reign. “In Simhasnadvatrasika, Koravi Goparaju described a duel between two servants. In ancient Andhra, people used to engage in elephant fights and bull-fights apart from the still-prevalent-but-illegal cock-fights,” he said.

Ancient period, Raja Reddy, sectional president…………………

Medieval, Nayeem…………….

Modern period, Rajendra Prasad……………..

‘Indian history written from northern perspective’: Other speakers lamented that the study of Indian history in India has been predominantly of North Indian or Gangetic belt-based[3]. “There is a huge gap in Telugu history before the advent of Satavahanas. This is because most historians concentrated on the north,” a speaker said. “Pulakesi, the most famous ruler of Chalukyas, defeated Emperor Harshavardhana in 618 CE.  “Pulakesi stopped Harsha from conquering South India. We know nothing about Pulakesi but everything about the other. This is because Indian history has been North-centric,” he remarked[4]. During medieval period, there was nothing strange that Rajas and Sultans spent time in sports and games, as such activities were going on since IVC period. Ironically, he takes the accounts of foreigners, when, many many material evidences are available since IVC peiod. There is nothing like that “North-centric”, incidentally, there was a paper about “the Cholas and the rulers of Telengana”, where the paper presented pointed out the sojourn of Rajenda covering all places including Telengana and marching towards Ganges defeating the Palas, Gahadavalas etc, In fact, that was the first paper on second day 26th, perhaps, your reporter came later or missed it!

Modern 26-06-2018, first-morning session…………….

Modern 26-06-2018, first-morning session…………….another view…………………………………..

Modern 26-06-2018, first-morning session…………….few audience to listen to paper presenters……………….

Arvinda Kumar presenting paper………………………………….

Valedictory function: As for as this THC is concerned, it was conducted just for “the name’s sake style”. This is expressed with great concern and regrets. As the inauguration, the valedictory function was also conducted in the same way. Just like “House function,” it was over. Most of the paper presenters had gone away already. Some of the local delegates complained that they were not given accommodation. The next session of THC would be held at Warangal by the Kakatiya University. If a national seminar or conference is conducted lakhs of rupees are collected. Of course, paper presenter has to spend Rs 3000/- 4000/- to attend and present papers. But, no justification is done for the money, energy and time spend for the purpose. Many just like that come, present paper and go away taking the certificate. The attitude of the paper presenters and the media-persons have been very indifferent, as I have been noting for the last 35 years, after attending more than 600 national and international seminars, conferences and workshops. Here, it is exposed much, as though the paper presenters were only about 40, they did not have patience to listern to others. As I used to point out, if there were 10 paper presenters, after the paper presenting, each would go away, so that, for the last – 10^th paper presenter, only the sexctional president would be available to listen to! Of course, the media publishes according to the press note given to them. If any professor or paper presenter is known to the media person or the other way, there would be coverage about him and his paper, as otherwise, there would be no coverage on the proceedings.

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

30-06-2018.

[1] Indian Express, Sports thrived in Andhra Desa – Two-day long Telangana History Congress comes to an end in Hyderabad, Published: 27th June 2018 03:14 AM | Last Updated: 27th June 2018 03:14 AM.

[2] http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2018/jun/27/sports-thrived-in-andhra-desa-1834272.html

[3] Indian Express, ‘Historical facts should not be distorted to further n agenda, Published: 26th June 2018 03:34 AM  |   Last Updated: 26th June 2018 03:34 AM

[4] http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2018/jun/26/historical-facts-should-not-be-distorted-to-further-an-agenda-1833685.html

 

The Proceedings of the First or Third Annual session of Telangana History Congress held at Osmania University on June 25th and 26th 2018 [1]

The Proceedings of the First or Third Annual session of Telangana History Congress held at Osmania University on June 25^th and 26^th 2018 [1]

Telengana History Congress dates changed: The first Telangana History Congress  (hereinafter mentioned as THC) would be held on June 23 and 24, 2018 in the Osmania University Arts College, thus, the news appeared in the HANS INDIA in April 2018 itself[1].

Founder-president of the congress Prof G Venkatrajam announced here that the congress would unveil Telangana’s history. Speaking to the media in the Department of History, he stated that the History Congress would strive to bring to light, sustain the State’s history and culture, and undertake research on unexposed history[2]. He said former Chief Secretary Narendra Luther would deliver the inaugural address, while Prof. Y Vaikuntam, former VC, Kakatiya University, a special lecture on Telangana. There would be special sessions on Telangana history, archaeology, medieval Telangana history, Deccan history. Lecturers of history, archaeology, research scholars, students and interested persons would be among those attending. Research papers for inclusion could be sent by June 5 to thcou@gmail.com [Later, it was extended up to June 15^th . Telangana History Congress local secretary and OU History Head Prof. K  Arjun Rao, general secretary Prof. Sadanandam, Treasurer Dr B Lavanya, EC Member Prof Swaroopa Shankar said details of the conference could be obtained by contacting Prof Venkatrajam(9393300825), Prof Arjun Rao(9849415593).

Even the first circular gave the same dates and details. But, second circular dated 07-05-2018 was issued changing the dates to June 25^th and 26^th 2018. Moreover, these circulars were circulated in “whatsup” groups. As I was noting in one group, I requested the organizers to send details through e-mail, but, I could not get any details. So I contacted K. Arjun Rao to confirm the dates and booked tickets accordingly. I also sent my paper by e-mail. But, he did not send the circular nor my paper was listed.

Osmania Guest House, where, I stayed surrounded with trees..

During morning walk, I saw pictures were strewn under a tree….making me remember the 2015 floods of Chennai……..

At that time, almost every flood-affected citizen of Chennai had to throw away all their drenched things on the roads……..one would be bewildered to see heaps of furnitures etc…on the roads…..

way to reading hall of main library……

the temple on the way to the reading hall……maintained by Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam…..

Evidently, today [25-06-2018], the banner of THC was put up…….

Not many delegates attended THC: I was expecting that some Andhra [meaning Telugu speaking] friends would come to join me for the THC, but, none came. I could not understand the issue or politics behind. On 24-06-2018, I reached the Osmania University campus by 4.00 pm, as I informed Arjun Rao already about my plan.  The autowala dropped ne before the famous building where all demonstrations, dharnas used to take place. As there was no banner, volunteer or anything, I enquired student-like youngsters found there, but, none could tell anything about THC. So I contacted Arjun Rao and he asked me directly go to University Guest House. I went there and I was accommodated in the Room No.6. When I enquired about other delegates, the receptionist told that only one person had come and he was in room no.8 upstairs. From the register, I found that he was Prof Vijaya Babu of Kakatiya University. I went there and talked with him for sometime. I understand that he has become the HOD of the History department, as the term of Dr Srinath was completed. Till next day morning no more delegate came! So, it was evident that only few would attend the inaugural session of THC.

inaugural session, the VIPs on the dais….view from LHS

inaugural session, the VIPs on the dais….view from RHS

inaugural session, audience view…… RHS

OU – THC inauguration – audience- RHS.

This is the the lamp is light, nowadays, in all seminars, conferences etc…..all the learned scholars, experts and VIPs do this with chappals and shoes………..

in fact, I went near the place and pointed out also….but, one VIP told…..”….it is all right…..”

……………getting ready, “ASATO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA”!!!!!

Inaugural session of THC – June 25^th 2018 at the Ram Reddy auditorium: None came for picking up or informing where to go and attend the inaugural function. When I contacted, Arjun Rao informed to come to one “Ram Reddy auditorium”, behind the guesthouse. So when In contacted Vijay Babu, he said somebody was coming to pick up. But Dr Anjaiyah came in a scooter and Vijay Babu went away. Of course, he informed I would be picked up by one student. Thus, when I slowly walked own from guesthouse to main building, one student came to pick up and he dropped me at the auditorium – of Prof G Ram Reddy Centre for Distance Education. He is a PhD student Srinivas. After breakfast, when I went to auditorium, none was there. Then, slowly few people come and started arranging stage. After registration, I got one flimsy plastic folder containing a scribbling pad and pen, and nothing was there about the THC, list of papers, sectional presidents’ addresses etc. Being the “First session,” I thought, the conference would be grand with many scholars, historians and researchers, but it was carried on lackluster. It was to be held at Siddipet Govt. Degree College, but, in view of the Centenary celebrations of Osmania University, it was changed to the University venue on June 23^rd and 24^th 2018[3]. However, nothing was noted to get inspired, enthused or enjoyed about such “Centenary celebrations”! In the second circular[4], it was informed that the dates were also changed to June 25^th and 26^th June 2018 due to “Final semester examinations.”

In most of the blogs on IHC, SIHC, TNHC, APHC etc., I would not be appearing in the photos, as I have been moving and taking photos in different angles…..in the context…. so, now, I tried for few selfies……..with Dr Soma Reddy……

Prof Y. Vaikundam, Dr Deepak Kumar can be seen backside…

Dr / Prof Kishan Rao, Ayub Ali, H. Chaudhury, Soma Reddy…..

The proceedings of the Inaugural session of THC: In the auditorium, there were hardly 30 persons of audience. Suddenly around, 10 am, somebody informed “Rangarajan garu had come,” i.e, former Governor of AP came. Immediately, students and others entered occupying chairs. Yet, the audience was about 80 as we could count the heads. The following dignatories came and occupied the chairs: Profs / Drs G. Venkata Rajam, S. Ramachandram, C. Rangarajan, Narendra Luther, Raja Reddy, H. Rajendra Prasad, and M. A. Nayeem.

audience view …….

audience view….another side….Dr Srinivas, who dropped me at the venue can be seen ..

About 10.40 am they started lighting lamps and as usual, they came with shoes and doing the ritual with candle changing hands. In fact, I went  near the stage and commented also, but, one VIP responded “no problem” with bodily gesture “chalta hai”! By 10.43 am, the inaugural session started with “Vande mataram”, that surprised, as the secular historians and most of the history congresses do not do that! [See relevant photos above….]

yet another view of the audience …..middle row…..

10.50 to 10.54 am: The president of THC started reading report pointing out that the THC was started in 2007, first session held in 2008,  second in 2009, but stopped due to Telengana agitation. As no session was conducted since 2009, after nine years, it was revived. When APHC has been conducted regularly, it is not known what is the problem with THC. He also briefed about the “history of Telangana” starting from Satavahana period.

10.54 to 11.05 am – Dr C. Rngarajan: Dr C. Rangarajan in his inaugural address explained the research methodology adopted by different ideological groups of historians and history writers. Nowadays, certain group follows “deductive than inductive school” method in history…….the Marxists follow “materialistic interpretation” of how the society was changing from “feudalism to capitalism to socialism………” in economic history. Historians debated  about history as to whether it is  “collection of facts” or otherwise, as “facts alone cannot make history.” So historians have to analyze when facts can make history….objectivity should be there in interpretation of historical data.  In analyzing facts, there are two aspects – 1. The facts where they could be pure and 2. Where they cannot be pure. Quoting from Carr, he explained certain aspects with his interpretation. The view that “history is always written by the victors” should be changed, as history is “dialogue between the past and the present.” He explains with an example of “existence of mountain,” though, about the shape, historians differ in their perspectives, about the differing sizes and shapes, according to their ;points of references and places. In spite of all such differences, variance and inconsistencies, the fact is that “mountain exists.” That is why some stress about objectivity and scientific methodology of study of history.  In fact, history is  studied as one of the subjects of sciences as “systematized knowledge.” When science enquires and tests the theory, historians interpret and generalize the possibilities. Talking about “collective memory,” he stressed for objectivity. Even in the presentation of evidences, interpretations would be subjective than objective. Rangarajan said, “Historical facts should not be distorted to further an agenda. Good historians do not present the evidence according to their point of view. The very act of choosing a fact over another makes it lose its authenticity. Although subjectivity and interpretation cannot be avoided, there is a need to keep both of them distinct.”

11.05 to 11.23 am – Narendra Luther: Reiterating the same, and recounting how he wrote the autobiography on Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the first Qutb Shahi emperor, Luther said, “Historians have to shed their own likes and dislikes while writing books on history.”  Luther highlighted how important the work district gazetteers are in relation to recording history. Recounting an incident, Luther said, “In my experience, if a district gazetteer was a Brahmin, then he recorded only temples and ignored dargahs and mosques. That is not fair to others and oneself.”  In these contemporary times when selective facts or fake news are being propagated to further agendas, speakers at the inaugural session of the third Telangana History Congress, stressed on historians to be unbiased while writing. Narenda Luther started his speech, “Iam a dalit admitted today to a temple, …………….inside sanctum sanctorum……” about his presence on the stage. He claimed that he would restrict his speech to his own experience. He claimed that “Third world war has been going in the middle east by proxy……….” and UN and other bodies watching silently the violations. He was referring to the war on terror as ISIL was destroying the material evidences of Syria and other places. However, he did not name anything, but, tried to emphasize about the violation of human rights. He then, started telling about his books published in 1991 and so on. Thereafter, he stressed that historians should be unbiased, ……..judicious ….without any likes and dislikes…….Coming to Telangana state formation, he opined that smaller states could perform better than larger states….the backwardness of the UP has been due to its bigger size[5].

audience view……LHS view from the stage….

11.24 to 11.37 am – Dr Raja Reddy: Dr Raja Reddy, tried to trace the orgin of “Telangana” to “Asmaka” janapada based o the Satavahana coins. As none knows the exact name of the first ruler of the Satavahana dynasty, numismatics help in knowing the names and geneology. ‘State’s history older than Satavahanas’ When D Raja Reddy was researching on Telugu history, he couldn’t find any material dating before the Satavahana era. That was when he looked towards medieval coin study for an answer. He was not disappointed. “We found that Telangana history doesn’t start from Satavahanas. It starts with Ashmaka janapada, one of the 16 Mahajanapadas.”  Mahajanapadas are the sixteen kingdoms or oligarchic republics that existed in ancient India from the sixth to fourth century BC. “Ashmaka Janapada was the only one that was south of the Vindhyas. We have found coins belonging to Ashmaka Janapada era across Nizamabad,” Reddy added. Reddy concluded by highlighting the need to study coins more. “Majority of the historical sources before 1000 are from inscriptions and most of the inscriptions are from coins.  We need to study them more.” Though, Puranas give the the names and geneologies, all cannot be correlated and corroborated with the material evidences. From 8^th to 6^th centuries BCE, Lydia, China and India were the first countries to issue coims in the world. In the Satavana coins,  ship-type coins, where “two-mast ship” were depicted. They are very significant, because, till 11^th century, there was no “two-mast ship” used in the western world. He claimed that he saw 10 such Satavahana ship-type coinsin the US museum and 16 in in the British museum. I asked him as such two-mast ship tradition of issuance of coins continued with the Pallavas, why the Cholas did not issue any coins. He responded that they might have issued, but disappeared.

11.38 to 11.56 am – Dr M. A. Nayeem:  Dr. M. A. Nayeem, Senior Research Officer, Skate Archives and Research Institute, pointed out with his PP presentation that the exact “telangana” expression is foun in the expression, “mulk-i-tilang”. Of course, there was an expression, “telagadh” used in the Gondi language. He stressed that it was originated during the 14^th century based on the Mohammedan documents. There is other view that it is derived from “Trilinga desa,” as Andhra was famous for Saiva branch of Hindu religion[6].

11.58 am to 12.12 9m:  H. Rajendra Prasad talked about “one forgotten ruler” of Qutb Shah dynasty.

12.13 to 12.18 pm: A Souvenir and a book authored by Y. Vaikundam were released.

1.10 to 1.30 pm: After tea, the proceedings started with one “Eswari Bai memorial lecture” delivered by Y. Vaikundam.

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

30-06-2018.

[1] THE HANS INDIA,  Telangana History Congress on June 23, 24, Apr 09,2018 , 11:32 PM IST.

[2] http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Telangana/2018-04-09/Telangana-History-Congress-on-June-23-24/372955

[3] THC First Circulardated 09-04-2018.

[4] THC First Circulardated 07-05-2018.

[5] UP has already been divided into  UP and Uttaranchal.

[6] There are two popular interpretations for the word Telangana. One – Telangana is the distorted form of Trilinga + ‘aane’. Trilinga symbolizing three famous Shiva pilgrim places – Srisailam(in Kurnool district), Draksharamam(in East Godavari district) and Kaleshwaram (in Karimnagar district) – and ‘aane’ meaning region. Two – Telangana emerged from ‘Telang’ or ‘Tilang’ + nadu. Telang or Tilang is how Muslim rulers called Telugu and nadu is an administrative unit. Hence, either way, Telangana is the ‘land where Telugus live’.

“Social Formation and Regional Identity in Medieval Telangana”, the National Seminar held at the premises of the University campus on 24th, 25th March, 2017 (2)

“Social Formation and Regional Identity in Medieval Telangana”, the National Seminar held at the premises of the University campus on 24^th, 25^th March, 2017 (2)

Dr Suyakumar presenting his paper.

Audience view – LHS

Audience view – RHS.

The First Technical Session (24-03-2017): After lunch, the technical session started. In the session, the following papers were presented:

Sl. No	Name of the paper presenter	Name of the paper presented
1	Dr Jaikrishan	Neglected history of Metallurgy
2	Dr Surya Kumar	Contemporary history gleaned through inscriptions (Telugu)
3	G. Anjaiah	Society in the Prabandhas during the period of Qutub Shahi period.
4	Dr Kanaka Ratnam	Medieval Caste system (Telugu)
5	Sri K. V. Ramakrishna Rao, IRS	Disappearance of Cholas and appearance of Kakatiyas during 13th century in the context of Social Formation and Regional Identity.

The first paper had been much generalized manner mentioning the metallurgical advancement from IVC to the present period, covering the medieval period, giving a very few examples about the Kakatiya dynasty. He took one hour for his paper, but, most of the materials are well known taken from the works of R. Balasubramaniam, IIT, Kanpur and Dr S. Kalyana Raman[1]. The second paper presenter took two inscriptions and gave a discourse about the importance of inscriptions for interpreting history. The third one about Prabandhams, the Telugu narrative gave details about the festivals, position about the women etc. The fourth one delved upon the different castes like Gaunda, Gauda etc., during the medieval period. The last one was about the possibility of the Kakatiyas knowing the movement of the Cholas, particularly that of Rajendra who passed through Andhra, on his march to Ganges. He also pointed out as to how Kambar referred to Ganapati Rudra when he was away from the Choladesha, due to difference with him. He presented with Powerpoint giving references from the inscriptions.

K. V. Ramakrishna Rao, IRS presenting his paper on “Disappearance of Cholas and appearance of Kakatiyas during 13^th century in the context of Social Formation and Regional Identity.”

He was pointing out the possibilities of the link between the Cholas and Kakatiyas.

Inscriptions categorically say that the forefather of the Kakatiyas was Karikala Chola.

He pointed out as to how a Saivacharya was Rajaguru for the Kings of Kakatiya, Kalachuri, Chola and Malava dynasties.

The Second Technical Session (14-03-2017, after lunch): In the second technical session, the following papers were presented.

Sl. No	Name of the paper presenter	Name of the paper presented
1	Thirumali, Delhi	Historiography
2	Muva Reddy	Evolution of consciousness of Telugu Language
3		Location of nation and identity in literature
4	Sajjad Shahid	Art and Architecture of Qutib Shahi period

Thirumali explained about the historiography involved in interpreting the medieval period by the “modern period” historians. The third paper presenter delved upon the interpretation of “nation-state” with a common language or same language, but, could not touch upon the dichotomy of two states with the same language. The fourth paper was presented by Sajjad Shahid. He showed photos of the tombs of Qutub Shahi and tried to explain that they were constructed incorporating some Hindu temple motifs etc. Hindu workers were also used and they might have added such symbols as scorpion. As the “pine apple” was a divine fruit “fallen from the heaven”, it was used widely by them.

Dr Thirumali, New Delhi heading a session.

Sri Sajjad Shahid was explaining the preservation of the Golconda monuments.

About the abundant Hindu motifs, carved temple-like pillars, he was suggesting that Hindu workers might have been employed and they would have done such embellishment. However, it is intriguing as to how the workers / employees could overtake the wishes of the owner / employer.

The Third Technical Session (25-03-2017): In the third session, the following papers were read:

Sl. No	Name of the paper presenter	Name of the paper presented
1	Dr Madhusudhana Rao and K. V. Ramakrishna Rao presented by Madhusudhana Rao.	Dakhini language, Sufism and Mohammedan and Hindu Encounters during the Qutub Shahi period (1512-1687 CE)
2	Dr Venkateswara Rao	Water Management in Telangana region.
3	Dr Nageswara Rao	Kakatiyas and influence of Western chalukyas and the salient features of Kakatiya art and architecture.
4	Dr Srinivasa Rao
5	Er Madhavan	Diamonds of Golconda
6	Mr Narayana Reddy	History of Telangana Literature

The first paper was about Dakhini language evolved was exploited by the Sufis for their propagation of Sufism, Mohammedan and Hindu Encounters during the Qutub Shahi period (1512-1687 CE) and the consequences thereof. The second one was about the water Management in Telangana region.

Dr Madhusudhana Rao presenting a paper.

25-03-2017 morning first session – Audience LHS

25-03-2017 morning first session – Audience RHS

Third was about the uniqueness of the Kakatiya temple structure. Here, Sajjad Shahid started suggesting that the usage of ‘lime mortar” was introduced by the Muslims in India. For this, I pointed out that such practice was there since the Pallava period. But, he was again and again harping upon the same point. Even the Saluvakuppam temple exposed the usage in the 4^th cent. CE by the Pallavas[2].

The fourth was about the development of town, temple and tank in consequential manner.

Madhavan delved upon the diamonds of Golconda and their exports to foreign countries. He was explaining that A to Z was from India, in the sense that “adamus” was diamond and “Zero” number both were given by India. Of course, the Greeks called zero as “nullum” and not zero as he claimed.

The last paper delved upon the Telangana literature, but, the paper presenter was giving wrong information about the ancient / Sangam Tamil literature that it was developed after 7^th and 8^th century CE. It is well known that the the ancient / Sangam Tamil literature has been dated to 500 / 300 BCE and 100 CE period and accepted throughout the world by all. Therefore, making such claims is a wrong interpretation. When I pointed out, Adapa Sathyanarayana was vehemently prevented me to tell the truth. I was totally perplexed. Anyway, to glorify one thing, other cannot be demeaned, that too, forgetting the history.

The Fourth Technical Session: In this session, mostly, the young research scholars presented papers.

Valedictory function 25-03-2027, 4.26 to 6.15 pm: Prof Sayanna, Physics professor and the Vc of the University presided over.

4.26 to 4.59 pm:  Prof I. Varalakshmi (Retd), History Dept, Osmania University gave presidential address pointing out the methodology of the Marxist and nationalist historians about medieval society. She pointed out that “Telangana” was a geographical concept as revealed through the literature. As per the inscriptions, the Kakatiya influence was there upto Kanchipuram, but, “Telangana” cannot be extended upto Kanchi. Therefore, the political concept of Telangana now as separated has been completely different from that of inscriptions and the Muslim chronicles and the European writings.

5.00 – 5.22 pm: Prof Kovela Suprasanna Acharya[3], Dept of Telugu (Retd), Kakatiya University; pointed out as to how the culture was disrupted when villages were destroyed. “oru kallu” was mentioned and described by Ganga Devi in her “Madura Vijayam” after 200 years of the destruction of Kakatiya dynasty. In literature though “little tradition” and “greater tradition” were talked about and supposedly they were opposite to each other, such interpretation was not there in the Telangana context. There were celebrations like “Navaratri” with the concept of “Catru-bandana”, Panchayata sampradhaya, Trikutalaya etc., adopted and adapted by the Kakatiyas. An ordinary believer has been a simple man of God-believer with devotion. Thus, no difference was entertained in Veerasaivam. Kakatiyas were considered as “Bhumiputras”. For a contruction of a temple, hundred years would have been taken and in such a period, hundreds of families were benefited with their contribution. Thousands of workers of all categories, sculptors and others would have engaged  with all requirements and without any difference. When temple construction was stopped, people started losing their jobs. Thus, the festivals, sampradhayas and practices were changed, corrupted and lost also.

5.23 – 5.30 pm: Prof R. Soma Reddy, (Retd), Dept of History, Osmania University. He was narrating as how the name of the profession became caste names during the course of time.

5.30 – 5.40 pm: The report of Convenor, rapporteurs about the proceedings and paper presented.

5.40 – 6.oo pm: Feedback from the delegates.

6.00 – 6.30 pm: Facilitation of the guests etc.

6.30 – 6.40 pm: Rajkumar vote of thanks.

Valedictory function – view of the audience

Valedictory function – view of the audience – middle

Valedictory function – view of the audience – backside

Andhrapradesh divided into Andhra and Telangana States: In 1953, Andhra Pradesh was the first state to be separated based on linguistic criterion. Therefore, separation of Andhra Pradesh into two states was a surprise for the Telugu people living outside AP. After the proceedings, I could not understand the “politics” involved in interpreting everything that is “Telugu” in to two as “Andhra” and “Telangana”, as I have been living in Chennai, Tamilnadu, though, hailing from Andrapradesh. Of course, I knew the agitation for separate state and it was formed in 2014, but, the history rewriting, historiographical attempts and other interpretation of facts in to dichotomy, duality and  bicentric way. The writing of history makes me to recall as to how R.E. Mortimem Wheeler wrote a book “5000 years History of Pakistan”. My mother tongue is Telugu and for me, all Telugu speaking people look alike, wherever, they live on the earth.  Let them live in peace! When I start searching in Google, I get intriguing details. The DNA testing of skulls etc., made me to remember the European methodology of racial interpretation of humanity.

The study into Telangana origin begins: Six DNA samples of human skeletal remains from the Megalithic period found in excavations in Piklihal, Raichur district of Karnataka (1954), Yeleshwaram, Nalgonda district (1960) and Pedda Marur, Mahbubnagar (1978) were handed over by the Department of Archaeology and Museums to the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology for detailed studies and DNA analysis[4]. This is the first time that DNA studies will be conducted to ascertain the origins and other historical details of civilisation in Telangana state[5]. The objective of the study is to ascertain the ancient population and human settlements in present-day Telangana state, create an individual-wise inventory of skeletal material, and give preliminary observations of the incidence of palaeopathological lesions and anomalies, interpret results in a bio-cultural perspective, trace disease process, human details and other aspects of life in ancient times[6]. The State Archaeology department on Thursday (29-12-2016) signed MoUs with CCMB for scientific research and with Deccan College Post Graduate and Research Institute, Pune, one of the top institutions in the world for training archaeologists[7]. The MoUs were signed by tourism secretary B. Venkatesam, director of archaeology and museums N.R. Visalatchy, CCMB director Rakesh K. Mishra, Deccan College Vice-Chancellor Prof. Vasant S. Shinde, and CCMB senior principal scientist Thangaraj. “Telangana is the youngest state in the country, but has the oldest civilisation — over 10,000 years old or more. Excavations of a recent megalithic burial site in Pullurubanda in Siddipet district brought to light skeletal remains. It is absolutely necessary to trace the genetic background of the people who inhabited the region. Bone samples were sent to CCMB that will help ascertain patterns of genetic diversity in ancient human beings and connect them with the  present population structure etc. We entered into the MoU to carry out demographical and other studies of the proto historic period in Telangana,” Mr Venkatesam said[8]. Prof. Vasant Shinde said iron was developed in the country in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh way back in 1000 BC[9]. “Korean scientists thought they were pioneers, first to develop and later China but studies proved them wrong. We are undertaking similar studies in Telangana too which is a potential region for historical studies,” Prof. Shinde said Mr Mishra said the country, which has the oldest population in the world, now has technology to throw some light on it and reconstruct the past through DNA. The same CCMB has already carried out DNA analysis and given results to show that, “Indians are one people descended from two tribes – The findings show us that there is no need to speak separately about Aryans and Dravidians”, and therefore, it is not known as what more the Telangana wants to know about the people living there now in 21^st cent., after much miscegenation and all. Moreover, it recalls the early 19^th -20^th racial studies undertaken by the European expeerts, ethnologists and scientists, later dubbed as “pseudo science”.

Indians are one people descended from two tribes – The findings show us that there is no need to speak separately about Aryans and Dravidians[10]: A study, carried out by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, the most extensive DNA analysis of Indians till date, is overturning traditional understandings of the origins of the country’s various population groups. Undermining the impact of the Aryan invaders in shaping Indian civilisation, particularly the caste system, the study shows that the overwhelming majority of Indians are descended from two ancient populations, Ancestral South Indians (ASI) and Ancestral North Indians (ANI), who, respectively, came to the subcontinent 65,000 and 45,000 years ago. The research team analysed more than five lakh genetic markers across the genomes of 132 individuals from 25 diverse groups in 13 states covering six language families. The sample group included upper and lower castes and tribal groups.

From Trilinga, tilinga, telenga, telunga, etc,., to telangana: The attempts to interpret how the expression “Telangana” has come into existence are summarized as follows:

1. Telugudesa was called as “Trilinga” or “Tilinga”.
2. Ptolemy called “Tilingan”.
3. Vayupurana mentioned a region as “Tilingacha” along with Magathas, Madhya, Janapadas.
4. The 12^th century Kurukodu inscription mentioned “Telunga”.
5. There were three regions in between Ganges and Godavari – Uttara Kalinga, madhya Kalinga and dakshina Kalinga. The dakshina Kalinga became Tenkalinga and it changed to “Telanga”[11].
6. Agattiyam, a 5^th cent work called the lanuage as “telungam”.
7. Raja Sekhara (c.880-920 CE) used the Sanskritized form of “Trilinga” and hence called, “Trilingadhipati”.
8. Vidyanatha applied the expression “Trilingas” to all people of Andhra.
9. Amir Khusru and Abdul Fazal called this region as “Tilinga” and “Telingana”. Thus, the Muslim chronicles started using the words, tilinga, telinga anf telagana and so on.
10. The word “Telangana” was first found in an inscription found at Tellapur, Sangareddy Taluq, Medak district dated tp 1417 CE.
11. The Velicherla inscription dated to 1510 CE of Prataparudra Gajapati mentioned “telungana”.
12. The Tirumala inscription of Sri Krishnadevaraya dated to 1517 CE mentioned the expression “Telungana”

The bringing of Tamil to interpret “Ten-kalinga” has been extreme in interpretation, as other side, “orukallu” and such other names are ignored. The attempt trace the origin of word “Telengana” has been confusing as it encompasses geographical area, language speaking people and the other people who pronounced such expressions. Thus, mixing all the concepts, and bringing a interpretation that “this trilinga” is different from “thay trilinga” etc., has been confusing and incorrect. To conclude, I just add the paragraph of mine from an earlier blog in the context.

The origin of the word “Tilang / T’lang / tailanga / tilang / tenugu / tenungu / telugu” etc[12]: “It is well known that the word and expression “tilang / teleng / telengana” etc., were evolved from “Trilinga” as Andhra was known as “Trilingadesha” i.e, the land of three Lingas i.e, dominated by the Saivite part of Hindu religion[13]. Ptolemy also used the expression “trilinga” (trilingon, triglypton). Tailanga of Burma is equated with tilanga[14], capital of Arkan[15]. Of course, both the scripts of Telugu and Burmese have similarities. The Chinese records mention K’lang and T’lang referring to the regions of Kalinga and Telenga i.e, modern Orissa and Andhra. During the medieval period it was known as tilang / telangana as mentioned by the Muslim Chroniclers[16]. None can ask to why the ancient Tamils do not mention them as so, as they never called them “Dravidians” in their Sangam literature. Therefore, all words and expressions denote to the region of Andhra and Andhrapradesh only and it cannot be interpreted that it referred to “Telengana” as perceived and conceived by the paper presenters” – this was written by me in 2012 after attending the two-day national seminar on “Regional Identity and Nation Building in India (Focus on Telangana Movement)” on March 14 and 15, 2012 was organized by the Department of History and Tourism Management Kakatiya University. Now, then, on 02-06-2014, Telangana State has been formed! Let all Telugu people live happily!

© K. V. Ramakrishna Rao

29-03-2017.

[1] http://bharatkalyan97.blogspot.in/

[2]  Sathyabhama Badhreenath , Hema Achyuthan, Smriti Haricharan and K. P. Mohandas, Saluvankuppam coastal temple – excavation and application of soil micromorphology,  CURRENT SCIENCE, VOL. 100, NO. 7, 10 APRIL 2011, pp.1071-1075.

http://www.currentscience.ac.in/Volumes/100/07/1071.pdf

[3] See here for his full bio-data: http://kovelasuprasanna.blogspot.in/2007/04/hi.html

[4] Deccan Chronicle, DNA study into Telangana origin begins, Published: Dec 30, 2016, 2:37 am IST; Updated: Dec 30, 2016, 3:51 pm IST.

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/301216/dna-study-into-ts-origin-begins.html

[5] When there have been many hypotheses and theories that  the megalith cultural men migrated from middle east to India, Indians were considered as “Aryans” and “Dravidans” and son on such type of DNA analysis is intriguing.

[6] Times of India, First quest to crack Telugu DNA mystery, Syed Akbar| TNN | Dec 30, 2016, 05.48 PM IST.

[7] http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/-first-quest-to-crack-telugu-dna-mystery/articleshow/56256567.cms

[8] Deccan Chronicle, DNA study into Telangana origin begins, Published: Dec 30, 2016, 2:37 am IST; Updated: Dec 30, 2016, 3:51 pm IST.

[9] http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/301216/dna-study-into-ts-origin-begins.html

[10] Daily News and Analysis, Indians are one peoplke descended from two,  by K. V. Ramana, Fri.25 Sep.2009, 02.54 am, Hyderabad, DNA group.

[11] How Dakshina Kalinga was known as “Tenkalinga” so that it could again trun in to “Telangana” is not explained.

[12] https://kvramakrishnarao.wordpress.com/2012/03/18/regional-identity-and-nation-building-in-india-focus-on-telangana-movement/

[13] Robert Caldwell, A Comparative Grammar of the Dravidian or South-Indian Family of Languages, University of Madras, 1976, pp.26-30

[14] Sir Stamford Raffles observed the similarity among the “Trinity” sculptures of SEA and South India and noted that the Paramban Trinity could have been derived from Andhra. S. Raffles, History of Java,  AES, New Delhi, Vol.II, p.73.

[15] K. R. Subramanian, Buddhist Remains in Andhra and the History of Andhra between 225 and 610, AES, New Delhi, 1989, p.6, 135, 138.

[16] Shrerwani and P. C. Joshi, History of Medieval Deccan, Andhrapradesh Govt.

1976. Gopalachari, Early History of Andhra Country, University of Madras, 1976.