Ancient Telangana History - Part 2 Notes (Revised)

తెలంగాణ చరిత్ర: ప్రాచీన చరిత్ర (Archaeological Researchers & Periods)

Lecture by: Koppu Naresh (Subject Expert, T-SAT)

Recap & Introduction to Researchers

• Previous video discussed Ancient Telangana history introduction and the origin of the name "Telangana".
• This section focuses on Archaeological Researchers (పురావస్తు శాస్త్రవేత్తలు) who conducted excavations (తవ్వకాలు) in Telangana.
• Exam questions often arise based on these researchers and their findings.

Key Archaeological Researchers in Telangana

• Robert Bruce Foote:
  • Considered a Geologist (భూగర్భ శాస్త్రవేత్త).
  • Conducted extensive research in Telangana.
  • Discovered Megalithic burials (బృహత్ శిలాయుగ సమాధులు/అవశేషాలు) in Valigonda (Yadadri Bhuvanagiri Dist) around the mid-19th Century.
  • Laid the foundation (పునాది వేశారు) for prehistoric studies in the region.
• Meadows Taylor:
  • Researched Megalithic Age (బృహత్ శిలాయుగ) remains.
  • Key site: Narkatpalli (Nalgonda Dist).
  • Megalithic Age is equated with the Iron Age (ఇనుప యుగం), around 1000 BCE.
  • Iron (ఇనుము) was the last metal used by humans.
  • Iron Age burial practices: Gave importance to constructing tombs (సమాధుల నిర్మాణం), placing food, belongings, and tools inside.
• William King & Wake Field:
  • Conducted research in Khammam and Warangal districts.
  • Helped bring ancient history to light.
• Doria Bell & Walker:
  • Researched at Hasmathpet (Hyderabad Dist).
• Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf:
  • Appointed by Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan to study tribal issues (తెగల గురించి అధ్యయనం).
  • Authored the book "Tribal Hyderabad", detailing tribal life, issues, lifestyle, etc.
  • Conducted research in Adilabad district.
  • Discovered remains of the Paleolithic Age (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగ అవశేషాలు).
• F.R.V. Allchin & P. Srinivas:
  • Excavated at Utnoor (ఉట్నూరు) / Uttanur (ఉత్తనూరు). (Located in Jogulamba Gadwal Dist, Aija Mandal)
  • Found Ash Mounds (`బూడిద బాడులు`).
  • Associated with the Neolithic Age (`నవీన శిలాయుగం`). (Ash mounds resulted from burning cattle dung.)
  • Initially researched in Raichur (Karnataka), then came to Utnoor.
• Coggin Brown: (Likely transcription of 'Kagglis Brown' mentioned)
  • Researched in the Bhadrachalam area (Bhadradri Kothagudem Dist).
  • Found 35 types of Paleolithic tools (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగ పనిముట్లు) within a small 50-yard area.
• V.V. Krishna Sastry:
  • Excavated at Kolhapur (Nagarkurnool Dist).
  • A significant Telangana native archaeologist, served as Director of the Dept. of Archaeology.
  • Also excavated at Keesaragutta (finding Vishnukundina capital evidence) and Dhulikatta (Satavahana Buddhist stupa).
• B.R. Subrahmanyam:
  • Excavated at Nagarjunakonda and Yeleswaram.
  • Found remains from the Prehistoric Age (పూర్వయుగం) up to the Historic Age.
  • Nagarjunakonda & Yeleswaram show continuous human settlement from Paleolithic to Historic periods (పాతరాతి యుగ తొలిదశ నుంచి చారిత్రక యుగం వరకు అవిచ్ఛిన్నంగా కొనసాగింది).
  • This civilization continued even after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization (సింధూ నాగరికత పతనం తర్వాత కూడా కొనసాగింది).
• Professor Yazdani:
  • Conducted research near Raigiri Railway Station (Nalgonda Dist).
• S.S. Rao:
  • In 1966, researched Stone Age remains in the Musi River Valley (Nalgonda Dist).

Division of Historical Periods (చారిత్రక పూర్వయుగ విభజన)

• Based on the quality (నాణ్యత) of hand tools (చేతి పనిముట్లు), historians divided South Indian history (relevant to Telangana prehistory):
1. Prachina Shila Yugam (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగం) - Paleolithic / Old Stone Age
2. Madhya Shila Yugam (మధ్య శిలాయుగం) - Mesolithic / Middle Stone Age
3. Naveena Shila Yugam (నవీన శిలాయుగం) - Neolithic / New Stone Age
4. Kanchu Yugam (కంచు యుగం) - Bronze Age (Often part of Chalcolithic/overlaps)
5. Inupa Yugam (ఇనుప యుగం) / Ayō Yugam (అయో యుగం) - Iron Age
   • Also called Brihat Shila Yugam (బృహత్ శిలాయుగం) - Megalithic Age
   • Also known as Brihat Samādhula Sanskr̥ti (బృహత్ సమాధుల సంస్కృతి) - Megalithic Tomb Culture
   • Also called Rākṣasa Guḷḷa Yugam (రాక్షస గుళ్ల యుగం) - Age of Demon Tombs (Local term)

Paleolithic Age (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగము)

• Early humans (ఆనాటి మానవుడు) used chipped stones (రాళ్లను చీల్చి) to make tools like stone axes (రాతి గొడ్డళ్లు).
• Materials used: Quartzite (స్పటికము), Corundum (కురువిందం), and other stones.
• Tools made: Knives (కత్తులు), Spears/Javelins (బొరిగెలు), Sickles/Choppers (కొడవళ్లు), Arrows (బాణాలు).
• Lifestyle: Lived by hunting animals (జంతువులను వేటాడి) and fishing (చేపలను వేటాడి).
• First food consumed by humans: Animal flesh (జంతు మాంసము), Fish (చేపలు).

Paleolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Asifabad, Basara, Both, Godavari Valley
• Haliya, Yeleswaram
• Dindi, Vijaaraabaadu (Vikarabad?)
• Budagundaala, Chandragupta Patnam, Mankal
• Kudali Sangameswaram, Godavarikhani, Ramagundam, Peddapalli
• Palvancha, Cherla, Pokkela (Pakhal?) and other areas.

Mesolithic Age (మధ్య శిలాయుగము)

• Period: c. 50,000 - 25,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Also called Sūkṣmarāti Yugam (సూక్ష్మరాతి యుగం) - Microlithic Age.
• Reason: Tools used were very small (చాలా చిన్నవి), ranging from 1 cm to 8 cm.
• Materials: Flint (చెక్ ముకి రాయి), Quartzite (స్పటికం), Corundum (కురువిందం) and other precious stones.
• Tools made: Small tools (చిన్న పనిముట్లు) like knives (కత్తులు), spears (బొరిగెలు), scrapers (గీకుడు రాళ్లు), arrows (బాణములు).
• Bows and arrows (`విల్లంబులు`) were used. Arrowheads (`బాణపు మొనలు`) first appeared in this age.

Mesolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Adilabad Dist: Both
• Komaram Bheem Asifabad Dist: Asifabad
• Karimnagar Dist: Alabaka
• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram, Meenanpalli (?), Rayavaram

Later Prehistoric Developments

• End of Mesolithic Age: Evidence of making pots by hand (చేతితో కుండలు తయారు చేసుకున్న జాడలు).
• Practice of burying the dead (`మృత దేహాలను భూస్థాపితం చేసే ఆచారం`) also began. (Focus on health/hygiene - preventing decomposition smell and related issues).

Neolithic Age (నవీన శిలాయుగము)

• Period: c. 25,000 - 5,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Key Developments:
  • Settled life (`స్థిర నివాసము`) established.
  • Agriculture (`వ్యవసాయం`) started. Reason: Need to stay near crops for protection from animals and regular watering.
  • Animal Husbandry (`పశుపోషణ`) practiced (Cow, Ox, Goat, Sheep, Dog etc.).
  • Pottery making (`కుండలు తయారు చేయడం`) learned, both by hand and using the potter's wheel (చక్రం).
• Worship:
  • Worship of Natural Forces (`ప్రకృతి శక్తులను పూజించడం`) began.
  • Linga Puja (`లింగపూజ`) and Pashupati (`పశుపతి`) worship practiced.
  • Mother Goddess (`శ్రీ శక్తి పూజ`) worship also started in this period.
• Burials:
  • Evidence of burial jars (`శవాలు గల జాడీలు`) and various tombs found in Nagarjunakonda and Yeleswaram.

Neolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Jogulamba Gadwal Dist: Utnoor (Uttanur) (in Aija mandal)
• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram
• Bhuvanagiri Dist: Bhuvanagiri
• Peddapalli Dist: Devarapalli, Kolakonda, Peddabankur, Palakonda, Kadambapur
• Siddipet Dist: Budigapalli
• Hyderabad Dist: Golconda, Moula Ali

Neolithic Tools & Crops

• Tools: Axe (గొడ్డలి), double-edged knife/chisel (రెండు వైపుల పదునున్న ఉలి), hammer (సుత్తి), spear (బొరిగె), ploughshare (నాగటి కర్రు).
• The ploughshare (నాగటి కర్రు) was used to plough the land (భూమిని దున్నారు).
• Ploughshares (ఇట్టి కర్రులు) were found in the Nagarjunakonda valley.
• Crops Cultivated: Evidence suggests cultivation of Ragi (`రాగులు`), Pesalu (`పెసలు`), Uluvalu (`ఉలవలు`) during this age.

Chalcolithic / Bronze Age (తామ్ర - కంచు యుగం)

• Period: c. 5,000 - 2,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Usage of Metals (`లోహాలు`) began.
• First metal used by humans: Copper (`రాగి లోహం`).
• Bronze (కంచు) is made by mixing Copper (రాగి) and Tin (తగరం).

Iron Age (ఇనుప యుగం)

• Primitive man discovered Iron (`ఇనుము`) and used it for livelihood needs.
• Iron tools were used for Agriculture (`వ్యవసాయానికి`).
• Led to the development of the Iron Industry (`ఇనుప పరిశ్రమ`).
• Special furnaces (ప్రత్యేక బట్టీలు) were built to melt iron.
• Iron Age Names: Also called Ayō Yugam, Brihat Shila Yugam, Brihat Samādhula Sanskr̥ti, Rākṣasa Guḷḷa Yugam.
• Burials: Large tombs (రాక్షస గుళ్లు) were constructed for the dead during this period. (Called Rakshasa Gullu because they were huge and imposing, attributed to demons by later people).
• This age is studied mainly through these megalithic burials.

Types of Megalithic Burials (రాక్షస గుళ్లు)

• Four types of megalithic burials found:
  1. Menhir (`మెన్ హిర్`): A large stone pillar erected in memory of the deceased. (Found in Valigonda, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri Dist).
  2. Cist (`చిస్ట్`): A stone coffin where the body is placed, put into a pit, and surrounded by stone circles. (Found across Telangana, except Adilabad Dist).
  3. Dolmen (`డాల్మన్`): A stone coffin placed *on* the ground surface (not buried in a pit), and surrounded by stone circles.
  4. Sarcophagus (`సార్కోఫాగస్`) / Terracotta Coffin (`మట్టి శవపేటిక`): A clay coffin, sometimes shaped like an elephant. (Found in Yeleswaram, Nalgonda Dist).
• Special Find: At Nagarjunakonda, a tomb contained the remains of a woman with a man laid upon her. This type of burial is unique in the world.

Iron Age Sites in Telangana

• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram, Nagarjunakonda, Narkatpalli, Devarakonda
• Hyderabad Dist: Balanagar, Begumpet
• Nizamabad Dist: Dornakal
• Other sites mentioned previously also contain Iron Age evidence.

Discoveries at Key Sites (Continued)

• Peddabankur (Peddapalli Dist, on Husenimiya Vagu):
  • Satavahana period: Three brick forts (మూడు ఇటుక కోటలు) found.
  • 22 brick wells (22 చేదబావులు) found.
  • Iron tools: Axes, nails, knives, sickles, chisels, beads, bangles, terracotta figurines discovered.
  • Coins: Satavahana coins and Vidanka coins (punch-marked coins from Mauryan period) found.
  • Roman Coins: Coins of Roman Emperors Augustus Caesar and Tiberius found.
• Dhulikatta (Peddapalli Dist, on Husenimiya Vagu):
  • Satavahana period Buddhist Stupa discovered by V.V. Krishna Sastry.
  • Stupa surrounded by stone slabs with Brahmi script inscriptions.
  • Dhulikota (mud fort) is also pronounced as Dhulikatta.
  • Inside the fort: Royal palaces, wells, granaries, iron weapons, terracotta figures, elephant tusk combs, clay pots found.
  • Coins: Mauryan period Vidanka coins found.

Conclusion

• This covers the Prehistoric, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and Iron Ages in Telangana, highlighting key researchers, sites, tools, practices, and findings.

Ancient Telangana History - Part 2 Notes (Revised)

తెలంగాణ చరిత్ర: ప్రాచీన చరిత్ర (Archaeological Researchers & Periods)

Lecture by: Koppu Naresh (Subject Expert, T-SAT)

Recap & Introduction to Researchers

• Previous video discussed Ancient Telangana history introduction and the origin of the name "Telangana".
• This section focuses on Archaeological Researchers (పురావస్తు శాస్త్రవేత్తలు) who conducted excavations (తవ్వకాలు) in Telangana.
• Exam questions often arise based on these researchers and their findings.

Key Archaeological Researchers in Telangana

• Robert Bruce Foote:
  • Considered a Geologist (భూగర్భ శాస్త్రవేత్త).
  • Conducted extensive research in Telangana.
  • Discovered Megalithic burials (బృహత్ శిలాయుగ సమాధులు/అవశేషాలు) in Valigonda (Yadadri Bhuvanagiri Dist) around the mid-19th Century.
  • Laid the foundation (పునాది వేశారు) for prehistoric studies in the region.
• Meadows Taylor:
  • Researched Megalithic Age (బృహత్ శిలాయుగ) remains.
  • Key site: Narkatpalli (Nalgonda Dist).
  • Megalithic Age is equated with the Iron Age (ఇనుప యుగం), around 1000 BCE.
  • Iron (ఇనుము) was the last metal used by humans.
  • Iron Age burial practices: Gave importance to constructing tombs (సమాధుల నిర్మాణం), placing food, belongings, and tools inside.
• William King & Wake Field:
  • Conducted research in Khammam and Warangal districts.
  • Helped bring ancient history to light.
• Doria Bell & Walker:
  • Researched at Hasmathpet (Hyderabad Dist).
• Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf:
  • Appointed by Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan to study tribal issues (తెగల గురించి అధ్యయనం).
  • Authored the book "Tribal Hyderabad", detailing tribal life, issues, lifestyle, etc.
  • Conducted research in Adilabad district.
  • Discovered remains of the Paleolithic Age (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగ అవశేషాలు).
• F.R.V. Allchin & P. Srinivas:
  • Excavated at Utnoor (ఉట్నూరు) / Uttanur (ఉత్తనూరు). (Located in Jogulamba Gadwal Dist, Aija Mandal)
  • Found Ash Mounds (`బూడిద బాడులు`).
  • Associated with the Neolithic Age (`నవీన శిలాయుగం`). (Ash mounds resulted from burning cattle dung.)
  • Initially researched in Raichur (Karnataka), then came to Utnoor.
• Coggin Brown: (Likely transcription of 'Kagglis Brown' mentioned)
  • Researched in the Bhadrachalam area (Bhadradri Kothagudem Dist).
  • Found 35 types of Paleolithic tools (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగ పనిముట్లు) within a small 50-yard area.
• V.V. Krishna Sastry:
  • Excavated at Kolhapur (Nagarkurnool Dist).
  • A significant Telangana native archaeologist, served as Director of the Dept. of Archaeology.
  • Also excavated at Keesaragutta (finding Vishnukundina capital evidence) and Dhulikatta (Satavahana Buddhist stupa).
• B.R. Subrahmanyam:
  • Excavated at Nagarjunakonda and Yeleswaram.
  • Found remains from the Prehistoric Age (పూర్వయుగం) up to the Historic Age.
  • Nagarjunakonda & Yeleswaram show continuous human settlement from Paleolithic to Historic periods (పాతరాతి యుగ తొలిదశ నుంచి చారిత్రక యుగం వరకు అవిచ్ఛిన్నంగా కొనసాగింది).
  • This civilization continued even after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization (సింధూ నాగరికత పతనం తర్వాత కూడా కొనసాగింది).
• Professor Yazdani:
  • Conducted research near Raigiri Railway Station (Nalgonda Dist).
• S.S. Rao:
  • In 1966, researched Stone Age remains in the Musi River Valley (Nalgonda Dist).

Division of Historical Periods (చారిత్రక పూర్వయుగ విభజన)

• Based on the quality (నాణ్యత) of hand tools (చేతి పనిముట్లు), historians divided South Indian history (relevant to Telangana prehistory):
1. Prachina Shila Yugam (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగం) - Paleolithic / Old Stone Age
2. Madhya Shila Yugam (మధ్య శిలాయుగం) - Mesolithic / Middle Stone Age
3. Naveena Shila Yugam (నవీన శిలాయుగం) - Neolithic / New Stone Age
4. Kanchu Yugam (కంచు యుగం) - Bronze Age (Often part of Chalcolithic/overlaps)
5. Inupa Yugam (ఇనుప యుగం) / Ayō Yugam (అయో యుగం) - Iron Age
   • Also called Brihat Shila Yugam (బృహత్ శిలాయుగం) - Megalithic Age
   • Also known as Brihat Samādhula Sanskr̥ti (బృహత్ సమాధుల సంస్కృతి) - Megalithic Tomb Culture
   • Also called Rākṣasa Guḷḷa Yugam (రాక్షస గుళ్ల యుగం) - Age of Demon Tombs (Local term)

Paleolithic Age (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగము)

• Early humans (ఆనాటి మానవుడు) used chipped stones (రాళ్లను చీల్చి) to make tools like stone axes (రాతి గొడ్డళ్లు).
• Materials used: Quartzite (స్పటికము), Corundum (కురువిందం), and other stones.
• Tools made: Knives (కత్తులు), Spears/Javelins (బొరిగెలు), Sickles/Choppers (కొడవళ్లు), Arrows (బాణాలు).
• Lifestyle: Lived by hunting animals (జంతువులను వేటాడి) and fishing (చేపలను వేటాడి).
• First food consumed by humans: Animal flesh (జంతు మాంసము), Fish (చేపలు).

Paleolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Asifabad, Basara, Both, Godavari Valley
• Haliya, Yeleswaram
• Dindi, Vijaaraabaadu (Vikarabad?)
• Budagundaala, Chandragupta Patnam, Mankal
• Kudali Sangameswaram, Godavarikhani, Ramagundam, Peddapalli
• Palvancha, Cherla, Pokkela (Pakhal?) and other areas.

Mesolithic Age (మధ్య శిలాయుగము)

• Period: c. 50,000 - 25,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Also called Sūkṣmarāti Yugam (సూక్ష్మరాతి యుగం) - Microlithic Age.
• Reason: Tools used were very small (చాలా చిన్నవి), ranging from 1 cm to 8 cm.
• Materials: Flint (చెక్ ముకి రాయి), Quartzite (స్పటికం), Corundum (కురువిందం) and other precious stones.
• Tools made: Small tools (చిన్న పనిముట్లు) like knives (కత్తులు), spears (బొరిగెలు), scrapers (గీకుడు రాళ్లు), arrows (బాణములు).
• Bows and arrows (`విల్లంబులు`) were used. Arrowheads (`బాణపు మొనలు`) first appeared in this age.

Mesolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Adilabad Dist: Both
• Komaram Bheem Asifabad Dist: Asifabad
• Karimnagar Dist: Alabaka
• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram, Meenanpalli (?), Rayavaram

Later Prehistoric Developments

• End of Mesolithic Age: Evidence of making pots by hand (చేతితో కుండలు తయారు చేసుకున్న జాడలు).
• Practice of burying the dead (`మృత దేహాలను భూస్థాపితం చేసే ఆచారం`) also began. (Focus on health/hygiene - preventing decomposition smell and related issues).

Neolithic Age (నవీన శిలాయుగము)

• Period: c. 25,000 - 5,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Key Developments:
  • Settled life (`స్థిర నివాసము`) established.
  • Agriculture (`వ్యవసాయం`) started. Reason: Need to stay near crops for protection from animals and regular watering.
  • Animal Husbandry (`పశుపోషణ`) practiced (Cow, Ox, Goat, Sheep, Dog etc.).
  • Pottery making (`కుండలు తయారు చేయడం`) learned, both by hand and using the potter's wheel (చక్రం).
• Worship:
  • Worship of Natural Forces (`ప్రకృతి శక్తులను పూజించడం`) began.
  • Linga Puja (`లింగపూజ`) and Pashupati (`పశుపతి`) worship practiced.
  • Mother Goddess (`శ్రీ శక్తి పూజ`) worship also started in this period.
• Burials:
  • Evidence of burial jars (`శవాలు గల జాడీలు`) and various tombs found in Nagarjunakonda and Yeleswaram.

Neolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Jogulamba Gadwal Dist: Utnoor (Uttanur) (in Aija mandal)
• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram
• Bhuvanagiri Dist: Bhuvanagiri
• Peddapalli Dist: Devarapalli, Kolakonda, Peddabankur, Palakonda, Kadambapur
• Siddipet Dist: Budigapalli
• Hyderabad Dist: Golconda, Moula Ali

Neolithic Tools & Crops

• Tools: Axe (గొడ్డలి), double-edged knife/chisel (రెండు వైపుల పదునున్న ఉలి), hammer (సుత్తి), spear (బొరిగె), ploughshare (నాగటి కర్రు).
• The ploughshare (నాగటి కర్రు) was used to plough the land (భూమిని దున్నారు).
• Ploughshares (ఇట్టి కర్రులు) were found in the Nagarjunakonda valley.
• Crops Cultivated: Evidence suggests cultivation of Ragi (`రాగులు`), Pesalu (`పెసలు`), Uluvalu (`ఉలవలు`) during this age.

Chalcolithic / Bronze Age (తామ్ర - కంచు యుగం)

• Period: c. 5,000 - 2,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Usage of Metals (`లోహాలు`) began.
• First metal used by humans: Copper (`రాగి లోహం`).
• Bronze (కంచు) is made by mixing Copper (రాగి) and Tin (తగరం).

Iron Age (ఇనుప యుగం)

• Primitive man discovered Iron (`ఇనుము`) and used it for livelihood needs.
• Iron tools were used for Agriculture (`వ్యవసాయానికి`).
• Led to the development of the Iron Industry (`ఇనుప పరిశ్రమ`).
• Special furnaces (ప్రత్యేక బట్టీలు) were built to melt iron.
• Iron Age Names: Also called Ayō Yugam, Brihat Shila Yugam, Brihat Samādhula Sanskr̥ti, Rākṣasa Guḷḷa Yugam.
• Burials: Large tombs (రాక్షస గుళ్లు) were constructed for the dead during this period. (Called Rakshasa Gullu because they were huge and imposing, attributed to demons by later people).
• This age is studied mainly through these megalithic burials.

Types of Megalithic Burials (రాక్షస గుళ్లు)

• Four types of megalithic burials found:
  1. Menhir (`మెన్ హిర్`): A large stone pillar erected in memory of the deceased. (Found in Valigonda, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri Dist).
  2. Cist (`చిస్ట్`): A stone coffin where the body is placed, put into a pit, and surrounded by stone circles. (Found across Telangana, except Adilabad Dist).
  3. Dolmen (`డాల్మన్`): A stone coffin placed *on* the ground surface (not buried in a pit), and surrounded by stone circles.
  4. Sarcophagus (`సార్కోఫాగస్`) / Terracotta Coffin (`మట్టి శవపేటిక`): A clay coffin, sometimes shaped like an elephant. (Found in Yeleswaram, Nalgonda Dist).
• Special Find: At Nagarjunakonda, a tomb contained the remains of a woman with a man laid upon her. This type of burial is unique in the world.

Iron Age Sites in Telangana

• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram, Nagarjunakonda, Narkatpalli, Devarakonda
• Hyderabad Dist: Balanagar, Begumpet
• Nizamabad Dist: Dornakal
• Other sites mentioned previously also contain Iron Age evidence.

Discoveries at Key Sites (Continued)

• Peddabankur (Peddapalli Dist, on Husenimiya Vagu):
  • Satavahana period: Three brick forts (మూడు ఇటుక కోటలు) found.
  • 22 brick wells (22 చేదబావులు) found.
  • Iron tools: Axes, nails, knives, sickles, chisels, beads, bangles, terracotta figurines discovered.
  • Coins: Satavahana coins and Vidanka coins (punch-marked coins from Mauryan period) found.
  • Roman Coins: Coins of Roman Emperors Augustus Caesar and Tiberius found.
• Dhulikatta (Peddapalli Dist, on Husenimiya Vagu):
  • Satavahana period Buddhist Stupa discovered by V.V. Krishna Sastry.
  • Stupa surrounded by stone slabs with Brahmi script inscriptions.
  • Dhulikota (mud fort) is also pronounced as Dhulikatta.
  • Inside the fort: Royal palaces, wells, granaries, iron weapons, terracotta figures, elephant tusk combs, clay pots found.
  • Coins: Mauryan period Vidanka coins found.

Conclusion

• This covers the Prehistoric, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and Iron Ages in Telangana, highlighting key researchers, sites, tools, practices, and findings.

Ancient Telangana History - Part 2 Notes

తెలంగాణ చరిత్ర: ప్రాచీన చరిత్ర (Archaeological Researchers & Periods)

Lecture by: Koppu Naresh (Subject Expert, T-SAT)

Recap & Introduction to Researchers

• Previous video discussed Ancient Telangana history introduction and the origin of the name "Telangana".
• This section focuses on Archaeological Researchers (పురావస్తు శాస్త్రవేత్తలు) who conducted excavations (తవ్వకాలు) in Telangana.
• Exam questions often arise based on these researchers and their findings.

Key Archaeological Researchers in Telangana

• Robert Bruce Foote:
  • Considered a Geologist (భూగర్భ శాస్త్రవేత్త).
  • Conducted extensive research in Telangana.
  • Discovered Megalithic burials (బృహత్ శిలాయుగ సమాధులు/అవశేషాలు) in Valigonda (Yadadri Bhuvanagiri Dist) around the mid-19th Century.
  • Laid the foundation (పునాది వేశారు) for prehistoric studies in the region.
• Meadows Taylor:
  • Researched Megalithic Age (బృహత్ శిలాయుగ) remains.
  • Key site: Narkatpalli (Nalgonda Dist).
  • Megalithic Age is equated with the Iron Age (ఇనుప యుగం), around 1000 BCE.
  • Iron (ఇనుము) was the last metal used by humans.
  • Iron Age burial practices: Gave importance to constructing tombs (సమాధుల నిర్మాణం), placing food, belongings, and tools inside.
• William King & Wake Field:
  • Conducted research in Khammam and Warangal districts.
  • Helped bring ancient history to light.
• Doria Bell & Walker:
  • Researched at Hasmathpet (Hyderabad Dist).
• Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf:
  • Appointed by Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan to study tribal issues (తెగల గురించి అధ్యయనం).
  • Authored the book "Tribal Hyderabad", detailing tribal life, issues, lifestyle, etc.
  • Conducted research in Adilabad district.
  • Discovered remains of the Paleolithic Age (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగ అవశేషాలు).
• F.R.V. Allchin & P. Srinivas:
  • Excavated at Utnoor (ఉట్నూరు) / Uttanur (ఉత్తనూరు). (Located in Jogulamba Gadwal Dist, Aija Mandal)
  • Found Ash Mounds (`బూడిద బాడులు`).
  • Associated with the Neolithic Age (`నవీన శిలాయుగం`). (Ash mounds resulted from burning cattle dung.)
  • Initially researched in Raichur (Karnataka), then came to Utnoor.
• Coggin Brown: (Likely transcription of 'Kagglis Brown' mentioned)
  • Researched in the Bhadrachalam area (Bhadradri Kothagudem Dist).
  • Found 35 types of Paleolithic tools (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగ పనిముట్లు) within a small 50-yard area.
• V.V. Krishna Sastry:
  • Excavated at Kolhapur (Nagarkurnool Dist).
  • A significant Telangana native archaeologist, served as Director of the Dept. of Archaeology.
  • Also excavated at Keesaragutta (finding Vishnukundina capital evidence) and Dhulikatta (Satavahana Buddhist stupa).
• B.R. Subrahmanyam:
  • Excavated at Nagarjunakonda and Yeleswaram.
  • Found remains from the Prehistoric Age (పూర్వయుగం) up to the Historic Age.
  • Nagarjunakonda & Yeleswaram show continuous human settlement from Paleolithic to Historic periods (పాతరాతి యుగ తొలిదశ నుంచి చారిత్రక యుగం వరకు అవిచ్ఛిన్నంగా కొనసాగింది).
  • This civilization continued even after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization (సింధూ నాగరికత పతనం తర్వాత కూడా కొనసాగింది).
• Professor Yazdani:
  • Conducted research near Raigiri Railway Station (Nalgonda Dist).
• S.S. Rao:
  • In 1966, researched Stone Age remains in the Musi River Valley (Nalgonda Dist).

Division of Historical Periods (చారిత్రక పూర్వయుగ విభజన)

• Based on the quality (నాణ్యత) of hand tools (చేతి పనిముట్లు), historians divided South Indian history (relevant to Telangana prehistory):
1. Prachina Shila Yugam (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగం) - Paleolithic / Old Stone Age
2. Madhya Shila Yugam (మధ్య శిలాయుగం) - Mesolithic / Middle Stone Age
3. Naveena Shila Yugam (నవీన శిలాయుగం) - Neolithic / New Stone Age
4. Kanchu Yugam (కంచు యుగం) - Bronze Age (Often part of Chalcolithic/overlaps)
5. Inupa Yugam (ఇనుప యుగం) / Ayō Yugam (అయో యుగం) - Iron Age
   • Also called Brihat Shila Yugam (బృహత్ శిలాయుగం) - Megalithic Age
   • Also known as Brihat Samādhula Sanskr̥ti (బృహత్ సమాధుల సంస్కృతి) - Megalithic Tomb Culture
   • Also called Rākṣasa Guḷḷa Yugam (రాక్షస గుళ్ల యుగం) - Age of Demon Tombs (Local term)

Paleolithic Age (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగము)

• Early humans (ఆనాటి మానవుడు) used chipped stones (రాళ్లను చీల్చి) to make tools like stone axes (రాతి గొడ్డళ్లు).
• Materials used: Quartzite (స్పటికము), Corundum (కురువిందం), and other stones.
• Tools made: Knives (కత్తులు), Spears/Javelins (బొరిగెలు), Sickles/Choppers (కొడవళ్లు), Arrows (బాణాలు).
• Lifestyle: Lived by hunting animals (జంతువులను వేటాడి) and fishing (చేపలను వేటాడి).
• First food consumed by humans: Animal flesh (జంతు మాంసము), Fish (చేపలు).

Paleolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Asifabad, Basara, Both, Godavari Valley
• Haliya, Yeleswaram
• Dindi, Vijaaraabaadu (Vikarabad?)
• Budagundaala, Chandragupta Patnam, Mankal
• Kudali Sangameswaram, Godavarikhani, Ramagundam, Peddapalli
• Palvancha, Cherla, Pokkela (Pakhal?) and other areas.

Mesolithic Age (మధ్య శిలాయుగము)

• Period: c. 50,000 - 25,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Also called Sūkṣmarāti Yugam (సూక్ష్మరాతి యుగం) - Microlithic Age.
• Reason: Tools used were very small (చాలా చిన్నవి), ranging from 1 cm to 8 cm.
• Materials: Flint (చెక్ ముకి రాయి), Quartzite (స్పటికం), Corundum (కురువిందం) and other precious stones.
• Tools made: Small tools (చిన్న పనిముట్లు) like knives (కత్తులు), spears (బొరిగెలు), scrapers (గీకుడు రాళ్లు), arrows (బాణములు).
• Bows and arrows (`విల్లంబులు`) were used. Arrowheads (`బాణపు మొనలు`) first appeared in this age.

Mesolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Adilabad Dist: Both
• Komaram Bheem Asifabad Dist: Asifabad
• Karimnagar Dist: Alabaka
• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram, Meenanpalli (?), Rayavaram

Later Prehistoric Developments

• End of Mesolithic Age: Evidence of making pots by hand (చేతితో కుండలు తయారు చేసుకున్న జాడలు).
• Practice of burying the dead (`మృత దేహాలను భూస్థాపితం చేసే ఆచారం`) also began. (Focus on health/hygiene - preventing decomposition smell and related issues).

Neolithic Age (నవీన శిలాయుగము)

• Period: c. 25,000 - 5,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Key Developments:
  • Settled life (`స్థిర నివాసము`) established.
  • Agriculture (`వ్యవసాయం`) started. Reason: Need to stay near crops for protection from animals and regular watering.
  • Animal Husbandry (`పశుపోషణ`) practiced (Cow, Ox, Goat, Sheep, Dog etc.).
  • Pottery making (`కుండలు తయారు చేయడం`) learned, both by hand and using the potter's wheel (చక్రం).
• Worship:
  • Worship of Natural Forces (`ప్రకృతి శక్తులను పూజించడం`) began.
  • Linga Puja (`లింగపూజ`) and Pashupati (`పశుపతి`) worship practiced.
  • Mother Goddess (`శ్రీ శక్తి పూజ`) worship also started in this period.
• Burials:
  • Evidence of burial jars (`శవాలు గల జాడీలు`) and various tombs found in Nagarjunakonda and Yeleswaram.

Neolithic Sites Found in Telangana

• Jogulamba Gadwal Dist: Utnoor (Uttanur) (in Aija mandal)
• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram
• Bhuvanagiri Dist: Bhuvanagiri
• Peddapalli Dist: Devarapalli, Kolakonda, Peddabankur, Palakonda, Kadambapur
• Siddipet Dist: Budigapalli
• Hyderabad Dist: Golconda, Moula Ali

Neolithic Tools & Crops

• Tools: Axe (గొడ్డలి), double-edged knife/chisel (రెండు వైపుల పదునున్న ఉలి), hammer (సుత్తి), spear (బొరిగె), ploughshare (నాగటి కర్రు).
• The ploughshare (నాగటి కర్రు) was used to plough the land (భూమిని దున్నారు).
• Ploughshares (ఇట్టి కర్రులు) were found in the Nagarjunakonda valley.
• Crops Cultivated: Evidence suggests cultivation of Ragi (`రాగులు`), Pesalu (`పెసలు`), Uluvalu (`ఉలవలు`) during this age.

Chalcolithic / Bronze Age (తామ్ర - కంచు యుగం)

• Period: c. 5,000 - 2,000 BCE (Approximate timeframe mentioned for Telangana).
• Usage of Metals (`లోహాలు`) began.
• First metal used by humans: Copper (`రాగి లోహం`).
• Bronze (కంచు) is made by mixing Copper (రాగి) and Tin (తగరం).

Iron Age (ఇనుప యుగం)

• Primitive man discovered Iron (`ఇనుము`) and used it for livelihood needs.
• Iron tools were used for Agriculture (`వ్యవసాయానికి`).
• Led to the development of the Iron Industry (`ఇనుప పరిశ్రమ`).
• Special furnaces (ప్రత్యేక బట్టీలు) were built to melt iron.
• Iron Age Names: Also called Ayō Yugam, Brihat Shila Yugam, Brihat Samādhula Sanskr̥ti, Rākṣasa Guḷḷa Yugam.
• Burials: Large tombs (రాక్షస గుళ్లు) were constructed for the dead during this period. (Called Rakshasa Gullu because they were huge and imposing, attributed to demons by later people).
• This age is studied mainly through these megalithic burials.

Types of Megalithic Burials (రాక్షస గుళ్లు)

• Four types of megalithic burials found:
  1. Menhir (`మెన్ హిర్`): A large stone pillar erected in memory of the deceased. (Found in Valigonda, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri Dist).
  2. Cist (`చిస్ట్`): A stone coffin where the body is placed, put into a pit, and surrounded by stone circles. (Found across Telangana, except Adilabad Dist).
  3. Dolmen (`డాల్మన్`): A stone coffin placed *on* the ground surface (not buried in a pit), and surrounded by stone circles.
  4. Sarcophagus (`సార్కోఫాగస్`) / Terracotta Coffin (`మట్టి శవపేటిక`): A clay coffin, sometimes shaped like an elephant. (Found in Yeleswaram, Nalgonda Dist).
• Special Find: At Nagarjunakonda, a tomb contained the remains of a woman with a man laid upon her. This type of burial is unique in the world.

Iron Age Sites in Telangana

• Nalgonda Dist: Yeleswaram, Nagarjunakonda, Narkatpalli, Devarakonda
• Hyderabad Dist: Balanagar, Begumpet
• Nizamabad Dist: Dornakal
• Other sites mentioned previously also contain Iron Age evidence.

Discoveries at Key Sites (Continued)

• Peddabankur (Peddapalli Dist, on Husenimiya Vagu):
  • Satavahana period: Three brick forts (మూడు ఇటుక కోటలు) found.
  • 22 brick wells (22 చేదబావులు) found.
  • Iron tools: Axes, nails, knives, sickles, chisels, beads, bangles, terracotta figurines discovered.
  • Coins: Satavahana coins and Vidanka coins (punch-marked coins from Mauryan period) found.
  • Roman Coins: Coins of Roman Emperors Augustus Caesar and Tiberius found.
• Dhulikatta (Peddapalli Dist, on Husenimiya Vagu):
  • Satavahana period Buddhist Stupa discovered by V.V. Krishna Sastry.
  • Stupa surrounded by stone slabs with Brahmi script inscriptions.
  • Dhulikota (mud fort) is also pronounced as Dhulikatta.
  • Inside the fort: Royal palaces, wells, granaries, iron weapons, terracotta figures, elephant tusk combs, clay pots found.
  • Coins: Mauryan period Vidanka coins found.

Conclusion

• This covers the Prehistoric, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and Iron Ages in Telangana, highlighting key researchers, sites, tools, practices, and findings.

Ancient Telangana History Lecture Notes

తెలంగాణ చరిత్ర: పరిచయం - ప్రాచీన చరిత్ర

Lecture by: Koppu Naresh (Subject Expert, T-SAT)

Introduction: Significance of Telangana History

• Telangana is one of the most ancient regions in India (భారతదేశంలో అత్యంత పురాతనమైన ప్రాంతాల్లో ఒకటి).
• Common misconception: Telangana history starts only from the Satavahanas.
• Reality: Telangana's history is much older, predating the Satavahanas.
• Evidence suggests early human settlements (మొదట తెలుగు ప్రాంతాల్లో తెలంగాణ ప్రాంతంలోనే జీవించడం).

Pre-Satavahana Telangana: The Mahajanapada Period

• Telangana history significantly predates the Satavahanas (శాతవాహనుల కంటే ముందే మన చరిత్ర ప్రారంభం).
• Telangana flourished even during the 6th Century BCE, the era of the Shodasha Mahajanapadas (16 Great Republics/Kingdoms).
• The Assaka (or Asmaka) Mahajanapada was located in the present-day Telangana region.
• Its capital was Potana (పోతన), which is identified with modern Bodhan (బోధన్) in Nizamabad district.
• Bodhan was also known later as Paudhanyapuramu (పౌధన్యాపురము).

Rulers and Religions in Assaka/Bodhan

• According to Jain texts:
  • Rishabhanatha (considered emperor of Bharatavarsha) divided his kingdom among his sons.
  • His son Bahubali (బాహుబలి) ruled from Potana/Bodhan.
  • Bahubali is also known as Gomateshwara (గోమటేశ్వర).
  • Many Bahubali idols were found in the Bodhan forests, although smaller than the famous 57-ft statue at Sravanabelagola (erected by Chavundaraya, who was inspired by Bodhan idols).
• According to Buddhist texts:
  • The ruler of Assaka was Sujata (సుజాతుడు).
  • Sujata was a contemporary of Gautama Buddha.
  • The Buddhist monk Bavari lived on the banks of the Godavari river and sent his disciples to Buddha. Mentioned in Sutta Nipata.
• Both Buddhism and Jainism gained prominence in this region during the 6th Century BCE. Historical evidence from excavations confirms this.

Archaeological Evidence from Key Sites

• Excavations provide proof of early historical settlements. Key sites mentioned:
• Dhulikatta (ధూళికట్ట): Peddapalli district (Old Karimnagar).
• Phanigiri (ఫణిగిరి) & Gajulabanda (గాజులబండ): Suryapet district (Old Nalgonda).
• Kondapur (కొండాపూర్): Sangareddy district (Old Medak).
• Nelakondapalli (నేలకొండపల్లి): Khammam district.
• These sites indicate the presence of developed Buddhist centers (ప్రముఖ బౌద్ధ స్థలాలు).

Kotilingala (కోటి లింగాల)

• Located 38 km northeast of Jagtial, in Velgatoor Mandal, on the right bank of the Godavari river.
• Excavations conducted by the Department of Archaeology from 1979 to 1987.
• Revealed many new aspects of early history.
• Pre-Satavahana mud fort (మట్టి కోట) found here.
• Evidence of local rulers before Satavahanas: Gobhada (గోబద), Kamvaya (కంవాయ), Narana (నరణ), Samagopa (సమగోప). Their coins were discovered in layers below Satavahana levels.
• Significance: Confirms local rule before Satavahana dominance.
• Dr. P.V. Parabrahma Sastry, Dr. N.S. Ramachandra Murthy, Dr. Deme Raja Reddy, Dr. Y. Jithendar Reddy researched these coins.
• Dr. Raja Reddy's theory: Simukha (శ్రీముఖుడు), the Satavahana founder, initially served under Samagopa, later became independent, started rule from Kotilingala, and then expanded north towards Paithan.
• Kotilingala is considered the first capital of the Satavahanas (శాతవాహన రాజ్య తొలి రాజధాని కోటిలింగాల).
• Origin of name: A Linga was installed on a bastion (బురుజు) of the fort and worshipped as Koteswara Swamy, leading to the name Kotilingala.
• Mentioned by Megasthenes in his Indica as one of the 30 walled cities of the Andhras.
• The mud fort (మట్టి గోడ) dimensions: 1000 meters length, 300 meters width, 10 meters height.
• Maharathi (మహారధి) and Mahatalavara (మహాతలవర) coins found at Kondapur, Hyderabad, and Kotilingala.
• Coins of Sivamahahasthin (శివమహాహస్తిన్) and Sivaskandhahasthin (శివస్కంధహస్తిన్) found at Veerapuram.

Origin of the Name "Telangana" (తెలంగాణ పద ఉత్పత్తి)

• Trilinga Desam (త్రిలింగ దేశం):
  • Mentioned in Skanda Purana.
  • Region between three major Shaivite shrines: Srisailam, Draksharamam, and Kaleshwaram.
  • This region was named Trilinga Desam.
• Early Literary References:
  • Early centuries CE - Primary literary works Markandeya Purana and Vayu Purana mention Tilinga (తిలింగ) and Telinga (తెలింగ). (Prakrit/Sanskrit terms).
  • Nannaya (11th Century) in Adi Parvam of Mahabharata mentions the Telinga (తెలింగ) region.
  • Hemadri (Yadava minister) in his work Vratakhandamu (వ్రతఖండం) described Kakatiya Rudradeva as Trilingadhipati (త్రిలింగాధిపతి) and Andhra Maharagna (ఆంధ్ర మహారాజ్ఞ).
  • Vidyanaatha (court poet of Prataparudra II) mentioned Trilinga Desam in his work Prataparudra Yashobhushanam.
• Evolution of the term:
  • Tilinga / Telinga -> Possibly evolved into Telugu.
  • The people were called Telingulu / Tailangulu (తెలుంగులు/తైలంగులు).
  • Telangana means "Land of the Telugu speaking people" (తెలుగు వారు ఉండే దేశం). It's an ancient word (ప్రాచీన పదం).
  • In inscriptions (శాసనాలు), the term Tilingamu (తిలింగము) is found.
  • Muslim historians used the term Tiling (తిలింగ్).
  • 12th Century Kurkyala Shasanam also mentions the word Telunga (తెలుంగ).
  • 14th Century Srirangam Tamra Shasanam (copper plate inscription) mentions the borders of Trilinga Desam.
  • After Kakatiya fall, Muslim historians popularized the term Telangana (తెలంగాణ). They brought it into circulation.
  • Abul Fazl (Mughal court poet) mentioned Telangana.
  • Prolaya Nayaka's Vilasa Tamra Shasanam has references to Telangana.
  • Srikrishnadevaraya's inscriptions (Chinnakanji, Tirumala) also mention Telangana forts during his campaigns.
  • Anurvali (commander of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq) invaded Telangana, then Coastal Andhra. In his inscriptions in Rajamahendravaram (Rajahmundry) mosque, he used the term Telangana for the conquered region.
  • Medak district, Tellapur inscription (1417 CE) uses the term 'Telungana' (తెలుంగాణ).
  • Under Asaf Jahi rule, when Coastal Andhra went under British control, it was called Andhra.
  • The Telugu regions under Nizam's rule (నిజాం పాలనలోని తెలుగు ప్రాంతాలు) became firmly known as Telangana.

Telangana Historical Periods Overview

• Historians divide human history into two broad periods:
  1. Purva-Charitraka Yugam (పూర్వ-చారిత్రక యుగం): Prehistoric Age - Before the invention/use of script (లిపి నేర్చుకోక ముందున్న యుగం).
  2. Charitraka Yugam (చారిత్రక యుగం): Historic Age - After the invention/use of script (లిపి నేర్చుకున్న తర్వాత). Characterized by written records (లిఖిత ఆధారాలు).
• Telangana Prehistoric history is known through Archaeological research (పురావస్తు పరిశోధనల ద్వారా).
• Human habitation in Nalgonda (Nagarjunakonda, Yeleswaram) shows continuous settlement from the Paleolithic (Old Stone Age) to the Historic period (పాతరాతి యుగ తొలిదశ నుంచి చారిత్రక యుగం వరకు అవిచ్ఛిన్నంగా కొనసాగింది).
• This civilization's continuity even after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization (సింధూ నాగరికత పతనం తర్వాత కూడా కొనసాగింది).

Key Archaeological Researchers in Telangana

• Archaeological research in India formally began around 1801.
• Robert Bruce Foote (Geologist): Pioneer researcher, discovered Brihat Shila Yuga Samadhulu (Megalithic burials) in Valigonda (Yadadri Bhuvanagiri Dist) in the mid-19th Century. Laid the foundation for prehistoric studies in Telangana.
• Meadows Taylor: Researched Brihat Shila Yuga (Megalithic) remains in Narkatpalli (Nalgonda Dist).
• William King & Wake Field: Researched in Khammam, Warangal districts.
• Doria Bell & Walker: Researched in Hasmathpet (Hyderabad Dist).
• Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf: Appointed by Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan to study tribal issues. Authored "Tribal Hyderabad". Conducted research in Adilabad district, finding remains of the Prachina Shila Yugam (Paleolithic Age).
• F.R.V. Allchin & P. Srinivas: Excavated at Utnoor (ఉట్నూరు) / Uttanur (ఉత్తనూరు) (Jogulamba Gadwal Dist, Aija Mandal). Found Ash Mounds (బూడిద బాడులు) related to the Naveena Shila Yugam (Neolithic Age).
• Kagglis Brown: Conducted research in Bhadrachalam area (Bhadradri Kothagudem Dist). Found 35 types of ancient stone tools (ప్రాచీన శిలాయుగ పనిముట్లు) in a 50-yard area.
• V.V. Krishna Sastry: Excavated at Kolhapur (Nagarkurnool Dist).
• B.R. Subrahmanyam: Excavated at Nagarjunakonda and Yeleswaram. Uncovered remains from the Prehistoric Age.
• Hyderabad State Department of Archaeology (founded 1953) published "Antiquarian Remains in Hyderabad State" listing 118 prehistoric sites as protected.
• S.S. Rao (1966): Researched Stone Age remains in the Musi River Valley (Nalgonda Dist).

Operation Polo Lecture Notes

ఆపరేషన్ పోలో (Operation Polo)

Lecture by: Bhooshan Govindula (Subject Expert, T-SAT)

Introduction

• Operation Polo is discussed as part of Modern Telangana History.
• Definition: It was the action (చర్య) undertaken to merge the Hyderabad State into the Indian Union.
• The lecture aims to explore the reasons, execution, and outcomes of this operation.

Timeline and Context

• The operation took place from September 13, 1948 (Monday) to September 17, 1948 (Friday).
• Primary Cause: Violations (ఉల్లంఘనలు) by the 7th Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan.
• Influence of Qasim Razvi (MIM President since 1946 from Latur) on the Nizam, promoting communalism.
• Violation of the Standstill Agreement (యదాస్థితి ఒప్పందం) by the Nizam.

Indian Government's Sanctions (ఆంక్షలు)

• Due to the Nizam's violations, the Indian government imposed several sanctions:
• Grounding of Deccan Airways flights over Indian territory.
• Restrictions on information and communication channels.
• Limitations on the transfer of Government Securities to Hyderabad.
• Prohibition on the export of gold and diamonds from Hyderabad State.
• The Nizam attempted to gain international support against India.
• Deccan Radio was used by the Nizam's administration to mislead the public.

Diplomatic Efforts & Counter Propaganda

• India appointed K.M. Munshi as its Agent-General in Hyderabad for diplomatic talks.
• The 7th Nizam rejected Munshi's diplomatic approaches, influenced by Qasim Razvi who favored confrontation.
• Bhagyanagar Radio was established in Hyderabad by Pagadala Pullareddy to counter Nizam's propaganda and promote integration with India.
• Equipment for Bhagyanagar Radio was supplied by Achyuta Patwardhan (linked to the Quit India Movement).
• Broadcasters: Ramakrishna Sarma (Telugu) and T. Nagappa (Urdu).
• Lawyers' Protest Committee was formed under the chairmanship of Vinayak Rao Vidyalankar in 1948 to oppose Nizam's actions.
• Muslim leader Baqar Ali Mirza appealed to the Nizam to join the Indian Union but was placed under house arrest.
• Qasim Razvi made provocative statements, like wanting to hoist the Asaf Jahi flag on the Red Fort in Delhi.

Military Action Decision & Planning

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel famously described Hyderabad State as an "ulcer" or "cancer" in the body of India that needed to be removed, indicating the need for integration.
• The formal decision for military action (Police Action) was taken on September 9, 1948.
• The military strategy was known as the "Operation Goddard Plan," devised by Lt. Gen. E. N. Goddard.
• Overall command was under Lt. Gen. Maharaj Rajendra Singhji.
• The army was divided into 4 Units (2 Major, 2 Minor groups) attacking from different directions.
• Commanders of the fronts:
  • Solapur: Maj. Gen. J. N. Chaudhuri
  • Vijayawada: Maj. Gen. A. A. Rudra
  • Berar (Hospet): Shivadatt Singh
  • Bombay: D. S. Brar
• Air force leadership: Air Vice Marshal Subroto Mukerjee.
• Air attacks were launched from the Pune Air Base.

Execution of Operation Polo

• The first area captured by the Indian Army was Naldurg in the Marathwada region, led by Lt. Col. Ram Singh.
• By September 14, 1948, areas like Daulatabad, Osmanabad, Aurangabad, Suryapet, Nirmal, Warangal, and Khammam were captured.
• On September 17, 1948, the Indian Air Force bombed Latur and Aurangabad, key Razakar centers.
• On September 17, 1948, evening (5 PM), the 7th Nizam met K.M. Munshi at Lake View Guest House and agreed to surrender.
• At 7 PM on September 17, 1948, the Nizam announced the surrender via Deccan Radio, stating Hyderabad would become an integral part of India (broadcast in the name of Governor-General Rajagopalachari).
• Key declarations during surrender: Nizam's government resigned, Indian troops permitted in Bolarum/Secunderabad cantonments.
• An interim administrative committee was formed including: Prince Azam Jah (Commander-in-Chief), El Edroos (Commander), Nawab Deen Yar Jung (Police Commissioner).
• On September 18, 1948, Hyderabad Army Commander El Edroos formally surrendered to Maj. Gen. J. N. Chaudhuri.
• On September 18, 1948, Qasim Razvi was arrested and jailed in Tirumalagiri Jail.
• On September 22, 1948, the Nizam withdrew his complaint against India from the United Nations (UNO).

Casualties and Losses

• Indian Army: 36 soldiers killed.
• Nizam's Army and Razakars: 807 killed.
• Indian Army: 97 soldiers injured.
• Nizam's Army and Razakars: Over 1000 injured.

Post-Operation Administration

• Military Governorship (September 18, 1948 - December 31, 1949): Led by Maj. Gen. J. N. Chaudhuri.
• An Executive Council was formed under him on September 24, 1948.
• Key Reforms under Military Rule:
  • February 6, 1949: Abolition of the Hali Sikka currency through a Farmana.
  • August 1949: Introduction of the Hyderabad State Jagirdar Abolition Regulation Act.
• Pandit Sundarlal Committee formed in October 1949 to investigate atrocities during military rule. Based on its report, Chaudhuri was removed.
• Civilian Administration (January 26, 1950 - March 1952): Headed by M. K. Vellodi (ICS Officer) as Chief Minister.
• On January 26, 1950, as per the Nizam-Bharat agreement, the Nizam was declared the Rajpramukh of Hyderabad State.
• Hyderabad state became a Part-B state in the Indian Union.
• Deccan Radio was taken over by All India Radio in April 1950 and fully merged in 1956.

Other Names and Interpretations

• Operation Polo is also known by other names:
• 1. ఆపరేషన్ పోలో (Operation Polo) - Official military name (possibly due to numerous polo grounds in Hyderabad used for planning/landing).
• 2. ఆపరేషన్ పోలీస్ యాక్షన్ (Operation Police Action) - Termed by Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) to downplay it as an internal security measure for the UN.
• 3. ఆపరేషన్ కాటర్ పిల్లర్ (Operation Caterpillar) - Referring to the slow, encircling movement of troops.
• 4. ఆపరేషన్ కబడ్డీ (Operation Kabaddi) - Likening the strategy to the game of Kabaddi where players encircle and capture.
• 5. ఆపరేషన్ ట్రూమాన్ డాక్యుమెంట్ (Operation Truman Doctrine Analogy) - Compared to the US action in Korea to contain communism (though this is more of an interpretation than an official name).
• September 17th observed differently:
  • Karnataka: Hyderabad-Karnataka Vibhajana Dinam (Liberation Day).
  • Maharashtra (Marathwada): Marathwada Sangram Mukti Divas (Liberation Struggle Day).
  • Communists: Vidroha Dinam (Betrayal/Rebellion Day).