PRG. 179.17 (N) 750
KARIMNAGAR
CENSUS OF INDIA 1961 VOLUME II
ANDHRA PRADESH
PART VII - B (17) F AIRS AND FESTIV
(17. Karimnagar District)
A. CHANDRA SEKHAR OF THE INDIAN ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE Superintendent of Census Operations, Andhra Pradesh
Price: Rs. 5.25 P. or 12 Sh. 3 d. or $ 1.89 c. 1961 CENSUS PUBLICATIONS, ANDHRA PRADESH
(All the Census Publications of this State bear Vol. No. II)
PART I-A (i) General Report (Chapters I to V) PART I-A (ii) General Report (Chapters VI to IX) PART I-A (iii) Gen'eral Report (Chapters eX to Xll)
PART I-B Report on Vital Statistics PART I-C Subsidiary Tables
PART II-A General Population Tables PART II-B (i) Economic Tables (B-1 to B-IV) PART II-B eii) Economic Tables (B-V to B-IX] PART II-C Cultural and Migration Tables
PART III Household Economic Tables
PART IV-A Report on Housing and Establishments (with Subsidiary Tables) PART IV-B Housing and Establishment Tables
PART V-A Special Tables for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes PART V-B Ethnographic Notes on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
PART VI Villag~ Survey Monographs (46) PART VII-A (1) l PART VlI-A (2) ~ ... Handicrafts Survey Reports (Selected Crafts) I PART VII-A (3) J PART VII-B (1 to 20) ... Fairs and Festivals (Separate Book for each District)
PART VIII-A Administration Report-Enumeration l }- (Not for sale) PART VIII-B Administration Report-Tabulation J
PART IX State Atlas
PART X Special Report on Hyderabad City
District Census Handbooks (Separate Volume for each District) I 1.
/
Plate I: Rajarajeswari Devi, Vemulavada, Sirsilla Taluk
-Courtesy : Commissioner, H.R. & C.E. (Admn .) Dept .• A . P ., Hyderabad.
FOREWORD Although since the beginning of history, foreign travellers and historians have recorded the principal marts and entrepots of commerce in India and have even mentioned important festivals and fairs and articles of special excellence available in them, no systematic regional inventory was attempted until the time of Dr. Francis Buchanan-Hamilton in the beginning of the nineteenth century. One of the tasks set before hiro by a resolution of the Governor-General-in-Council in 1807 was "to examine with as much alcuracy as local circumstances will admit": "an account of the various kinds and amount of goods manu factured in each district. .. the ability of the country to produce the Taw materials used in them ... how the necessary capital is procured, the situation of the artists and manufacturers, the mode of providing their goods ... commerce : the quantity of goods exported and imported in each district; the manner of conducting sales, especially at fairs and markets." That he discharged his duty very thoroughly will appear from his statistical accounts of Mysore and the northern districts of Bengal and Bihar. The great Revenue Surveys of the middle of the nineteenth century made no attempt in this direction, and accounts of fairs and festivals in districts were neglected until W. W. Hunter took up the compilation of statistical accounts again in the last quarter of last century. For the purpose of notifying holidays in the East India Company's offices the Board in Calcutta had since 1 i99 b~en in the habit of "procuring an accurate Bengalee almanac properly auth~nticated by brahmanical astronomy" from the Nabadwip Court (letter from Secretary of Board to Collector of Nadiya, 5 July, 1799, No. 8217, W. W. Hunter's Unpubished Bengalee MSS Records). Satis Chandra Vidyabhusan in his History of Indian Logic wrote that "almanacs were prepared by the Pundit Samaj of Nabadwip which were supplied to the Nawab's Court of Murshidabad as well as to the East India Company, the Supreme Court, etc ... the Nababwip Panjika under the imprimatur of Nabadwipadhipater anugya was accepted by all the landlords of Bengal". This Nabadwip Panjika which remained the standard almanac for Bengal continued in use throughout the first half of the nineteenth century and each issue contained a list of important fairs and festivals 1n every district. A valuable almanac was that published by the Vernacular Literature Committee's Almanac published in 1855-6 (1262 B.S.). It gave an account of 309 famous fairs of Bengal in its second part. The Gupta Press Panjika or almanac which virtually replaced Nabadwip Panjika made its first appearance in 1869 and continued to publish a useful list of important fairs and festivals in the country. But this list was by no means exhaustive nor were W. W. Hunter's which he published with each Statistical Account. Meanwhile native crafts, industries and objects of artistry decayed rapidly and tho roughly as a result of the East India Company's policy of extinguishing them, and official interest in fairs and festivals declined, although these occasions, divested of much of their glory; still continued to attract livestock, grain, merchandise and handicrafts from far and near. The Imperial Gazetteers published between 1880 and 1910 gave a minor place to these important seasonal markets or temporary inland ports. Even the District Gazetteers, which still are the fullest and most compact accounts of districts, make but casual mention of fairs and festivals in the country and attach little economic importance to them. 11
For, indeed, the importance of fairs and festivals-~s the meeting ground of livestock and agricultural commodities of many religions and many cultures, crafts and motifs from far and near, of ideas and design, workmanship, excellence and finish, of tools and appliances, of trends of the future and vanishing practices of the past, of adaptability and local variation, of skill and imagination-declined with the punitive export policy of the East India Company and the unrestricted import of machine-made goo:is, so much so that at the close of the last century fairs and festivals were reduced to a matter of concern only for the Public Health Department. They were no longer regarded as important centres of trade and commerce, but were now from the Government point of view merely a collection of human beings among whom epidemics were to be prevented from breaking out. Fairs and festivals conti nued to be a matter of law and order and the Police Department and the District Board continued to maintain full lists of them in th~ir local offices, a source which has so far remained unquarried.
Following the Census operations of West Bengal in 1951, a slim volume, containing a list of fairs and festivals arranged according to districts and their Police Stations, was brought out as part of the West Bengal scheme of Census Publications. This list was mainly made up of information supplied by District Boards and Superintendents of Police of districts. The two lists were collated to make up a comprehensive list containing several columns: the name of the village arranged~under its district and Police Station, with its Juris diction List number, the nam~ of th~ festival or fair by which it is commonly known in the locality, the English month of the year in which it is held) the duration of the festival or fair, and finally the number of persons attending it. Although merely a list, and not quite complete at that, this volume attracted attention and received the appreciation both of scholars and the general public. Its general value lay in its being a compendium and its particular value lay in presenting a distribution throughout the country of particular festive occasions. The Superintendent of Census Operations for West Bengal, who continued in an honorary capacity, was plied from time to time with requests to undertake an extensive survey of the subject which seem~d to accord well with the Superintendent's own personal desire. For one thing, quite a few of the old and traditional fairs and festivals of West Bengal are on their way to extinction on account of various forces working against them and a record of these rapidly vanishing fairs and festivals could be made only now as never again in the future. In the next place, the Census Office considered it its duty to sustain by a more searching survey the interest that the publication had aroused.
A different approach suggested itself as the new task was viewed in terms of collec tion of extensive first-hand material on each fair and festival. It was necessary therefore, in the first place, to approach as many individuals as possible in each locality, and not restrict the enquiry only to Governm~nt or semi-Government sources, Departments or organisations. In the second place, a satisfactory questionnaire was considered most essen- tial. A number of aims were kept in view in framing the questionnaire. These were:
(a) The questionnaire should be very simple and precise in language, designed pri marily for the understanding of a person of primary education standard. At the same time ,the ques60n should be suggestive enough to invite ancillary information. Were this objective aChieved, it should be possible to obtain exhaustive information without irrelevant detail. HI
(b) It should succeed in obtaining a clear environmental, social and economic back ground of the village or place in which a particular fair is held or a festival is observed. (c) It should emphasise those aspects of a festival or worship which would bring out the detials of rituals and religious practices peculiar to the locality. Cd) It should obtain information not only on the more important and better-known festivals or fairs, but also on the le3s known but otherwise significant fairs and festivals. It was decided to extend the scope of enquiry beyond those fairs and festivals that are appro ved and licensed by the District authorities, for the latter would be a small number com pared to the total. (e) It should attempt sufficient information on economic activities and patterns in respect of each fair, how~ver big or sman. The information so obtained should suggest the scope for studying the movement of local handiwork and local forms and raw materials. The questionnaire should also give a list of local amusements favoured by the public.
The questionnaire which was several times pre-tested was finally mailed in 1957 to about 10,000 addresses in West B~ngal on the Business Reply scheme. One of the advices which seems to have evinced much responsible reporting was the assurance that each piece of information would be fully acknowledged to the corresp~nd~nt whose address also would be published for the benefit of future investigators. The information thus collected was sorted district by district and further su b-sorted by Police Stations. The work of compilation, once the preliminary verification and check ing of the answers was over, was to be in three sections as fo11ows:-
(a) The first section was to contain systematic information on the village, the villagers, their occupations, communications and other sp~cial features, mainly based on Section A of the questionnaire.
(b) The second section was to contain all avaibable information on the festival itself, the worship of deities particularly rituals and forms of worship. This would be based mainly on Section B of the questionnaire.
(c) The third section, to be based on Section C of the questionnaire, would contain information about the fair and economic activity and amusement connected with the fair.
It will doubtless be a matter of great satisfaction to scholars that the scheme was very enthusiastically received by all my colleagues when its outline together with the West Bengal questionna:re wa') circulated in February, 1960. My coll:~agues felt that the Census provided a unique opportunity for conducting such a comprehensive survey with the help of the network of staff placed by the State Governm~nts at th~ir disposal. State Superin tendents were quick to recognise that such a survey would be of great help to those who might care to investigate the religious centres and festivals, inland trade and commerce, art motifs and designs, circuits of trade, ancient trade routes and special manufactures. It would give the student of toponymy much valuable clue and the student of history much valuable insight into the organisation of markets. IV
The proposal to conduct this survey was accepted in the Second Conference of Census Superintendents held in August, 1960. Various aspects of the survey, then in progress, were discussed again in the regional meetings of Census Sup::rintendents held in Trivandrum, Darjeeling and Srinagar in May and June 1961. My colleagues were able to report further progress at the Census Social Studies Camp held in December 1961, when several elabo rations of the original questionnaire and in investigational methodology were also discussed. It was further proposed to undertake more intensive surveys of a small number of very important fairs and festivals in each State. At the third Conference of Census Superinten dents in February 1962 my colleagues took the further decision to prepare maps of fairs and festivals on the basis of districts and even of tehsil or taluks, some States having already made much progress in this direction. The scholar will find in these lists much to excite his curiosity. First, they show what an extensive network of seasonal and perennial markets, village fairs still provide to native craftsmanship and industry. Secondly, they help to connect economic streams with social and religious movements. Thirdly, they suggest how a succession of small fairs in a time series culminate in a very big fair, almost always in the heart of a particular area, and how this big event gradually subsides through another time series of small fa1rs, so that an endless cycle of trade, social and religious intercourse is kept in motion. Fourthly, they insinuate a great deal about what Buchanan-Hamilton was charged to investigate a century and half ago, "the situation of the artists and manufacturers, the mode of providing their goods, the usual rate of their labour, and any particular advantages they may enjoy: their comparative affluence with respect to the cultivators of the land, their domestic usages, the nature of their sales, and the re~ulations respecting their markets." Fifthly, they can very greatly help in reconstructing ancient and not so ancient trade routes in the country, and, ag ain, what Buchanan-Hamilton was asked to investigate; '"the nature of the conveyance of goods by land and water) and the means by which this may be facilitated, especially by making or repairing roads."
NEW DELHI, ASOK MITRA,
September 5, 1964. REGISTRAR GENERAL, INDIA. PREFACE
I must acknowledge that the inspiration for State and publish in one common volume an inte grated account of what now forms the population attempting a survey of Fairs and Festivals of of Andhra Pradesh. As part of the studies of 1961 Andhra Pradesh came from a note that the Census I am presently engaged in a survey of fairs and festivals of At1dhra Pradesh for which detailed Registrar General of India, Sri Asok Mitra and exhaustive information is being collected. The circulated on the efforts he made to bring out a material so collected will be compiled and edited in a volume to be published by the Census Office. compendium of Fairs and Festivals of West In order to obtain a complete picture of festivals Bengal, following on the 1951 Census. and worship of Gods and Goddesses all over Andhra Pradesh, it is imperative that we should obtain as detailed information as possible about The Survey was somewhat ambitious in scope. all fairs and festivals that are observed thr~ughout the year in every village of Andhra Praedsh. 1 shall 1t was proposed to make a complete and compre be much obliged if you will be good enough to help hensive collection of information on every fair me in the collection of infJrmati on on festivals and worship of Gods and Goddesses observed through and festival celebrated in all the villages and out the year in your village! town in the q uestion towns of the State. The fairs and festivals celebra naire enclosed. ted by the community in different areas truly reflect our culture, history and tradition. In the I trust you will agree that if we should succeed in obtaining full information for each and every present tempo of change of the ways and values village of Andhra Pradesh. I shall have prepared a of life, several of the ancient institutions and volume remarkable for its high degree of thorou ghness ane comprehensiveness. Such a volume will practices were fast disappearing or falling into be of very great importance to many types of disuse. Before man's memory would completely scholars. But this aim cannot be achieved without your help and co-operation. I am aware that you lose traces of these important links in the cultural are already under heavy pressure of your own history of the people, it was felt that it would work and responsibilities. Nevertheless, I believe that you will not hesitate to undertake this burden greatly help if a record was made, to the extent in order to belp me to obtain a full and truthful possible, of all the fairs and festivals conducted picture of ,our own country. I shall gratefully acknowledge your honorary labour by keeping the even in the remotest villages, forests or hills of information permanently recorded under your the State and give whatever account that could name as the correspondent and shall be obliged if you will be good enough to send me your reply be obtained on their significance, the description directly by post or through the Census enumerator of the deities, the details of the ritual etc., who visits your house or the Tahsildar ~of your taluk." connected with every festival. There could not be a more opportune occasion than the Census The enumerators were mostly village school to launch on a scheme such as this when it teachers or in a few cases village officers. They would be possible to reach the nooks and corners had local knowledge of the area they were cover of the State through the Census Organisation. A ing. The Census Charge Superintendents were questionnaire was finalised in advance on the requested to issue the fairs and festivals question advice of the Registrar General. The questionnaire naire to the enumerators at one of the training was finalised in advance on the advice of the classes and collect them back at a subsequent Registrar General. The questionnaire forms (given training class or at the end of the enumertion per as an Annexure to this preface) together with an iod after the enumerators had answered the ques appeal which is reproduced below were distributed tionnaires on the basis of their personal knowledge amongst the C€nsus enumerators to be answered and by local inquiries. The appeal was also add and returned. ressed to various other authorities such as the "I am sure you will agree with me that there Commissioner of Hindu Religious Endowments ar~ big gaps in our knowle<1gc of our own country. Board, Municipal Commissioners, Executive It IS a vast land with diffo:?rent regions, each having peculiar cust, 'ms and cultures which ifstudied would Officers of Panchayat Boards etc. Lists of recogni reveal a more comprehensive picture of our ancient sed and scheduled fairs and festivals for which land. Coming to our own State, Andhra Pradesh, we must admit that half the Sta e is not fully con special arrangements are made annually were also versant with the details of habits, customs and lan obtained from the District Collectors, District guages or the other half. Each bit has its own beauty and variety to reveal in the form of hitherto Superintendents of Police and District Health unexplored knowledge to the other half. Officers etc. A press release was also issued announcing the scheme and appealing to all . It is my endeavour during the Census Oepra. tl0ns of 1961 to study different aspects of the interested to send whatever information they culture and civilisation of the people of the entire could. vi
The response was most encouraging. About number of the district covered by the volume. 15,000 questionnaires were returned filled. The The location code numbers adopted for the dis- quality of the replies, of course, varied from tdcts are: 'excellent' to 'indifferent' depending on the interest that the correspondent himself had in an enquiry No. 1 Srikakulam District of this nature. By and large there was evidence of No· 2 Visakhapatnam District the considerable trouble tha t the Census enume~ No. 3 East Godavari District rator took to ascertain first hand the details of the No. 4 West Godavari District fairs and festivals in each village. All this meant No. 5 Krishna District extra effort outside the normal Census duties ot the No. 6 Guntur District enumerators. I cannot certainly claim that the sur No. 7 Nellore District vey was complete and comprehensive in every de No. 8 Chittoor District tail. There may have been several fairs and festi No. 9 Cuddapah District vals that escaped the notice of the enumerator or No. 10 Anantapur District about which the information he was able to gather No. 11 Kurnool District and present scanty. But it can certainly be clai No. 12 Mahbubnagar District med that whatever information {hat has been gathe No. 13 Hyderabad District red at the survey was authentic and served as a No. 14 Medak District mine of knowledge about little known things in the No. 15 Nizamabad District life of the community. There are innumerable re No. 16 Adilabad District ligious festivals connected with certain Gods and No. 17 Karimnagar District Goddesses of particular significance in particular No. 18 Warangal District areas; there are festivities in commemoration of No. 19 Khammam District historical and legendary heroes; there are interes~ No. 20 Nalgooda District ting and inspiring anecdotes connected with var ious saints that walked our land whose samadhis In each volume, the matter is arranged have continued to be places of worship and vene taluk-wise. At the beginning of the compendium ration to this day and had greatly influenced the of each taluk, a pictorial map indicating the loca life of the people in certain areas; the holy rivers tion of the village where a fair or festival is held, had their own legends and beliefs attached; a va· the name of the deity and the period of the fair or riety of curious and interesting rituals of worship festival is shown. The serial number of each village are practised. The present survey has helped to covered in the compendium is indicated in the present all these in the fwm of a compendium. map for easy referen ceo It may, however, be cau· The filled up questionnaires were sorted tioned that the pictures given on the map may not out district-wise and then taluk-wise. Rejecting exactly represent the actual deity existing in the those i.n which the information was either extremely village. The pictures are only symbolic. scanty or insignificant, whatever information that could be collected from other answers was compi The note covering each village wil1 first give led into a short note or monograph for each villa the location of the village, the composition of ge or town· An acknowledgement is made to the population, and legend, if any, connected with the correspondent or source that provided the infor~ village, a list of temples or other places of worship matioo at the end of the compilation for each in the village and a description of the deities and village. These compendia will be presented in it then relates the details of the fair and festival, twenty volumes, one for each district· These will if any, celebra ted in the village. It is not as thou form a part of the 1961 Census series of publica gh each temple and deity will necessarily have a tions. All the Census publication series of Andh festival connected with it. Only those important ra Pradesh State will bear a common Volume No. festivals and fairs that are celebrated by the II (the All India Series being allotted Volume No. community are therefore described. (I and the Fairs and Festivals reports of this State will from Part VII~B of Volume II i.e., the The dates of the festival in the compilation Andhra Pradesh series of Census publications. are mostly given in terms of Telugu calendar in Part VII-B will bear serial numbers within brac vogue in the area, as recorded by the correspon kets which will correspond to the location code dents. The Telugu calendar, as in Bengal, foHows VII the lunar month consisting of 30 lunar days, beg~n The extraction of information from the filled in inng on the day of the new moon. The followmg questionnaires was entrusted to Sri M.K. Nagappa, statement gives the Telugu months and the corres~ a retired District Registrar, who had a special ponding period as per the English calendar. aptitude for the work, whom I selected in consul~ tation with the Commissioner of Hindu Religious LIST OF TELUGU MONTHS WITH THEIR Endowments Board and appointed as a Research CORRESPONDING ENGLISH MONTHS Assistant in my office. Information was also ga thered from other published litera ture, district ENGLISH MONTHS TELUGU MONTHS gazetteers, articles published in newspapers and Chaitram March-April journals such as Aradhana and Andhra Prabha Vaisakham April-May Weekly etc. The Research Assistant also conduc· Jaistham May-June ted local enquiries in a few cases. One recent Ashadham June-July publication which was found useful in compiling Sravanam July-August information on the larger temples of Andhr a Bhadrapadam or Augus t-September Pradesh was a publication of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhadra Bhavan entitled Temples and Legends of Andhra Asviyujam or Asvin September-October Pradesh by Sri N. Ramesan, 1. A. S., Education Kartikam October-November Secretary, Government of Andhra Pradesh. Margasiram Novem ber-December Pushyam or Pausa December-January I wish to record my thanks to the host of Magham January-February Census enumerators for their fullest co-operation Phaigunam February-March and the unstinted trouble taken by them in collec ting the information on the prescribed question At the end of the compilation of each dis t naire purely as a labour of love. I wish to also rict the following are appended: thank the various other officials and non-officials such as the Executive Officers of the temples etc., (1) A calendar of common festivals celeb who assisted me in compiling the information. I rated in the district together with their place on record my appreciation of hard and sus description, tained services of my Deputy Superintendents, Sarvasri K. Purushotam Naidu, M. A., and K.V.N. (2) A taluk-wise statement of all the fairs Gowd, B. Com. (Hons.) for helping me in finali an d festivals, sing the questionnaire and monographs. The Tabulation Officer, Sri p. Pattayya, the Section (3) A taluk-wise list of markets and shandies, Head, Sri Y. Ranganna, the Research Assistant, and Sri M. K. Nagappa and the Statistical Assistant Sri T. V. S. Ramachandramurthi have also been of (4) A month-wise list of fairs connected assistance in bringing out this volume. My office with the festivals. This was culled Artist Sri M. Krishnaswamy assisted by Sri P. out from the tal uk-wise statement of Subbarao and Kumari Aravinda Chamakur and the fairs and festivals. Draughtsman Sri G. Pandurangam assisted by Sar vasri Mohiuddin Hassan, Syed Ahmed and M. J. The last two lists throw light on the ~ignificant role Sadiq have produced the Fairs & Festivals maps played by the fairs and festivals in the economic life and other illustrations. The printing was super of the people, the traditional trade routes, the vised by the Proof Reader, Sri N. C. Hanuman nature of articles sold, and the trend of trade, etc. tha Reddy.
A. CHANDRA SEKHAR, Superintendent of Census Operations, Andhra Pradesh ANNEXURE
FAIRS AND FESTIVALS OF ANDHRA PRADESH
Questionnaire
Name of Village ' 9. I s the festival observed in commemoration of the Name ofFirka :~ birth Of death anniversary of any saint or 'Pir'? Give a N arne of Taluk : detailed report on the life and religious preachings of the saint Name of District or the 'Pir', and also narrate the history or any traditional story associated with his life. A. The Village: 10. From what date does the worship of the deity and the 1. Indicate the location of the village and the chief festival begin? For how many days does it continue? When means of communication with the village? IvIention the name do the preparations for the festival begin? Mention if there is of the neaTest Railway Station and its distance and also the any special feature about the preparatory work of the festival. motor or boat route and its distance. Give distance by road Give a detailed chronological description date by date, of the from Taluk and Sub-divisional Headquarters. method and procedure of the worship and ceremonies. What is the chief characteristic of the entire ceremony? Are com 2. Give an account of the history or legend, should there munal feasts, free kitchens (annasatra) and common distribu be any, connected with the origin of the village. tion of 'prasad' organised during the festival?
3. What are the castes and classes that live in the village? 11. Are vows of offering made by people to the deity in What are the chief means of livelihood of the various sections fulfilment of prayer answered? If so, what are the things or of the population? objects that are usually offered and dedicated as votive offerings? Howand when are bird or animal sacrifices made? 4. Give details of places of common religious worship? What part of the rituals do these sacrifices constitute?
5. What is the religion which majority of the villagers 12. To what class or caste do the principal patrons and profess? followers of the deity and the festival belong? Give the name of the sect ('Varna'), clan ('Gotra') and the hereditary title B. The worship of deities and festivals in the village ('Padavi') of the priest ('Pujari'). and lairs in connection with them. 13. Do non-Hindus participate in the festival associated (i) The Worship of Deities & Festivals with Hindu deities? Do the Hindus participate in non-Hindu festivals? What is the extent of such participation? Are 6. Name of the festival, its occasion and the time. there any festivals celebrated m common by all caste~ and (Give the English as well as Telugu dates), commuIjities in the village?
7. How ancient is the festival? If 'there is any history 14. Is there any congregation of 'Sadhus' and saints or legend connected with this particular festival, please narrate of any particular religious sect on the occasion of the festival? it. Is this festival a particular festival of the particular villager I f so, w liy do they congregate? area/caste/class and limited within its fold? Or, is this festival commonly and universally held and observed throughout the 15. What is the general ritual of observation of religious entire district and region? festivals at home? Is fasting or feasting or keeping awake in the night, sea or river bath etc., observed on any particular festival 8. Is the festival connected with the worship of any days? deity? Mention the name of the deity with a brief description of the image. Is this a common village deity or a personal or family deity? Is there any temple or 'Sthan' (Sacred abode) (ii) The Fair for the deity in the village? I f so, give a description of the same. If the deity has no anthropomorphic1 or zoomorphic2 16. Where is the fair held? On how much land? To image, then in what form is it worshipped? VV-hat other temples whom does the land belong - to an individual owner, or is it or places of worship are there in the village? Do all commu dedicated land? Are taxes, rents, gifts, etc., collected from rtities have access to the temple? the fair and festival? At what time of the day or night is the
I Human form 2 Animal form IX
fair usually held? Is there any particular reason why the fair is (g) Agricultural and artisanry implements-What are held on this particular site? the articles and implements? Are sales of cattle, goats, birds and other animals transacted? 17. H::;v>' ancient is the fair? For how many days is it h~ld ? How many people attend? What are the main castes or (h) Arts and crafts-Handloom products, cane and classes from which the largest number of people are drawn? bamboo products, clay and wooden dolls, earthen Name the neighbouring villages or unions from which people ware, basketry, etc. Which are the places from assrmble? How many usally attend? What is the average ratio where these articles of arts and crafts usually come of males and females who attend the fair? What are the main for sale? Do the sellers come regularly every conveyances by which the people and pilgrims travel to the year? fa;r? (i) Other miscellaneous articles. 18. From which places do the shop-keepers and stall holders come? Do the same sellers come regularly every year? 21. What facilities are available for the boarding and What are the articles or commodities that are brought and sold lodging of pilgrims or visitors? Are there any choultries? Are most? any special pandals erected? Is any public feeding organised? Do outside visitors and pilgrims stay for more than a day for 19. How many shops, stalls, booths, etc., are opened in the festival or fair? the fair? How many sellers sit in the open spaces? What is the figure of hawkers and pedlars? 22. What are the principal arrangements for catering recreation and amusement to the people coming to the fair? ZO. Of all the shops, stalls, booths and pedlars, how Give details of sports, sea-saw, circus, magic, gambling, lott many sell; ery, jataras, theatres, musical soirees, etc., that are organised in the fair. What are the most common themes of the jatara (a) Food-stuffs-sweetmeats, fried chips and other and theatres etc. ? Which parties come and from where do they varieties of food. come? Is there any dramatic or entertainment party in the village itself? Give name and address of the leader of the party. (b) Utensils-copper, brass, iron, glass, earthenware, Is it possible to collect songs and themes of the jatara and etc. theatres? Do the same parties come every year? How many people do see or hear and participate in all the amusements? (c) Stationery-lanterns, torchlights, looking glasses, • combs and various other assorted goods. 23. Is it a necessary religious ritual to drink alcohol or any other intoxicant during the ceremonies of worship and (d) Medicine-Ayurvedic herbs, kaviraji, hakimi, festival? etc. 24. Other remarks: Describe any other features. (e) Books and pictures-What are the most common Name of correspondent: types of books and pictures that sell best? Address: (f) Clothing materials-millmade, handloom products, Occupation: piece-cloths, readymade garments, 'lungis', sataranjas, mats, etc. Date of sending the reply: eT'eio~J, ~~j~e.,)J, jo~;Ke,)~
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'" ;< o .g .J I « u ~ - Z 0:: c( I a:: IJ) ""3: 0- w '0... l I.) 0:: I m o o « m « _J w o '8 '0 <> « 0 ~ '2 0 ~ Ie ~ < ¥ ~ •f) . , z -CD <>c CONTENTS Pages Foreword i-iv Preface v-xi Section I KARIMNAGAR TALUK 1-19 II SIRSILLA TALUK 21-34 III METPALLE INDEPENDENT SUB-TALUK 35-42 IV JAGTIAL TALUK 43-61 SULTANABAD TALUK V ~ • • 63-74 VI MANTHANI TALUK 75-79 VII HUZURABAD TALUK 81-89 APPENDICES I Calendar of Festivals commonly observed in Karimnagar District [3]-[20] II Statement of Fairs and Festivals [21]-[49] III List of Markets and Shan dies [50] IV List of Fairs [51]-[54] MAPS Karimnagar District Facing Contents Facing Page Karimnagar Taluk 1 SirsUla Taluk 21 Metpalle Ind. Sub-Taluk 35 Jagtial Taluk 43 Sultanabad Taluk 63 Manthani Taluk 75 Huzurabad Taluk .~ 81 XIV ILLUSTRATIONS Plate I Rajarajeswari Devi, Vemulavada" Sirsi lla Tal uk Frontispiece Facing Page Plate II Sri Rajarajeswaraswamy 24 Plate III Rajarajeswaraswamy and other temples 25 Plate IV Prakara mantapa with severa I Sivalingams 25 Plate V Ananta Padmanabhaswamy 26 Plate VI Kodanda Ramaswamy 26 Plate VII Jain idols 27 Plate VIII An inscription and a Buddha image 27 Pages GLOSSARY [55]-[59] INDEX [61]-[62] KARIMNAGAR TALUK FAIRS AND FESTIVALS KAJUMNAGAR TALUK JAGTtAL KARIMNAGAR DISTRICT, A. P. TALUK ...... , 0 ! r= I Z 0 10t;llO-l'lfTRCS INDEX 5ULTANABAD Code Number TAL.UK aod Name of Vil/lige 10 NARASIMWALl£ NARASIMHASWAMY N,)R.~AA VENUGOPAlASWfoMY D(.) GOPALRAOP£TG~!JDI s(p~oa I. SAAVARfDOYPALl£ VEf.MNJANEYASWAMY "'}.A.MIl 20 GANGADHARA YELLAMMA JUlY-AUG 24 GAAS£J(URTHI VENKATESWARASWAMY ~(a_M.I.A 26 GATTU BOOTHKUR SRJ RAM" MAA~A.ffl. • 32 KORATAPAU.f. POSAMMA MAY.NNE. 34 DATTOIIPET POLEI\AMMA MAY.JUNE· 38 ARNAKONOA CHURCH bECEM.!I(~ -39 CHOPPilDAN01 SAMBHUSWfoMY ~fe_MAR 41 VE()(JRUGHATTA VENKATr:.WARA5WAMY 'f.},.WJI. 45 RUDRAVARAM VENKATESWAqASWAMY MM_,vR MAI-'ALAKSHMI""-.... ~ MOTH" POCHAMMA fU-ftWI 4) DESRAJPALLE PO~HAMlI>A ... _AH. 49 8ADDIPALlf VENKI.TESWARAIWMlY MLr·AUC 50 NAGULMA!. yAt NARASIMHASWfoMY AP'1I-~!' 52 ODYARAM VENKATESWAWWAMYMM_'" S'RSILLA 54 ELGANDAL NARASI~~Y~SWAMY JUlY.AUG TALUK 58 I(OTHAPALLE VENKII TESW ARASWAMT .MAA-";~ NAGUNVR LAKSHMi NARAYAMSy,N~r Nil_MAT CHAKUNTA VENKATESWARASWAMY UII_M'" TI CHERLA BOO Tl!WI' KESAVAlWAMY JMR_APA NARASIMHAS WM1( NM-""I, 72 MAQOUMPI.!R ItAGHUPATHYSWAMY 'MI'I.·JJ>fl )4 DURSED POCHAMMA Jl,)lY.AliC 76 AAEFALl£ MOHAMMAO KHAIA WALl DHIJl£ PASHA 1J XAilJMNAGAR GJL)DA P£JlUMANDLA OCT_NOV 81 HASNAPU. SRI RAMA /MII-N''' 84 GANNERVI.IVM NARASIMHASWAMY ,y.AA.Af'if. 91 SWANKI NARASIMHASWAMY MAR ·APIt 94 GUNKUL KONDAPUR RANGANAYAKAlWAMY ...... y.JLlN[ 100 MAN,XONDUR VENKATESWARASWAMY -"PRo. MAl '106 CHERLAPUR TAPALA NARASIMHASWAMY -108 VACHNOOR YELLAM"':"-AVG A"'.IM'f- I liZ fOrAPALU SAMBASrVA 121 8ASVAPUR HARJ RA~~~..wY ~M-N''' 121 KCORElLA PRATAPRUDRA SINGARAIAH (NARASrMHAlWfoMY) e£.C.JM-' 123 THN'lGALLAPALLi. KIUSHNASWAMY fU-M.NI 124 GUGGllLA VENUGOPALASWAMY HOf/xtO DATt: 126 RMlACHANDRAPUR SRI AAMAMAR.N'R 129 KOHEDA SRI RAMA MI.P._An. 134PARVEOA SRr RAMA MAA-'" 13SNAWABPH VENMTfSWARASWAA1f SH'·.ocr 138 RAMN'OCHA MUSLIM SAINT NARASIMHASINAMY ",,"-APII 141 NALLAGONOA NARASIMHASWAMY ® fHI.MAA 142 MANNAMPALL£ 'HE.NNAKA~~!'A?WAMr CD 151 MOWGUPALfM CHENNAKESAVASWAMY IU_M.l1'I. 154 MULKUNUR VENKATf5WARASWAMf ,AFI<·.M",Y 155 CHIGURHAMIDT VEERABHADRASWAMY lANI)I.A-r YElLAMMA APIl.tMy JANGAON T ALUK IS9 SUNDARAGIRI VENKATf5WARASWMlY WARANGAL. OISTRtCT ,o.pfl.~Y 16) HUSNABiID RfNUKA >J;~ 168 POTlAPAU.f. RAVULA MALLANNA ()H·JA:~ SRI RAMA ""'-AlII P'-~"'''(lIi 1M OrNe'! o rt.i",._!up'rLr..k,.mTlI QfC~IW"o,-"A.'4~ }t",.rh>·~ P.· ...4 ~),. ~'-"""a ~arasimlapalle Situated at a distance of 3. Sri Usman Shareef, Health Inspec t'~ about 7 miles from Karimnagar-Lakshettipet tor, Gundi road and 20 miles from Karimnagar. 4. Sri S. Ramanujam, Assistant Tea cher, Zilla Parishad Middle School, The total population of the village is 466 Vedira and it is made up of some sub-communities of Caste Hindus and Scheduled Castes (62). Agri culture and agricultural labour are the chief 3. Sarvareddypalle-Situated at a distance of 6 means of livelihood of the residents. miles from Karimnagar-Lakshettipet road and 16 miles from Karimnagar. Lord Narasimhaswamy festival is celebrated The total population of the village is 972 and for one day on Chaitra Suddha Ashtami (March it is made up of the following communities: Caste April). About 200 local people congregate. HindUS-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Gouda, Padma SOURCE: Statement of Fairs & Festivals furnished sale, Kummari, Golla, Velama, Mangali, Chakali, by Collector, Karimnagar Vadla; Scheduled Castes (287)-Mala, Madiga; and Dudekula. Agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations are the chief means 2. Gopalraopet hamlet of Gundi -Situated at a of livelihood of the people. distance of 6 miles from Karimnagar-Lakshettipet road an d 16 miles from Karimnagar. Veeranjaneyaswamy temple with his image is The total population of the village is 4,000 the place of worship in this Village. Besides this, and it is made up of the following communities: the village deities Pochamma, Durgamma, Yell . Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Gouda, amma and Margamma are also there . Padmasale, B'Jya, Kamsali, Golla, Kummari, Veeranjaneyaswamy festival is celebrated on Bhatraju, etc.; Scheduled Castes (667); and Mus Ugadi i.e., on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March lims. The chief means of livelihood of the people April). It is confined to this village only. are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. The village deities Pochamma, Durgamma, The temple of Venugopalaswamy with His Yellamma and Margamma are propitiated by stone image and that of Veeranjaneyaswamy with offering cocoanuts and sacrificing sheep and fowls. His stone image are the places of worship in the The local Hindus congregate without any distinc village. tion of caste or creed. People take intoxicants during the propitiation of the village deities. Venugopalaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated SOURCE: Sri N. Malla Reddy, Headmaster, Pan- for a day on Asviyuja Suddha Dasami (September chayat Samithi School, Sarvareddypalle October). The festival is of ancient origin though of local significance. The local Hindus congregate. Prasadam is distributed to all. 4, Gangadhara- Situated on Karimnagar-Niza mabad bus route at a distance of 16 miles from Sheep, goats and fowls are sacrificed and Karimnagar. cocoanuts are offered to Pochamma, Nalla Poc hamma, Durgamma and Mysamma, the village It is said that there is a stone inscription to deities. the effect that this village was named after Gan gadhara, one of the ministers of Kakatiya dynasty, SOURCE: 1. Sri G. Komerla Reddy, Assistant who happened to halt at this village in one of his Teacher, Zilla Parishad High School, tours· Gundi 2. Sri B. jaggareddy, Village Level The total population of the village is 3,667 Worker, lyifhepalle, via Kothapalle and it is made up of several sub-·communities of 2 SECTION I Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (834); and Mus 6. Gattuboothkur-Situated at a distance of 8 lims. The chief means of livelihood of the people miles from Karimnagar and 3 miles from Karim are agriculture, agricultural labour and other nagar-Nizamabad bus route. traditional occupations. The total population of the village is 2,689 There is a temple dedicated to Lord Venka and it is made up of the following communities: teswaraswamy in the village. The village deity Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Gouda, Yellamma is symbolised by a stone idol of a height Kuruva, Padmasale, etc.; Schsduled Castes (685) of 4 feet and is located on a hillock to the west Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of of the village. livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul tural labour, toddy tapping, weaving, and other Yellamma Teertham is celebrated on every traditional occupations. Tuesday in the month of Sravanam (July-August) There is a temple of Sri Rama in the village. in a mango grove near the hillock. The women take bonams (earthen pots containing cooked rice, Sri Rama Navami (Sita Rama Kalyanam) etc.) to the deity accompanied by music. Fowls is celebrated for seven days from Chaitra Suddha and goats are offered by the people of this and Navami to Purnima (March-April). Kalyanam on the neighbouring villages. This Teertham is being Navami, vasthupuja on Dasami, garudapuja on Eka celebrated from ancient times and is confined to dasi, sadassu on Dwadasi, bheripuja on Triodasi, this and the neighbouring 3 or 4 villages. Pujarini dopu on Chaturdasi and rathothsavam on Purnima is a women of Muthracha caste. are the rituals. It is an ancient festival and is confined to the village. A Vaishnava of Bharadh SOURCE: Sri M. Raja Reddy, Teacher, Middle wajasa gotram is the pujari with hereditary rights. School, Gangadhara Local Hindus participate in the festival. Prasadam is distributed to all. 5. Garsekurthi-Situated at a distance of 4 miles SOURCE: 1. Sri Pona Mallaiah I fom Kurikyal and 24 miles from Karimnagar. 2. Sri G. Mallaiah ~Teachers, 3 . Sn · AN'. araSlm h ClraJu . J Gattuboothkur The total population of the village is 3,312 and it is made up of the following communities: 7. Koratpalle-Situated at a distance of 9 miles Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Kapu, Padmasale, from Karimnagar. Chakali, Mangaii, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (393). The chief means of livelihood of the The population of the village is 611 and it is people are agriculture, weaving, agricultural labour made up of the following communities: Caste and other traditional occupations. Hindus-Kapu, Kuruma, Chakali, Gouda, Vadla, etc.; Scheduled Castes (69)- Madiga; and Chris There are temples of Venkateswaraswamy, tians. The chief means of livelihood of the lianuman and of the village deities Posamma and villagers are agriculture and agricultural labour. Nagaiah in the village. Village deity Posamma festival is celebrated Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated in Jaishtam (May-June) when epidemics prevail for 6 days from Phalguna Suddha Dasami to Purnima in the village. Fasting is observed by the devotees. (February-March). The devotees fulfil their vows Sheep and fowls are sacrificed to the deity. by offering cocoanuts, etc. It has been taking Local Hindus take part in it. place for the last 50 years and is of local significance only. All communities participate. SOURCE: Sri R. Venkaiah, Headmaster, Koratpalle The pujari belongs to Deshmukh Brahmin caste. There is free feeding. 8 Dattojipet-Situated at a distance of 5 miles from Karimnagar-Jagtial road. SOURCE: /. Sri p. Ganga Reddy ') 2. Sri R. Narasaiah ~Teachers, The total population of the village is 725 3. Sri R. Venkataiah I Garsekurthi and it is made up of the following communities: 4. Sri T. Narayana J Caste Hindus-Kamma, Kapu, Golia, Kamsali, KARIMNAGAR TALUK 3 K:lmmara, Vadla, Tenugu. Padmasale, Chakali, Sam bhuswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for Ramjogi, and Scheduled Castes (59)-Mala and I one day in Phalgunam (February-March). There Madiga. Agriculture and agricultural labour are is no fixed date or thUhi for the festival. Cocoa the chief means of livelihood of the people. nuts are offered to the deity. The origin of the temple as well as the celebration of the festival There are village deities Posamma, Mallanna, are attributed to a certain military commander Mysamma and Poleramma in the village. of Kakatiya Kingdom. It is confined to this and the neighbouring villages. The villagers raise Poleramma Uthsavam is celebrated for one contributions and celebrate the Uthsavam. Local day in laishtam (May-June). Posamma Uthsavam Hin d us take pa rt in it. is also celebrated whenever epidemics prevail in the village. Usually sheep and fowls are sacrificed SOURCE: Sri Manga Rao, Assistant Teacher, to the deities. The local Hindus take part in Choppadandi these festivals. SOURCE: Sri V. Venkat Reddy, Headmaster, Dat~ 11. Vedurughatta-Situated at a distance of 2 tojipet miles to the east of Choppadandi stage on the Karimnagar-Lakshettipet road at a distance of 9. Arnakonda-Situated at a distance of 14 miles 13 miles from Peddapalle Railway Station and 21 miles from Karimnagar. from Karimnagar. The total population of the village is 2.794 The total population of the village is 1,961 and it is made up of the following commuFlities: and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus - Vaisya, Kapu, Telaga, Padmasale. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Vadrangi, Chakali, Mangaii, Kummari, Kammara, Kamsali, Balija, Veeramusti, Kuruva, Gouda, Golla, Vadla, Medara; Scheduled Castes (996) - Mala, Kammara, Kummari, Chak ali, Telaga, Mangali; Madiga; and Christians, The chief means of and Scheduled Castes (444) - Mala and Madiga. their livelihood are agriculture, agricultural la~ The chief means of their livelihood are agriculture, bour and other traditional occupations. agricultural labour, toddy tapping and sheep reanng. There is a church in this village. The temples of the village are of Venkates Christmas Jatara is celebrated for two days waraswamy and Siva; the latter is in a di1api~ by the Christians on the 13th and 14th December. dated condition .. The stone image of Venkates Offerings are made in the form of cash or kind. waraswamy is 2 feet high. There is a stone Siva The local Christians congregate. lingam in Siva's temple. SOURCE: 1. Sri K. Venkatesh, Teacher, Arnakonda Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated 2. Sri N. Ram Reddy, HeadmaSTer, for 11 days from Phafguna Suddha Panchami to Arnakonda Purnima (February ~ March). Adyayanothsavalfl for the first 3 days, edurukollu on the fourth, kalyanam on the fifth, sadassu on the sixth, bandla 10. Choppadandi-Situated on the Hyderabad thopu on the seventh, rathaprathishta on the eighth, Chanda National Highway at a distance of 9i rathothsavam on the ninth, nagavalli on the tenth miles from Karimnagar. and chakratheertham on the eleventh day are the The total popUlation of the village is 5,988 rituals performed during this Uthsavam. Prepara and it 1S made up of several sub-communities of tions are made 15 days in advance. Vows are Caste Hi.ndus; SchedUled Castes (1 ,2~ 5) - Mala, fulfilled by the devotees. Tonsure ceremonies are Madiga; and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural conducted. Fasting on the days of kalyanam and hbour and other traditional occupations are the jagarana on Purnima are observed by some de chief means of livelihood of the pwple. votees. This is of local significance. Reddis are the chief patrons, All communitie3 in the village There is a temple of Sambhuswamy on the participate in the Uthsavam. The temple has an Outskirts of the village, the deity being represen Inam land of 3 acres. Pujari is a Vaishnava with ted by a Sivalingam. hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. 4 SECTION 1 SOURCE: 1· Sri Nalavala Sankaraiah, Teacher, A rivulet flows to the west of th.l! village Vedurughatta Kothapalle. 2. Sri G· Venkata Ranga Reddy, Patwari, Vedurughatt a The village deity Pochamma Uthsavam is 3. Sri M. Mal/aiah, Teacher, Veduru usually celebrated for a day in Phalgunam ghatfa (February-March) or whenever epidemics prevail in the village. Bonams are taken to the deity accompanied by music and offered. Sheep and 12. Rudravaram-Situated at a distance of 5 miles fuwls are sacrificed. All caste Hindus participate from Kothapalle bus stage on the Karimnagar in it. A Vadrangi is the pujari. Jagtia] route and 10 miles from Karimnagar. The devotees bathe in the river and observe The population of the village is 1,880 and it fasting and jagarana on Mahasivaratri. is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus - Reddy, Goundla, Padmasale, Kuruma, SOURCE: 1. Sri N. Chandraiah, Teacher, M otha Sathani, Golla, Chakali, Mangali; and Scheduled 2. Sri L. Venkata Narasaiah, Teacher, Castes (363). Agriculture, agricultural labour and Koth ap aile other traditional occupations are the chief means of livelihood of the people. 14. Desrajpalle-Situated at a distance of one The temples of Anjaneyaswamy, Rajeswara mile on the south from Karimnagar-Jagtial road swamy, Venkateswaraswamy and Beeranna are the and 8 miles from Karimnagar. places of worship in the village. • The total population of the village is 1,849 Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated and it is made up of the following communities: for 2 days on Chaitra Suddha Padyami and Vidiya Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Reddy, Kapu, Kamsali, (March-April). This festival is being celebrated Kuruma, Tenugu, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (417) for the past 20 years and is confined to this -Mala, Madiga, etc. Agriculture, agricultural village only. Kurumas and Reddis are the patrons. labour and other traditional occupations are the Local Hindus take part in it. Pujaris are Sathani chief means of livelihood of the people. Vaishnavas. Village deity Pochamma temple is the only Mahalakshmi Uthsavam on Chaitra Suddha place of worship in this village. Padyami and Vidiya (March-April) for 2 days PGchamma Panduga is celebrated for one and Beeranna Jatara on Mahasivaratri on Magha day on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March-April). Bahula Chathurdasi (January-February) are also Naivedyam is offered and fowls and sheep are celebrated in this village. Local Hindus take part sacrificed to the deity. It is confined to this in them. village only. Local Hindus take part in it. SOURCE: Sri C. M· Sheshagiri Rao, Headmaster, Basic School, RudrQvaram SOURCE: Sri T. Narasaiah, Assistant Teacher, Desrajpalle 13. Motha-Situated at a distance of 9 miles from Karimnagar by road. 15. Baddipalle-Situated at a distance of 6 miles from Karimnagar on the Karimnagar-Kamareddy The total population of the village is 1,192 bus route. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Reddy, Gowda, Padmasale, Chakali, The popUlation of the village is 793 and it is etc.; and Scheduled Castes (257)-Madiga. The made up of the following communities: Caste Hin chief means of livelihood of the people are agn dus-Kapu, Reddy, Sathani, etc.; and Scheduled culture and agricultural Isbour. Castes (113)-Mala, Madiga, etc. Agriculture and agricultural labour are the chief means of liveli There are temples of Venkateswara and Siva hood of the people. in the village. The village deity Pochamma is worshipped under an Aswatha tree between the Venkateswaraswamy temple with a stone two villages, Goli Ramaiahpallrt and Kothapalle image and the temple of the village deity situated KARIMNAGAR TALUK 5 on a hlllock are the places of worship in this offered to the deity. Local Hindus congregate. village. Pujaris belong to Sathani caste. Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated A petty fair is held in connection with the on Saturdays in Sravanam (July-August). Cocoa festival for one day, with a few shops selling nuts are offered to the deity. It is of ancient eatables and sundry articles. The devotees from origin though of local significance. Sathani this and neighbouring villages participate in the Vaishnavas are the patrons and pujaris. Local fair. Hindus participate in it. SOURCE: An Enumerator SOURCE: Sri T. Lakshminarayan, Teacher, Baddi palle 18. Elgandal-Situated at a distance of 6 miles from Karimnagar on the Karimnagar-Kamareddy 16. Nagulmalyal-Situated at a distance of 10 road on the banks of river Maneru amidst groves miles from Karimnagar on the Karimnagar-Kama of palm trees. It is 106 miles from Hyderabad. reddy bus route. Odginally, it was called Bahudhanyapuram. The total population of the village is 1,657 A popular legend relating to the name of the and it is made up of the following communities: village goes thus: It is believed that the village Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Reddy, Sathani, etc.; in the olden days was surrounded by thick forest and Scheduled Castes (332). Agriculture, agricul and a sage lived there. One day a group of diamond tural labour and other traditional occupations are merchants were passing that way and the sage the chief means of livelihood of the people. asked them what they had with them. They sus pected him to be the leader of a gang of robbers, There is a temple of Narasimhaswamy on and one of them replied tha t they were a hillock near this village. having thella kandu1u (white gram). The sage cursed that the contents should become thelia Lord Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebra kandulu. They realised the effect of the curse on ted for 5 days from Vaisakha Suddha Ekadasi to reaching home and came back to the sage and Purnima (April~May). Cocoanuts are offered to prayed for his pardon. The sage then restored the Lord. It is of ancient origin and of local their diamonds. In commemoration of this episode, significance. Local Hindus take part in it. A a village was constructed at that place and called Sathani Vaishnava is the pujari. Tellakandula, which became in course of time Velagandula and Elgandal colloquially. SOURCE: Sri C. Bhoomaiah, Teacher, Nagulmalyal, Narsingapur P. O. (via) Vemulavada Velagandula (Elgandal) is at present a small village. But according to General Kingham, thlJ 17. Odyaram-Situated at a distance of! a mile place was the capital of Telangana once upon a from the Karimnagar-Kamareddy road and 11 time. Whatever may be the veracity of this state .. miles from Karimnagar. ment, this village was undoubtedly a historical place. One of the renowned Telugu poets Madiki The total population of the village is 894 and Singana of the 15th century A.D. dedicated the it is made up of the following communities :Caste book Padmapuranottara Khandam written by him Hindus-Golla, Ellapu, Tenugu, Kummari, etc.; to one Kandanamathya of Veligandala (Elgandal) and Scheduled Castes (245)-Madiga, Mala, etc. the minister of King Muppadi WllO was ruling thi['l Agriculture and agricultural labour are the chief part of the country with Ramagiri as capital. The means of livelihood of the people. poet mentions: There is a temple of Venkateswaraswamy in the village. "~8"Zr~8' ;S~ ~~ ~~~OeJro ~[)Ko6() Tatkavita vadhu mukha tilakambagu Veligandala Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated ~o6N';;$:;o~so~;$:, ;$:, ~~ C'~.l0~05 from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Purnima (March Kandanamatyundanu nuttama ratnambuna April). The devotees fu lfil their vows. Chakkara ro~II{dX>OeJro 0"~1\8 ;;Sb~61(.s~o is I.... eJ "-- pongali, dadhojanam, pulihora, fruits and flowers are gupasrayambagu Ramagiri pattanadhiswarudaina 6 SECTION I ;m;s.ja £\-§;r.bl~ ~;S.s~ ~~:Ji~oeJ:) pilgrims. There is an image of Nagadevatha in a Muppadi Kshonipaluni yanvaya gunavisheshambu small mantapam in front of the well. C3e3;;5;S e;) lettivana."l Among the other historical structures of Elgandal, there are temples of Sri Rama and Siva, From the archaeologic~l excavations, it IS Alamgir mosque, tomb of Miharunnisa Khanum, found that it was an important centre in the the daughter of Nizam-ud-Dowla Asif Jah and Empire of the Kakatiyas of Warangal. It came several tombs of Muslim Moulvis. There are under the sway of Bahmani Kings, along with many antique cannons and some of them have Telangana during the period 1345-1439. Moham been removed to museums. There are 4 old mos mad QuE Qutb Shah, the fifth king of the Qutb ques at a distance of one mile from the fort on Shahi dynasty of Golconda conquered Velagandula all the four sides to it in the midst of forest· It in 1482, and it was under their rule for hundred is supposed that watchmen used to be posted at and fifty years. In 1687 Aurangazeb annexed this these to convey tidings of the foes to the autho to his empire, and Velagandula was under the rities in the fort. Mughals for 39 years. Afterwards the Asaf Jahi The total population of the village is 4,684 Nizams reigned over the place under Mirza and it is made up of the following communities: Ibrahim Khan Dhunsa and others. Thus Velagan dula was subjected to the rule of 5 dynasties Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, etc.; Scheduled Castes (758)-Mala, Madiga; and successively and underwent several changes. Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural labour and An oval-shaped ancient fort on a hill-top other traditional occupations are the chief means at Elgandal is famous more than all other forts of livelihood of the people. of this district. It was a chowki (guarding post) There is a temple of Nrusimhaswamy near in the reign ef Kakatiyas and after the Bahmani the mosque on the fort. and Qutb Shahi Sultans, it was rebuilt in the year 1754 by Mirza Ibrahim Khan Dhunsa under It is learnt from the stone inscription near the Mughal rulers. The fortress is about 200 feet Chinthamani tank that the temple belonged to the high and about 2t square miles in :1rea. It is times of Emperor Ganapathi Deva of Kakatiya enveloped by a sturdy stone wall studded with dynasty. The temple is visited by innumerable ramparts, some of which rise to a height of 42'. devotees in Sravanam (July-August) to have darsan A moat, 57' wide and 18' deep, encircles the wall of the Lord. Neelakantaswamy temple with His to which water was drawn from Chinthamani tank image carved on a stone in human form and with situated to the west of the fort. There are a mud images of Ganapathi, Parva thi and Parameswara fort and another moat at a distance of 2 furlongs is said to be known in all Telangana. Many from the above fort, and it had five huge entran sanyasins or fakirs are always seen in this temple ces of which only one is extant. The inside area which is also called a Mutt. They live on alms. of the fort with ramparts is 3,735 square feet. There is a beautiful tank by the side of it, the There are mosques, horse stables, military quar water of which is used by the inmates of the Mutt ters and secret tunnels. There is a beautiful for drinking and other purposes. It is said that mosque which had walls with reflecting surface there are two jeeva samadhis, into which sages constructed by Jaffar-ud-Dowla in 1754 on this entered when they were alive. fort. There is an Idgah with two high minarets similar to those of the famous Charminar at Neelakantaswamy festival is celebrated in Hyderabad. There is a big well called Rajugari Sravanam (July-August). Bhavajis and their bha vi near the east en trance to the fo rt. r t is disciples assemble at the temple during this believed to have been built by Rayabrundavan, a festival. Fasting and jagarana are observed. historian of the times of Aurangazeb. Another Cocoanuts are offered. The patrons and pujaris well called Nagannabhavi, supposed to have been are Bha vajis. built by a Vaisya by name Naganna, is even more SOURCE: 1. Sri G. Venkatachari, Hindi Teacher, beautiful than Rajugaribhavi. It has two storeys. Elgandal The lower storey with carved images of deities on 2. Article on Elgandal in Andhra Pra walls and pillars can be utilised as lodging for bha, Weekly dated 5-2--]964 1. K. Eswar Butt, Pracheenandhra Charitrika Bhugoiam, p. 319 KARIMNAGAR TALUK 7 19. Kothapalle (Haveli)-Situated at a distance of Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (552); and 4 miles from Karimnagar on the Karimnagar Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the Jagtial bus route. people are agriculture, agricultural labour, cattle breeding, weaving and other traditional occupa The total population of the village is 5,545 tions. and it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste Hindus and Scheduled Castes (855). The place is noted for Siva temples. Two stone Agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi inscriptions relating to this place are preserved tional occupations are the chief means of liveli in Karimnagar Municipal Office, of which one hood of the people. was by Arikesari of Vemulavada Chalukyas and the other was of Minister Gangadhara of Kaka~ The temples of Rama, Siva, Venkateswara tiya Empire. Gangadhara was the vassal at swamy and Satyanarayanaswamy are the places of Hanumakonda during the time of ProIa and he worship in the village. was subsequently the Chief Minister for Rudra Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated deva. He is said to have been responsible for the for one day on Chaitra Suddha Ekadasi (March construction of beautiful temples here. He was not April). The devotees fulfil their vows. Padmasa only a popular administrator but a poet and a les are the patrons and a Sathani Vaishnava is valiant hero and there is a village called Ganga the pujari. A fair is held on the ou tskirts of the dhara nearby. village for seven days and people from this and other neighbouring villages participate. Eatables, A resemblance is observed between the sculptures, dhwajaslhambhams and rock bulls here toys, books, pictures, mirrors, combs, etc., are and those at Hanumakonda the place of the 1000 sold. pillared temple. The sculptures here are mostly The temple of Sri Satyanarayanaswamy is in good condition revealing the grandeur an d well known in these parts and attracts crowds exquisite craftsmanship of those days. The beau~ throughout the year. tiful life-like idols of women in innumerable poses, everyone different from the other were SOURCE: Sri V. Sambaiah, Teacher, Kothapalle carved out with enormous patience and skilL Thi: graceful figures of the dancing and singing men 20. Nagunur-Situated at a distance of 5 miles and women with musical instruments are a feast from Karimnagar. to the eyes· One record on a temple pillar states, 'if the water of that well mixed with the juice of the The place was renowned for exquisite sculp leaves of this tree is sprinkled over the figures of tlHes on as many as 400 pillars in the numerous art in the temple, the kshetrarn will regain its past temples here. Nalugunuru means 400 in Telugu. glory'! What that tree is and where that well is Nannuru is the shortened form of that word. The nobody knows. The temples and sculptures of place was originally called Nannuru also. There this place extend over an area of 15 acres. Saiva is also a belief that 400 was not the number of the cult was predominant in those days, as is evident pillars but of the temples that existed here in the from these glorious remains of the temples and olden days. Neelakanteswara, the presiding deity mantaparns here. Grand festivals must have been of the place is said to have showered gold coins celebrated here attracting thousands of people. here and even now one or two are discovered while digging or ploughing the lands. Though it is now Lakshminarayanaswamy temple is the place ~ small village, it had once been a place of much of worship at present in the village. Importance, with numerous temples and a very great centre of art noted not only for beauty but Lakshminarayanaswamy festival is celebrated also for variety with an exhibition of originality. for 5 days from Vaisakha Suddha Ekadasi to Purni~ Great imagination of the artists revealed in the rna (April-May). Local people congregate. Pujaris several new poses in Bharatanatyam and Yoga are Vaishnavas. mudras can be seen on the walls and pillars of black stone here. SOURCE: 1. Sri a.p. Reddy, Revenue Inspector, Karimnagar The total population of the village is 3,040 2. Article on Nagunuru in Andhra and it is made up of several sub-communities of Prabha, Weekly dated 10-7-1963' 8 SECTION I 21. Chakunta-Situated at a distance of 2 miles A fair is held in connection with the festival from Rukmapur stage on Karimnagar-Lakshetti for a week near Narasimhaswamy temple in the pet road and 16 miles from Peddapalle Railway mango grove. Usually the people come by walk Station. or by bullock carts. A few shops are temporarily opened to sell eatables, cocoanuts and sundry The total population of the village is 1,440 and articles. it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Reddy, Sathani, Kuruva, SOURCE: Sri Khande Rao Narayana Rao. Head Tenugu, Chakali, Mangali, Kummari, Kammara, master, Cherlaboothkur Gouda, Vadla, Jangam; Scheduled Castes (281) Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of 23. Maqdumpur-Situated at a distance of about their livelihood are agriculture, sheep rearing, 6 miles from Karimnagar and 16 miles from fishing, agricultural labour and other traditional PeddapaUe Railway Station by bus route. occupations. The total population of the village is 2,009 Venkateswaraswamy temple and Siva temple and it is made up of the following communities: are the places of worship in the village. Caste Hindus-Velama, Kummari, Golla, Kammara, Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated for Goud, etc.; Scheduled Castes (519); and Muslims. 8 days from Vaisakha Suddha Dasami to Bahula The chief means of their livelihood are agriculture, Vidiya (April-May). Rice, cocoanuts and cash are agricultural labour and other traditional occupa offered by the devotees. It is an ancient festival· tions. About 1,500 devotees of all communities from The temples of Siva, Anjaneya and Pochamma this and the neighbouring villages participate in are the places of worship in the village. Raghu it. A Sathani Vaishnava is the pujari. Prasadam pathiswamy represented by a boulder bearing the is distributed to all. namams is also worshipped here. SOURCE: An Enumerator, Chakunta Raghupathiswamy festival is celebrated for a day on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March-April). Fowls and sheep are sacrificed. Cocoanuts are 22. Cherlaboothkur- Situated at a distance of 6 offered. This is of ancient origin and of local miles from Karimnagar and 16 miles from Pedda significance. All communities participate. A palle Railway Station. Vaishnava is the pujari with hereditary rights. The total population of the village is 1,746 Prasadam is distribu ted to all. and it is made up of the following communities: SOURCE: Sri V. Jagannatham, Teacher, Maqdumpur Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Gaud, Kapu, Padmasale, etc.; Scheduled Castes (277)-Mala, and Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of the people are 24. nursed-Situated at a distance of 3 miles agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi from Karimnagar and 19 miles from PeddapaUe tional occupations. Railway Statiol1. Kesavaswamy temple with a stone image of The total popUlation of the village is 2,336 the Lord and a Sivalingam and Narasimhaswamy and it is made up of the following communities: temple are the places of worship in the village. Caste Hindus-Kapu, Golla, Padmasale. Vadrangi, The second mentioned temple is in a mango grove Kammara, Kummari, Medari, Kuruma, etc.; on the outskirts of the village. Scheduled Castes (644)-Mala, Madiga, Malajan gam; and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural Kesavaswamy and Narasimhaswamy festivals labour and other tra€litional occupations are the are celebrated for 14 days from Chaitra Suddha chief means of livelihood of the people. Vidiya to Purnima (March-April). Cocoanuts are offered to the deities. These are being celebrated Pochamma temple and Durgamma temple for the past 30 years. Hindus, local and from the are the places of worship in this village. neighbouring villages, congregate. A Sathani Vaisbnava is the pujari with hereditary rights. Festival of the village deities is celebrated Prasadam is distributed to all. by the people of the Scheduled Castes in SrQvanam KARIMNAGAR TALUK 9 (July,August). Pochamma, Durgamma and Yel station on Khazipet-Wardha broad gauge section la rnma are worshipped on a Friday. Animals are of the Central RaIlway. sacrificed to the deities. Malajangams are the nujaris. People of the Scheduled Castes here This is a place with ancient associations. ;ropltiate ghosts also with animal sacrifices. They From an inscription of Kakatiya King ProIa II it are superstitious and very backward in their ideas. can be inferred that this part of the country was known as Sabbinadu. Another inscription men SOURCE: 1· Sri S. Shankaraiah, Teacher, Dursed tions that Minister Vaijana Dandanatha of Kaka~ 2. Sri B. Muthyam, Teacher, Dursed tiya King Betha, ruled over the country known as Sabbisayira. The inscription at Karimnagar 25. Arepalle-Situated at a distance of one mile by Kakatiya Rudra II mentions the name of the from the Karirnnagar-Nizamabad bus route and village Nagarur in Sabbinadu. An inscription 2 miles from Karimnagar. at Srisailam mentions the names of villages Challagaraga, Gudlakota in Sabbinadu. All the The total population of the village is 1,471 villages referred to in the inscriptions are in Karim and it is made up of several sub-communities of nagar District. So this part of the country must Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (257); and have been known as Sabbinadu ruled by Kakatiyas Muslims. Agriculture, 'agricultural labour and and other Kings. Vemulavada, also called other traditional occupations are the chief means Lemulavada, in this district was the capital of a of livelihood of the people. dynasty of Chalukyas who ruled a considerable area as the vassals of the Rashtrakutas. Karimnagar Mohammed Khaja Vali Dhule Pasha darga is too might have been under their rule. the place of worship in this village. It is said that when a Muslim devotee was going in the thick The total population of the town is 33,335 forest adjoining to this village, he was killed by and it is made up of several sub-communities of a tiger. His legs and hands were brought and Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (4,009); Muslims buried and a darga was constructed. There is a and Christians. Trade, services, agriculture and belief that the desires of people would be fulfilled other traditional occupations are the chief means if fatihah is offered at the darga. of livelihood of the people. Mohammed Khaja Vali Dhule Pasha Urs is There are several temples in the town. There celebrated for 3 days in the month of Rabi-us-Sani is a stone image of Gidda Perurnandlu (Hanurnan) (August-September). A flag is brought from in Rampuram, a hamlet of Karimnagar at a Karimnagar by the Muslims and Zanda festival is distance of 2 miles from Karimnagar. celebrated. Fruits, flowers and sweets are offered. Animals are also sacrificed. Devotees and Fakirs Gidda Perumandlu festival is celebrated fOF from Hyderabad, Karimnagar, Jagtial, etc., attend a day in Karthikam (October-November) in Karim the Vrs. Every Friday devotees come and fulfil nagar and for a day on 13th January during their vows. It is being celebrated for the past 80 Sankranti at Rampuram. About three thousand years and is widely known in these parts. About local Hindus participate in the festivals. 1,000 devotees, local and from distant places, SOURCE: 1. Statement of Fairs and Festivals fur~ irrespective of caste or creed, congregate. nished by the Superintendent of Police, Prasadam is distributed to all. Karimnagar A fair is held in connection with the Vrs 2. An Enumerator near the darga for 3 days. Eatables, utensils, 3. Prachinandhra Charitraka Bhoogolam lanterns, mirrors, combs, pictures, photos, books by Srj K. Eswar Dutt and toys are sold. SOURCE: Sri S. Narayan, Headmaster, P.S. School, 27. Hasnapur -Situated at a distance of about 3 Arepalle miles from Karimnagar. The total population of the village is 1,694 26. Karimnagar-The taluk and district head and it is made up of several sub~communities of quarters, situated at a distance of 100 miles from Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (342). The HYderabad. Peddapalle is the nearest railway chief means of livelihood of the people are 10 SECTION I agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi The bastions within the village and in the neigh tional occupations. bouring hamlets support the inference that a fort enclosing a big city must have existed in the Sri Rama Navami is celebrated for one day bygone days. on Chaitra Suddha Navami (March-April). About 1,000 devotees of the village congregate. All The total population of the village is 4,345 communities take part in the festival. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Padmasale, SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished GouJldla, Golla, Gandla, Kanchara, Mangali, by the Colledor, Karimnagar Kamsali, Kammara, Vadrangi, Gajula, Tenugu, etc.; Scheduled Castes (869)-Mala, Madiga; 28. Gannervaram-'Situated at a distance of 10 Dudekulas and Muslims. The chief means of miles from Karimnagar via Elgandal and 34 miles livelihood of the people are agriculture, hand loom from Peddapalle Railway Station. weaving, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. The total population of the village is 3,582 and it is made up of the following communities: The temple of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Velama. swamy on a hillock nearby is the important place Bh3traju, etc.; Scheduled Castes (836) - Mala, of worship here. In fact, it is hard to decide the Madiga; and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural deity for which the temple was constructed. The labour and other traditional occupations are the sculpture on the walls depicting Kokkoka Sasthra chief means of livelihood of the people. and the Sivalingam in a small temple called Nakkalagudi nearby create a doubt whether it Lord Narasimhaswamy temple with a black was not the work of Jaius, who condemned sen stone image of the Lord and Mulaswamy image suous life of the people. But owing perhaps to decorated with namams on a stone, Yellamma the numerous figures on walls depicting Lord temple and Sattcmma temple are the places of Narasimha, it has been taken to be a Vaishnavi te worship in this village. Mulaswamy has no parti temple. The two feet that are worshipped have cular form and is considered to be the deity of been taken to be those of Lord Narasimha and the village. the two eyes on a rock to be those of the Lord. There are three entrances to the sanctum sancto Mulaswamy and Narasimhaswamy festival is rum besides the frlcing entrance to the south. celebrated for 7 days from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Purnima (March-April). Carts and bulls are The main attraction of the building is the decorated on the day of procession and are taken sanctum with its four pillars each more than nine round the temple. This is an ancient festival feet high. Attractive figures of men and devathas, though of local significance. All communities animals and creepers, puranic representations participate. Pujari is a Brahmin of Bhardhwajasa such as rasakreeda, samudra madhanam, dance of gotram with hereditary rights. Prasadam is dis Gopikas, Trimurthis with their consorts, adorn tribu ted to all. each side of the four pillars. It is said that the SOURCE: Sri Gopa Raju, Headmaster, Junior Basic pillars were so much smooth and polished that School, Gannervararn one could see his image reflected on their surface. Many parts of the temple are now disfigured and mutilated. The main cause for the damage 29. Bejjanki-Situated at a distance of 3-i miles wrought was the attempt of some Pindaris to from Karimnagar-Hyderabad road, the total blow up the temple in order to secure the huge distance from Karimnagar being 22 miles. For 18~ treasure supposed to have been hidden under it. miles there is regular road and for 3~ miles There is a rock in a semi-oval form measuring cart track. Ruined walls and dilapidated bastions 250 yards by 250 feet and 140 feet in height. The between this and the present Muththannapeta, area of the curved surface is estimated to be another village 2 miles from here, support the about 10 acres, affording accommodation to a belief that originally Muththannapeta was a big huge crowd of spectators during the car festival. town. All along the road on either side there are The temple is on the southern edge of this vacant grave stones locally called 'Rakshasi Gund!u'. place. KARIMNAGAR TALUK 11 Venugopalaswamy temple is next in impor Next is the car festival. The temple car has five tance. About 200 years back it was difficult to storeys with a total height of 28 feet· This festi reach the top of the hill, passing through the val, which originally commenced at the temple of thick forest of vippa (bassia latifolia) trees. The Lord Venugopalaswamy on a modest scale down hill is called 'Bejjanki Banda'. Though it was the hillock has now developed into that of Lord known that there was Lord Narasimha Narasimhaswamy up the hillock and is called on the hillock, nobody eared to approach it the festival of Narasimhaswamy. The bandlaseva through the forest. Once upon a time Mutha· has gained much popularity in which several rddy, Deshmukh of Sanigaram Paragana, while neighbouring villagers join. Hundreds of carts, hunting in the forest, discovered the temple big and small, old and new, are washed and cleaned buried under rocks and renovated it and arranged and the wheels and the other parts are painted for the daily worship of the Lord. The pujari red and white alternately. Festoons of green belonged to Kothagattu village and he had brought mango leaves and coloured papers are tied to an idol of Venugopalaswamy and installed it at them. Bullocks also are well cleaned and deco Bejjanki village. Thus the temple of Venugo rated with various colour designs. Bandlaseva is pabswamy came to prominence gradually. very exciting with competitive speed, loud noise with whipping and bea ting the bullocks. Minor Anjaneya temple comes next in importance. accidents add to the joy and excitement of the One portion of it is roofless with Anjaneya idol, crowd. The vast open and even space all Vighneswara and Sivalingam with the branches of round the hill prevents major accidents during a ravi (ficus religiosa) tree covering the top. the mad rush of the carts. At eight 0' clock in The other is a roofed building with a new idol the night, dopothsavam and recitation of the story housed in it. The temple is about 65 years old. of Thirumangayalwar are held. The story is Another temple of Narasimhaswamy and Pocha that Thirumangayalwar plundered the Lord and mma temple are the other places of worship fn Lakshmidevi, after their marriage, only to utilise th~ village. that booty ,to feed the devotees of the Lord. At The annual celebrations of Lakshmi Nara three 0' clock in the midnight the Lord is taken simhaswamy and Andal Kalyanam and Rathoth in a procession on an elephant. Rathothsavam (car sa vam are held for 12 days from Chaitra Suddha festival) is held at three 0' clock on the following Sapthami (March-April). They commence on the night. Devotees fulfil their vows by lighting the first day with tholakkum or the commencement of path with torches, while procession idol is brought the reading of Thiruvaimozhi by the Sthanacharya, down from the hill top to be placed on the car, offering of vadapappu and panakam to the Lord, In fact the entire rock looks floodlit with these which are afterwards distributed to the assembled. torches. After the idol is placed on the car, On the second day ten chapters of the Thiruvai either to fulfil their vows or out of sheer enthu mozhi are read and pulihora, vada, and panakam siasm or devotion, the people commence dragg are offered and the function of the day concludes ing the car round the hill, with the music pro wi th chandanagoshti. Adhyayanam is cand ucted vided by drums and musical instruments played on the third day and the Sthanacharaya is duly in the front. The circuit round the hill is COIll honoured. The marriage celebration is inau pleted by about five 0' clock in the morning. gurated on the fourth day with ankurarpana, Homam and baliharanam are the simple functiolll preparing the homagundam (fire pit). pendlivedika on the penultimate day. On the final day nagavalli (marriage seat) with puttabangaru (earth of an in the morning and ekanthaseva in the night are ant~hill) brought with music and offering the important functions. The procession idols chakkara pongali, etc. Dhwajarohana, edurukollu that are taken to the top of the hill on the first and kalyanom are held on the fifth day, bheripuja day are brought back to the temple in the village is on the sixth, sadassu on the seventh, homam after a fortnight. Fowls are hurled up while the and garudaseva on the eighth, and bandlaseva on car is in motion. Besides fowls, cocoanuts, rice the ninth day. and cash are offered. Animal sacrifice has, how ever, decreased of late. Bandlasel'a is celebrated as an annual func tion on Chaitra Suddha Purnima (March-April). It is a hundred year old celebration and DecorJted carts, drawn by decorated bullocks, are extends to several villages all round. The patron taken I"oun d the temple of Lord Venugopalaswamy. of the temple is the Deshmukh Reddy of the place 12 SECTION I and the Temple Committee manages the festival. The total popUlation of the village is 5,830 About 25,000 Hindus congregate, without distinc and it is made up of several sub-communities of tion of caste or creed from distant places too. Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (1,183) i and The pujari is a Brahmin of Koundinyasa gotram Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural labour and with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to other traditional occupations are the chief means all. There is free feeding for Brahmins parti of livelihood of the people. cularly Vaishnavas. A number of hotels tempo rarily ereded cater to the needs of the visitors. The temples of Venkateswaraswamy, Venu The two wells at the foot of the hill are inadequate gopalaswamy and Siva are the places of worship to supply water to the crowd and water facility in the village. on the hillock is much less, requiring the attention of the concerned authorities. Venka teswaraswamy Uthsa vam is celebra ted for 6 days from Vaisakha Suddha Purnima to Bahula A fair is held in an area of 13 acres near the Panchami (April-May). It is being celebrated for hillock. Rent is collected from hotels and shops. the past 120 years and is confined to this and the Eatables, utensils, lanterns, glassware, books, surrounding villages. The local Deshmukh is the photos, pictures, agricultural implements, bamboo chief patron. A Vaishnava is the pujari. articles, torches and oil for offerings are sold. Dra mas, merry-go-rounds, etc., afford entertainment SOURCE: 1. Sri K. Venkataiah, Teacher, Mana to the visitors. kondur 2. Sri D. Gangadhar Rao, Teacher, SOURCE: Sri Nuguri Janardana, Teacher, Bejjanki Government School, Manakondur 3. Sri Syed Habib, Teacher, Manakon 30. Gunkulkondapur_ Situated at a distance of dur 2 miles from Karimnagar-Hyderabad road, 12 miles from Karimnagar and 36 miles from Pedda palle Railway Station. 32. Cherlapur~ Situated at a distance of 3 fur longs from the Karimnagar-Hyderabad road and The total population of the village is 2,543 about 5 miles from Karimnagar. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Gowda, The total population of the village is 1,521 Padmasale, etc.; Scheduled Castes (670)-Mala, and it is made up of the following communities: Madiga; and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural Caste HindUS-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Golla, labour and other traditional occupations are the Gowd, Tenugu, Vadla, Kammara, Kanchari, chief means of livelihood of the people. Kamsali, Jangam, Chakali, Mangali, Kummarii and Scheduled Castes (444)-Mala, Madiga. Ranganayakaswamy temple is the place of Agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi worship in the village. tional occupations are the chief means of liveli hood of the people. Ranganayakaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for two days on Jaishta Suddha Purnima and Bahula Tapala Narasimhaswamy and the village deity Padyami (May-June). Cocoanuts are off€red to Yellamma are worshipped· A rock decorated the deity. It is an ancient festival. All commu with three namams (white and red) is worshipped nities, local and from the nearby villages, partici as Narasimhaswamy at the foot of the hillock pate. Brahmins are the pujaris. situated at a distance of 3 furlongs from the A fair is held in an area of 3 acres during village. There is a small temple for the village day time in front of the temple. Cocoanuts, food deity. stuft·s, earthenware, toys, fancy goods, etc., are sold. Tapala Narasimhaswamy festival is celeb rated on Mondays and Saturdays in Sravrmam SOURCE: Sri Md. Saruvar, Teacher, Gunkulkon (July-August). Daily naivedyam is offered and dapur fowls and sheep are sacrificed to the deity. Hindus, local and from the neighbouring villages, 31. Manakondur-- Situated at a distance of 20 participate in it. A Chattada Vaishnava is the miles from Peddapalle Railway Station. pujari with hereditary rights. KARIMNAOAR TALUK 13 SOURCE: Sri S. Brahmaiah, Teacher, Government deity. It is being celebrated for the past 100 years J.B. School, Thotapalle and is confined to this village only. Local Hindus take part in it. A Padmasale is the pujari with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. 33. Vachnoor -Situated at a distance of 1 mile from the Karimnagar-Hyderabad road and 9 miles SOURCH: 1. Sri P. Rajaiah, Teacher, Totapalle from Karimnagar. 2. Sri Mohammad Habibuddin, Head master, Totapalle The total population of the village is 1,993 nnd it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kammara, Kum 35. Basvapur-Situated at a distance of 7 miles mari, Vadla, Chakali, Mangali, Kamsali, Bestha, from the Karimnagar-Hyderabad road and 28 Tenugu, Kapu, Padmasale, Goud, etc.; Scheduled miles from Karimnagar. Castes (451)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agri The total population of the village is 4,127 culture, agricultural labour and other traditional and it is made up of the several sub-communities occupations. of Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (906). Agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi The temples of Venugopalaswamy, Veera tional occ\.lpa tions are the chief means of liveli Hanuman and Markandeya are the places of wor hood of the people. ship in the village. There are village deities, Durgamma, Posamma, Peddamma and Yellamma. Hari Ramaswamy fes ti val is celebra ted for one day in Chaitram (March-April). About 500 Yellamma festival is celebrated for two day~ Hindu devotees of the village congregate. Prasa from Vaisakha Suddha Purnima (April-May). Fowls dam is distributed to all. and animals are sacrificed to the other village deities also. It is being celebrated for the past 4 SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished years and is of local significance. by Col/ector, Karimnagar Daily puja is being performed to Lord Venu 36. Koorella-Situated at a distance of 5 miles gopalaswamy. A Vaishnava is the pujari for the from the Karimnagar-Hyderabad bus route and temple. 24 miles from K~rimnagar by road. SOURCE: Sri T. Anantha Swamy, Headmaster, J.B. The total popUlation of the village is 1,387 School, Vachnoor and it is mad8 up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Munnurukapu, 34. Totapalle-Situated at a distance of 2 miles Tenugu, Chakali, Goud, Vaddera, Kamsali, from the bus route, 25 miles from Hasanparthy Medari, etc; Scheduled Castes (253)-Mala, Madi Road Railway Station, and 28 miles from Karim ga; and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural labour nagar. and other traditional occupations are the chief means of livelihood of the people. The total population of the village is 1,931 and it is made up of the following communities: A cave with the image of Pratapa Rudra Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Padma Singaraiah in the form of Lord Narasimhaswamy sale, Golla, Chakali, Gowda, Vadla, Kammara, on a hillock and the temple of the village deity, I Kummari, Kamsali, etc.; and Scheduled Castes Yellamma, are the places of worship in the village. (572)-Mala, Madiga, etc. Agriculture, agricultural It is believed locally that Lord Narasimhaswamy labour and other traditional occupations are the appeared in a dream to Emperor Pratapa Rudra chief means of livelihood of the residents. Deva of Kakatiya dynasty during the latter's expe dition through these areas and ordained him to The temples of the village are of Sambasiva, instal His image in the cave here. It is therefore Anjaneyaswamy and the village deity, Pochamma· called by that name. Lord Sambasiva festival is celebrated for one Pratapa Rudra Singaraiah festival is cele day on Magha Bahula Amavasya (January-Febru brated for a day on Pushya Bahula Amavasya ary). Cocoanuts and naivedyam are offered to the (December-January). Vows are fulfilled by the 14 SECTION I devotees· Cocoanuts are offered. It is confined to (February-March). Vows are fulfilled by the this and the neighbouring villages. About 5,000 devotees. Cocoanuts, etc., are offered. It is being people of all communities participate. Pujari is celebrated for the past 100 years and is confined a Brahmin of Bharadhwajasa gotram with heredi to this village only. There is 1nam land of 5 acres tary rights. for this temple. Pujari is a Vaishnava with hereditary rights. About 1,000 people of all A fair is held in this connection. Eatables, communities participate from the nearby villages toys, utensils, lanterns, mirrors, combs, also. Prasadam is distributed to all and there is agricultural implements, torches, books, photos, free feeding too. clothes, etc., are sold. A fair is held in connection with the festival The cave temple is on the outskirts of the over an area of 2 acres both during day and night. village. The area is isolated and is surrounded by Food-stuffs, torchlights, books and photos, etc., forest and hill ranges. There flows a hill stream are sold. amidst beautifui panorama full of hillocks, ponds and shady trees. People who throng from several SOURCE: 1. Sri N. Bhadraiah, Teacher, Elementary villages for the festival have to return by 6 School, Thangallapalle O'clock in the evening as there is fear of wild 2. Sri Md. Sharjuddill, Assistant Tea animals and robbers also. This festival is known cher, Thangallapalle over a wide area and people have high belief in 3. Sri Sesham Varadacharyulu, Teacher, the Lord here. It is also said that a seer called Thangal/apaUe Gundobaba had made this place solemn and blessed the place with divine powers during the 38. GuggiUa__:_ Situated at a distance of 3 miles ancient days. People return to homes happily from the Hyderabad-Karimnagar bus route and after having a darsan of the Lord at this calm 21 miles from Peddapalle Railway Station. Ma abode. neru river flows on the eastern and southern sides of this village. It is a tributary of the Godavari SOURCE: 1. Sri L. Rama Ratnaiah, Teacher, Government Elementary School, river. Tangallapalle The total population of the village is 1,822 2. Sri Syed Amin, Teacher, Governmem and it is made up of the following communities: Elementary School, Koorella Caste Hindus - Brahmin, Vaisya, Gone Kapu, KamsaU, Padmasale, Goud, Vadla, Kammara, 37. Thangallapalle-·Situated at a distance of 3 Chakali, Mangali, Medari, Vadde, etc.; Scheduled miles from the Karimnagar-Hyderabad bus route Castes (377)-Mala, Madiga; Dudekulas and Mus and 24 miles from Karimnagar. lims. Agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations are the chief means of The total popUlation of the village is 2,295 livelihood of the people. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Gowd Cha There is a temple of Venugopalaswamy with kali, Tenugu, Boya, Kamsali, Kammara, Vadrangi, a marble stone image in human form. Siva tem Kummari, Vadla, Mangali, etc.; Scheduled Castes ple with a stone Sivalingam and Hanuman (Anja (388)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief neya) image without a temple are places of wor means of livelihood of the residents are agricul ship in this village. ture, agricultut.li labour and other traditional Venugopalaswamy festival is celebrated once occupations. in a year according to the convenience of the Lord Krishnaswamy temple on a hillock people. Local people congregate. A Vaishnava is on the outskirts of the village, the temple of Siva the pujari with hereditary rights. There is some and a mosque are the places of worship in this Inam land for this temple. village. There are the villag~ deities, Durgamma, SOURCE: Sri T. Naraharz', Teacher, Guggilla Mankalamma and Pochamma. Krishna5wamy festival IS celebrated for 39. RamachandrapuT_ Situated at a distance of 9 days from Phalguna Suddha Saptami to Purnima 2 miles from Gagallapuram bus stage on the KARIMNAGAR TAL UK 15 Karimnagar-Hyderabad road and 16 miles from and ekanta seva on Vidiya are some of the rituals Karimnagar. that are celebrated in this period. Cocoanut;s and cash are offered to the Lord by the devotees. The total population of the village is 1,204 and It is being celebrated for the past 153 years and it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste is of local significance. Local Hindus take part Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (435). Agriculture, in it. A Vaishnava of Koundinyasa gotram is the agricultural labour and other traditional occupa pujari. tions are the chief means of livelihood of the people. SOURCE: G. Kishan Rao, Teacher, Zilla Parishad Middle School, Koheda Sri Rama temple with His stone image in human form situated on a hillock on the bank of river and Siva temple are the places of 41. Parveda-·Situated at a distance of 9 miles from worship in this village. It is believed that Sri the Karimnagar-Hyderabad bus road and 25 miles Rama manifested Himself here on the hillock, from Karimnagar. A river flows on all the sides where a temple was raised by the local people. of the village. Sri Rama Navami is celebrated for 8 days The total po pula tion of the village is 876 from Chaitra Suddha Saptami to Chathurdasi (Mar and it is made up of the following commullltles: ch-April). Sri Rama kalyanam is celebrated on Caste Hindus--Brahmin, Kurma, Kapu, Tenugu, Navami. Temple car procession is also held. Manne, Goundla, Chakali. Mangali; and Co~oanuts and money are offered to the Lord. It Scheduled Castes (188)-Mala and Madiga. is being celebrated from ancient times and is con Agriculture, agricultural labour and other fined to this and the neighbouring villages. The traditional occupations are the chief means of village Patel, Patwari and Mali Patel, are the livelihood of the people. patrons. People of all Hindu communities from this and the neighbouring villages congregate. A Sri Venugopalaswamy temple is the only Vaishnava of Kasyapasa gotram is the pujari. place of worship in this village. SOURCE: Sri B. Srinivasa Rao, Teacher, Ramachan drapur Sitit Rama Kalyanothsavam is celebrated for 9 days in Chaitram (March-April) in the above temple. It is being celebrated for the past 15 40. Koheda- Situated at a distance of 28 miles years and is confined to this village only. from Karimnagar. The village is situated amidst Padmasales of Koheda village are the patrons. hills. Local Hindus take part in it. A Vaishnava is the pujari. The total popUlation of the village is 3,431 and it is made up of the following communities: SOURCE: Sri P. Nag; Reddy, Headmaster, Pancha Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Padmasale, yat Samithi Elementary School, Parveda KalOsali, Golla, Tenugu, Chakali, Mangali, Gowd, Kummari, etc.; Scheduled Castes (562)-Mala, Ma diga; and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural la 42. Navabpet- Situated at a distance of 12 miles bour and 0ther traditional occupations are the from the Karimnagar-Hyderabad bus route and chief means of livelihood of the residents. 32 miles from Peddapalle Railway Station. There are temples of Sri Rama, Rajeswara The total population of. the village is 2,054 swamy and Siva in the village. There are the and it is made up of the following communities: village deities Mallanna, Pocbamma and Manka Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Muthracha, Iamma. Gaud, ~tc.; Scheduled Castes (368); and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the residents are Sita Rama Kalyanamahothsavam is celebra agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi ted for 9 days from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Ba tional occupations. hula Vidiya (March-April). Kalyanam on Navami, sadasyam on Ekadasi, and rathothsavam on Purnima, Venkateswaraswamy temple is the place of chakra teertham and sesha vahanam on Padyami worship in the village. 16 SECTION I Venka teswaraswamy Kalyanamahothsavam is A petty fair is held in an area of about 10 celebrated for 15 days from Asviyuja Suddha Pad acres in the vicinity of the boulder,. with a few yami to Purnima (September-October). Vows are shops selling eatables and fancy goods. About 200 fulfilled by the devotees. It is being celebrated Hindu devotees, local and from nearby villages, for the past 60 years and is of local significance. congregate. Brahmins are the patrons. All communities par ticipate. A Vaishnava is the pujari. Prasadam is SDURCE: 1. Sri Veera Reddy, Teacher, P. S. School, Ramancha distributed to all. 2. Sri Venkat Raja Reddy, Patwari, SOURCE: 1. Sri Kothapalli Anjaiah, Teacher, Na Ramancha vabpet 2. Sri Mohammed A/zal, Headmaster, 44. NaUagonda- Situated at a distance of 10 Navabpet miles from Karimnagar. 3. Sri Syed Yaseen, Headmaster, Sri ramulapalle The population of the village is 1,527 and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Goud, Padma 43. Ramancha- Situated at a distance of 5 miles sale, Chakali, Perika, Kapu, Kamsali, etc.; Sche from Renikunta stage on the Karimnagar-Hyde duled Castes (516)-Mala and Madiga. The chief rabad road and 16 miles from Karimnagar. means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, The total population of the village is 1,278 agricultural labour and other traditional occu and it is made up of the following communities: pations. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Padmasale, Sri Rama and Narasimhaswamy temples are Kanchara, Kamsale, Chakali, Mangali, Gaud, the places of worship in the village. Kuruva, etc.; Scheduled Castes (204)-Mala, Madi ga; and Muslims. The chief means of their liveli Narasimhaswamy festival is celebrated for 8 hood are agriculture, agricultural labour and other days from Phalguna Suddha Ekadasi to Bahula Tadi traditional occupations. ya (February-March). The festival concludes with the procession of carts and with rathothsavam. There is a darga with the tomb of a Muslim Cocoanuts and cash are offered. It is an ancient saint in the village. The village deity Beerappa is festival and is confined to this village. A Vaish also there in a temple. Narasimhaswamy carved in nava is the pujari. The local devotees irrespective human form on a huge boulder is also worshipped. of caste or creed congregate. There is an image of Parvathi in human form. SOURCE, Sri B. Rajaiah, Teacher, Nallagonda Vrs is celebrated for one day in the month of Moharram. It is being celebrated for the past 50 45. Mannampalle- Situated at a distance of 10 years. Muslims are the patrons and pujaris. About miles from Karimnagar. 600 devotees of all communities, local and from about 6 neighbouring villages, congregate. The total population of the village is 1,648 and it is made up of the following communities: A fair is held on an area of one acre in this Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Vadrangi, Kam connection with some shops selling eatables, toys, mara, Padmasaie, Tenugu, Chakali, Mangali, Bes utensils, mirrors, combs, etc. tha, Gaud, Medari, Kummari, Sale, Velama, etc.; Scheduled Castes (519)-Madiga; and Mu.slims. Narasimhaswamy festival is celebrated for Agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi· one day on Chaitra Suddha Purnima (March-April). tional occupations are the chief means of liveli. Cocoanuts and flowers are offered and fowls and hood of the people. sheep are sacrificed to the deity in fulfilment of vows. This is an ancient festival but is of local The temples ofChennakesavaswamy, Siva and significance. The local devotees participate in Hanuman are the places of worship in the village. the festival. All the residents of the village con The image of Chennakesavdswamy is in the form tribute their mite for the celebrations of the of Lord Vishnu with 4 hands, holding sankhu, chak festival. ram and gada in 3 hands, the fourth being KARIM NAGAR TALUK 17 abhayahastham. The images of Sridevi and Bhoo Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Gowd, devi are on either side. The compound of the tem Padmasale, Reddi, etc.; Scheduled Castes (281); ple contains, besides the main temple, yagnasala, and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of ka!yanamantapam, rathasala, and a few other the residents are agriculture, agricultural labour l1W'llapams. and other traditional occupations. Sri Chenna Kesavaswamy Kalyanothsavam is Chennakesavaswamy temple and Siva temple celebrated for 8 days from Vaisakha Suddha Dasami are the places of worship in the village. The first to Bahula Vidiya (April-May). Preparations are temple is on the top of a hillock nearby. The made one week in advance. Ankurarpana on Dasami, stone idols of Chennakesavaswamy and Laxmidevi garuda seva on Dwadasi, sadasyam on Triodasi, are about 5 feet high and beautiful. A cave called I1Ilyopasana and baliharana on Chathurdasi, process Rushuladona and two ponds are on the hillock· ion of carts on Purnima, rathothsavam on Bahula The Siva temple is at the foot of the hill. Padyami and nakabali on Vidiya are the rituals during the festival. Much imp;)rtance is attached Chennakesavaswamy Teertham is celebrated to rathothsQI'arn by the local p:ople. The following for 6 days from Phalguna Suddha Ekadasi to Bahula rlhyanam is adopted for the worship of the Lord: Vidiya (February-March). Cocoanu ts and naived yam are offered. Kalyanam on Ekadasi, paruveta on "c)'!~6.s ~"d ~o~5J C,J Triodasi, procession of carts on Chathurdasi, naga Dakshinordhwa kare sankham bali on Padyami and ekantha seva on Vidiya are the ~~ ~!; ;6.)c)6~<55:J rituals of the celebration. It is being celebrated Varna hasthe sudarshanam for the past 50 years and is of local significance. XC)o:J"~ 56w~_E, 5:J Local Hindus participate. The pujari is a Vaish Gadavama karanyastham nava of Bharadhw3jasa gotram. There is no regular ~~oJOO C).!f;i s"d incom.:: for the temple. Abhayam dakshina l~ ~g);J ;:S~i5 0 The Sivalingam is believed to be a self-mani. Sree Rhumi sahitham sowmyam fested one and its base is said to be more than 12 l~ :$8".J0~(5 :$JS.iSo feet below the ground level. Sree vathsankita vakshasam ~8~n <5 ~~ 5:J g& dilo SOURCE: Sri K. Venkata Raju, Teacher, Rekonda, -JI Cl via Manakondur Adimurti sthitham thoyam -§~o:1~g i6~~~~5J Kesavakhya namamyaham." 47. Mulkunur-Situated at a distance of 5 miles Fasting, feasting and jagarana are the domes from Nustulapur stage on the Karimnagar tic observances. The festival is being celebrated Hyderabad bus route and 13 miles from Karim from ancient times and is confined to this and the nagar. neighbouring villages. The local people headed by The total popu la tion of the vi lIage is 1,581 Patwari, Police Patel and Mali Patel are th6 pat and it is made up of the following communities: rons. Hindus from this and the neighbouring Caste Hindus-Brahmin, VaisY~l, Kapu, Kamsali, villages congregate. Pujar; is a Vaishnava of Kammara, Chakali, Mangali, etc.; and Scheduled Kasyapasa gotram with hereditary rights. Prasadam Castes (248). The chief means of their livelihood is dirtributed to all. are agriculture and agricultural labour. SOURCE: Sri D. Murahari, Teacher, P.S., Manne Venkateswaraswamy ten;ple, Siva temple and palle Anjaneyaswamy temple an the places of worship in the Tillage. 46. Molugupalcm-Situated at a distance of 4 miles from the Karimnagar-Warangal road and 17 miles It is believed that about 300 ye8rs ago, there from Jammikunta Railway Station on the Khazi was in the village a Jain temple which was later pct-Wardha section of the Central Railway. converted into the present Vaishnava temple. The local people narrate the fol1owing legend about it. The total population of the village is 2,155 There is a Brahmin family with surname Kunda and it is made up 6f the following communities: Vajjhala in this village. About 6 generations ago 18 SECTION I there was a boy in that family by name Gopala Veerabhadraswamy temple on a hillock near Krishna Sastry. He was illiterate and the villa by and also in the village and Sri Rama temple gers and the family members chided him one day. are the places of worship in the village. There Therefore he had decided to commit suicide and are small temples for village deities Yellamma, went to the outskirts of the village for hanging Durgamma and Pochamma in the village. himself. At that tim~ Lord Venkateswara appeared . Veerabhadraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated there as a human being upon a horse, consoled for 3 days during the days of Makara Sankranti the boy and wrote beejaksharams upon his tongue. (January 13th to 15th). Cocoanuts are offered. Then he followed the boy to the village and dis This is an ancient festival. Local Hindus partici appeared into the local Jain temple. On the same pate. A Veerasaiva is the pujari. night the Lord appeared in a dream to the village head and order;;d him to install his image in the Yellamma Jatara is celebrated for 3 days temple. It so happened that one of the disciples from Vaisakha Suddha Triodasi to Purnima (April of the Vaishnavite spiritual head Ramanu May). Puja on the first day, bonams and proces jacharya came to the village during his religious sion of carts on the second day, and disti kumbham tours. The idol of Lord Venkateswara was instal and sacrificing fowls, goats and sheep on the led by him. Later, Gopala Krishna Sastry wrote third day are the rituals connected with the Jatara. Sri Krishna lanmakandam, a book of 18 cantos, It is being celebrated for the past 4 years. Gouds which is said to be preserved still in that family are the chief patrons. A Muthrasi is· the pujari. in manuscript form, along with some more works People, local and from neighbouring villages, of that author. It is learnt from a stone inscri congregate. ption near the village that Gopala Krishna Sas try was honoured by Peshwa Baji Rao at Poona A fair is held in connection with the Jatara. in those days and also was given a village called Food~stuffs, utensils, lanterns, mirrors, combs, Devatapalle as agraharam. pictures, books, toys, etc., are sold. SOURCE: 1. Sri R. Sanjeeva Rao, Teacher, Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated for Chigurmamidy 10 days from Vaisakha Suddha Saptami to Bahula 2. Sri B. Kasaiah, Chigurmamidy Padyami (April-May). Adhyayana uthsavam, tiru kkalyanam, procession of carts and rathothsavam are the functions associated with the celebration 49. Sundaragiri-Situated at a distance of about of the festival. Cocoanuts and cash are offered. 20 miles from Karimnagar. It is being celebrated for the past 300 years and is confined to the village only. Sri Muppidi Ven The total population of the village is 1,897 and it is made up of the following communities: kata Narasimha Reddy is the patron. Local Hin~ dus participate in the function. A Vaishnava of Caste Hindus-Kapu, Tenugu, Goundla. Golla, Koundinyasa gotram is the pujari with hereditary Kuruma, Kamsale, Medari, Kanchari, Vadla, rights. Kammara, Kummari, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (330)-Mala and Madip. Agriculture, agricultural SOURCE: Sri G. Malla Reddy, Teacher, Government labour and other traditional occupations are the School, Mulkunur chief means of livelihood of the people. Lord Venkateswaraswamy temple is the place of worship in this village. 48. Chigurmamidy- Situated at a distance of 8 miles from Husnabad on the road to Karimnag:1r Sri Venkateswara Kalyanam is celebrated for 7 and 16 miles from Karimnagar. dlYs from Vaisakha Suddha Purnima (March-April). Abhishekams are performed and naivedyam is The total population of the village is 4,693 off~red to the deity. It is confined to this village and it is made up of several sub~communities of only. Local Hindus take part in it. A Vaishnava Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (832); and Mus is the pujari for the past 50 years. lims. The chief means of livelihood of the resi dents are agriculture, agricultural labour, manu SOURCE: Sri Rajaiah, Mulipatei, Sundaragiri facture of beedis, weaving and other traditional occupations. 50. Husnabad-Situated at a distance of 22 miles KARIMNAGAR TALlJK 19 from Yellapur Railway Station and 26 miles from 51. Potlapalle-Situated at a distance of 3 miles Hanamkonda and 27 miles from Karimnagar. from Husnabad and about 24 miles from Karim nagar. The total population of the village is 4,814 and it is made up of several sub-communities of The total population of the village is 1,770 Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (1,115); and and it is made up of the following communities: Muslims. The chief means of their livelihood are Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Gowd,Tenugu, Vadde, agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi Padmasale, etc.; Scheduled Castes (243)-Mala tional occupations. and Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul Renuka Yellamma Devatha temple on the tural labour, weaving and other traditional occu bund of a tank of the days of Kakatiyas, Siddes pations. waraswamy temple and Anjaneyaswamy temple are the places of worship in the village. Sri Rama temple and village deity Ravulll Mallanna temple are the places of worship in the Renuka Yellamma Jatara is celebrated for a village. week from Vaisakha Suddha Purnima (April-May). Silver eyes, clothes, rice and fowls are offered. Ravula Mallanna festival is celebrated for It is being celebrated from the time of Kakatiya 3 days from Pushy a Suddha Saptami (December Rudrama Devi, when the tank was constructed January). Bonams are offered to the deity. It is in the deity's name. Gouds are the chief patrons. being celebrated for the past 70 years. Local About 1,000 devotees of all communities parti Hindus participate in it. cipate in it. Pujari is a Munnurukapu. Sri Rama Navami is celebrated for eight days A fair is held in this connection for 8 days. from Chaitra Suddha Navami (March-April). Food-stuffs, utensils, torchlights, mirrors, combs, Aradhana and kalyanam are the important rituals lanterns, pictures and photos, etc., are sold. of the festival. It is being celebrated for the past 50 years and is of local significance. Reddil SOURCE: 1. Sri M. Venkatanarasiah, Teacher, are the chief patrons. Pujari is a Vaishnava. Zilla Parish ad High School, Husnabad Prasadam is distributed to all and there is fre. 2. Sri V. Srihariswamy, Teacher, Zilla feeding also. Parishad High School, Husnabad 3. Sri Venkateswara Rao, Teacher, SOURCE: Sri G. Bhooma Reddy, Teacher, C. P. S., Husnabad Potlapalle 4. Sri P. Tirupati Swamy, Teacher, Husnabad SIRSILLA TALUK , ;t ~ ~ { ~ 0"zt;; ~ <\:: ~ ;: i ~ ~ 2 ;;;0~ ~ ~ ;:: t 0", ~, ~L "~ til ~ ~ ~~ ~. J:< ~ ~~ Jot; :ez ".~< ~Oi g ~ ~ < < ~~ ~ ~~ ~o ~~ ~:! ~~ ~; ~!; i?l ~ ~~ ....J 'l ]: • ~ a "ri z g ~ ~ !!: ., ~ ~, J: ~ z C 2 2: ~ ~ " ~ ~ ~~ " « tf il: ::> ~ ::> ~ ~ '" ! Z t;; (;) "Z ~ a "Z ! ~ ~z li ~ '"" E- 0;; ':! e( § ~ 0;; ~ !;;' ~ ~~ t.IJ ~ Q ':! ':! ~ ~ ~ 1i ~ ~ 5 ! ~ ~ ~ l- t ~ u • ~ :J it ,: 3 g ; .J l- ~ ~ « til :I 2 i ! l- e c ... ~ • . 0 u ~ ~ it ~ ~ 0:: 0 .; ~• 0 ~• it 1 III ... " ::J ..'" o ~!!! i ::iE ~ l.iJ 0 I 0:: .. 0:: ::J 0 If « '"z « .J '" 1*8 ( :E « III I ; 1-'" I « :I x-~ Z Section II SIRSILLA TALUK 1~othapalle_Situated at. a distance of ~4 miles Dasami ankurarpana, on Ekadasi homam, on Dwadasi ~ from Sirsilla and 55 mIles from Jagtlal, the dwajarohanam and bheri puja, on Triodasi thirrukal headquarters of a revenue sub-division. yanothsavam and Hanumantha seva, on Chathur dasi sadassu and procession of the deity on The total population of the village is 2,476 horse vehicle, on Purnima garudothsavam and on and it is made up of the following communities: Bahula Padyami chakrathirtham are the ri tuals Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Reddy, Kapu, observed. This festival is of ancient origin and is Kamsali, Vadla, Padmasale, Chakali, Mangali, confined to this and the nearby villages. The chief Kummari, Kammara, Telaga, Bestha, Golla, Gow patron is Sri Venkata Narasinga Rao, a Kapu. One da Thammala; Scheduled Castes (371)-Mala, thousand devotees, local and from the nearby M~diga; and Muslims. The chief means of liveli villages congregate. Only Hindus participate in hood of the people are agriculture, agricultural the festival. Pujari is a Vaishnava of Kasyapasa labour, fishing and other traditional occupations. gotram with hereditary rights. Teertham and The temples of Lord Venugopalaswamy, Siva, prasadam are distributed to all· Hanuman, Bhairava, Uma Maheswaraswamy, In this connection a fair is held for one day Rajeswaraswamy, Mahankalamma, Eswaramma near the temple. Eatables, utensils, lanterns, and Peddamma are the places of worship in the mirrors, combs, Ayurvedic drugs, pictures, photos, village. clothes, agricultural implements and toys are Sri Venugopalaswamy Rathothsavam is sold in the fair. celebrated for 10 days from Vaisakha Suddha There is a choultry for the pilgrims. Navami to Bahula Tadiya (April-May). The arran gements are made 5 days in advance. It is of SOURCE: Sri Rangachary, Pujari, Lingannapet ancient origin though of local significance. The local Hindus congregate. Pujari is a Vaishnava of Gowthamasa gotram. 3. Mallareddipet-Situated at a distance of 16 miles from Kamareddy Railway Station. SOURCE: Sri C. Bhoomaiah, Assistant Teacher, Zilla Parishad High School, Gambhiraopet The total population of the village is 2,281 and it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (381)-Mala, 2. Lingaunapet-Situated at a distance of 18 miles Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of the from Kamareddy Railway Station and 25 miles people are agriculture, agricultural labour and from Sirsilla. There is a fort with four bastions other traditional occupations. and a rampart encircled by a moat. The temple of Veera Hanuman is the only The total population of the village is 2,938 place of worship in the village. and it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (491); and Mus Veera Hanuman Uthsavam is celebrated for lims. The chief means of livelihood of the people one day on Magha Bahula Amavasya (January-Feb are agriculture, agricultural labour and other ruary). A thousand Hindu devotees of the village, trad'itional occupations. irrespective of caste or creed, participate in the festival. The temples ofVenkateswaraswamy, Siva and Anjaneyaswamy are the places of worship in the SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished village. by the Collector, Karimnagar Sri Venkateswaraswamy Rathothsavam is celebrated from Asviyuja Suddha Dasami to Bahula 4. Ellareddipet-Situated at a distance of 30 Padyami (September-October) for 7 days. On miles from Kamareddy Railway Station on the 22 SECTION II Central Railway. The village is called Kishandas temple to collapse as a result of which the images YelLareddypet after the names of Jagirdar Ki became buried underneath. Even now there is the shandas and Patel YelLareddy. banyan tree. Another temple was constructed but no images have been installed. The total population of the village is 3,438 and it is made up of the following communities: Sri Rama Uthsavam is celebrated for one day Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, etc.; and Scheduled on Pushya Bahula Amavasya (December-January). Castes (660)-Mala, Madiga. The chief means of Cocoanuts are offered in th,;: name of Sri Rama. livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul h is of ancient origin and confined to this and tural labour and other traditional occupations. the nearby villages. The Hindus, local and from the neighbouring villages, congregate. The temples of V enugopalaswamy, Hanuman, Pochamma and Kesavaswamy are the places of SOURCE: Sri G. Narasimhachary, Teacher, Joga worship in the village. puram Sri Venugopalaswamy Rathothsavam is celeb· 6. Nallagonda-Situated at a distance of 5 miles rated for 6 days from Karthika Bahula Dasami to from motor route, 20 miles to the west of Karim Amavasya (October-November). Festival arrange nagar and 42 miles from Kamareddy Railway ments are made two months in advance. Kalya Station. This village was constructed in the name nom and rathothsavam are the special functions. of Narasimhaswamy. Cocoanuts are offered. 1he fe~tival is being celebrated for the past 30 years. The Hindu The total population of the village is 957 and devotees, local and from twenty neighbouring it is made up ofth~ following communities: Caste villages, irrespective of caste or creed congregate. Hindus-Reddy, Golh, Telaga; and Scheduled Pujari is a Vaishnava enjoying the loam lands. Castes (167)-Mala and Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of the people comprise agricultu re A fair is being held in connection with the and agricultural labour. festival for the past 15 years in the centre of the village. This place belongs to municipality. The There is the only temple of Lakshmi Nara municipality collects taxes from the shopkeepers. simhaswamy on a hillock with His image in an Eatables, pictures, utensils, lanterns, clothes, awe-inspiring form. It is said that about 150 years agricultural implements, paddy, vegetables, orna ago, the temple was built by Ramachari, a pujari, ments, sheep, fowls, baskets and toys, etc., are at the behest of the Lord in a dream. There is sold. another temple at the foot of the hillock. There is a koneru (pond) before the temple and there are SOURCE: Sri G. Vittal, Assistant Teacher, Zilla mantapams and a ralhasala (car shed). Parish ad Middle School, Ellareddipet Sri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for 14 days from Magha Suddha Vidiya !S. Jogapuram-Situated at a distance of about 12 to Purnima (January-February). Actually, the miles from Sirsilla town and about 50 miles from festival commences from Saptami. Kalyanam on Kamareddy Railway Station. There are private Dasami and rathothsavam (car festival) on Purnima buses from Vemulavada. are held. Every day sevas are performed. Vows are fulfilled by the devotees. Rice, cocoanuts, The total population of the village is 1,126 fruits, sugar, silver, brass and gold ornaments are and it is made up of the following communities: offered. The festival is being celebrated for the Caste Hindus-Padmasale, Golla, Kuruva, Vaisya, past 150 years and is of local importanc~. The Kammara, Kamsali, Kummari, Velama; and Sche patrons are V~ishnavas. About five thousand duled Castes (138)-Mala, Madiga. The chief devotee:>, local and from the neighbouring villages means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, congregate. Pujari is a Vaishnava of Bharadhwajasa agricultural labour and other traditional occ.upa gotram with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distri tions. buted to all and there is free feeding for 7 days. It is said that there was a temple of Sri Rama A fair is held for 3 days before the temple. by the side of which a banyan tree grew and it Eatables, utensils, lanterns, mirrors and combs, gradually occupied the whole place causing the pictures, photos and toys of various kinds are SIRSILLA T ALUK 23 sold in the fair. Swings, lotteries, gambling, cir~ migrated to this place from North India between eus and dramas afford entertainment to the 955-965 A. D· and wrote Yesastilaka Champu in visitors. 966 A. D. It is further claimed that the author of Kavijanasrayam, Vemulavada Bheemakavi, a ren SOURCE: Sri K. Raja Reddy, Nallagonda owned Telugu poet of the 12th century A. D. was associated with this place. 7. Vemulavada-Situated on 18°28' N. and 78° 53' It is well known that that poet had acquired E. at a distance of a little more than 6 miles from remarkable talent and enormous power in his Sirsma, about 22 miles from Karimnagar on the utteranc.es through the grace of Lord Bheemes Karimnagar-Kamareddy bus route and 41 miles waraswamy. It is locally believed that Bheemes from Kamareddy. It is connected by good roads wara was the deity at Vemulavada. However, with convenient buses from Karimnagar, Kama~ there is another section of opinion which asserts reddy and also Hyderabad. The town is an anci that the poet was blessed by the Lord of Draksha~ ent one and has been in existence from the time rama in East Godavari District. of Western Chalukyas. The nearest railway sta t~ ions are Kamareddy on the metre gauge section of There are several stone inscriptions in the lo Hyderabad to Nizamabad and Kazipet on the cal ancient temples. This place is also believed to broad gauge section. have been connected with the tragic legend of Sarangadhara, the son of Rajaraja Narendra who It was once known as Lembulavatika and it got the limbs of his only son cut off believing the is gradually corrupted into Lemulavada, Vemula~ allegations of his second wife against the innocent vada and Emulavada. The rural folks call it Emu~ son who refused to yield to his step-mather's dala. The imperial Vemulavada Chalukyas ruled sensual desire. Though there is much controversy the Andhra Desa from here between 750 and 973 regarding the actual spot. where Sarangadhara was A. D. During the reigns of Vinayaditya Yuddha~ assassinated, several people accept this as the malla and Arikesari II, this was a flourishing city most probable one. There is a hillock at a distan with several shrines. Art and literature had their ce of 2 miles by the side of Nampalle, where Lord hey day. Its glory gradually dwindled away and Narasimhaswamy is worshipped. Before the Lord's the village is now only a sacred pilgrim centre. temple the local people show two small pits as It is aptly said: the eyes of Rathnangi, the mother of Sarangadha " (j iJ" ~ ct» 0 N"~ ll'loO'~ct»o ra. At the foot of the hillock there is a rock with Devalayam nati grandhalayam the figure of a woman carved on it called Saranga 0°c;s'~dSJo je:! ~iJ"e)dSJo dharunigundu. Beside it there isanother rock where Grandhalayam neti devalayam. " Chithrangi, the step-mother of Sarangadhara, dashed her head against and died when Rajaraja This means that in the past the temple was a seat Narendra detected her crime. But, it is doubtful of learning and a library. Now in the present day if these contentions are correct, as Rajaraja a library is the place of worship. In the past the Narcndra reigned at Rajahmundry. To the right temple was more than a mere place of worship. of Narasimhaswamy temple, there is Navanatha It was the centre of society from where all social, guha, a cave very convenient for doing penance. civic and cultural life Hawed into the hearts of the people. It represented the very acme of the The total population of the town is 8,242 and civilisation of the age. During the Chalukya rule it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste the temples and mutts were not only religious but Hindus; Scheduled Castes (992); Scheduled Tribes also educational centres. An inscription state:; (6); and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood that Arikesari II appointed Mallikarjuna, Vyakthi of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour, lingi, Vidyavasi and Vyagyani Bhattaraka as th , trade and other traditional occupations. heads of the temples of Rajeswara, Adityagruha, Vemulavada is famous astheseat of Western Baddikeswara and Nagareswara respectively. The Chalukya temple known as the Rajeswaraswami great Kanmda poet Pampana who dedicated his temple. Thae is also another temple called the Vaddegeswarasw:lmi temple which is also in a good work Vikramarjuna Vijayam to Arikesari II was state of preservation. The Rajeswara temple is the poet laure:lte in the court of Arikesari II. obviously so named. either because it was built by Rajaditya which was the biruda of Narasimha I, of Vedanthi Somadevasuri, a great Jain scholar, the Chalukyas of Vemulavuda, who wa~ the 24 SECTiON 11 grandson of Yinayaditya Yuddhamalla I, or is and consecrated the God on the banks of the same named after him. There is a big Link which is on tank. Sinc~ that time, the God is known as Raje the northern -Courtesy: Commissioner, H.R. & C.E. (Admn.) Dept., A. P., Hyderabad. Plate III : Rajaraje<;waraswamy and other temples [:~:.".' . " .,_I ... ," Plate IV: Prakara man tapa with several Sivalingams -:-Courtes}:; Co"unissioner, H.R. & C.E. (Admn.) Dept., A. P., Hyderabad. SIRSILLA TALUK 25 It is said that Narada during his sojourns on bulls offered by the devotees are tied. Near the the earth saw the untold sufferings of mankind sou them en trance there is an artistic image of due to their sins, and taking into mind to uplift Murali Krishna on a pedestal. There are kalyana these people, approached Mahadeva in Kailas and mantapams in which the Lord's marriage and expressed his desire. On the request of Narada, literary conferences are held, satrasala and dhar God Siva came down to Kasi and not satisfied at masala. that place manifested himself at this abode of peace and tranquility in the form of Sri Raja Within the temple compound there au rajeswara. Accord ing to puranas since God Siva twenty-two Sivalingams, with Jain figures carved chose this place as his abode, it has become a on a portico over some of them, Bala Rajes sacred place. waralayam, Vithaleswaralayam, two porticos to the north-west with Lingamurthi and the images After God Siva incarnated himself, Parvati of Nandikeswara, Devi, Anjaneya and Nagas. also settled here in the form of Sri Rajarajeswari There are eight panchayatanams (images of trinity), Devi. God Vishnu also established Himself here, in a mantapam. In the south there is the Somes along with His cOQsort Laxmi, in the form of Sri waralayam with a stone Sivalingam. It is a con Anantha Padmanabhaswamy. Several other Gods venient place for meditation. It is said that the also made this place their abode and made this Lingam in the shrine was installed by a local temple most sacred. The sacred Ganga also Brahmin in ancient times. There are also manifested herself here in the form of Dharma Vma Maheswaralayam with Goddess Vma, Nandi, gundam. Ganapati, Hanuman and Nagaraja and Bala Tri purasundari Devi temple by the side of Nagireddy It is said that Lord Rajarajeswara was also Mantapam (near the well of fresh water and to worshipped by Rama in Thretayuga while he was the west of the main shrine) with a beautifully in exile in the Dandakaranya. In the Dwapara~ carved image of Goddess Durga. yuga the Pandavas viz, Dharmaraja, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva worshipped Rajes A story is told about the installation of Bala wara, Bheemeswara, Balarajeswara, Someswara Rajeswara Lingam, which is worshipped by the and Vmamaheswara and received a divine conch, devotees first before entering the main temple. Mahati, a truncheon (divine bow), Sughosha As ordained by Lord Siva in his dream, Rajaraja (a sacred conch) and Manipushpaka, a holy Narendra searched in the Dharmakundam (Dhar sankhu from the Lords named above. magundam) and took out the Sivalingam and was about to install it at an appointed time. But Before the eastern entrance to the temple exactly at that time, a Siddha (semi-divine person) there is a round black stone called Vallubanda, by name Navanatha appeared on the spot and where the devotees test whether their desires installed the Sivalingam himself, thus depriving would be fulfilled or not. Regarding the origin of Rajaraja Narendra of the opportunity of imtalling this stone, it i~ said that one Rajabhose, an the idol of Rajarajeswaraswamy. When the orthodox Muslim came sitting on a tiger to the King was worried over this, Lord Siva aflpeared temple; cut the nose of Goddess Rajeswari and again in his dream and commanded him to install the horns of Nandi and tried to pluck the Siva another Sivalingam, which would receive puja lingam. But due to the wrath of Lord Eswara, from the devotees with the name Bala Rajeswara he vomited blood and died on the spot. Then before they worship Rajarajeswara. Accordingly as ordained by the Lord in the dream of a devotee BaIa Rajeswara was instalL:d and even to this the dead tiger and Rajabhose were buried at the day, puja is first offered to this deity by the Lord's feet and a black round stone was installed devotees to have the full benefit of darshan of on it. At a short distance from it and within this kshetra. Bala Rajeswaralingam is said to have the temple premises there is an image of Du:-ga. been worshipped by Arjuna. In front of the eastern entrance of the main shrine there are deepa sthambham, a Lingam, A similar legend is narrated about the besides another Sivalingam ,with Jain figures Nagireddy Mantapam. Nagireddy, a pious devo carved on it, a mantapam where devotees sacrifice tee of Lord Siva, gave some mangoes to the their hair, ganda deepa sthambham, inscriptions of Brahmins and asked them to perform abhishekam Rajaditya and Arikesari II and two pillars on to Rajarajes\\'ara with that mango fruit juice. either side of Vallubanda, where the calves and When he was informed in a dream by the Lord 26 SECTION II that two of the fruits given to His abhishekam The shrine of Kodanda Rama is adjacent to were not properly utilised by the Brahmins, he that of Anantha Padmanabhaswamy. On the ent got enraged and punished them severely. Nagi rance to this temple, there is the idol of Gaja reddy again performed abhishekam with mango lakshmi. The images of Sri Rama, Lakshmana, juice, with which the Lord was pleased. Out of Bharata, Satrughna and Sita are very beautiful. repentence for having punished the Brahmins, he Facing this shrine, there is the beautiful 3 feet constructed the mantapam, a koneru and planted high black stone image of Anjaneya in standing a mango grove and gwe it to Brahmins in charity, posture with namaskaramudra (folded hands). so that they might use the mango juice for continuing abhishekam of the Lord with it. The temple of Sri Kasi Visweswara is to the left side of the way to Anantha Padmanabhaswamy There is a. peculiarity in the idol of Amma temple from Rajarajeswara temple. The Sivalingam varu in the main temple of Rajarajeswara. The here is in shining rose colour resembling Jyothir idol resembles a Koya woman. The legend con linga of Kasi Vlsweswara. 011 account of the nected with the peculiarity is this: A boy heard existence of this Lingam this place is known as his playmates talking with joy that their sisters Dakshina Ka~\. There are also the images of and brothers-in-law would be brought home for Annapurna and a fC::11ule figure perhaps that of Deepavali. When the innocent boy expressed that Goddess Ganga. The water sprinkled on this figure he too would enjoy the company of a sister and falls from its hands directly on the SivaJingam. brother-in-law during thc festival he was laughed To the south of this, there is an image of Kala· at as he had no sister. He went home weeping, bhairava. B~hind the main shrine there are a revealed to his widowed mother, his deter Sivalingam, images of Chandikeswari and Sringi, mination to bring home for the festival the sister where wom.!n after taking b.lth prostrate with the and the brother-in-law. She could not convince wet cloth~s on for being blessed with children. the boy and she was compelled to utter a lie, that By the side of this in a room there are the images they were in the centre of a thick forest which of Sadasiva with five faces along with his consort was impossible to enter. But the boy entered the on the left sid~ worshipped by the Viswabrahmins forest all alone crying day and night for the sister as Viswabrahma, two Devi im:lges, Anjaneya, and the brother-in-law. Lord Siva and Parva thi Ganapa thi and Nagini. took pity on the boy and followed him home in the guise of a Koya couple and satisfied him. In Of the other temples of the place the temple memory of this incident, Ammavaru manifested of Bheemeswara is very ancient. In fact, it was here in the form of a Koya woman. constructed by Baddhigudu (850-895 A.D.) son of Uddhamallu II. Till the construction of the temple The main temple of Sri Rajarajeswara is of Rajarajeswara, the centre of worship was this divided into three portions. The first portion on temple. It is said that during Thretayugam Lord the en trance from the eastern ga te is used for wor Rama· worshipped Bheemeswara during his exile, ship. A pair of beautiful Nandis are situated a as also the Pandavas during Dwaparayugam. There little farther. The idol of Ganapathi with his con are artistic panels representing Dasavatharas and sort is to the left of the deity Rajarajeswara. This stories from Panchathanthra, etc. There is a fine' idol is very beautiful and a feast to the eyes. A image of Nataraja to the north of this temple. little farther to this, there is open place. T,ouch There is a shrine of Veeranjaneya within the com ing this open place is a room where the proces pound of this temple. There is a big Aswatha tree sion idol of Rajeswara is housed. A little farther with an idol of Anjaneya, who is reputed to give off is the Rajarajeswara Lingam. relief to those possessed and troubled by evil spi rits. The temple consists of three parts. Ill. the The shrine of Sri Rajarajeswari Devi is to the front portion there is an elevated platform whi.ch right side of the main temple. In this the idols of is cool during summer and warm during winter. Ganapathi and Rajarajeswara are found. There is This is a comfortable spot for study and teaching. another temple that of Sri Anantha Padmanabha In the central portion there are the idols of Ga swamy. This temple has three portions; in the napathi and Nandi. In the sanctum sanctorum inner most of which are found the idols of Anantha there is a brilliant Sivalingam of huge size in black Padmanabhaswamy and Lakshmi Devi. At the stone· It is said that this Lord blessed Bhee entrance to this, there is an icon of Nataraja. makavi. There is a very old banyan tree within Plate V : Ananta Padmanabhaswamy Plate VI: Kodanda Ramaswamy -Courtesy: Commissioner, H.R. & C.E. (Admn . ) Dept. , A , p " Hyderabad. Plate VII: Jain idols Plate VIII; An inscription and a Buddha image -Courtesy Commissioner, H.R. & C.E. (Admn.) Dept .• A. P ., Hyderobad SIRSILLA T ALUK 27 the compound and Vatasavithri Vratham is perfor desires of devotees and those who fail to fulfil med here by devotees annually. their vows have to pay heavy penalties. She is particularly worshipped when epidemics break The temple of Nagareswara is one of the an out in the village. There are two pillars in the cient monuments mentioned in the inscription by temple known as doopasthambham and upastham Arikesari II .. This is believed to be the creation bham· There is a balivedika (a small elevation of Vemulavada Chalukyas. The Sivalingam appe where animal sacrifice takes place) here. ars to be an ancient one. Ganapathi and Devi idols occupy the central hall. The spacious sanc The temples of Mahalakshmi and Kanaka tum and halls indicate that this must have been durga on the eastern side of the village are cen once a centre of bhajans, veda parayanams, etc. tres of worship both by men and women on Vaisyas are patronising the temple from the beg Fridays. inning. Venugopalaswamy temple, with the images of the Lord and Lakshmidevi, is another old tem "o&~o;J"Ci ~~. ctD~cJ'so:rso.) ple. Yet another temple is of Kedareswara men Emulawada pothe, Yamalokam poru" tioned in the inscription of Arikesari II. Besides is the popular saying in the Andhra country side the Sivalingam, the architecture on the walls is expressing the confidence that those who VISIt full of beauty and variety. The creepers, the dan Vemulavada need not fear of the entry into cers, Ganapathi, figures representing Ksheerasagra Yamaloka (hell). mathanam (churning of milk ocean by devas and Vemulavada with Siva and Madhava as danavas for nectar), the Panchathantra story depi Rajarajeswaraswamy and Anantha Padmanabha cting the race between the hare and the tortoise, swamy respectively is a renowned Hariharakshet Dasavatharas, puranic stories and a female figure ram where all rituals and processions are observed with veena representing Saraswathi, the Goddess on equal scale and devotion in both the temples. of learning, and several other varieties are cove The ignorant conception of the difference between red by the sculptor on the walls here. the two Lords is nullified here. The idol of Baddhi Pochamma also known as Sithala Devi Nataraja is at the entrance to the temple of and Sumukhi is worshipped in a temple construc Anantha Padmanabhaswamy and the figure of ted by King Baddhigabhupala. The original idol Lakshmi adorns the upper part of the entrance to installed issaid to be that of Suryanarayanamurthi, the sanctum of Rajarajeswaraswamy temple. An but the idol now appearing is that of Pochamma. idol of Lakshmi has a prominent place in a Perhaps, this was transplanted during the 10th or Vinayaka temple and Veerabhadra is worshipped 11th century, when the Saktheya philosophy was along with Anantha Padmanabhaswamy under the at its height. One peculiarity of this temple is that same roof. It is an extraordinary feature that the deity is facing west, as against the usual fea both Saivite and Vaishnavite shrines are together ture of facing the east. A story is narrated lo in a single compound, namely- Rajarajeswara, cally in this connection. The Muslim invader Ra Bala Rajeswara and Kasi Visweswara temples; jabhose, a mention of whom has been made ear and Anantha Padmanabha and Kodanda Rama lier, had first tried to demolish the image of Ba temples of the two cults respectively. Moreover, ddhi Pochamma in the village. But the deity, there are Jain and Buddha idols within the same with a view to keep off that bigot, rotated her compound. More than anything else, the peculiar image so that he may not reach its face at all. phenomenon is the situation of a Mohammadan After getting disgusted with that idol having been shrine beside the entrance tower, where people of rendered unable to touch it much less cause da that faith worship regularly. Saiva festivals and mage to it, Rajabhose left the place and directed Vaishnava festivals are commonly observed here his efforts to the temple of Rajarajeswaraswamy. with equal devotion and interest. In the course of that rotation the idol stopped Thousands of pilgrims from all parts of the facing west side and therefore it happens to be State flock here to have darshan of Lord Raja like that now. rajeswaraswamy in the months of Magha and The idol is not ferocious as is usual with Phalguna (January-March); the stream of visitors village female deities, but is beautiful and char is endless and reaches thousands. At the time of ming in the form of a middle aged female attrac Maha Sivaratri the crowd becomes very big. ting veneration. She is reputed to fulfil the The Kalyanolhsavam of the Lord here is celebrated 28 SECTION II on the Purnima day of the Phalguna month petals mixed with other ingredients such as sugar, (February-March) every year. There are days dried grapes, almond, etc.); worship of the New when thousands of devotees come and offer their Year's panchangam and panchanga sravanam. homage and sacrifice to the Lord. In addition to the usual homages which devotees pay to the Sri Rama Navarathrulu from Chaitra Suddha Lord in other temples, there is a peculiar ritual Padyami to Navami (March-April): Ramayana in this temple called the sahasra suvarna abhisheka parayanam, Harikathas, special items of worship by which the Lord is worshipped with 1,000 and the procession of Hari and Rara in the golden pieces. Thousands of bulls are offered as night are the daily functions. On the last day votive offerings by devotees. The following Sita Rama Kalyanam is performed. dhyanam is adopted here: Hanuman Jayanthi on Chaitra Suddha Purnima Before Rajarajeswaraswamy (March-April) : In Bheemeswara temple the birth day of Hanuman is celebrated near the image of ··~~~go U'~ ~~";;3 Veeranjaneya. Saroopyam thava pujane l3oS~~~ ~~ ;Jog~..... -;e Sri Jagadguru Sankaracharya Jayanthi from Sivamahadevethi sankeerthane Vaisakha Suddha Panchami to Navami (April-May): ~~;Sgo 13~~~ <:S:l.:5g~;::)~ The birth day celebrations of Sankaracharya with Sameepyam Sivabhakti dhuryajanatha lectures on his life, works and philosophy. ~oK6g ;Jo~05.a Sangathya sambhashane Prathama Ekadasi on Ashada Suddha Ekadasi ~crsgo.;;5 .;;5a-.;;5CJ"Cf~!f (June-July): Special puja in Vittaleswara temple Salokyamcha characharathmaka and santharpana (free feed) throughout the day 6~1;?S~ ~G?~;J~ and night. Thanudhyane Bhavanipathe ~ d5:lil ~g 0 ;i) ;;):) !Jc:5 ;i) l? ~;S 19 Q Janmashtami on Sravana Bahula Ashtami Sayujyam mama siddha mathra Bhavathi (July-August): The birth day celebratioR of Lord ~~ZJJ ~lr-~8"f ;;5~g~5J Krishna. Several incidents of the boyhood of Kri Swami nkrithanho smyaham." shna are enacted on this day. On this Vaishnava Before Lord Vishnu festival there is special puja to Lord Bheemeswara. "r 0 i3"S"t) 0 . Ganesa Navarathrulu from Bhadrapada Sud Santhakaram bhujagasayanam dha Chavithi to Dwadasi (August-September): Spe ~6~N'lt\'o ;5,) -a 1/ 0 cial items of worship to Vighneswara. Padmanabham suresam Devinavarathrulu from Asviyuja Suddha Pad :Jr.s'S"60 KKCS;JC)~'io yami to Dasami (September-October): Sapthashathi Viswakaram gaganasadhrusam parayanam, recitation of Devibhagavatham, proces ~~~60 Iill!;l"ol\'o sions in the evening are the daily functions. On ~ Meghavarnam subhangam Dasami day the deities are taken in procession to o J...i S"oe'o S;i)o;::)dDtSo a sami tree, half a mile from the village for sami Lakshmikantham kamalanayanam puja. 03J>l\~~O"g~X~go Yogihridhyanagamyam Deepavali on ASl'iyuja Bahula Amavasya (Sep ;;So~ :J';::';o ~~~dD~60 tember-October): Special harathi in the morning Ul Vande Vishnum bhavabhayaharam Dhana Lakshmi puja, the festival of lamps and pro ;;56.s er~ SN'C5o cession in the night are the main functions. Sarva lokeikanadham." Karthikam (October-November): During the Besides the a bove important festivals there entire month the premises of the sanctum and the are several festivals celebrated practically every compound are illuminated with numerous oil month. They are given hereunder: deepams. Telugu New Year's Dayan Chaitra Suddha Thulasipuja on Karthika Suddha Dwadasi (Oc Padyami (March-April) : Oil bath to Siva and tober-November): The marriage of Thulasi with Kesava; offering of nimhakusumam (neem flower Lord Vishnu is celebrated. SIRSILLA TALUK 29 Vaikunta Chathurdasi on Karthika Suddha though protracted on account of numerous forma Chathurdasi {October-November): Lord Vishnu lities such as chathurvedadhyayanam, shatsasthra worshipped the feet of Lord Siva with thousand pathanam, celebrated pompously with music and lotus flowers in order to obtain the weapon Su dance of various types. darsanachakra. When the flowers fell short by one, He substituted one of his eyes and the day's The unity and co-operation between Saivites celebration is the memory of that incident. Abhis and Vaishnavites in keeping up the traditions of hekam and sahasra kamalarchana (worship with Hindu rituals has resulted in the functions and thousand lotus flowers) to Rajarajeswaraswamy rituals being exemplary for other centres of wor in the morning; thirumanjanam to Anantha Pad ship. A procession is described in detail below: manabhaswamy in the night with Thulasi; sahasra The procession of either Siva or Anantha Padma namarc/tana, and pradoshapuja in Kedareswara tem nabha or both at times takes place on one or the ple are the main functions. other of the several vahanams (vehicles) such as horse, swan, Nandi, Garuda, elephant, ponnamanu, Karthika Purnima (October-November): Bath etc. The procession is led by drums and music of in the sacred Dharmakundam and a special wor pipes, etc. Behind them flags and festoons follow. ship in the night are the functions. Next the armed temple hereditary men walk, with Vaikunta Ekadasi on Margasira Suddha Eka unarmed servants of the temple in a disciplined dasi (November-December): Vaikuntadwaradarsha array. The group of Brahmins reciting Vedas pro nam and Githajayanthi uthsavam as this was the day claims that Hari and Hara are not separate and on which Lord Krishna preached Gila to Arjuna. this gives a sacred tinge to the procession. Bhajan groups behind sing the glory of the Lords to the Daththa Jayanti on Margasira Suddha Purni accompaniment of instruments. Rows of dancing rna (November-December): Birth day celebration girls walk with the chowries on either side just in of Daththatreya. front of the Lord. The entire length of the pro cession is profusely illuminated by torches. Vemu Kalabhairavashtami on Margasira Bahula Ash lavada looks on such occasions as Kailasa and tami (November-December): Worship of Kalabh Vaikunta combined in one place. airava. Dhanurmasam from Margasira Bahula Ekada The temples and the festivals are very ancient si to Pushya Bahula Ekadasi (December-January): and of all-India fame, though not very widely Adhyayanothsavam in Venugopalaswamy temple and known. For the Andhras they have a special other temples. significance and attraction. Vemulavada, once the centre of a province, is now reduced to a petty Thyagaraja Uthsavam on Pushya Bahula Pan village, several ancient Brahmin families clinging cham; to Navami (December-January): Great to the village in s pi te of pests and famines. musicians from different parts of the country During the rule of Nasar-ud-Dowla of the Nizam's assemble, exhibit their talents and receive pri dynasty, a group of Brahmins of the place appro zes from the temple authorities. ached the Nizam's Prime Minister, convinced him that they deserve encouragement and support in Mahasivaratri from Magha Bahula Triodasf to their aspiration to maintain the ancient Hindu Amavasya (January-February): The greatest fes traditions and got for themselves in Fasli 1225 tival celebrated here. (1816 A.D.) the Zahagir of Vemulavada with Holi on Phalguna Suddha Purnima (February full rights. In Fasli 1326 (1917 A.DJ Govinda March): Hariharadolothsavam is the function. Naik, the talukdar divided the Zahagir, which was being enjoyed by a limited number of Brah Siva Kalyanam on Phalguna Suddha Purnima min families, into 128 parts and allocated them (February-March): This is an important festival to various temples and temple services. The resi with the procession of Hari and Hara on different dents of the Agraharam had to select a committee vahanams. The function is celebrated on a large of five for the managemen t of the temples and scale observing every practice prescribed by sastras, the committee functioned till the abolition of engaging number Glf Brahmins in addition to the Zamindaris, ·.vhen the management was entrusted 120, who are in the service of the several temples to a committee appointen by the Government of the place. This is an ideal Hindu marriage, under the Hyderabad Endowments Act. The SECTION II rights for collections at the temples were auctioned hundred and odd shops, selling food-stuffs, for some time and at present the temple establish utensils, pots, glassware, books, photos and ment attends to the collection of taxes, etc. At pictures, fancy goods, blankets, etc. Cinemas, present the annual income is about 5 to 6 lakhs magic shows, whirling-wheels, music parties, cycle of rupees, which is largely collected during the races, etc., entertain the visitors. months of Magha, Phalguna, Chaitram, Vaisakham, and till ;/aista Purnima (till the onset of monsoon). The temple choultries accomodate about Mondays and Fridays are considered more im 2,000 pilgrims and special pandals are put up portant for pilgrims visiting the Rajarajeswara during the Kalyanothsavam. The Tirumalai temple. Hindus from all parts of India visit the Tirupati Devasthanams have proposals to cons kshefram every duy in scores and hundreds, in truct a choultry of 20 rooms and a marriage thousands during ordinary festivals and the hall at an estimated cost of Rs. 3 lakhs. Some gathering is nearly a 1akh during Kalyanam are fed free both by the temple and the public celebrations. Because of the elaborate obser during the festivals. vance of rituals at the several temples during A bridge over the stream called Mulavagu various festivals, there are as many as 120 Brah has been under construction in April 1966 and min pujaris and five non-Brahmins, all endowed when it is completed, Vemulavada will have a with hereditary rights. pueca road connection to Karimnagar-Sirsilla highway. It is understood from the temple authorities that the total income of the main shrine during SOURCE: 1. Sri K. Ma/laiah, Headmaster, High the year 1965-'66 was Rs. 6,70,760. An interes School, Vemulavada ting feature regarding the temple is that there is 2. Article by Sri Choppakatla Chandra no landed property for it. The entire income mouli published in Andhra Prabha accrues from votive offerings of the devotees. Weekly dated 3-10-1962 And the devotees that throng here mostly belong 3. Article on Rajarajeswara Shrine at to the lowe r middle classes of the society. One Vemulavada by Sri P. Srinivasarao in . peculiar practice is §""ac:c aO..)o~~ i. e., the The Hindu, dated 24-1-1965 devotees offer young bullocks or calves in the 4. Sri Rajarajeswaracharitham in Telugu name of the deity and tie them to the dhwajastam by Sri D. Hanumamha Rao bham of the temple. They are afterwards sold in 5. Places of Interest in Andhra Pra auction and the amount is appropriated to the desh published by Information and temple. Such income amounts to Rs. 25,000 Public Relations Department, Hyde annually. rabad 6. Temples and Legends of Andhra The other tempies which are maintained out Pradesh by Sri N. Ramesan of the income of Rajarajeswaraswamy temple are said to be the following: (i) Bheemeswara; 8. Nampalle-Situated at a distance of 5 miles Cii) Nagareswara; (iii) Baddhi Pochamma; from Sirsilla and 42 miles from Kamareddy (iv) Hanuman; tv) Uppagadda Hanuman Railway Station. This was a flourishing town at (vi) Venugopalaswamy; (vii) Kedareswaraswamy; the time of the great King Rajaraja Narendra. and (viii) Mahalakshmi. The same committee of that temple manages the affairs of these temples The total popUlation of the village is 974, also. In addition, a dispensary (where about and it is made up of the following communities: 150 patients are treated daily), a Sanskrit High Caste HindUS-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kshatria, etc.; School and a library are maintained from the and Scheduled Castes (162)-Mala, Madiga. The temple funds. Some scholarships are also awarded chief means of livelihood of the people are agri to deserving poor students for learning vedas, etc. culture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. The fair here continues for weeks and at times for months around the temple as pilgrims The temple of Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy is attend some festival or other. From Maha Sivaratri on a hillock with the stone image installed by till the conclusion of Sri Rama Navami festival, the Na va Siddhas (9 ascetics). The temple is there is enough of demand for continuing the believed to have been improved during the time SIRSILLA TALUK 31 of King Rajaraja Narendra. The temple 10. Venkatapur-Situated at a distance of 5 miles of Nava Siddhas is to the south of Lakshmi from Sirsilla, 30 miles from Kf!mareddy Railway Narasimhaswamy temple. There are two dharma Station and 40 miles from Karimnagar. gundams. In between the hills and one of the dharmagundams there is the temple of Veera The total population of the village is 1,715 Hanuman. and it is made up of the foilowing communities: Caste Hindus-Br2hmin, Vaisya, Goundla, Muth Sri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Kalyanoth racha, Pad mas ale, Vadla, Kamnura, Kummari~ sava111 is celebrated for 4 days from Vaisakha Kapu, Mangali, Chakali, Boya; Scheduled Castes Suddha Purnima (April-May). Devatharadhana is (405)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief performed during the whole of Sravanam means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, (July-August). Fasting and jagarana are observed agricultural labour and other traditional occu on all Saturdays in Sravanam (July-August) pations. and devotees take bath in dharmagundams Adhyayanolhsavam is celebrated from Margasira Sri Venkateswaraswamy is worshipped in the Suddha Panchami to Dasami (November-Decem village. There are vmage deities; Yellamma and ber). Thirukalyana uthsavam, celebrated from Peddamma also. .M argasira Suddha Ekadasi to Bahula Panchami Sri Adi Perumandlu (Venkateswara) Uthsa and IVargali uthsavam from Margasira Bahulam to vam is celebrated for one day i.e., on Magha Bahufa Pushya Bahufam are the other festivals. Offerings Amavasya (January - February). Cocoanuts are are m:ld',; in the form of cash and kind. The offered and the devotees take bath in the Mandavya Endowment Board man'lges the affairs· The local river. It is of ancient origin and confined to Hindu people irrespective of caste or creed this and the neighbouring villages. About 1,000 congregate. Pujari is a Vaishnava of Bharad Hindu devotees, local and from the neighbouring wajasa go/ram with hereditary rights. villages, irrespective of caste or creed, congregate. SOURCE: Sri N. Sambaiah, Headmaster, Nampalle Ramanujachari, a Vaishnava of Bharadwajasa gotram is the pujari with hereditary rights. 9. Sirsilla-Taluk headquarters situated at a A fair is held near the temple for a day. distance of 36 miles from Kamareddy Railway About 1,000 people, local and from the neighbour Stati.on. ing villages, congregate. Eatables, bangles, mirrors and comb; are sold. The total population of the town is 17,301 and it is made up of the following c')mmunities: SOURCE: Sri C. Chandraiah, Headmaster, Venka Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vai5ya, Kapu, Balija, tapur Golla, Chakali, Mangali, Kammara, Kummari, Vadla, etc.; Scheduled Castes (1,826) - Mala, 11. Padira--Situated at a di~tance of about 7 MJ.dig'l; and Muslims. The chief means of liveli miles from Sirsilla and 32 miles from Kamareddy hood of the people are agriculture, agricultural Railway Station- labour, trade and other traditional occupations. The total population of the village is 908 and There is a temple of Venkateswaraswamy in it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste thl! town. Sri Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (130)-Mala, Madi celebrated for 3 days from Asviyuja Suddha gao The chief means of livelihood of the people Sapthami to Navami (September-October) in are agriculture, agricultural labour and other connection with Dasara festival. About 3,000 trad i tional occupations. people, local and from the neighbouring villages, congregate Only Hindus take part in it. All faci The temple of Rama IS the only place of lities are arranged for the pilgrims. worship in the village. SOURCE: 1. Statement of Fairs and Festiva's fur Sri Ramaswamv festival is celebrated for one nished by Collector, Karimnagar day on Pushya SUddha Purnima (December-Janua 2. District Health Officer, Karimnagar ry). A thousand Hindu devotees of the village 3. District Superintendent of Police, and of the nearby villages irrespective of caste or Karimnagar creed congregate. 32 SECTION II SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished local and from the neighbouring villages, congre by Superintendent of Police, Karimnagar gate. Pujari is a Vaishnava of Koundinyasa gotram. A fair is held for a day with a few shops 12. Aunoor-Situated at a distance of about 7 selling eatables, utensils, mirrors, combs, pic miles from Sirsilla and 33 miles from Kamareddy tures and photos. Railway Station. Animals are sacrificed to the village deities The total population of the village is 2,350 occasionally. and it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (677)-Mala, SOURCE: Sri K. Gopal Rao, Teacher, Primary Madi.ga. The chief means of livelihood of the School, M orra ip aile people are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. 14. Mustabad-Situated at a distance of 28 miles There is a temple of Venkateswaraswamy in from Kamareddy Railway Station on Kamareddy the village. Siddipet bus route and 40 miles from Sirsilla. Sri Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated The total population of the village is 4,104 for one day on Pushya Suddha Purnima (December and it is made up of the following communities: January). A thousand devotees of the village Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Viswabrahmin, congregate. All caste Hindus participate in it. Kapu, Velama, Padmasale, Muthracha, Bestha, SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished Rajaka, Mangali; Kummari, Golla, Kuruva, by Superintendent of Police, Karimnagar Gowda, Jangam, Vaddera, etc.; Scheduled Castes (795)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, 13. Morraipalle-Situated at a distance of 3 miles agricultural labour and other traditional occu from Mustabad bus stage on Siddipet-Kamareddy pations. road, 28 miles from Kamareddy Railway Station ~nd 40 miles from Sirsi11a. The temples of Siva, Poleramma, Yellamma, Peddamma, Madiga Ramanna, Mysamma, Ven The total population of the village is 754 kateswaraswarny and of Rajeswarswamy with a and it is made up of the following communities: stone Sivalingam are the places of worship in this Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Viswabrahmin, village. Kapu, Muthracha, Golla, Kuruva, Chakali, Man gali; Scheduled Castes (212)-Mala, Madiga; and Venkateswaraswamy and Rajeswaraswamy Muslims· The chief means of livelihood of Kalyanothsavam is celebrated for 5 days from the people are agriculture, agricultural labour Asviyuja Suddha Ekadasi to Purnima (September and other traditional occupations. October). Homam, baliharana, sevas, kalyanam and rathothsavam are the rituals and functions which The village deities Pochamma, Maramma and take place during these 5 days. Cocoanuts and Mysamma are worshipped. Four furlongs to the fruits are offered. It is being celebrated for the west of the village, there are the idols of Hanuman past 10 to 12 years. Four to five hundreds of and Nandi and a Sivalingam on a hillock. There Hindus, local and from the surrounding villages, are 2 springs below the hillock, the water of one congregate. Pujari for Siva temple is a Jangam being hot in all seasons and the other cold. It is and of Venkateswaraswamy is a Vaishnava with called bugga. It is believed that in olden days hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. sages took bath in these waters and worshipped Hanuman. A fair is held in this connection for a day. Five hundred people, local and from the nearby Sri Hanuman Uthsavam is celebrated for a day villages, congregate. Eatables, earthenware, on Magha Bahula Amavasya (January-February). mirrors, combs and handlo0m cloth are sold. Cocoanuts are offered. The devotees take pond bath and observe fasting and jagarana. This fes Occasional animal sacrifice to the village tival is of ancient origin. About 1,200 Hindus, deities Poleramma, Yellamma, etc., is in vogue. SIRSILLA TALUK 33 The pujari for Hanuman temple is a Brahmin 17. Narasingapur-Situated at a distance of 8 of Parasarasa gothram with hereditary rights. miles from Vemulavada by bus. SOURCE: Sri M. Raja Reddy, Teacher, Zilla Pari The total popUlation of the village is 1,744 shad School, MusLabad and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Kapu, Thammala, Padmasale; and Scheduled Castes (396)-Mala, Madiga. The chief 15. Shabajpalle- Situated at a distance of 45 mi means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, les from Kamareddy Railway Station. weaving, toddy tapping, carpet weaving and other trad i tional a ccupa tions. The population of the village is 313 and it is made up of a few sub-communities of Caste Mallannaswamy temple with a 5 feet high Hindus; Scheduled Castes (149) - Mala, Madiga; stone Sivalingam is the place of worship in the and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of village. the people are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. Mallatllla festival is celebrated for 30 days from Pushya Suddha Padyami to Bahula Amavasya There is a darga of Hazarath Shah Salahud (December-January). Cocoanuts are offered and din Khader in the village. fasting is observed. It is being celebrated for the past 300 years and is confined to the nearby Hazarath Shah Salahuddin Khader Urs is ce villages. The chief patrons are Thammalas. The lebrated for one day on the 25th of Jamadi-us-Sani. Hindus, local and from the neighbouring villages, Two hundred local devotees, irrespective of congregate. Pujari is a Thammala with hereditary cas te or creed, congrega teo rights. SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished SOURCE: Sri G. Mogulaji, Teacher, Narasingapur by the Collector, Karimnagar 18. Kandikatkur-Situated at a distance of 34 16. Sankepalle- Situated at a distance of 10 fur miles from Kamareddy Railway Station. longs from the Sirsilla-Karimnagar bus road, 10 The total population of the village is 2,687 miles from SirsiUa and 44 miles from Jagtial, the and it is made up of the several sub-communities sub-divisional headquarters. of Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (486) Mala, Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of The population of the village is 1,178 and it the people are agriculture, agricultural labour is made IIp of the following communities: Caste and other traditional occup:ltions. Hindu&-Velama, Telaga, Kummari, Chakali, Go undla, Vaisya, Golla, Padmasale, Kammara, Vad There is the village deity Yellamma in the la, Kamsali; Scheduled Castes (364)-Mala, Madiga; village. Yellamma Jatara is celebrated for one day and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of on Chaitm Suddha Purnima (March-April). • the people are agriculture, agricultural labour thousand Hindu devotees of the village irrespec and other traditional occupations. tive of caste or creed congregate. The temple of the village deity Yellamma SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished with an earthen innge, colourfully painted in by Superintendent of Police, Karimnagar human form situated on the outskirts of the village is the place of worship here. 19. Jangamreddipalle-·Situated at a distance of 15 Yellamma Jatara is celebrated for one day miles from Sirsilla and 48 miles from Kamareddy on laistha Suddha Purnima (May-June). Animals Railway Station. are sacrificed to the deity. Intoxicants are used during the Jatara. It is being celebrated for the The population of the village is 594 and it is past 80 years and is of local significance. The made up of several sub-communities of Caste local Hindus congregate. Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (80)-Mala, Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of the people are SOURCE: Sri B. Narayana, Teacher, SankepaUe agriculture and agricultural labour. 34 SECTION II There is a temple of RaIJ1alingaswamy in the January). The people of the village congregate. village. Only Hindus participate in the festival. Ramalingaswamy festival is celebrated for SOURCB : Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished one day on Pushya Bahula Triodasi (December- by Superintendent of Police, Karimnagar METPALLE IND. SUB-TALUK z~ 8 r------+~------~----~------~ ~ § ,._ ~" ~ ~ ~ , 'g"'. '" 'l!: o l' E<. " o JAGTIAL TALUK + 3:: ::J J .. ~ « ~ ~ ~ ... ~ I- 0: ~ ~ 'g'" 'g'" '" '"~ J ~ 8 ~ a .~ .~ : ~ (l « 2 ~ ... :::E " 15 ~ 0: § ~ ~ " 3 ~ x Q .. .. ~ ~ < .:' ~ ~ 0 ~ ~ Z 0: ~ " .~ :J '"~ oS ~ :z« ~==- z· a:: N ®8 .~ « f I If ~ ·",':!:8 ;:;~ ~ Section III METPALLE INDEPENDENT SUB-TALUK 'ltTarsekonda-Situated at a distance of 10 miles It is being celebrated from 1959. The devotees, CV from Metpalle and 40 miles from Nizamabad local and from the nearby villages, congregate. Railway Station. This village is surrounded by All communities take part in the festival. rows of hills and hence it is called Varusakonda or Varsekonda (Varusa in vernacular means row SOURCE: Sri R.K. Narsinga Rao, Patwari, Dubba and konda hill). The total population of the village is 2,291 3. MedpaUe-Situated at a distance of 1 furlong and it is made up of the following communities: from the Karimnagar-Nizamabad bus route and 3 Caste Hindus-Tenugu, Bestha, Munnurukapu, miles from Metpalle. Vanjari, Golla, Kamsali, Kummari, Chakali, The total popUlation of the village is 1,320 Mangali, etc.; Scheduled Castes (378)-Mala, and it is made up of the following communities: Madiga; and Scheduled Tribes (54). Agriculture, Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Kapu, Munnurukapu, agricultural labour and other traditional occupa Gowd, Bhatraj, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (235). tions are the chief means of livelihood of the The chief means of livelihood of the people are people. agriculture, agricultural labour, beedi making and Venkateswaraswamy temple with the copper toddy tapping· image of the deity in human form; Maruthi tem Narasimhaswamy, Gopalaswamy, Rajeswara ple and Pochamma temple are the places worship swamy, Mahalakshmi and Hanuman temples are in this village. the places of worship in the village. Sri Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebra Sri Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated ted for one day on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March for 11 days from Asviyuja Suddha Padyami to Eka -April). Offerings are made to the deity. It is dasi (September-October). It is an ancient and being celebrated from ancient times and is con bcal festival. Only local Hindus participate. A fined to this and to nearby villages. People of all Vaishnava of Bharadwajasa gotram is the pujari. communities take part in it. A Sathani Vaishnava is the pujari. A petty fair is held in connection with the Uthsavam with a few shops selling eatables, ban SOURCE: Sri K. Pullareddi, Varsekonda gles, etc. The local devotees participate in the fair. Lotteries, kolatams, etc, afford entertainment to the 2. Dubba-Situated at a distance of 2 miles from gathering. Some persons go round the fair in dif Metpalle. ferent disguises to entertain the gathering. The total population of the village is 873 and Vows are fulfil!~d annually to grama devathas, it is made up of the following communities: Mahalakshmi and Pochamma, in the month of Caste Hindus-Kapu, Tclaga, Munnurukapu, Ashadham (June-Juh). Fowls, goats and sheep Goundla, Golla, Padmasale, Sathani, Kamsali, are sacrificed. Fasting, feasting and jagarana are Kummari, Chakali; and Scheduled Castes (54) the domestic observances. All communities par Mala, Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of ticipate in the celebrations. the people are agriculture and agricultural labour. SOURCE: 1. Sri Ranga Rao, Patwari, MedpaUe Pochamma and Mallanna temples are the 2. Sri Utura Lakshmi Narayana, Head places of worship in this plal,;e. master, J'dedpaUe Mallanna Jatara is celebrated for 3 days from Margasira Suddha Shasti (November-December). 4. Ibrahimpatam_ Sitmtted at a distance of 6 Offerings are made in the form of cash or kind. miles from Karimnagar-Nizamabad bus route, 30 36 SECTION III miles from Jagtial as also from Metpalle and 40 A fair is held for 3 days. Eatables, lanterns, miles from the Nizamabad Railway Station. clothes, torchlights, mirrors, combs, bangles, bas kets and toys, etc., are sold. The total population of the village is 3,893 and it is made up of the following communities: SOURCE: Sri D. Sri Rama Rao., Landlord, Malla Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Goundla, Golla, pur Telaga, Padmasale, Vadrangi, Kamsali, etc.; Sche duled Castes (491); and Muslims. The chief means 6. Paidumadugu- Situated at a distance of 5 mi of livelihood of the people are agriculture, les to the north-east of Koratla by motor route, agricultural labour and other traditional occupa 12 miles from Metpalle and 55 miles from the tions. Nizamabad Railway Station. Temples of Ramaswamy. Anjaneyaswamy and The total popUlation of the village is 1,931 Dharmaramswamy Venkateswarlu and Mallanna and it is made up of the following communities: are the places of worship in this village. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Padmasale, Vela Dharmaramswamy Venkateswarlu Uthsavam ma, Kapu, Kamsali, Golla, Chakali, Goundla, is celebrated for one day on Margasira Suddha Bhatraju, Mangali, Perika, Kummari; Scheduled Purnima (November-December). Cocoaunts are Castes (379) - Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. Agri offered. It is being celebrated for the past 6 years culture, agricultural labour and other traditional and is of local significance. Local devotees con occupations are the chief means of livelihood of gregate. Prasadam is distributed to all. the residents. The temples of Rajeswaraswamy, Anjaneya SOURCE: Sri A. Bhooma Rao, 4sst. Teacher, [bra himpatam swamy, Mahalakshmi and Thatamma are the pla ces of worship in the village. There is a banyan tree named Bhaktula Marri (banyan tree of devo 5. Mallapur_ Situated at a distance of 52 miles tees) which occupies Ac. 1.20 area in the village. from the Nizamabad Railway Station. There are Pujas are performed at that tree in the name of cart tracks to Metpalle and Koratia from this Lakshmamma on every Friday. Cocoanuts are village. offered and fowls, sheep and goats are sacrificed to the deities. Local people of all communities The total population of the vil1age is 2,540 take part in the pujas. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Tenugu, SOURCE: Sri G. Narahari, Headmaster, Paiduma Gowd, Velama, etc.; Scheduled Castes (413) - Ma dugu la, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture and agri 7. Madbapur - Situated at a distance of ! mile cultural labour. from Koratla road and 50 miles from the Nizama bad Railway Station. Anjaneyaswamy temple in the centre of the village, and Kar.aka Somanna temple on a hillock The total population of the village is 1,300 at a distance of 4 furlongs to the west of the vill and it is made up of the following communities: age, with the image in the form of a serpent, are Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, the places of worship in this village. Mangali, Chakali, Bestha, Vadla, Kammara, Gowd, Kummari, Kamsali, Golla; Scheduled castes (222) Kanaka S')manna Uthsavam is celebrated - Mala, Madiga; and \fuslims. The chief means during Mahasivaratri i. e., on Magha Bahula Chat of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agri hurdasi (January-Febrw1TY). Rathothsavam is held cultural labour and other traditional occupa at 2 0' clock in the night. The devotees observe tions. fasting and jagarana. Cocoanuts are offered. It is being celebrated for the past 160 years and is Temples of Anjaneyaswamy, Rajeswara ~wamy confined to this and nearby villages. Nearly 3,000 and of village deity Mahalakshmamma are the devotees local and from neighbouring villages con places of worship in the village. There are no gregate without any distinction of caste or creed. temples for the deities Pochamma and Tatamma. Pujari is a Brahmin with hereditary rights. These too are worshipped in the village. METPALLE INPEPENDENT SUB-TALUK '37 Mahalakshmamma Uthsavaro is celebrated in 9. Muthyampet--Situated at a distance of 46 miles Ashadham (June-July). Vows are fulfilled and from the Nizamabad Railway Station. The Met sacrifices are made to the deity by the devotees. palle-Mallapur road passes through this village. Local Hindus participate. The total population of the village is 1,457 A Jangam is the pujari in Rajeswaraswaroy and it is made up of several sub-communities of temple and a Brahmin is the pujart of Anjaneya Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (315); and Mus swamy temple. lims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour and other SOURCE: Sri P. Ganga Ram, Headmaster, Madhapur traditional occupations. Rajarajeswaraswamy temple and the temple 8. Iyalapur- Situated at a distance of 6 miles of the village deity, Peddamma, are the places of from Metpalle, 16 miles from Jagtial and 51 mi.les worship in this Village. from the Nizamabad Railway Station. Peddamma Uthsavam is celebrated for 4 days The total population of the village is 4,179 i. e., on all Sundays in Jaishtam (May-June). and it is made up of the following communities: Goats, fowls and sheep are sacrificed and cocoa Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Padmasale, Kapu, nuts and bonams are offered. It is celebrated for Sathani, Goundla, Telaga, Thammala, Mera, Cha the past 100 years. Hindus, local and from the kali, Mangali, Kummari, Kamsali, Munnurukapu, nearby villages, congregate. Pujari is a Telaga Bestha, etc.; Scheduled Castes (636); and Muslims. with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed The chief means of livelihood of the people are to all. agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi~ tional occupations. A few shops selling eatables, utensils, lanterns, pictures, p!lOtoS, books and clothes are opened Mallannaswamy mandir on a hillock to the east temporarily. of the village with a brass image in the form of a serpenthood; Ananthaswamy temple with the sto SOURCE: Sri V. Narayana, Teacher, J. B. School, ne image of the Lord in a reclining posture on Muthyampet Adisesha (great serpent) situated at the foot of the hillock and an Idgah are the places of wor ship and prayer in this village. Ananthaswaroy 10. Yusufnagar.-Situated at a distance of 3 miles temple is in a dilapidated condition. A temple froro Metpalle--Mallapur road and 43 miles from of Hanuman is also there in the same condition. the Nizamabad Railway Station. Mallanna Jatara or Mallanna Shashti Teer The population of the village is 1,115 and it tham is celebrated for one day on Margasira Su is made up of the following communities: Caste ddha Shashti (November-December). The devo Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Munnurukapu, Gurati tees fulfil their vows. Fasting and jagarana are kapu, Goundla, Padmasale, Kummari, Tenugu, observed. It is of ancient origin and is confined Vanjari, Kammara, Vadla, Kamsale, Mera, Golla, to the surrounding villages. The patrons are Chakali, Mangali; Scheduled Castes (138)-,Mala, Thammalas. The devotees, local and from 7 to 8 Madiga; and Muslims. Agriculture and agricul neighbouring villages, congregate without any dis tural labour are the chief means of livelihood of tinction of caste or creed. Pujari is a Munnuru the people. kapu with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distri Chatta Mallanna on Ilapuram hillock, Posa buted to all. mma, Yellaroma, Maremma and Mahalakshmi are A fair is held in connection with the festival the deities worshipped in the village. for a day before Ananthaswamy temple. A few Chatta Mallanna Uthsavaro is celebrated for shops selling eatables, bangles and toys, etc., are one day in Margasiram (November-December). held. Fowls and animals are sacrificed to the deity. It Lotteries, dramas, swings and cock-fights is being celebrated for the past 100 years. Local afford entertainment to the visitors. people of all communities take part in it. SOURCE: Sr; R. Narayana, Asst. Teacher, Iyalapur SOURCE: Sri Narayan, Yusufnagar 38 SECTION III 11 Metpalle-Headquarters of the taluk, situated Temples of Anjaneyaswamy, Omkareswara at a distance of 40 miles from Nizamabad by road swamy and Narasimhaswamy and a mosque are the and 52 miles from Karimnagar. places of worship and prayer in this village. The Lord in the second temple is represented by a The total population of the town is 7,862 and stone Sivalingam. It is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, etc.; Scheduled Omkareswara Sapthaham is celebrated from Castes (1,026); Muslims and Christians. The chief Sravana Suddha Panchami to Dwadasi (July-August) means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, for 8 days. During these days bhajans are perfor~ agricultural labour and other traditional occupa med and legends about Lord Siva are recited. It tions. is of ancient origin and of local significance. The villagers are the patrons. Local Hindus congre The temples of Kesavaswamy, Omkareswaraw gate. Prasadam is distributed to all and there is swamy, Hanuman, Rajeswaraswamy, Maha1aksh free feeding also. mamma, Pochamma, Tatamma and a mosque are the places of worship here. Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for 10 days from Asviyuja Suddha Padyami to Dasami Navarathrulu fesdval is celebrated in Kesa (September-October)- Cocoanuts and money are vaswamy temple for 10 days from Asviyuja Suddha offered. It is of ancient origin though of local Padyami to Dasami (September-October). Sami significance. There are Inam lands for the tem puja is performed on the 10th day, i. e., on Asviyuja ple. The local Hindus congregate. Pujari is a Suddha Dasami. Cocoanuts and fruits are offer Brahmin. Prasadam is distributed to all. ed to the deity. Hindu devotees, local and from the nearby villages, participate in the festival. Thousands of devotees, local and from other Pujari is a Srivaishn2lva with hereditary rights. taluks, congregate and sacrifice goats and fowls Prasadam is distributed to all. to the deity Yellamma to fulfil their desires. Mahasivaratri is celebrated in Omkareswara To the north of the village at a distance of 3 temple on Magha Bahula Chathurdasi (January furlongs there is the temple of Yellamma and February). Daily abhishekams are performed in around the temple there are wells with water con Sravanam (July-August). This festival is of ancient taining sulphur and the water cures boils, cuts ongll1. Local Vaisyas are the chief partrons. Sri and bruises. Several people of Telangana districts Medipalle Kishtayya, a Brahmin of Gouthamasa come here for cure. gotram, is the pujari with hereditary rights. SOURCE: Sri A. Ganga Reddy, Headmaster, Vellulla Jataras for Mahalakshmamma, Pochamma and Tatamma are celebrated in Ashadam (June 13. Peddapur- Situated at a distance of 5 miles July), or Sravanam (July-August) according to the from Metpalle. convenience of the local people in fulfilment'of vows or whenever epidemics break out in the The total population of the village is 763 and town. Goats, fowls and sheep are sacrificed to It IS made up of the sub-communities of Caste the deities. Hindus: Scheduled Castes (167); and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are SOURCE: Information collected by Shri K. K. agriculture and agricultural labour. Sarma, Assistant Compiler, Census Office Mal1anna temple, with the stone image in human form and with the brass procession image 12. Vellulla-- Situated at a distance of 2 miles on a horseback is the only place of worship in to the sou th of Metpa lle. this village. The total population of the village is 3,330 Mallanna Jatara is celebrated for 4 days from 3nd it is made up of several sub-communities of Phalguna Suddha Vidiya to Parlchami (February Caste Hindus-Scheduled Castes (436); and Mus March). Ka/yanam is celebra ted on Vidiya, nagavalli lims· The chief means of livelihood of the people on Panchami morning and agnigundam on Panchami 14. Ekeenpur- Situated at a distance of 2 miles Sri Ramaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated from from Koratla, 7 miles from Metpalle and 18 Magha Suddha Dasami to Bahula Padyami (Novem miles from JagtiaI. • ber-December) for 7 days. Festival arrangements are made 2 days in advance. Homam is performed The total population of the village is 1,297 till Purnima and there is ratholhsavam on Purnima. and it is made up of the following communities: Devotees take river bath and observe fasting and Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Telaga, jagarana. The local Hindus and from the neighbour Thammalla, Kummari, Kammara, Vadla, Golla, ing villages congregate. Pujari is a Sathani. PongaJi Kuruma, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (354) - Mala, and pulihora are distributed to all as prasadam. Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour and SOURCE: Sri B. Venkata Rama Rao, Sangam other traditional occupations, Venkateswaraswamy and Mallanna temples 16. Koratla-Situated at a distance of 6 miles are the places of worship in this village. from Metpalle, 16 miles from Jagtial and 50 miles from Karimnagar as well as Nizamabad. This is a Venkat'eswaraswamy festival is celebrated for very ancient town. It is believed that there were 7 days from Margasira Suddha Dasami to Bahula a fort and a Jain temple and that Saivites occupied Padyami (November-December). Rathothsavam is the Jain temple and transformed it into Siva tem celebrated on Purnima. It is being celebrated for ple. In the koneru belonging to the Deshmukh the past 45 years. The local Hindus congregate. there is an inscription in an unknown language Pujari is a Sathani Vaishnava. Prasadam is distri on a stone. buted to all. The total population of the town is 11,780 Mallanna Uthsavam is celebrated for 4 days and it is made up of several sub-communities of from Chaitra Suddha Purnima to Bahula Tadiya Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (802); Muslims (March-April). A goat is sacrificed. It is being and Christians. The chief means of livelihood of celebrated from ancient times and the local the people are agriculture, trade, spinning and Hindus congregate. Pujari is Thammalla with weaving, services, beedi making and other traditio hereditary rights. nal occupations. SOURCE: Sri V. Ganga Ram, Ekeenpur The Markandeya temple, the Jain temple transformed into a Saivite Shrine, Venkateswara 15. Sangam-Situated at a distance of 2 miles temple, temples of the village deities, Pochamma from Koratla, 7 miles from Metpalle and 18 miles and Mahalakshmamma, Ramanuja Kutam, a from Jagtial. mosque and a church are the places of worship in this town. The total population of the village is 741 and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Venkateswaraswamy Chakra Teertham is Rindus-Velama, Kapu, Goundla, Sathani, Vanja celebrated in Magham (January-February) for a ra, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (159)-Mala, Madi day. This is of ancient origin. Local Hindus gao The chief means of livelihood of the people participate in it. Pujaris are Vaishnavas with are agrictlture and agricultural labour. hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. 40 sECTION III Occasionally homam is performed and puja, occupations are the chief means of livelihood of bhajans and Harikathas take place in the Rama the people. nuja Ku tam. Several people even from distant parts congregate there. Daily puja !s performed The temples of Sita Ramaswamy, Sangames and prasadam is distributed in the night. Sanskrit waraswamy and Umamaheswaraswamy and of the is taught there to enthusiastic pupils. village deity are the places of worship in this village. SOURCE: Sri Abdul Sattar, Headmaster, Koratla Sita Ramaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for 7 days from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Purnima 17. Venkatapur-Situated at a distance of one (March-April). It is being celebrated from ancient mile to the north of the Nizaruabad-Karimnagar times. About 1,500 devotees of all communities road and 8 miles from Metpalle. from this and the neighbouring villages congre ga teo Pujaris are Brahmins. The total population of the village is 999 and it is made up of the following commullltles: A fair is held in connection with the Uthsa~ Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Kapu, Velama, Tenugu, vam for 2 days in the temple land at the foot of Kummari, Vadla, etc.; Scheduled Castes (105) the hill. Eatables, utensils, lanterns, mirrors, Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of combs, pictures, photos, clothes and toys, etc., livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul are sold. Lotteries, dramas and kola tams are tural labour, weaving and other traditional occu conducted. pations. SOURCE: Sri Thulasi Mukundam, Headmaster, There is a temple of Venkateswaraswarny Kondapur situated on a hillock with the self-manifest form less stone image. 19. Jaggasagar-Situated at a distance of about Venkateswaraswamy Teertham is celebrated 5 miles from Metpalle. for 2 days from Kartika Bahula Padyami (October November). Festival arrangements are made 3 The total population of the village is 2,243 and it is made up of several sub-communities of days in advance. Cocoanuts and small vahanams are offered. Goats, fowls and sheep are sacrificed Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (341); and at the time of marriages, ear-boring and tonsure Muslims. Agriculture and agricultural labour are ceremonies. It is an ancient festival. About 1,500 the chief means of livelihood of the people. devotees, local and from the nearby villages, Konda Venkateswaraswamy festival is cele congregate, irrespective of caste or creed. Pujari brated for 2 days from Vaisakha Bahula Tadiya is a Brahmin with hereditary rights. Prasadam is (April-May). About 500 Hindus of the village distributed to all. congregate. A fair is held in this connection for a day SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished before the temple. Eatables, utensils, lanterns, by rhe Col/ector, Karimnagar pictures, photos, books, clothes and toys are sold· SOURCE: Sri G. Narasaiah, Headmasrer, Venkata- 20. Peggerla-Situated at a distance of about 9 pur miles from Metpalle. The total population of the village is 924 and 18. Kondapur-Situated at a distance of 1'~ miles it is made up of the following communities: from Medpalle bus stage, 7 miles from Jagtial Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Padmasale, Kamsale, and 13 miles from Metpalle. Golla, Chakali, Mangali, etc.; Scheduled Castes The total population of the village is 2,622 (164)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief and it is made up of the following communities: means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Sale, agricultural labour and other traditional occupa Tenugu, Golla, Kuruma, Gandla, etc.; Scheduled tions. Castes (547)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. Agri~ Narasimhaswamy temple, at a distance of 2 culture, agricultural labour and other traditional furlongs from the village, with a silver image in METPALLE INDEPENDENT SUB-TALUK 41 the form 'of man-lion is the place of worship in are agriculture, agricultural labour, sheep-rearing this village. and other traditional occupations. Narasimbaswamy Utbsavam is celebrated for Venugopalaswamy temple, in which there is one day on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March-April) an image of Hanuman also, and Siva temple are during Ugadi (Telugu New Year's Day). Carts are the places of worship in this village. decorated and taken round the temple 5 times. Sri Venugopalaswamy Uthsavam is celebra Cocoanuts and sweets are offered. Some devotees ted from Asviyuja Suddha Panchami to Dasami observe fasting and jagarana. It is being celebra (September-October) for 6 days. It is of ancient ted for the past 60 years. The devotees, local and origin though of local significance. Brahmins are from the nearby villages, congrega teo the patrons. The temple has 38 acres of Inam land A few shops are held and dramas and bhajans for its maintenance. The local devotees congre are performed to provide recreation to the visi- gate. Pujari is a Brahmin with hereditary rights. tors· SOURCE: Sri G. Devayachari, Teacher, Bhushan- SOURCE: Sri B. Bhupathi Rao, Sarpanch, Peggerla raopet 23. Kathlapur- Situated at a distance of about 6 21. Vootupalle- Situated at a distance of about miles from Koratla town. 10 miles from Metpalle. The total population of the village is t ,673 The total population of the village is 708 and and it is made up of several sub-communities of it is made up of the following communities: Caste Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (247); and Mus Hindus-Vaisya, Munnurukapu, Padmasale, Golla, lims. The chief means of livelihood of the people Medara, Kummari, Goundla, Kuruva, etc.; are agriculture, agricultural labour and other Scheduled Castes (133) - Mala; and Muslims. traditional occupations. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture and agricultural labour. Gidda Perumandla (Hanuman) Utbsavam is celebrated for one day on Chaitra Suddha Purnima Mallanna temple with his stone image in hu (March-April). About 300 local people congregate. man form is the place of worship in this village. SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished Mallanna Uthsavam is celebrated for a day by the Col/ector, Karimnagar every year according to the convenience of the villagers. The festival commences by 4 p. m. and 24. Dumpeta-- Situated at a distance of 12 miles ends by 6 p. m. Decorated carts are taken round from Metpalle and 20 miles from Jagtial. the temple. Bonams are offered. It is an ancient festival of local significance. Gollas are the chief The total population of the village is 1,028 patrons. All local Hindus participate. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Padma SOURCE: Sri Krishna Rao, Police Patel, Vootupalle, sale, Kamsali, Kapu, Tenugu, Golla, Goud, Mera, Bhushanraopet P. O. Chakali, Mangali; and Scheduled Castes (244). The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture and agricultural Jabour. 22. Bhushanraopet- Situated at a distance of about 10 miles from Metpalle and 60 miles from Lord Lakshminarasimhaswamy, Siva and the Nizamabad Railway Sta tion. village deities Pochamma, Luthamma, Mahalak shmi, Eiduchethula Pochamma and Peddamma The total population of the village is 1,668 are worshipped by the villagers. Lakshmi Nara and it is made up of the following communities: simhaswamy temple is on a hillock and the Lord Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Sale, Kapu, Kamsali, Ku is depicted in the form of man-lion with four mm:lri, Golla, Kuruma, Kammara, Sathani, Vela hands killing Hiranyakasipu, the rakshasa King. ma, Mangali, Chakali, Jangam, Medara, etc.; Scheduled Castes (286) - Mala, Madiga; and Mus Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam IS cele lIms. The chief l1l::ans of livelihood of the peop:e brated for 6 days from Vaisakha Suddlza Dasami 42 SECTION III to Purnima (April-May). The function commen The total population of the village is 8.60 and ces with kalyanam on Dasami and concludes with it is made up of the following communities: Caste rathothsavam on Purnima. Homams and abhishekams Hindus-Padmasale, Golla) Kapu, Tenugu, etc.; are performed. It is being celebrated for the past and Scheduled Castes (133) -Mala, Madiga. The two centuries and extends even to far off.places. chief means of their livelihood are agriculture and About 4,000 devotees of all communities participa agricultural labour. te from this and neighbouring villages. A Smartha Brahmin of Bharadwajasa gotram is the pujari. Rajeswaraswamy alias Lanka Rarnanna tem ple with the stone Sivalingam is the place of wor A fair is held in this connection for 7 days. ship in the village. Food-stuffs, eatables, books, pictures, photos, lan terns, mirrors, combs, handloom cloth, etc., are Lanka Ramanna Teertham is celebrated dur sold. Merry-go-round,' see-saw, lottery and dra ing Mahasivaratri on Magha Bahula Chaturdasi mas offer entertainment to the pilgrims. (January-February). Cocoanuts are offered. It is being celebrated fOf the pas t 40 years and is SOURCE: Sri M. Muralidhara Rao, Sarpallch, confined to the nearby Villages. About 500 devo Dumpet tees, local and from the nearby villages, of all communities participate. A Brahmin of Srikonda 25. Tandriyal- Situated at a distance of about village is the pujari. 13i miles from Metpalle. A fair is held on Sivaratri. Eatables, toys, The total population of the village is 2,165 etc., are sold. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Kapu, Velama, Padma SOURCE: Sri P. Syamala Rao, Headmaster, Ele sale, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (221)-Mala, Ma mentary School, POlharam diga. Agriculture, agricultural labour, weaving and other traditional occupations are the chief 27. Govindaram_ Situated at a distance of about means of livelihood of the people. 11 miles from Koratla town. Sri Venkateswaraswamy temple on a hillock The total population of the village is 2,638 with the image carved on a stone and Hanuman and it is made up of several sub-communities of temple in the village are the places of worship in Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (403). The this village. chief means of livelihood of the people are agri Sri Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated culture, agricultural labour and other traditional for one day on Sravana Suddha Dasami (July occupations. August). Cocoanuts are offered. Local people of all communities. take part in it. Vaishnavas are the Venkateswaraswarny festival is celebrated for pujari$ with hereditary rights. one day on Phalguna Suddha Purnima (February March). About 200 Hindu devotees of the villa SOURCE: Sri G. Gutta Ramulu, Teacher, Tandriyal ge congregate. 26. Potharam- Situated at a distance of 16 miles SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished from Koratla by bus and 20 miles from Metpalle. by the Collector, Karimnagar JAGTIAL TALUK j i • 0888@0 @@@@@@ @0 00 ®® 0 1 Q ~ ~ Ii! ~ (j ~ >:~ !~ ~ ~ d ~ ~~ i"!:::: 2~ ~ ~ l~ I~ i ~ ~z" " I~f 1; :i! ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ i (f) w ...l "'~ 0( 01'. ~ ~ ~ oJ< C ~ ;; t;; ~ i ~ ~ ~ i:IJ ~ ~ ~ t.L. ~ e~ I ~ I ~ ~ Q z '" " " 0( g .,; G0GG G (f) ::(= ~ r ~ :::> ..J« t- « ..J ..J iii n:: iii :.: Lo.I ::> ..J ..J ..J ~ '~"' I « o~ Q. In ::> ...11.1 (J) ~ ci .; ~ ;z",;,::: g z(l:!:' ~ Section IV JAGTIAL TALUK QIherlapalle-Situated at a distance of 2 miles Sri Sita Ramanujaswamy Uthsavam is celeb from Jagtial. rated for one month in Sravanam (July-August). Cocoanuts are offered to the deity. Devotees The population of the village is 153 and it is take river bath and observe fasting and jagarana. made up of several sub·communities of Caste Local Hindus take part in it. Pujari is a Srivaish Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (57). The means nava of Bharadwajasa gotram with hereditary of livelihood of the people are agriculture and rights. agricultural labour. Fowls and animals are sacrificed to the deity There is the temple of Bugga Bhimaiah to Daithamma occasionally. the south of the village, with the stone image of the deity in the form of an elephant. There is a SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished perennial spring below the hillock. There is a by the Collector, Karimnagar maddi Cterminalia alata} tree by the side of the hillock and the water of the spring flows from the roots of the tree. The flow is more in summer. 3. Thunguru-Situated at a distance of about 16 In the name of the spring, the deity is called miles from Jagtial. Bugga Bhimaiah (bugga means spring). Peddamma The total population of the village is 2,240 Davatha temple and Raju1a Devatha temple are aBd it is made up of the following communities: the other places of worship in this village. Castes Hindus - Brahmin, Kapu, Padmasale, Bhimaiah Teertham is celebrated for one day Medari, Chakali, etc.; Scheduled Castes (490); each in summer and in winter according to the and Scheduled Tribes (113). The chief means of convenience of the villagers. Cocoanuts are livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul offered and fowls are sacrificed. When rains fail, tural labour, weaving and other traditional the villagers pour ponga/i (cooked rice mixed with occupations. milk) on a rock and rains follow immediately. There is a temple of Narasimhaswamy. The This is known as varada pasamu. Hence there is Lord is represented by a copper plate image a local proverb in Telugu 'Varada mundu varshamu 4i feet high in the form of man-lion. There is also thadupari'. (Varadapasamu i. e., offering ponga/i an image of Gopalaswamy in the temple. first and next rain). It is being celebrated for the past 100 years. The local devotees congregate. Narasimhaswamy festival is \,;elebrated on Beerpur hillock for 11 days from Magha Suddha SOURCE: Sri T. Venkatanarasaiah, Headmaster, Ekadasi (January-February). The images are Cherlapalle taken from this village on Suddha Ekadasi and brought back on Bahula Shashti after the festival. 2. Kandlapalle-Situated at a distance of 24 miles Cattle and money are offered and there is no animal sacrifice. River bath is taken and fasting fn~m Jagtial. and jagarana are observed. The festival is of The total population of the village is 69S ancient ongm. Brahmins are the chief patrons. and it is made up of several sub-communities of Five to six thoul'and Hindus, local and from the Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (135); and nearby villages, congregate. Pujari is a Vaishna Scheduled Tribes (47). Agriculture and agricul vite Brahmin. Prasadam is distributed to all and tural labour are the chief means of livelihood of there is free feeding also. the people. A small fair is held near the temple. Eat Sitaramanujaswamy and Daithamma are wor ables, mirrors, combs, toys, bangles, etc., are shipped in this village. sold. 44 SECTION IV SOURCE: Sri K. V· Ram Reddy, Headmaster, of ancient ong1l1 and is confined to this and Thunguru the neighbouring villages. Pujari is a Gowd with hereditary rights. People from a distance of 30 miles from villages of Adilabad district also 4. Teegala Dharmaram-Situated at a distance of come here for the Aradhana of the deity. 8 miles to the west of Dharmapuri and 24 miles from Jagtial in the midst of jungles. SOURCE: Sri M. Ramachandra Rao) Headmaster, Government Elementary School) Rajaram The total population of the village is 372 and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, Kummari, 6. Beerpur-Situated at a distance of 28 miles Sale, Vadla, Chakali, Mangali, Kammara, Kamsali; from Jagtial of which 20 miles is to be covered Scheduled Castes (121)-Mala, Madiga; Scheduled by bus and the remaining 8 miles by cart. Tribes (8); and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul The population of the village is 1,897 and it turallabour and other traditional occupations. is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, Gulla, Chakali, Hanuman temple, Pochamma temple and a Mangali, Goundla, Golla, Kummari, Kammara, mosque are the places of worship in this village. Vadla, Sale, Medari, etc.; Scheduled Castes (314) Village deity Pochamma Teertham is celeb Mala, Madiga; Scheduled Tribes (112); and rated for one month in Jaishtam (May-June) Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the every year. The devotees take bath, go to the people are agriculture, agricultural labour and deity accompanied by the beat of drums indivi other traditional occupations. dually and worship her. Fowls and sheep are Narasimhaswamy temple on a hillock outside sacrificed. It is of ancient origin and of local the village, with a stone image of the Lord in the significance. Velamas and K1pus are the patrons. form of' man-lion, Pochamma temple and The local Hindus congregate. Pujari is a Sathani. Mahalakshmi temple are the places of worship in Prasadam is distributed to all. this village. Hanuman Bhajan is conducted in Sravanam (July-August). Cocoanuts and sugar are offered. Narasimhaswamy Jatara is celebrated for 10 Fasting and jagarana are observed. The local days from Magha Suddha Ekadasi to Bahula Hindus congregate. Prasadam is distributed to Panchami (January-February). Festival arrange all and there is free feeding called santharpana. ments are made 5 days in advance. Kalyanam of the Lord is performed on Purnima. Dolaharana is performed i.e., the Lord is swung in the Koneti SOURCE: Sri K. J. Puthraiah, School Assistant, Teegala Dharmaram Mantapam. The idol of the Lord is brought below the hillock on Chathurdasi evening for dopu uthsavam (The story of the Lord being waylaid 5. Rajaram-Situated near Dharmapuri at a and looted, when he was returning after marriage distance of about 30 miles from Jagtial. with Lakshmi, by a devotee only to get money for the worship of the Lord). Rathothsavam is The total population of the village is 4,532 celebrated on Panchami. The villagers white-wash and it is made up of the several sub-communities their houses, decorate them and wear new clothes. of Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (1,033); and Bulls are offered to the temple and tied to the Scheduled Tribes (300). The chief means of pillars of the temple on the hillock. It is believed livelihood of the people are agriculture and agri to have been celebrated for the past 500 years cultural labour. and is widely known. The chief patrons are The temple of Siva and a small abode for Vaishnavas. About 20,000 Hindus, local and from the village deity Yellamma are the places of neighbouring places, congregate irrespective of worship in the village. caste or creed. Pujari is a Vaishnava with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all Yellamma Aradhana is celebrated on every and there is free feeding too. Pandals and tents Tuesday. Fowls and anima 1s are sacrificed. It is are put up. JAGTIAL TALUK 45 A fair is held in this co.nnection with much Ganga, usually in winter and summer, on pomp for 2 days. Taxes are collected by the Wednesdays and Fridays. People come there in Panchayat Board. Eatables, utensils, lanterns, carts and fulfil their vows. A small catamaran of mirrors and combs, pictures and photos, straw is made by such devotees, decorated with Ayurvedic drugs, clothes, agricultural implements pasupu an d kumkum and is left to float in the and toys, etc., are sold· waters. Cocoanuts are offered and animals are sacrificed on the bank of the river. The devotees Magic, dramas and music performances are offer cocoanuts, fruits, flowers in the temple to arranged. Lord Siva and Hanuman. SOURCE: Sri K. Ramkistaiah, Teacher, Primary SOURCE: Sri A. Gopainh, Teacher, Vempnlle Ven~ School, Beerpur kataraopet 7. Mootapalle-Situated at a distance of 16 miles 9. Regunta-Situated at a distance of 8 miles from Jagtial. from the river Godavari and 58 miles from the The total population of the village is 1,893 Nizamabad Railway Station on the Kacheguda~ and it is made up of the following communities: Manmad metre gauge section of the Central Caste Hindus-Velama, Kapu, Chakali, Mangali, Railway. Gowndla, Kammara, Kamsali, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (332). The chief means of livelihood of the The total population of the village is 1,148 people are agriculture, agricultural labour and and it is made up of the following communities: other traditional occupations. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, Vadrangi, Kammara, Kamsali, Kummari, Yadava, There is a temple of Lord Venkateswara Tenugu, Chakali, Mangali, Sale, Goundla, etc.; swamy on a hillock to the west of the village. Scheduled Castes (260)-Mala, Madiga; Dudekulas and Muslims. Agriculture, agriculturallabou rand Sri Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celeb~ other traditional occupations are the chief means rated for one day on Vaisakha Suddha Purnima of livelihood of the people. (April-May). Cocoanuts and sugar are offered. The local people congregate. Prasadam is There are small temples of village deities distributed to all. Pochamma, Tat'aiah, Tatamma and Mahalaksh mamma. There are idols of Hanuman and Venka~ SOURCE: Sri A. Narayana Rao, Teacher, KOlhapet teswaraswamy at certain common places for general worship. The tomb of a Musli,nl warnor 8. Vempalle Venkataraopet_Situated at a distance Hasanaiah is also there. of 2 miles from the river Godavari and 20 miles from Jagtial. Tatamma and the Tataiah festivals are celebrated in Jaishtam (May-June) Sri Venkate The total population of the village is 2,233 swaraswamy Aradhana is performed by people and it is made up of the following communities: occasionally. Pochamma and Mahalakshmi are Caste Hindus-.-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Goud, worsh:pped in Ashadham (June-July). Fowls, goats Velama, Vadla, Kammara, Kamsali, Boya, and sheep are sacrificed to these deities. These Kumrnari, etc.; Scheduled Castes (288); and functions are confined to this village only. Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the Bhajans are performed near the idol of Hanuman people are agriculture, agricultural labour and every week. other traditional occupations. SOURCE: Sri K. Satya Prabhakar Reddy, There is a stone Sivalingam and images of Headmaster, Government Primary School, Parvati, Ganga and also of Hanuman in the Siva Regunta temple on the bank of the river Godavari. There is another image of Hanuman in the village. 10. Itkial-Situated at a distance of 50 miles Gangapuja is pelformed to the river from the Nizamabad Railway Station. It was an Godavari, locally called by the sacred name Inam village ruled by Channamaneni family. 46 SECTION IV The total population of the village is 3,137 of Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (595); and and it is made up of the following sub-commu Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the nities of Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, residents are agriculture, agricultural labour, Kapu, Telaga, Vadrangi, Kamsali, Mangali, weaving and other traditional occupations. Kammara, Kummari, Chakali, Perika, Sale, (Joundla, Golla, Medara, etc.; Scheduled Castes Kesavanathaswamy temple, Anjaneya temple (495)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief and temples of village deities, Bhimanna and means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, Pochamma and a mosque are the places of wor agricultural labour and other traditional occu ship in Raika!. The ancient temple of Kesava pations. nathaswa('ny is supposed to have been constructed in the 11 th century A. D. by the Kakathiyas. There is the temple of Lord Venkateswara There are three sanctum sanctorums with separate swamy with the stone image, with 4 hands holding sikharams (towers). In the first three is the image sankhu and chakra, etc., along with his consorts of Panchamukhalingaswamy - a Sivalingam with on either side. There is a stone Makara Toranam five faces. In the second there is the image of depicting Dasavatharams (10 incarnations of Lord Kesavanathaswamy. The image of Lord Brahma Vishnu). The temple of Anjaneyaswamy is by the in the third sanctum is said to have been stolen. side of the above temple. There are the temples The sculpture and architecture of the temple and of the village deities Mahalakshmi, Pochamma the stone pillars resemble those of the thousand and Tatamma also. pillared temple of Hanamkonda of Warangal Sri Venkateswaraswamy Dravida Vedadh District. It is locally claimed that the Pancha yayanam and Kalyana Rathothsavam are celebra mukhalingam exists at two places only in India, ted from Phalguna Suddha Panchami to Bahula one at Kasi (Benaras) and the other in this Chaviti for 15 days (February-March). Pulihora, village. There is a tank near about the temple. dadhyojanam and chakkarapongali are offered· It is This tank is also said to belong to the period of Kakathiyas. of ancient origin and of local significance. The chief patron is Sri Satyanarayana Rao, son of The temples of Rajeswaraswamy and Nara the late Channamaneni Venkatanarasimha Rao of simhaswamy, the latter with a black stone image Padmanayaka family. Hindus, local and from the of the Lord, are the places of worship in Charla neighbourhood, congregate. Pujari is a Vaishnava kondapur, hamlet of this village. There is a of Bharadwajasa gotram with hereditary rights. temple of the village deity Pochamma also. The Prasadam is distributed to all and there is free Rajeswaraswamy temple and some choultries are feeding to Vaishnavite Brahmins. located in the compound of Narasimhaswamy Navarathrothsavamulu are celebrated for 10 temple. It is called Nallagonda Narasimhaswamy temple. days from Asviyuja Suddha Padyami to Dasami (September-October) . Bhimanna Jatara is celebrated for 3 days Animals are sacrificed to the deities. from Magha Suddha Purnima (January-February). Pochamma and Mahalakshamma when epidemics On Purnima day there is kalyanam; on Padyami break out in the village. Intoxicants are also there is jatara and on Vidiya there is rathothsavam. taken. Fowls and sheep are sacrificed to the deity. It ii being celebrated for the pa'lt 80 years and extends SOURCE: Sri M. G. Abdul Nabi, Head Master, to the neighbourhood also. The chief patrons are Ilkial Besthas. About 5,000 people, local and from the neighbouring villages, congregate. There is a pujari wi th hereditary righ ts. 11. Raikal-Situated at a distance of 12 miles from Jagtial and 58 miles from the Nizamabad A fair is held in connection with the jatara Railway Station. There is bus service from here for 3 days near the temple with a few shops selling to Kora tIa and JagtiaI. Charlakondapur is the eatables, lanterns, mirrors, combs and toys, etc. hamlet of this village. Narasimhaswamy Jatara is celebrated for 3 The total population of the village is 5,141 days from Phalguna Bahula Vidiya (February and it is made up of the various sub-communities March) in Charlakondapur. On the second day JAGTIAL TALUK 47 there is rathothsavam. Before the chariot is lanterns, glassware, mirrors, combs, photos, books dragged, a goat is 5acrificed before the wheels and clothes, etc., are sold in the fair. and cocoanuts are broken. It is taken 5 times around the temple. During the procession, A drama is staged by the local people on cocoanuts, pyalalu (puffed grain), balls of pyalalu Sivaratri day. with jaggery and also fowls are thrown at the On Mondays and Saturdays in Sravanam ratham. People afflicted with diseases and madness (July-August), the devotees from the neighbour worship this Lord to get rid of their complaints. ing villages congregate and distribute prasadam to This Jatara is being celebrated for the past 100 all and observe jagarana. years and is confined to the surrounding villages. About 600 devotees, local and from the nearby SOURCE: Sri B. Satyanarayana, Teacher, Lachak villages, congregate. Pujari is a Goundla with kapet hereditary rights. Lumps of prasadam are thrown at the crowd of people and it is believed that the person who. catches hold of it will have his desires 13. Arpapalle- Situated at a distance of about fulfilled. 10 miles from Jagtial. In the distant past three persons Harkadu, A fair is held in this connection near the Kotadu and Kankadu were ruling Harpa Fort. temple. Eatables, lanterns, torchlights, mirrors, It is believed that Harkadu founded this village combs, baskets, toys, etc., are sold. and gave his name to this village as Arkapalle SOURCE: 1. Sri J. Ramanaiah, Teacher, Raikal which later became ArpapaUe. 2. Sri A. Rajagangaram, Teacher, The total population of the village is 1,615 Charlakondapur and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Padmasale, Chakali, Kammara, Kummari, Kanchari, Vadrangi, Gow 12. Pembatla- Situated at a distance of 6 miles da, Bestha, Golla; Scheduled Castes (138); and from Jagtial town on the route from Jagtial-Ralla Dudekulas. Agriculture, agricultural labour and vagu Project. other traditional occupations are the chief means The total population of the village is 952 and of livelihood of the people. it is made up of the following communities: Cas Hanuman temple and village deities Pocha te Hindus - Munnurukapu, Thammala, Chakali, mma, Mysamma and Tatamma are the places of etc.; and Scheduled. Castes (107) - Madiga. The worship in this village. There is also one image chief means of livelihood of the people are agri of Venkateswara in the village. culture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. Gramadevatala Uthsavam takes places in Ashadham (June-July). Animals are sacrificed to Dubba Rajeswaraswamy temple with the sto propitiate the deities. The Hindus of the village ne Sivalingam and the images of Ganapathi and take part in it. Nandi and Anjaneyaswamy temple, near the for mer are the places of worship in this village. SOURCE: Sri S. Narayan, Teacher, Government Primary School, Arpapalle Rajeswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated during Mahasivaratri from Magha Bahula Triodasi to Amavasya (January-February) for 3 days. Co 14. Dharmapuri_ Situated at a distance of about coanuts, jaggery and sugar are offered to the dei 30 miles from Jagtial town and 32 miles from Ped ty. It is being celebrated for the past 200 years dapalle Railway Station on Wardha-Kazipet bro and is confined to the nearby villages. About ad gauge section of the Central Railway. It is 6,000 devotees, local and from nearby places, con on the western bank (right bank) of the sacred gregate. Pujari is Thammala Venkanna of Kowsi river Godavari, which flows near the village on ka gotram whh hereditary rights. the south forming a natural boundary between Karimnagar and Adilabad Districts. It is said to A fair is held in connection with the festival be one of the oldest villages in the State. The for 3 days near the temple. Eatables, utensils, place is rather difficult of access. There is a bus 48 SECTION IV service from Karimnage-l',to Kapparaopet, which Golconda Kingdom and the uncles of the famous is 10 miles distant from Dharmapuri, from where devotee Ramadas of Bhadrachalam had visited one has either to walk or to go on a country cart. this place, had darsan of Nrusimha and construc Alternatively, one has to get down atMancheriyal ted a step-well to commemorate their visit. Even Railway Station which is on the Kazipet-Wardha to-day it goes by the name Akkanna Madanna Section of the Central Railway and from there go well. During the Muslim rule it was a target of up to Venkatapuram by bus, and then walk six vandalism of Rohillas and Lord Nrusimha's tem miles and cross the river Godavari to reach Dhar ple was converted into a mosque. The mutilated mapuri. The total distance from Hyderabad to idol of the Lord was recently excavated in Goda this place is about 160 miles. Due to the great vari bed on 24-11-1962. It is a beautifully carved sanctity attached to the place, pilgrims flock here piece of lS' height. Thus the sacred place Dhar in large numbers in spite of the difficulty in mapuri had seen 800 years of its existence known communication. to us. Dharmapuri produced celebrated men of "Dharmapuri is not only one of the oldest letters and art. Cheligonda Dharmanna, the au villages of Andhra Pradesh but also compara thor of Chithra Bharatam in Telugu, was born tively a big one considering its inaccessibility. It has about 2,000 houses which are built in the old here. The famous Sathaka writer Seshachala Das fashion. The village is a famous and renowned wrote three sathakams (books of hundred and ei one as a centre for Vedic studies and for several centuries in the past, Sanskrit pandits have ("merged ght verses) viz., Narahari Sathakam, Nrukesari from this village. The tradition and environment Sathakam and Nrusimha Sathakam, the last of of the place prove that it was a great seat of lear which is so popular that it is not an exaggeration ning of Vedic and Sanskrit studies in the past," 1 tf) say that there is hardly any village in Andhra Dharmapuri Ramayanam states that the town where people do not recite the popular poems was constructed by a king named Dharmavarma. ending with the couplet: The place is important historically also. .. ~ 05. ea :J 5" ;$ ~ CS b'~/~ 0' ~ i3";$ During the Kakathiya period Rudradeva, son of Bhushanavikasa Sri Dharmapuranivasa Proia II ruled over Warangal between 1158-95· ~ 05. ;$ 0 oJ-Il5 rS 0' ;j 0 ~ c:s; at} 6J"o 0' el Dharmapuri was at that time under Dommaraju Dushta samhara Narasimha duritadura." and an inscription at Hanamkonda states that Rudradeva invaded the domain of Dommaraju. Narasaiah, the author of Srimath Dharmapuri Ramayanam in Yakshaganam hails from this place. The Kakathiya architecture in the temples, parti cularly the Siva temple and some other stone ins The total population of the village is 6,383 criptions of Kakathiya times prove that during and it is made up of several sub-communities of the time of Kakathiyas and even earlier Dharma Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (706); and Sche puri was a sacred place. In his great work' Kala duled Tribes (96). Agriculture, agricultural la purnodayam (a classic in Telugu) Pingali Surana bour and other traditional occupations are the mentions Dharmapuri as a village situated on the chief means of livelihood of the residents. banks af the river Godavari. In the absence of any other village of its name on the banks of the The most important temple in Dharmapuri is river Godavari it may be construed that this is the one dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Narasimha the same Dharmapuri referred to by Pingali Sura swamy. This holy place with its presiding deity is na. This undoubtedly speaks of the importance men tioned in the Brahmanda Pur ana. There is an of Dharmapuri during the Vijayanagara period unpublished palm-leaf manuscript in Sanskrit also. The Kings of Ramagiri appeared to have with the title Dharmapuri Kshetra Mahathmyam some connection with this important place dur describing the puranic story and the greatness of ing their period. The renowned Telugu poet Ma this Lord in great detail. diki Singana in his book Padmapuranothara Khan "The Avatara of Lord Vishnu as Lord Narasim dam refers that Kesana, brother of Kandanama haswami is a famous and important one. To save thya, who was the commander under King Mup Prahl ada, who was a great devotee. the Lord Vishnu took on the incarnation of Narasimha padi of Ramagiri, constructed a choultry at Dhar swami and killed Hiranya Kasipu. While fighting mapuri and worshipped the Lord Narasimha with this God, Hiranya Kasipu, who was a great devotee of Lord Siva, prayed to Lord Siva to save swamy.2 Akkanna and Madanna, the ministers of him in the last moment. Lord Siva who, by 1. N. Ramesan, Temples and Legends of Andhra Pradesh, p. 17~ 2. Referred in Pracheenandhra Charitraka Bhugolam by Sri K. Eswara Dutt, p p. 319-320 JAGTIAL TALUK 49 nature, cannot but respond immediately to a call in the river Godavari. It ii> said in the above quoted distress on the part of his sinc~re dev otees imme purana that it was the emblem of a lady who once diately rushed to the aid of Hiranya KJs1r>u and performed penance in order to marry Lord Vishnu took the shape of a Sarabha and fought with Lord and finally to,)k this shape to remain for ever by Vishnu and at last died at the hands of Lord the side of Lord Narasimhaswami. Many other Vishnu. Since Sarabha was none other than Lord such spotS" in the river are attributed to many Siva himself, Lord Vishnu h:ld to exert himself tales of the puranas. tremendously and had to evoke all his powers before h:.: cl)ulJ kill Sarabha. To do this Lord There are four other temples at Dharmapuri Vishnu evoked the fuH wrath and fury of which which are equally important. There is a Ramalin he was capable and hence, even after killing geoswara temple which is very near to the Nara Sarabha, the wrath of the Lord was so gre:!t that simh:lswamy temple It is stated that Lord Rama, he could not control himself and was wdnJering while r.:turning from La nka after the conquest with that fearful aspect in the fore,t of Danda· of Ravana, visited this place which is a part of karanya. All the Gods became very much frigh Dandakaranya and consecrated here God Siva tened at this terrific aspect of Lord Vishnu which as he did in Rameswaram. The Linga is said to is known as Ugra Narasimha, and approached be of sand stone and the Siva temple which has Lord Brahma to sultgest some means to pacify an equally hoary past is now in good condition the ugra swarupa of Lord Vishnu somehow or and daily worship of the Lord is also being done other. here. Lord Brahma did penance for a long time in the Dandakaranya. Once, during that period, a king There is another temple called Nutana Nara by name Dharma Varma, who was ruling that part simhaswami temple. This is also very near to the of the land, wa~ very eager to kilOW about the main Narasimhaswami temple, It is stated that a most important of all the four purusharthas. With Brahmin of the village found this idol in some thisde,ire, Dharma Varma went to a pious man na cave at a place about 20 miles from this village med Vishnu Sarma, who taught him that there was anj brought it here and consecrated it. This temple no salvation in this world for anyone who did not is also a powerful one and is extremely popular worship Lord Vishnu. Accordingly Dharma Var with the pilgrims, The third temple of Dharmapuri ma set out for penance with strong faith and deter is the Gomateswara temple which is a Siva temple mination. He was instructed by Vishnu Sarma and is said to have been consecrated by Gowthama to pacify Lord Brahma first as only through him Rishi while bringing Godavari to this kshetram. could Lord Vi~hnu in the form of Narasimha be There are finally one Dattathreya temple and one approached. So Dharma Varma first pacified Rama temple on the banks of Godavari which are Lord Brahma with hiS penance. Brahma appeared said to be of later origin, There is no mention of before him and invited Lord Narasimha in a sac these two in the puranas. "1 rifice. This place is at present called the Brah ma Pushkarini. Dakshina Murthy, Vinayaka, Saptha Mathru Lord Vishnu was pleased with Brahma and kas carved on a single slab of stone and Mahisha Dharma Varma and appeared before them in the form of Narasimha, Brahma thereupon requested suramardhani are the idols that are worshipped him to remain there permanently in his JOumya in Siva temple. The sixty-pillared temple, Venu rupa and not in ugra rupa and to restore to him (Brahma), his worship, etc., which he lost due to gopalaswamy temple, Hanuman temple, Pocham the curse of Rishi Bhrigu. Narasimha granted ma temple, Mahalakshmi temple and Akkapalle these two boons and accordingly established him self in his soumya rupa at the same spot, This is Rajanna temple are the other temples here. called the present village of Dharmapuri. The dhruvabhera of the Lord in this temple is Besides Brahma Pushkarini, there is Swetha seated in padmasana position with palms extended Varaha Teertham to the south of Dharmapuri. It downwards on the knePushpa Sarovaram. In the ri for the vision of the Lord. Brahma also came to be worshipped in this temple, since Dharma Varma ver Godavari, there are bathing ghats called Bra first did penance to Brahma and hence in the tem hma Gundam, Sathyavathi Gundam, Chakra Gun ple of Dharmapuri there is the image of Lord Brahma, which is very rare in temples. dam, Yama Gundam, etc. There is a belief that he who takes a bath in Yama Gundam would be The other important deities of this temple are a big idol of Yama at the gate and an idol of Mu saved from torture by Yama. Sathyavathi Gun rali Krishna and another of Balarama, the two dam, has a legend behind it. King Rathnangada btter being kept at the inner gate. There are also eight idols of Lord Hanuman around the had a daughter Sathyavathidevi, who was married temple. The Brahma idol is a big one about 6 by deceit to a serpent, which was given birth to by feet high with four faces, a queen, The grief stricken princess went on tak As per the above puranic narration, Lord Nar ing bath in several sacred waters. The serpent was asim ha is said to be existent even prior to the mani· festation of the river Godavari itself. So many of converted into a prince when she took a bath in the puranic kundas are now only traditionally re Dharmasarovaram and hence it got the name Sathya cognised in the river bed which is full of rocks. There is a small stream called Bhadra falling into vathi Gundam from that time. The Sathyavathi N, Ramesan, Temples and Legends of Andhra Prddesh. pp. 176-179 50 SECTION IV temple at Dharmapuri with 40 feet high single 16. Kamalapuram- Situated at a distance of ab stone pillar is still there. out 13 miles from Jagtial. Sri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Kalyanothsa~ The total population of the village is 1,412 vam is celebrated for 11 days from Phalguna Suddha and it is made up of several sub-communities of Dasami to Bahula Panchami (February-March), Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (334). Agri The dolothsavam in Brahma Pushkarini on Purnima. culture, agricultural labour and other traditional and the car festival on Bahula Panchami are very occupations are the chief means of livelihood of important. The chakra teertham function in Go the people. davari river is celebrated on similar lines as that Hanuman temple is the place of worship in held in Narasimhaswamy temple at An tarvedi (East this vilhge. Godavari District) near the estuary of that great river. This is an ancient festival extending to the Hanuman Jatara is celebrated for one day on whole district and to the neighbouring districts. Vaisakha Suddha Purnima (April-May). About About one lakh of Hindu devotees congregate. 500 local people participate in it. The Government of Andhra Pradesh have SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished constituted in 1965 a Renovation Committee un by the Collector', Karimnagar der the name 'Sri Dharmapuri Lakshminarasim haswamy Uddharana Sangham' 17. Velgonda- Situated at a distance of 9 miles SOURCE: 1. Andhra Prabha, Weekly dated from Jagtial. 19-6-1963 The total popUlation of the village is 1,585 2. Temples and Legends of Andhra and it is made up of the following communities: Pradesh by Sri N. Ramesan Caste Hindus-Boya, Velama, Kapu; and Schedu 3. District Health Officer, Karimnagar l.;d Castes (338)-Mala. Agriculture, agricultural 4. Superintendent of Po/ice, Karimnagar labour and other traditional occupations are the 5. An article in Aradhana, August 1965 chief means of livelihood of the people. There is a temple of Anjaneyaswamy in this 15. Gopalapur- Situated at a distance of 14 village. miles from Jagtial. Anjaneyaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated in The total population of the village is 1,540 Sravanam (July-August). and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Velama, Kapu, Vaisya, Vadla, Kam Pochamma Aradhana IS celebrated in Pha/ mara, Kamsali, Mangali, Chakali, Tenugu, Goun gun am (February-March). Animals are sacrificed dla, Bestha, Golla, Padmasalei and Scheduled to the deity. Kapus and Malas are the patrons. Castes (244) - Mala, Madiga. Agriculture, agri Local people of all communities take part in it. cultural labour and other traditional occupations are the chief means of livelihood of the people. SOURCE: Sri Ram GopaJ, Headmaster, Panchayat Samithi School, Velgonda Sri Narasimhaswamy temple is the place of worship in this village. 18. Buggaram- Situated at a distance of 12 miles Sri Krishna Jayanthi is celebrated on Sral'ana from Jagtia!. It is said that formerly there were Bahula Ashtami (July-August) in Narasimhaswamy many water springs in this place. Hence the temple. It is being celebrated from ancient times place was called Buggaram (bugga means spring). and is confined to this village only. Local people Some gold pieces believed to have been left in the participate. A Vaishnava Brahmin is the pujari past by the marching armies were found by the with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed local shepherds. It is said that a local chieftain to all. called Kondala Rayudu used to terrorise people in the area with some followers. During Bobb SOURCE: Sri P. Narasaiah, Headmaster, Gopala, ili battle there was a lot of bloodshed here also; pur hence the hillock got the name Ranamkota (rallam JAGTIAL TALUK 51 -battle; kota-fort). The hillock is of black bou Village deities are worshipped in the months lders and there are hills all around. These ran of Ashadham (June-July), Sravanam (July-August) ges join the hills of Adilabad District. or Bhadrapadam (August-September), when epi demics break out in the village. Sheep are sac The total population of the villag'! is 2,525 rificed to the deity. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Padmasale, Mu SOURCE: Sri M. Nagaiah, Chinnapur, P. O. Bu nnurukapu, Vadla, Kammara, Kummari. Chakali, ggaram Yellapu, Sathani, Mera, Goud, Golla, Perika, Mang'lli, Balija, etc.; Scheduled Castes (417)-Ma la, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of 20. Somanapalle-'Situa ted at a distance of about livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul 8 miles from Jagtial. tural labour, sheep rearing and other traditional The total popUlation of the village is 914 and occupations. it is made up of the following communities: The temples of Venkate~waraswamy and Si Caste Hindu~-Kapu, Perika, Goundla, etc.; and va and of the village deities Pochamma and Ta Scheduled Castes (75) - Mala, Madiga. The chief tanlma are the places of worship in the village. means of livelihood of the people are agriculture and agricultural labour. Sri Vcnkateswaraswamy Sevothsavam is cel There are the village deities Pochamma and ebrated during Ugadi for one day on Chaitra Mahalakshmamma in the village. There is an Suddha Padyami (March - April). It is being image of Hanuman on a raised platform. celebrated for the past 30 years and is of local significance. The patrons and followers are Sath Mahalakshmamma and Pochamma are wor anis. The local Hindus, irrespective of caste or shipped for a day in Sravanam puly-August). creed, congregate. Pujari is a Sathani with here Fowls and sheep are sacrificed to the deity. The ditary rights. local Hindus congregate. SOURCE: Sri I. Lakshmi Narayanachari, Teacher, SOURCE: Sri A. Lingaiah, Teacher, Somanapalle Government C. P. School, Buggaram 21. Takkallapalle- Situated at a distance of 4 19. Chinnapuram-Situated beside Dharmapuri miles from Malya1 Panchayat Samithi, 10 miles Jagtial road, at a distance of 8 miles from the from Iagtial-Karimnagar road via Malyal and 14 river Godavari and 10 miJes from Jagtial. miles from Jagtial. It is said that this village was constructed 3 centuries ago after the decay of the The total population of the village is 599 Gangupalle Village. There is a tank called Gan and it is made up of the following communities: gupalle Kothacheruvu with the name of that old Caste Hindus - Vaisya, Viswabrahmin, Velama, village. There are also a ruined Venkateswara Kapu, Perika, Kummari, Chakali, Mangali, Golla, temple and a deity GangupaUe Pochamma. There Tenugu, Sale, Gowd, etc; Scheduled Castes (189) is a dilapidated fort in this village said to have -Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means been constructed by Delakonda Thatanna. There of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agri is a tank in the fort which is also in ruins. cultural labour and other traditional occupations. The total population of the village is 738 and Narasimhaswamy temple and Venkateswara it is made up of the following communities: Caste sW3my temple on a hillock nearby are places of Hindus-Kapu, Goundla, Muthracha, Vadla, Ka worship in the village. The images of Anjaneyulu mmara, Kamsali, Chakali, Mangali, Padmasale, and the village deities Pochamma and Tatamma Jangam, Yadava; and Scheduled Castes (165) are also installed in the village. Mala and Madiga. Agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations are the Venkateswara Aradhana is celebrated for a chief means of livelihood of the people. day on Phalguna Bahula Amavasya (February-Ma rch). Abhishekam, naivedyam and deeparadhana There is a temple of Sri Rajeswaraswamy in are performed daily. Pujari is a Dasari. this village with the stone Sivalingam along with 52 SECTION IV the images of Ganapathi and Nandi. There is SOURCE: Sri V. K. Devalingam, Headmaster, Ele another Siva temple called Bollamuvari Sivalayam. mentary School, Tatpalle with a Sivalingam on a pial and with the images of Vinayaka, Nandi and Hanuman. There is 23. Jagtial-Taluk headquarters situated at a di another stone image of Hanuman with no temple stance of 50 miles from Pedapalle Railway Station or pial. There are the temples of village deities on Kazipet-Wardha Section of the Central Rail Pochamma and Mahalakshmamma also. way· Jagtial in Karimnagar District is a very Sri Rajeswaraswamy festival takes place for old town. A local correspondent derives the one day 011 M agha Bahula Amavasya (January-Feb name of the town thus: During the rule of the 'ruary). A procession of the deity is arranged. Mauryas a unit of administration was called yuk Cocoanuts are offered. It is being celebrated thi or jukthi and alaya meant a centre. This town from ancient days. The temple has an Inam of must have been such a centre and appropriately 3 acres wet land and 6 acres dry land. The local called JUkthialaya. This appears to have been Hindus participate. The pujaris are Jangams with gradually changed Jakthyala and finally to Jagtial. hereditary rights. The head of a suba region was called yukthudu under Rashtrakutas and Ghalukyas. Pochamma and Mahalakshmamma pujas are performed for one day in Sravanam (July-August). It is said that during the days of Rashtra kutas, Polasa (the corrupted form of the old name Fowls and sheep are sacrificed. The local Hin Poluvasa) was the local capital of a chieftain of dus take part. the area called Pola. Verily this part of the co SOURCE: 1. Sri V. M. Anandam, Teacher, Ta untry formed part of Polavasa desa and was ruled kkallapaJ/e liy a chieftain Medaraja. This chieftain was hu 2. Sri S. Narayanaswamy, Headmaster, mbled and unseated by the Kakatiya king. Takkallapalle "Ourga was succeeded by his brother ProIa II in or about A. O. ] 117. Two inscriptions belong ing to his reign which have recently come to light, 22. Tatpalle- Situated at a distance of 5 miles state that he established the son of Gokarna on his throne, defeated Medaraja, conquered Polava from Jagtial. Karimnagar-Nizamabad bus route sadesa (probably the territory of this chieftain) passes through this village. and bestowed it on Gangaraja who built a temple for the God Prasanna Kesavadeva at Hanuma konda". 1 The total population of the village is 1,419 and it is made up of the following sub-comm From that time onwards the importance of Polasa unities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Munnurukapu, declined and that of Jagtial increased. After Vaisya, Goundla, Padmasale, Mangali, Telaga, the conquest of the Deccan by Aurangazeb, a Vadla, Kammara, Kamsali, Perika, Sathani; Sch member of the Asaf Jahi dynasty constucted a eduled Castes (279)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. fort at hgtial in 1182 Hijri year i. e., 1773 A. D. The chief means of livelihood of the people are and this year has been inscribed on the main ent agriculture and agricultural labour. rance of the fort in Arabic letters as (Jameki The temples of Venkateswaraswamy and Thela) , the sum of the numbers indicated by the Appannaswamy and Anjaneyaswamy Gadde are several letters of the word being 1182. The name the places of worship in this village. Jameki Thela thus arrived at became the name of the fort namely Jakithiala, which corrupted into Lord Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is cele Jagtial in course of time. This fort was c(mstruc brated from Magha Bahula Panchami to Sapthami ted by a French Engineer whose name was James, (January-February) for 3 days. Cocoanuts are though he was-popularly known as Dhamsa. James offered. It is of ancient origin and of local sig is equivalent to Jack in French and Thol is a rou nificance. The local Hindus congregate. Pra nd structure. When both the words are combi sadam is distributed to all. ned, the fort became Jakthol or Jagtial. Appannaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated on The total population of the town is 23,167 Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March-April). and it is made up of several sub-communities of 1 G. Yazdani, The Early History oj the Deccan, Parts VII-XI, p. 581 JAGTIAL TALUK 53 Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (2,193); Chris This is an ancient village once ruled by a tians and Muslims. Agriculture, trade, services, vassal of Kakathiya Empire. Formerly this was labour and other traditional occupations are the the capital of Polavasadesa or Polas ruled by chief means of livelihood of the people. There some chieftains. One of the inscriptions at are the temples of Gopalaswamy, Venkateswara Hanamkonda refers that Polavasa Desa was swamy, Siva and Rama and those of village dei annexed by Kakatiya King Rudra Deva. ties Yellamma, Pochamma, Mahalakshmamma t. ~ ~';3 M 'B~:SoX;S~dD and Tatamma in the town. Besides these temples ~ .._G L~~,J15 there are 3 large mosques and churches too. Sri manmailigi dehasangasamaya prodbhuta 6a-..):S~o Gopalaswamy Aradhana takes place during darpavaham Dasara for 10 days from Asviyuja Suddha Padyami L~~ l~ :J'c~i6c3r :l~:So l~ ~L6c3:So to Dasami (September-October). Jammi tree is Prapta Sri Polavasadesa vibhavam Sri Rudradevam worshipped. Pandavas took back their weapons <600 from the jammi tree, which were placed on it be sada."l fore they went into exile incognito. About 3,000 Hindus, local and from the surrounding villages G. Yazdani in his book, Early History of the also, congregate. There is free feeding. Deccan, however, mentions that this place became a tributary to Kakatiya Kings in the times of A fair is held in this connection near the ProIa II. temple. Eatables, utensils, lanterns, mirrors, combs, pictures, photos, books, clothes and toys, There is a mention about this place in etc., are sold. Kridabhiramam. It is stated this was one of the Sri Rama Navami is celebrated for 9 days important seats of the deity Ekaveera the Goddess from Chaitra Suddha Padyami to Navami (March who was worshipped by mighty Kakatiyas with April) in Rama temple. great veneration and devotion. Ganapati Navarathrulu are celebrated from ._ --" Bhadrapada Suddha Chaviti to Chaturdasi (August Taruni haihaya danthosthi patalambu gavada ~6Jl'i~~ S"Qi6eooU" September) in Siva temple. e;) perugajesi kattenarutha Goats, fowls and sheep are sacrificed to the ~oe:i'oJ.s;$;). eJ~oJ.3. ~~O'~ 1 K. Eswara Dutt, Prachinandhra Charitraka Bhugolamu, pp. 232-233 2 Ibid 54 SECTION IV Muthyapu Kesava, a native of Warangal and said land for this temple. Pujaris are Vaishnava that he was Poulasthya Brahma and ordained him Brahmins. to construct a temple for him by the side of SOURCE: Sri T. Perumallu, Teacher, Polas Rishipalle, on the spot where the Sivalingam was struck by the plough. Accordingly, Muthyapu Kesava constructed a temple and changed the 25. Israjpalle--Situated at a distance of 12 miles name of the village Rishipalle as Poulasthyapuram. from Jagtial bus road by cart track and 26 miles In course of time the name got corrupted into from Mancheriyal Railway Station. Polasa. There is an older temple built before The total population of the village is 848 and Pou]asthyeswaralaya. In that temple there is the it is made up of the following communities: Caste idol of a warrior, and a mantapam and a koneru Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Sale, Sathani, Kamma, are also there. A stone inscription by the side of Kuruma, Goundla, Golla, Munnurukapu, mantapam records that it was constructed by the Yellapu, Kammara, Kamsali, Velama, Mangali, Ka'kathiyas. This temple and mantapam are, Chakali; Scheduled Castes (262)-Mala, Madiga; however, in ruins. There is a tank called Yellammacheruvu by the side of this village. and Dudekulas. Agriculture, agricultural labour There is an image of Narasimhaswamy installed and sheep rearing are the chief means of by Kondal Rao on a mound nearby. The statue of livelihood of the people. Kondal Rao with a broken hand lies at about 200 There is a temple of the village deity yards away from Narasimhaswamy image. Pochamma at a distance of one furlong to the north-west of the village, There is an idol of The total population of the village is 2,379 Mahalakshmi at a distance of 100 yards from and it is made up of the following sub Pochamma temple. There is also an idol of communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Anjaneyaswamy (4 feet high) at a distance of 2 Kapu, Goundla, Padmasale, Tenugu, Vadla, furlongs to the west of the village and the images Kammara, Kamsali, Kummari, Chukali, Mangali, of Anjancyaswamy, Vighneswara, Naga, Siva and etc.; Scheduled Castes (345)-Mala, Madiga; and Parvathi have also been installed in 1954 in the Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the middle of the village through the collective people are agriculture, agricuftural labour and efforts of the people, other traditional occupations. Anjaneya Puja is performed in Sravanam There are temples of Jogeswaraswamy, (July-August). Cocoanuts, sugar and naivedyam Sankarrao, Venug'Jpalaswamy and Poulasthyeswa are offered. It is confined to this village only. raswamy and of the village deities, Tatamma, Local people of all communities take part in it. Pocbamma and Mahalakshmamma in this village. There are many Anjaneya images, Sivalingams, SOURCE: Sri Kandukuru Venkanna, Israjpal/e Nandi and Naga images around the village. 26. ShakalIa-Situated at a distance of 12 miles Tatamma, Pochamma and Mahalakshmamma from Jagtial and 25 miles from Mancheriyal Jatara is celebrated on Wednesdays, Fridays and Railway Station. Sundays in Ashadham (June-July) and Sravanam (July-August). Goats, fowls and sheep are sacrifi The total popUlation of the village is 930 ced. Fasting is observed. It is of ancient origin and it is made uP of the following communities: and the local Hindus participate. Caste Hindus-Velama, Vaisya, Munnurukapu, Padmasale, Sathani, Vadrangi, Kammara, Abhishekam to Poulasthyeswaraswamy is Kamsali, Kanchara, Bondili, Bestha, Goundla, performed on Mondays in the months of Sravanam Golla, Chakali, Mangali; Scheduled Castes (362) (July-August), Karfhikam (October-November) and rvIala, Madiga; and Muslims· The chief means Vaisakham (April-May). The temple has 98 acres of livelihood of the people are agriculture, of Inam land. Pujaris are Brahmins of Harithasa agricultural labour and other traditional gotram with hereditary rights. occupations. Special worship is performed to Venugopala There is an idol of Anjaneyaswamy and of swamy on festival days. There are 45 acres of Inam the village deities Pochamma, Mysamma and JAGTIAL TALUK 55 Mahalakshmamma. At a disiance of 16 yards from Sri Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is Anjaneyaswamy image there is a stone inscription celebrated for one day on Chaitra Bahula Panchami which has not been deciphered so far. (March-April). Cocoanuts and fruits are offered. It is being celebrated for the past 160 years and Anjaneyaswamy puja is performed on special is of local significance. The village heads are the occasions. Nityaradhana (daily puja) is performed chief patrons. The local Hindus congregate. to the village deities, Pochamma, Mysamma and PUjari is a Sathani Vaishna va with hereditaIY Mahalakshmamma. rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. SOURCE: Sri D. Hanmandlu, Headmaster, Bugga Poshamma (Poleramma) Uthsavam IS puram celebrated for one day on Ashadha Bahula Panchami (June-July) for the protection of the village. Goats, fowls and sheep are sacrificed to 27. Vengumatla-Situated at a distance of 8 miles the deity. The local Hindus congregate. from Kapparaopet bus stage on Karimnagar Lakshettipet route and 32 miles from Pedapalle During Sivaratri i.e., in Magham (January Railway Station. February), Sravanam (July-August) and Pushyam (December-January) the devotees observe fasting A story is told locally about the origin of and jagarana and take bath in the river Godavari the village. Once a person YellaIa Lingareddy, a near Kotilingala. native of Satharam went to his father-in-Iaw's house in Gollapalle with a desire to construct a SOURCE: Sri B. M aruthi, Village Sarpanch, Ven village as was the aspiration of several in those gumatla days. He went two miles to the north of Gollapalle and found old forts and ramparts in 28. Sthambampallc- Situated at a distance of 3 that place. He thought that it would be the proper furlongs from the Karimnagar-Lakshettipet road place for the proposed village and took rest and 22 miles from Mancheriyal Railway Station under a tree. He had a dream in which he saw a and 24 miles from Jagtial. There is an ancient light telling that his desire would be fulfilled and Siva temple in the village and a high stone pillar asked him to go to the east of the spot where he near it. It is believed that the village was named would find a 'koranda' bush (a prickly shrub). It after that pillar (sthambham-pillar; palle-village). also ordered him to cut the bush and construct a house and live there. At once he woke up and The population of the village is 1,976 and it searched for the shrub and found it. He is made up of the following communities: Caste constructed a hut there and lived there along with Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Vadla, Kamsale a few others. As a light in the dream was the Kammara, Yadava, Gowda, Chakali, Manga1i; incentive for founding this village, he named the Scheduled Castes (287)-Mala, Madiga; and village Velguma tla (Velugu-l ight and matla-shrub). Christians. The chief means of livelihood of the It is corrupted into Vengumatla in course of time. people are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. The total population of the village is 1,524. A Siva temple in a dilapidated condition and it is made up of the following communities: and Venkateswaraswamy temple on a hillock Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, Padmasale, nearby are the places of worship in this village. Kamsali, Golla, Chakali, Mangali, Gowd, Kummari, Kammara, Vadla; Scheduled Castes Sri Venkateswaraswamy Rathothsavam is (219); and Christians. The chief means of celebrated for 5 days from Magha Suddha Dasa livelihood of the people are agriculture, mi to Bahula Padyami (January-February). agricultural labour and other traditional There is kalyanam of the Lord on Dwadasi, dopu occupations. uthsavam on Purnima and rathothsavam on Padyami. Gokulashtami on Sravana Bahula Ashtami(July-Au Hanuman temple, Venka teswaraswamy gust), Devinavarathrulu in Asviyujam (September temple on a hillock nearby and the temple of October) are also cekbrated. Vahanams, village deity, Poleramma are the places of moustaches, pattenama/u, cash and cocoanuts arc worship in this village. offered to the Lord by the devotees. Temple affairs 56 SECTION IV are managed by the Hindu Religious & Charitable A fair is held in connection with this festival. Endowments Board and the temple owns sorr.e Eatables, utensils, pots, glassware, Ayurvedic Inam lands. About 2,000 devotees, local and from medicines, books, photos, clothes, toys and fancy the neighbouring villages congregate. Pujari is a goods are sold. Sathani Vaishnava of Bharadwajasa gotram with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. A local young woman was deified and is held in veneration; Buchi Rajavva's worship is continued A fair is held in this connection with a few throughout the year. The story connected 1S narra shops near the temple. Eatables, toys and bangles, ted below: A washerm~n in the neighbouring village etc., are sold. of Dumpetipalle had a daughter called :Buchi Raj avva. From her childhood she exhibited extraor SOURCE: Sri M. Bapu Reddy, Teacher, Stharnbha dinary devotion to God, reverence to elders, love rnpalle for youngsters and her face shone with brilliance. She was married in her twelfth year and as she 29. Gullakota--Situated at a distance of 3 miles was the only issue the parents kept her and the from the Karimnagar-Lakshettipet bus route and son-in-law with themselves. A year after consum 16 miles fro:n Pedapalle Railway Station. It was mation she became pregnant and begot a male originally a fort surrounded by big round child. A happy day was spent by all; but the night boulders (gundlu) and it is guessed that this brought the gloom of her sickness and she died the must have been the reason for calling the place following morning. The body was buried and Gundlakota, which has since been red uced to soon after the child also died. The unfortunate Gullakota. Another version is that the fort was parents spent a period of 16 days in grief at the constructed by the Gandhe family who used to end of which the mother had a dream. The dau plunder (S"~f\"~ kollagottu) the neighbou ghter told her in the dream that she ought not ring villages. They constructed a fort for their have been buried in the usual manner. She con safety with the booty. Hence the fort was called soled the mother and requested her to take her Kollakota and the name was corrupted into the body out, put it in a tomb specially constructed present Gullakota. Other gangs also began to and raise a temple over it. It was difficult for the plunder the villages and created a problem for mother to convince others to put the instructions the ruler of the region. The Gandhe family of the deceased da ugh tec into execution, as they succeeded in rounding up all such gangs and took the dream to be outcome of her mental agony. helping the ruler. As a recognition of the family's But the mother sincerely believed the words of her services to the State, this village was given to it daughter and dug out the grave herself and when as a Jagir. the body was seen fresh and shining, even after 16 days of burial, everyone was astonished and con The total population of the village is 2,887 vinced that there were super-human powers in and it is made up of the following communities: Buchi Rajavva, who, during her life time too, had Caste Hindus - Kapu, Golla, Goundla, Tenugu, exhibited extraordinary qualitie, and conduct. A Viswabrahmin, Chakali, Mangali, etc,; Scheduled tomb was constructed in which the body was placed Castes (759)-Mala and Madig::t. The chief means and a temple was raised over it. People of the place of livelihood of the residents are agriculture, agri and of several villages around developed much cultural labour, sheep rearing, toddy tapping and devotion towards her and in course of time, the other traditional occupations. devotees got their desires fulfilled by worship to Sri Venugopalaswamy temple is the place of her. The devotees go to the temple practically worship in this village. A temple raised over the every day, but the congreg:ltion is more on S::ttur tomb of Buchi Rajavva is the other place of worship. days and MondJ.Ys. Only cocoanuts are offered. The practice of worship at the tomb of Buchi Raj Sri Venugopalaswamy Uthsav:Jm is cele avva extends to sever:ll villages around. The brated for 8 days from Phalguna Bahula Padya ni Vaishnava pujari of Sri Venugopalaswamy temple (February-March). It is an ancient festival and is also the h~reditary pujari and manager of this is confined to a few neighbouring villages. About temple to which nearly 800 devotees come 011 Sat 700 people, local and from nearby villages, congre urdays and Mondays. Prasada'11 is distributed to gate. The pujari is a Vaishnava with hereditary all and some devotees undertake feeding the poor, rights. now and then. JAGTIAL TALUK 57 The fair is practically a continuous one, with The population of the village is 1,511 and it all the articles mentioned earlier. On Saturdays is made up of the following communities: Caste and Mondays music, lotteries and petty gambling Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Golla, Velama, entertain the assembled visitors. etc.; Scheduled Castes (244) and Scheduled Tri bes (21). The chief means of livelihood of the SOURCE: 1. Sri Choksha Rao, Headmaster, J. B. people are agriculture and agricultural labour. S., Gullakora 2. Sri P. Venkat Rao, Teacher, Gullakota There is a temple of Mallanna in the village where there is a stone image of the deity. 30. Atmakur_ Situated at a distance of about 16 Mallanna Uthsavam is celebrated for 2 days miles from Jagtial. on Chaitra Suddha Padyami and Vidiya (March The population of the village is 1,711 and it April). Devotees fulfil their vows for fulfilment is made up of the sub-communities of Caste Hin of their desires. It is being celebrated for the dus and Scheduled Castes (290). Agriculture past 50 years and is of local significance. The and agricultural labour are the chief means of local people congregate. livelihood of the people. SOURCE: Sri Basith Khan, Teacher, Tirmalapuram Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated for one day on Asviyuja Suddha Dasami (Septem ber-October). The local devotees congregate. 33. Lakshmipuram- Situated at a distance of 5 miles from the Karimnagar-Lakshettipet road, 6 SOURCE: Statement of Fatrs and Festivals furnished miles from Jagtial and 28 miles from Peddapalle by Superintendent of Police, Karimnagar Railway Station. 31. Nancharla- Situated at a distance of 32 mi The population of the village is 929 and it is les from Peddapalle Railway Station on the Ka made up of the following communities: Caste zipet-Wardha broad gauge section of the Central HindUS-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Velama. Goun Railway. dla, Padmasale, Kamsali, Golia, Kummari, Kuru rna, Gandla, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (174) The total population of the village is 2,281 Mala, Madiga. The chief means of livelihood of and it is made up of the following communities: the people are agriculture, agricultural labour, Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Tenugu, Chakali, trade, sheep rearing and other traditional occu etc; and Scheduled Castes (450). Agriculture, pations. agricultural labour and other traditional occupa tions are the chief means of livelihood of the Anjaneyaswamy is worshipped in the form people. of a stone image under a tree at a distance of one There is a Rama temple with beautifully mile from the village. Village deities Tatamma carved out images of Sri Rama, Sita and Laksh and Pochamma are also worshipped. mana. There is a mantapam before the temple. Hanuman Jatara is celebrated for one day on Sri Rama Navami is celebrated for 3 days Magha Bahula Triodasi (January-February). from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Ekadasi (March Bullock carts are decorated and taken round the April). It is of ancient origin though of local temple. Cocoanuts, fruits and flowers are offered. significance. Kapus are the patrons. The local Bhajans are performed during the whole of Hindus take part in it. Prasadam is distributed Sravanam (July-August). The devotees, local and to all. from the nearby villages, congregate. Pujari is a Brahmin. Prasadam is distributed to all and there SOURCE: Sri G. Venkatanarayana, Teacher, Junior is free feeding for the devotees who perform Basic School, Nanclzarla bhajans. 32. Tirmalapuram-. Situated at a distance of 14 Pujas are performed in Ashadham (June-July) mites from Jagtial and 32 miles from Peddapalle and Sravanam (July-August) for the deities, Railway Station. Tatamma and Pochamma. 58 SECTION tv SOURCE: 1. Sri. A. Siva Rajam, Assistant Teacher, cart track only. A story is locally narrated about Primary School, Lakshmipuram the origin of the name of the village. Once upon 2. Sri C. Ramanarayana, Teacher, a time a Muslim chieftain destroyed the local Lakshmipuram Siva temple and converted the Brahmins and pujaris into Islam by force, thrusting meat and pouring toddy into their mouths. He also forced 34. Chilwakodur-Situated at a distance of 14 Gunjam Bhatiu, a pious Brahmin who was a miles from lagtial on the lagtial-Lakshettipet bus Suivite and of orthodox type, and tried to put route and 30 miles from the Peddapalle Railway meat and pour liquor into his mouth. But the Station. Govindapalle is a hamlet of this village. pious Brahmin thought it better to die than to The total population of the village is 2,179 bear the humiliation. He pulled out his tongue and it is made up of the following com munities: and died on the spot. There are now ruins of the Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Thammalla, Siva temple. The village was named after him as Sale, Kapu, Golla, Gowda, etc.; Scheduled Castes Gunjampadga. Inam lands were granted by the (447)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief Government to his family, probably by Mahboob means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, Ali Pasha, the previous Nizam. There is the figure agricultural labour and other traditional occu carved on a stone and it represents the glorious pations. death of Gunjam Bhatlu for the sake of his religious principles. Sri Ramalingeswaraswamy temple is the place of worship in this village. There is a stone The population of the village is 559 and it is Sivalingam of the Lord in it and the temple has 5 made up of the following sub-communities: Caste sikharas and is a very ancient one. There IS a Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kummari, Kammara, perennial stream by the side of the temple. Vadrangi, Sale, Chakali, Mangali, Munnurukapu, Golla; Scheduled Castes (71 )-Mala, Madiga; Sri Ramalingeswaraswamy Uthsavam IS and Muslims. The chief means of the liveli celebrated for one day on Chaitra Suddha Vidiya hood of the people are agriculture and agri (March-Apri I). Pujas and abhishekams to the Lord cultural labour. are performed. Cocoanuts and fruits are offered. This festival is confined to Chilwakodur and its A rock deified as the village deity Peddamma hamlet Govindapalle. It is of ancient origin. is worshipped in this village. Decorated carts are swiftly taken round the temple. This has been the practice coming down Peddamma Uthsavam is celebrated for one day from the days of old jagirdars who used to bring on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March-April). Animals new carts on Telugu New Year's Day and drive are sacrificed and carts are decorated and taken them around the temple, bef0re actually putting round the rock. This is of local significance. them to use. About 2,000 devotees, local and from To keep green in memory the glorious death the nearby villages, congregate. Pujari is a of Gunjam Bhatlu, there is santharpana (free Thammalla with hereditary rights. fe~ding) every year and sweets also are distributed. A fair is held in connection with the festival SOURCE: Sri C. Narasimha Reddy, Teacher, Gunja- for 3 days near the temple. Eatables, utensils, paduga, Gollapalle Post lanterns, photos, pictures, books, clothes, mirrors, combs, toys, etc., are sold. 36. Rapalle- Situated at a distance of 10 miles Magic and lottery afford entertainment to from Jagtia!. the visitors. The total population of the village is 1,057 SOURCE ~ 1. Sri B. Lakshmikantham, Headmaster, and it is made up of the following communitIes: Chilwakodur Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Velama, Kummari, 2. Sri. V. Narayana Reddy, Headmaster, Kammara, VadIa, Sale, Chakali, Mangali and GovindapaUe Scheduled Castes (252)- Mala and Madiga. The chief' means of livelihood of the people are 35. Gunjapaduga-Situated at a distance of 12 agriculture, agricultural labour and other here miles from Jagtial. The village is accessible by a ditary professions. JAGTIAL TALUK 59 The temple of Rajarajeswaraswamy with a stone Yellamma and Tatamma are the places of worship Sivalingam is the place of worship in the village. in the village. Rajarajeswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated Uthsavam of the village deities, Singaraiah for 3 days from M agha Bahula Triodasi to and Singaramma is celebrated thrice a year on Amavasya (January-February). Kalyanam is cele Sravana Bahula Panchami (July-August), Karthika brated on Triodasi. On Chathurdasi fasting and Bahula Chaviti (October-November) and Chailra jagarana are observed. Cocoanuts are offered and Suddha Vidiya (March-April). Cocoanuts are pujas are performed with maredu (aegla marmelos) offered to the deity. Goats, fowls and sheep are leaves. The local devotees congregate. Pujari is sacrificed. It is of ancient origin and of local a Saivite of Bharadwajasa gotram with hereditary significance. The p~ople of the village, irrespective rights. Prasadam is dis tribu ted to all. of caste or creed, congregate. It is believed that Dramas, Harikathas and purana kalakshepams the deity helps the cultivators by protecting the afford entertainment to the visitors. crops and fields. SOURCE: Sri A. Rajeswara Rao, Teacher, Voddad SOURCE: An Enumerator, Rapalle 37. Jabhithapur- Situated at a distance of 4 mi 39. Ramannapet hamlet of Nukapalle- Situated at a distance of one mile from the bus route and 7 les from Jagtia1. miles from Jagtial. The population of the village is 1,642 and it is made up of the following communities: Caste The total population of the village is 2,180 Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Goundla, Padmasale, and it is made up of the following communities: Kummari, Kammara, Chakali, Mangali, etc.; Sche Caste Hindus- Kapu, Velama, Padmasale, duled Castes (195); Muslims and Christians. The Kuruma, Chakali, Mangali, Kammara, Vadla, chief means of livelihood of the people are agri" etc.; and Scheduled Castes (587). Th~ chief means culture, agricultural labour and other trad itional of livelihood of the people are agriculture, occupations. agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. The temple of Sankara, Hanuman and of the village deity Pochamma are the places of wor Anjaneya image under a ravi (ficus religiosa) ship in this village. tree is the deity worshipped in the village. Pochamma Jatara is celebrated for one day Anjaneyaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated in in Ashadham (June-July). The devotees offer pasupu Sravanam (July-August). Oil lamps are offered annamu, paramannam and perugusaka to the deity. before the image for two days. Bhajans are Goats, fowls and sheep are also sacrificed. The performed and cocoanuts are offered. The local people congregate. villagers are the patrons. A Brahmin is the pujari. SOURCE: Sri K. Ramaiah, Teacher, Jabhithapur SOURCE: Sri K. Rajaiah, Teacher, Nukapalle 38. Voddad- Situated at a distance of 4 miles 40. Liogapuram- Situated at a distance of about from the bus route and 12 miles from Jagtial. 11 miles from Jagtial. The population of the village is 419 and it is The population of the village is 1,626 and it made up of the following communities: Caste is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Padmasale, Golla, Vadla, Hindus-Velama, Munnurukapu, Chakali, Tenugu, Chakali; and Scheduled Castes (125) - Kummari, Kammara, Vadla, Kamsali, Bestha; Mala and Madiga. The chief means of livelihood Scheduled Castes (330) - Mala and Madiga; and of the people are agriculture and agricultural Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the labour. people are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. Hanuman temple and the temples of village deities Singaramma, Singaraiah, Pochamma, There is a tern pIe of Narasimhaswamy. 60 SECTION IV Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated is now in ruins. There are two tanks called Maha from Magha Suddha Dwadasi to Bahula Padyami samudram and Appasamudram constructed in (January-February) for 5 days. Cocoanuts and those days. After sometime the rampart came fruits, etc., are offered. It is being celebrated for into the hands of Velamas. One Ramakrishna Rao the past 15 years and is of local significance. Sirdeshmukh constructed a village called Ramakri About 2,000 people congregate locallY and from shnapuram I! miles a way from this village. It is the neighbouring villages. now a hamlet of this Village. A fair is held with a few shops around the The total population of the village is 5,730 and temple selling eatables, toys, bangles, etc. it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Padmasale, Kapu,Vadla, SOURCE: Sri K. Ramachandra Rao, Teacher, Kammara, Kanchari, Kummari, Ve]ama, Chakali, Lingapuram Mangali, etc.; Scheduled Castes (867)-Mala and Madiga; and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural 41. Aravalli- Situated at a distance of 12 miles labour, trade and other traditional occupations are from Jagtial and 24 miles from Peddapalle Rail the chief means of livelihood of the residents. This way Station. village is noted for silver articles, brass utensils and bronze icons. The total population of the village is 4,584 and it is made up of several sub-communities of Sri Sita Ramaswamy temple constructed about Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (679); and Mus 100 years ago is the place of worship in this village. lims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour, weaving and Sri Sita Ramaswamy Kalyanamahothsavam other traditional occupations. was being celebrated with great pomp for one day on Chaitra Suddha Navami (March-April) during There is the only temple of Nayakamma the time of Ramakrishna Rao Sirdeshmukh. Lite (Nayakuralu) with the image of the deity in the rary and musical conferences were being held form of Adi Shakti holding a sword in the hand. presided over by eminent persons. After the About 150 years back, during the time of Papaiah death of the Sirdeshmukh this Uthsavam was condu Patel, a native of Madyampalle, some devotees of cted for sometime by his wife. But after her Siva got possessed "f th e deity, showed a place demise, the Uthsavam came to be discontinued covered with shrubs and told tha t there was a for the past 50 years. deity under the ground. Accordingly, that phce was dug and some stone steps and 3 or 4 images SOURCE: Sri M. Rathnam, Teacher, Zilla Parishad were found at a depth of 4 yards. One of the High School, Kodimyala images was named Nayakuralu and a temple was constructed to her. 43. Gourapuram-Situated at a distance of 13 Nayakuralu Jatara is celebrated on Fridays miles from Jagtial. in Sravanam (July-August). Goats, fowls and sheep are sacrificed. Cocoanuts are also offered. The ropulation of the village is 650 and it is It is being celebrated for the past 150 years and made up of the following communities: Caste Hin is confined to the taluk. The Hindu devotees, dus-Kapu, Telaga, Sale, Sathani, etc.; and Schedu local and from the nearby villages, congregate. led Castes (174). The chief means of livelihood Pujari is a Tammala. of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. SOURCE: Sri P. L. N. Gupta, Teacher, Aravalli Narasimhaswamy is worshipped in the form of a stone image on a rock with no temple. 42, Kodimyala-Situated at a distance of 4 miles from the local bus route, 12 miles from Jagtial Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated dur and 45 miles from Peddapalle Railway Station. ing the whole of Sravanam (July-August). The de There is an ancient rampart built 200 years back by votees discharge their vows and offer money to Lingayat chieftains of the area. There was Yagne the Lord. It is being celebrated for the past 150 ye swara temple constructed during their time which ars. The devotees, local and from the neigbbouring JAGTJAL TALUK 61 villages, come here for vanabhojanam and also Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Yadava, for having darsan of the Lord. The pujari is a Kamsali, Goundla, Padmasale, etc.; Scheduled Sathani Vaishnava with hereditary rights. Castes (628); and Muslims. The chief means of There is one acre of Inam land. Prasadam is livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul distributed to all. tural labour and other traditional occupations. SOURCE: Sr; B. Venkateswara Rao, Teacher, Goura There is a stone image of Lord Narasimha puram swamy on Nemilikonda with no temple. Narasimhaswamy Jatara is celebrated in 44. Nemilikonda-Situated at a distance of 16 Sravanam (July-August). The villagers go for miles from Jagtial and 40 miles from Peddapalle vanabhojonam (picnic) on that hillock. The pro Railway Station. There is a hillock near this cession images are in the house of pujari in the village and as there were many peacocks in the village. Daily pujas are performed and naivedyam olden days in the village it was named Nemali is offered to the Lord on the hillock. PerumalJa koonda (Nemali - peacock; konda - hill) and this Seva is performed on Asviyuja Suddha Dasami (Sep gradually became Nemilikonda. tember-October) i. e., Vijayadasami. The temple has 3 acres of wet land as loam. The total papulation of the village is 3,080 SOURCE: Sri V. A'nanthaswamy, Teacher, Middle and it is made up of the following communities: School, Nemilikollda SULTANABAD TALUK ~ • ! i ~ ,. 3 !.~, '"~. ~ ~ ~J ~~ ~. 'I' ~ :5 ~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~i ::l ~ §~ i ~ ~ !< l; z i ~ x .. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ '" ~ § -l?_ .. ~ ~ , .. ~ ~ ;! !i ~ ~ ~ g "I ~ i~ ~ !9 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ,,~"0 :. & " 2 ~ 0 g ~ I g ; i ;: ~ ~ i ~~ ! ~ g ~ i '" ':; " ~ 2 I ~ ~ S ! 1) 3 ~ I ~ ;a ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ i ~ a i ~ • ~ I " I i ~ I ~ ~ ! "' 5 ~ " ~ i ~ ~. :q ., ~ ;:: ;; :;: :;: ;;: :e; O! ~ ~ " :: ~ ~ - - - - :: "- ~ ~ !' ~ - - 0 ®® 0) 000®®®00 0: ~ ..c < ... } C):lC S ., <:::l ~ ~... " ,J Z,J ~ ~ f .. ~ « ~ c( ~ ~ ~ 0 ~ :::l iiI- " ~ ~ Q ... ..J c( ~ ~ " > (? 0 ~ ~ ~ « x; • 2 ~ ~ ~ ... 1 « I- u ...'" ~ ~ •J .., < 3 3 "? t; i: ~" ,~ ~ c i "... ~ ~ Ib j ~ ® 0 I II ~ t~ ~ Section V SULTANABAD TALUK 7li?apparaopet-Situated at a distance of 20 miles 2. Munjampalle - Situa ted a t a distance of 12 ("""·from Mancherial Railway Station on Kazipet· miles from Ramagundam Railway Station and 47 Wardha Section of Central Railway and about 45 miles from Sultanabad. miles from Sultanabad. Kotilingala is on the bank of river Godavari and it is the hamlet of Kappa The tot~d population of the village is 948 and raopet. it is made up of various communities of Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (258);and Muslims. The total population of the village is 1,419 The chief means of livelihood of the people are and it is made Up of the following communities: agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi Caste Hindus-Padmasale, Kapu, Tammala, etc.; tional occupations. and Scheduled Castes (331). The chief means of The temple of Sri Venkateswaraswamy is livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul the place of worship in this village. tural labour, weaving and other traditional occu pations. Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Bahula Padyami(Ma The temple of Koteswaraswamy with a stone rch-April) for 8 days. On the first day there are Sivalingam is the place of worship in Kotilingala. thalambralu, kalyanam and garudaseva, on the second Jeedi Madugu is the ghat on. the river where the day sevapurappatu, on the third day ponnasera, on the devotees take their bath on Sundays in Pushyam fourth day dopu, on the fifth day rathothsavam, (December-January). There is a story which runs and on the sixth day chakratheertham· Devotees as follows: An orphan brother and sister who offer money towards fulfilment of their vows. were separated in their childhood were by chance The festival is being celebrated for the past 100 married to each other after several years without years and the people from the neighbouring villages knowledge of their relationship. When they came also participate. Formerly, the jagirdars were the to know the fact, they repented very much and patrons. Pujari is a Vaishnava. Prasadam is dis implored a rishi to let them know how to get rid tribu ted to all. of the sin they had committed. The rishi asked them to don clothes applied with jeedi oil (the Fasting is observed by Hindus during Siva- marking nut, the seed of semecarpus ana cardium) ratrL take bath in the holy rivers until their clothes turn white. They did accordingly. At last, they were SOURCE: Sri R. Rajamallaiah, Teacher, Rachakatta freed from their sin when they took bath in Goda vari at this sjte. Hence, it is treated as a holy place and the madugu came to be known as Jeedi Ma 3. Pathagudur- Situated at a distance of 1~ miles dugu. Devotees from distant places come to take from Peddapalle Railway Station, 30 miles from bath in Jeedi Madugu and worship Lord Kotes Karimnagar and 42 miles from Sultana bad. wara on Sundays in Pushyam (December-January). The total population of the village is 1,692 The bullocks are not put to work on that day. All and it is made up of the following communities: Hindu communities participate in the festival and Caste Hindus-Kapu~ Golla, Veiama, etc.; and observe fasting. Thammalas are the pujaris. Scheduled Castes (443). The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul In this connection a fair is held with a few tural labour and other traditional occupations. shops selling eatables, etc. Anjaneyaswamy and village dt:ity Posamma SOURCE: 1. Sri Mohd. Sarwaruddin, Revenue are worshipped in this village. Inspector, Chegaon. 2. Sri Kasam Anjaiah, Teacher, Ma Sri Anjaneyaswamy Puja is performed for 40 kkatraopet days in Sravanam (July-August) and Magham 64 SECTION V (January-February). Posamrna is worshipped been put to death by the aliens, cventhough he throughout the year on Sundays and Thursdays. had been wandering in disguise in the forests. The festivals are confined to this village only. Gopalarao's descendants are said to be residing in Local Hindus congregate. the village Velagaturu. SOURCE: 1. Sri B. Rajaiah, Headmaster, Primary Another interesting fea ture abou t the village School, Pathagudur is that one yogi or other has always been residing 2. Sri S. Vaikuntham, Teacher, Govern in this village. Some of them are Ponnaswami, mell( Primary Scho:Jl, Pathaguiur Balananda, Jagannadha Bavaji, etc. At present also there is a sanyasi living near the temple of Chennakesavaswamy. It is belleved that the vill 4. Murmuru- Situated on the right bank of the age has always enjoyed the privilege of being the river Godavari at a distance of 2 miles from place of residence of an ascetic on account of Krindi Brahmanapalle bus stage on Peddapalle past tradition. Antargaon road, 6 miles from Ramagundam Rail way Station on the Kazipet-Wardha broad gauge The population of the village is 1,966 and it section of Central Railway and 22 miles from is made up of the following communities: Caste Sultanabad. It is believed that the original name Hindus-Ellapu, etc.; Scheduled Castes (537); and of this village was Munipuram, given in honour Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the of the great munis (sages) who are supposed to people are agriculture, agricultural labour 'and other traditional occupations. have lived in parnakuteerams (cottages) here. This name got corrupted into Murmuru gradually. The Chennakesava:,wamy temple and a Siva tem village is within the bend of Godavari which t10ws ple are the places of worship in the village. The here eastwards and northwards, called as purvava latter temple is below the ground-level and only hini and uttaravahini, on the two sides of the vill its sikharam appears above. The area of the Siva age. This unusual phenomenon endows the temple below is very small. A Sivalingarn was dis village with sanctity. covered when earth was being excavated for house building and the villagers constructed a temple at About 200 years ago, the Sirdeshmukh of the same place without removing the Sivalingam. PeddapaJ Ie used to collect malgujari (land reve nue) from the minor Deshmukhs and remit his Chennakesavaswamy Kalyanam and Rathoth quota to the Nizam of Hyderabad. Lingala savam are celebrated for five days from Phalguna Gopalarao, a Velama Deshmukh of Murmuru Suddha Ekadasi, the kalyanam being on Phalguna declared himself independent and refused to pay Suddha Purnima (February-March). It is being the tax to Sirdeshmukh and also managed to de celebrated for the past 12 years and is of local feat him in the fight that ensued. The discomfi significance. Devotees contribute to the uthsavam. tured Sirdeshmukh complained to the Nizam, Local Hindus congregate. Pujari is a Brahmin. who ordered an army headed by a British Comm Prasadam is distributed to all and there is free ander to march against Gopalarao of Murmuru. feeding to some extent. The latter was prepared to give battle with a well trained and loyal army· Thelia Akuladu, a A Jatara for one day on Magha Suddha Purni washerman soldier stood on the rampart, located rna (January-February) is celebrated near the tomb the alien commander amidst the opposite army of a local Golla devotee Komariah. It is being and fired a shot with an extraordinary skill, which celebrated for the past 4 years after the death of killed him. The grave of the captain is still on the Komariah. The income is about Rs. 1,000. banks of the Godavari river, though in ruins. Godavari Pushkarini is celebrated in Simha Passersby pronounce their veneration and admi lagna once i.n twelve 'jears. Adi parvani, madhya ration to the patriot crying out 'Chakali Thella parvani and anthya parvani are the three periods kulada'. The fight continued under the deputy during which theertham, dhyanam, tapam, abhishe captain and the defeat of Gopalarao was immin kam and archana are performed. ent. Chakali Thellakuladu exhibited his patriotism and presence of mind carrying away his master in People take bath in the Uttaravahini (the por a bundle of soiled clothes to a place of safety. It tion of Godavari flowing in northern direction) on is, however, supposed that Gopalarao must have Sivaratri and, fasting and jagararn are observed. SULTANA BAD TALUK 65 All Hindus take river bath on Kartika Purnima. in Sravanam (July-August). It is confined to this village only. Brahmins are the patrons and pujfJri SOURCE: Sri Senapathi Ramachari, Teacher, High is also a Brahmin. Local Hindus take part in it. School, Peddapalle People take bath in the river Godavari and 5. Ramagundam~ Situated at a distance of 2 observe fasting and jagarana during Sri Rama furlongs from Ramagundam Railway Station, 16 Navami and Mahasivaratri. miles from Peddapalle and 23 miles from Sulta SOURCE: Sri Nadipalli Rama Rao, Kotwal, Jangaon nabad. This village came into existence recently with the construction of a power house. The total population of the village is 5,581 7. Sundilla __ Situated at a distance of 2 miles and it is made up of several sub-communities of from Godavari Khani on Ramagundam-Jangaon Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (874); Musiims bus route. and Christians. The ehief means of livelihood of The total population of the village is 1,325 the people are services, agriculture, labour and and it is made up of the following communities: other traditional occupations. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Ten11gu,Chakali, The temples of Anjaneyaswamy and Pocha Padmasale, Yadava, etc.; and Scheduled Castes mma are the places of worship in this village. (403)- Mala and Madiga. The. chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul Anjaneyaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated dur tural labour and other traditional occupations. ing Sri Rama Navami for 5 days from Chaitra Suddha Panch ami to Navami (March-April). Anjaneyaswamy temple, Siva temple and Festival arrangements are made one week in Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy temple are the places advance. Homam, devathapuja, and purnahuthi are of worship in the village. The last mentioned some of the rituals. Cocoanuts are offered and temple is a very old one, probably belonging to vows are fulfilled. It is being celebrated for the the times of Kakatiyas. past 6 years and is of local significance. The local devotees congregate. Pujari is a-Brahmin. Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celew Prasadam is distributed to all. brated for a day on Ugadi i.e., on Chai/ra Suddha Padyami (March-April). Cocoanuts and rice are SOURCE: Sri K. Venkata Reddy, Teacher, Rama offered. Narasimhaswamy Jayanthi is also celebra gun dam ted in Vaisakham (April-May). Fasting is observed. Many devotees suffering from diseases and those 6. Jangaon- Situated at a distance of 7 miles who are childless come here and worship the Lord from Ramagundam Railway Station and 22 miles for benevolence. It is being celebrated for the from Peddapalle. past 100 years. The Hindus, local and from the neighbouring villages, congregate. Pujari is a The total population of the village is 4,827 Brahmin of Kowsika gotram with hereditary rights. and it is made up of the following communities: Prasadam is distributed to all. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Velama, Chakali, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (945). Agriculture, agri SOURCE: Sri Dhilli Srinivasa Rao, Sundilla cultural labour and other traditional occupations are the chief means of livelihood 0f the people. 8. Kangarthi (Kadeem)-Situated at a distance of Sri Rama temple and Rajeswaraswamy temple 6 miles from the Pedd~palle Railway Station and are the places of worship in this village. 12 miles from Sultanabad. Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam is celebrated for The total population of the village is 1,484 one day on Sri Rama Navami i.e., on Chaitra and it is made up of the following communities: Suddha Navami (March-April) in Sri Rama temple. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, Sri Rajeswaraswamy is worshipped for one day Muthracha, Gowda, Padmasale, Chakali, Mangali, on Mahasivaratri i.e., Magha Bahula Chathurdasi etc.; Scheduled Castes (411 )-Mala and Madiga; (January-February) and abhishekam is performed and Muslims. The chief m~lns of thdr livelihood· 66 SECTION Y are agriculture, agricultural labour, weaving and Anjaneyaswamy temple and village deity other traditional occupations. Pochamma temple are the places of worship in this village. Ankamettu Rajula Gutta (hillock) is the place of worship in the village. The deity is Anjaneyaswamy Puja is conducted for 40 symbolised in a stone. days in Srllvanam (July-August) and Magham (January-February) . Ankamettu Rajula Uthsavam is celebrated for 4 or 5 days on Sundays in Sravanam (July The village deity Pochamma is worshipped August) for good rains and welfare of the cattle on every Sund~lY and Thursday. Fowls and sheep and crops. Fowls, goats and sheep are sacrificed. are sacrificed to the deity. Local Hindus take It is an ancient festival confined to the nearby part in it. villages. Devotees of all communities congregate· SOURCE: Sri S. Rajaiah, Pathagudur SOURCE: Sri A. Parthasarathi, Headmaster, Panchayat Samilhi School, Kangarthi 11. Peddapuram-Situated at a distance of II miles from Peddapalle Railway Station and 36 9. Paltbam--Situated at a distance of 8 miles miles from Sultanabad. from Peddapalle Railway Station. The total popnlation of the village is 2,111 and The total population of the village is 2,053 it is made up of the following communities: Caste and it is made up of the following communities: Hindus-Kapu, Munnurukapu, Goundla, Telaga, Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Goundla, Golla, Kuruma, Chakali, etc.; Scheduled Castes (438)- Mala and Kapu, Muthracha, Rajput, etc.; and Scheduled Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of liveli Castes (748)-Mala and Madiga, etc. The chief hood of the people are agriculture, agricultural means of livelihood of the residents are agricul labour and other traditional occupations. ture, agricultural l(lbour and other traditional There is the temple of Yogananda Lakshmi occupations. Narasirnhaswamy on a hillock. Beeranna and Yellamma, the village deities, are worshipped in this village. Yogananda Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for 9 days from Chaitra Beeranna Jatara is celebrated for 3 days in Suddha Navami to Bahula Vidiya (March-April). On Vaisakham (April-May). Fowls and sheep are Suddha Navami, paramapadothsavam; on Dasami, sa·crificed to the deilj. It is confined to this edurukollu and ankurarpanam; on Ekadasi dhwajaro village only. Goundlas are the chief patrons. hanam, thirukalyanam and homam; on Dwadasi, Local Hindus take part in it. Pujari is a Kuruma. balihomam and garudavahanaseva; on Triodasi, sadassu and ananthavahanaseva; on Chathurdasi A fair is held in connection with this Jatara dopothsavam, asval'ahanaseva and bandlu thiruguta for 3 days and a few shops sell sweets and (carts going round the temple); on Purnima bangles. rathothsavam and baliharanam; on Bahula Padyami SOURCE: Sri Kasari Singanna, Mali Patel, Pal1ham prathipadaseshahomam, nagabali and udl'asana; and lastly on Bahula Vidiya, chakratheertham and pushpayagam are performed. Cocoanuts ure offered. 10. Myadaram-Situated at a distance of 2 miles It is being celebrated for the past 150 years and from bus road, 16 miles from PeddapaUe Railway the villagers are the patrons. The Hindus, local Station, 24 miles from Karimnagar and 30 miles and from the neighbouring villages, congregate. from Suitanabad. Pujari is a Vaishna\lu of Kasyapa got ram with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. The total population of the village is 4,730 and it is made up of several sub-communities of SOURCE: 1. Sri Narasaiah, Teacher, Peddapuram Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (199); Muslims 2. Sri Kursheed Ali, Headmaster, Peclda and Christians. The chief means of livelihood of puram the people are agriculture, agricultural labour 3 Sri T. Srinii'asaiah, Teacher, Pedda and other tradition?1 occupations. puram SULTANABAD TALUK 67 12. Julapalle-Situated at a distance of about 38 distinction of caste or creed. Pujari is also a miles from Sultanabad. Vaishnava with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all and there is free feeding too. The total population of the village is 4,769 and it is made up of the following commUJ1ltIes: A fair is held with a few shops near the Caste Hindus-"Vaisya, Kapu, Bhatraju, Padma temp1e. Eatables and toys are brought and sold. ~~l.le, Bondili, etc.; Scheduled Castes (835); and Muslims. Agriculture, agricultural labour, weav Swings and gambling afford entertainment to ing and other traditional occupations are the chief the visitors. menns of livelihood of the people. SOURCE: Sri Meerza Amir Baig, Teacher, Kumma rikunta Sri Venugopalaswamy temple, Sri Raja Rajeswaraswamy temple and Anjaneyaswamy temple are the places of worship in this village. 14. Appannapeta-Situated at a distance of 2 A three feet high brass image of Lord Ganesh is miles north of Peddapalle Railway Station on the worshipped at a central place. Kazipet-Wardha Section of the Central Railway, 9 miles from Sultanabad and 24 miles from Ganesh Chaviti is celebrated for one day Karimnagar. 011 Bhadrapada Suddha Chaviti (August-September). It is being celebrated here for the past 16 years. It is locally said that about 200 years back, Local Hindus take part in it. Mandala Venkanna, a Motati Reddy with his sons Bhajanna, Appanna and Nambiah, cleared the SOURCE: Sri P. Rama Rathaiah, Assistant Teacher, forests and established the village Appannapeta S. B. School, Julapalle in the name of his second son· Originally, it belonged to Ramagiri Paragana in the area called 13. Kummarikunta-Situated at a distance of 6 Sabbinadu to the sou th of Godavari. This village miles from Sultanabad and 10 miles from was a hamlet of Bompalle, a supposed ancient Peddapalle Railway Station. city of an area of 8 sq. miles. Many bricks of large size, pots and wells of 6 feet depth covered The total population of the village is 1,966 with slabs have been discovered and are used by and it is made up of the following communities: the present generation. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Munnu rukapu, Yadava, Padmasale, Bondili, Golla, Kam The total population of the village is 3,4S0 ,cali, etc.; Scheduled Castes (258); and Muslims. and it is made up of the following communities: The chief means of livelihood of the people are Caste Hindus-Reddy, Golla, Munnurukapu, Mu agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi thracha, Goundla, Padmasale, Kamsali, Vadrangi, Kammara, Kummari, Chakali, Mangali, etc.; Sche tionaloccupations. duled Castes (557); Dudekulas and Muslims. The The temple of Sri Venkateswaraswamy with chief means of their livelihood are agriculture, a beautiful stone image in human form holding agricultural labour and other' traditional occupa sankhu, chakra, etc., is the place of worship in the tions. vi\bge. This was constructed in 1959. The temple of Sri Ranganayakaswamy on a Sri Venkate:;waraswamy Uthsavam is hillock is the place of worship in this village. The celebrated for 5 days from Vaisakha Bahula image of the Lord is carved on a stone in a Padyami to Pancharni (April-May). On the first day reclining posture on scshatha!pa (serpent bed) in th The population of the village is 926 and it led Castes (305) - Mala and Madiga; and Mus is made up of the following communities: Caste lims. The chief mea,ns of their livelihood are Hindus-Brahmin, Munnurukapu, Kammara, agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi Kapu, Goundla, Sale, Rajaka, Mangali; Scheduled tional occupations. castes (1,761) - Mala and Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of their livelihood are agricul Siva temple, Hanuman Mandir and Peer ture, agricultural labour and other traditional Padi Saheb darga with' 2 or 3 tombs are the pla occupations. ces of worship in this ·village. The images of Sita, Rama and Lakshmana Peer Padi Saheb U rs is celebrated for 2 days are being worshipped, under a curved rock on on Pushya Suddha Purnima and Bahula Padyami the Ramagiri Khila. Relics of jail cells, office (December-January). On every Friday devotees halls, wells and ramparts, etc., are seen here in a perform deeparadhana near the tomb. Offerings dilapidated condition. There is also a hillock are made and vows are fulfilled by the devotees. called Peerphan Gutta, where there are three It is being celebrated for the past 40 years and is tombs of Muslim saints. widely known. Muslims are the patrons. The devotees, local and from other parts of the district Ramagiri Khila Teertham is celebrated for and from the neighbouring districts also, congre 30 days from Sravana Suddha Padyami to Bahula gate irrespective of caste or creed and a majority Amavasya (July-August). Vows are fulfilled. of them are Muslims. Prasadam is distributed The devotees spend the whole day there with din to all. ner parties, etc., on the hillock and return in the evening after bhajans, etc. It is an ancient festi Sri Rama Pattabhishekam is celebrated for val. Devotees, local and from neighbouring vill 30 days from Sravana Suddha Padyami to Sravana ages, participate. A Sathani is the pujari. Bahula Amavasya (July-August). This is being celebrated for the past 100 years. People A fair is held in this connection. Food-stu from all parts of the district attend the festival. ffs, utensils, lanterns, books, mirrors, combs, The pujari is a Vaishnava of Samudrala gotram pictures, toys, clothes, photos and fancy goods with hereditary rights. are sold. SOURCE: 1. Sri N. Surya Rao, Begumpet An Drs is celebrated on Peerphan Gutta for 2. Sri V. M allaiah, Assistant Teacher, 3 days in January in memory of the saints. Ea Begumpet tables, biryani, etc., are offered to the saints. This Urs is being celebrated since the times of Auran 19. Peddapalle-A Railway Station situated on gazebo Devotees local and from distant places the Kazipet-Wardha broad gauge section of the also congregate. Central Railway at a distance of 22 miles from SOURCE: Sri V. Chalaparhy Rao, Teacher, Adiva Kazipet Junction. There are communication rampet facilities by road also. It has been a jagir during the reign of Nawabs and is changed to a kalsa revenue firka for the past 10 yea::-s. It was a 18. Begumpet- Situated at a distance of 2 miles famous centre of fine arts and trade. The from the Karimnagar-Manthani bus route, 12 mi headquarters of the taluk has recently been shifted les from Peddapalle Railway Station and 20 miles to this town from Sultanabad. from Sultanabad. The local belief is that Lord The total population of the town is 2,372 and Rama lived for some days in this place during it is made up of the following communities: Caste his vanavasam. Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Marwari, etc.; There is a temple of Lord Rama on the Scheduled Castes (53); Muslims and Christians. hillock. The chief means of their livelihood are agricultu re, agricultural labour, trade, services and other The total population of the village is 2,884 traditional occupations. and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Sale, The temple of Hanuman is one of the places Goundla, Viswabrahmin, Mera, etc.; and Schedu- of worship in the to\\'n. 70 SECTION V Vinayaka Chathurthi is celebrated for 9 days This village is picturesquely surrounded by from Bhadrapada Suddha Chaviti (August-Septem hills. The shadow of one of the hi lls covers the ber). An image of the Lord is prepared with clay village aft~r 4 O'clock in the evening. The village in human form with the face of an elephant. It is therefore called Mudu lhamula Kodurupaka. is painted with suitable colours, decorated and placed in the temple of Hanuman. Puja is The population of the village is 2,532 and it performed there and cocoanuts and fruit.", etc., is made up of the following communities: Caste are offered. Bhajans, Harikathas and lectures are HindUS-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, hngam, arranged in the evenings. The patrons and pujaris Kapu, Gowda, Padmasale, Yadav A fair is held for a week at the foot of the SOURCE: Sri Y. Kailasam, Headmaster, Panchayat hillock. Food-stuff", lanterns, utensils, Ayurvedic Samithi School, Kodurupaka medicines, books and photos, clothes, agricultural implements, toys and fancy goods are sold. 22. Muppiritota-Situated at a distance of 5 miles SOURCE: Sri K. Lingamurthy, Teacher, Zilla from Sultanabad and 7 miles from Peddapalle Parishad High School, Peddap a lie Railway Station. There are communication faci lities to all the nearby places. 21. Kodurupaka-Situated at a distance of 3 miles The total population of the village is 1,283 from Sultanabad road and 6 miles from and it is made up of the following commumtles: Peddapalle Railway Station. Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, SULTANABAD TALUK 71 Goundla, Kamsali, Golla, Chakali, Sale, Telaga, the past 2 years. About 1,000 people, local and Kummari, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (270)-Mala from the nearby villages, of all communities take and Madiga, etc. The chief means of livelihood of part in it. A Vaishnava Brahmin is the pujari with the people are agriculture, agricultural labour hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. and other traditional occupations. SOURCE: Sri Mohammed 4bdul Ghani, Teacher, The temples of Venkateswaraswamy and Middle School, Elgaid Anjaneyaswamy are the places of worship in this village. 24. Sultanabad~ Situated at a distance of 5 miles Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated from Peddapalle Railway Station and 14 miles for 17 days from Vaisakha Suddha Vidiya to Bahula from Karimnag:a by road. Tadiya (April-May). Arrangements are made 15 days in advance. Adhyayanothsavam, kalyanothsavam, The total population of the village is 4,458 baliharanam, dopu and rathothsavam are the and it is made up of the following communities: important rituals. Cocoanuts are offered. It is Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Gowd, being celebrated for the past 40 years and is Sale, Kamsali, Golla, Kammara, etc.; Scheduled confined to the nearby villages. Kapus are the Castes (198) -l'v1::t!a, Madiga, etc.; Muslims and patrons. About 3,000 devotees, local and from Christians. The chief means of livelihood of the the neighbouring villages irrespective of caste Or people are agriculture, agricultural labour and creed, congregate. Pujari is a Vaishnava with other traditional occupations. hereditary rights. Prosadam is distributed to all and there is free feeding. The temples of Venugopalaswamy, Siva, Anjaneyaswamy and Pochamma are the places of A fair is held for 3 days near the temple. worship in the village. Anjaneyaswamy temple Eatables, sweets, lanterns, mirrors, combs, was constructed in 1965 after a young girl of 8 pictures, photos and books are sold. years, named Kanakalakshmi of Kamsali caste, was possessed by Anjaneyaswamy and directed The mango grove, banyan trees, peepul trees, the local peopJe to construct a terr.ple for his etc., near the temple and 3 choultries afford image that was carved on a stone and that was shelter to the visitors. lying idle in the 2.gricultaral fields. Besides Anja SOURCE: Sri T. Ramanaiah, Teacher, Muppiritota neyaswamy, there are the imagc3 of Sita, Rama and Laxmana and a Sivalingam in the same temple. 23. Elgaid-Situatcd at a distance of 5 miles to the west of Sultanabad. Das:lfa is celebrated for 10 days from Asvi· yuja Suddha Padyami to Dasami (September-Oc The total population of the village is 3,213 tober) in Venugopalaswamy temple. Daily pujas and it is made up of the following communities: and rituals are conducted in this temple during Caste Hindus--Brahmin, Vaisya, Padmasale, Boya, Dhanurmasam (December 15th to January 15th) Chakali, Golla, Kuruma, Vadrangi, Kummari, and 011 Mukkoti Ekadasi i.e., Pushya Suddha Ekadasi Kamsali, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (S46)-Mala (December-January). Pongali is offered as naive and Madiga; Muslims and Christians. Agricul dyam during these days. Local Hindu devotees ture, agricultural labour, weaving and other tra participate in these festivals. Sri Soumitri ditional occupations are the chief means of liveli Srinivasachari, a Srivaishnava of Koundinyasa hood of the people. gotram is the pujari wi th heredi tary rights. Pra sadam is distributed to all. The tem\11e of Sita Ramaswamy with the stone image of Sri Rama, Labhmana and Sita, Sri Rama Navami is celebrated in Anjaneya Ramalingaswamy temple and Venkateswaraswamy swamy temple on Chaitra Suddha Navami (March temple are the places of worship in this village· April) for one day. Cocoanuts and fruits are offered to the deity. Local Hindu devotees parti Sri Situ Ramaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated cipate in the festival. Sri Rangachary, a Srivai for one day on Chaitra Suddha Nm'ami (March shnava is the pujari. Prasadam is distributed to April) in that temple. It is b:?ing celebrated for an. 72 SECTION v The village deity Pochamma is worshipped There is free feeding and prasadam is distri according to the convenience of the vlllagers. buted to all. SOURCE: Information collected by Sri K. K. Sarma, SOURCE: Sri Syed Kasim, Teacher, Garrepalle Asst. Compiler, Census Office 27. Neerukulla::_ Situated at a distance of 2 mi 25. SlIltanpur- Situated at a distance of 2 miles les to the north of Sultanabad and 10 miles from from Garrepalle stage on the Karimnagar-Pe Peddapalle Railway Station. ddapalle road, and 5 miles from Sultanabad. This is an ancient village. It was believed The population of the village is 1,812 and that there were one hundred temples in olden it is made up of the following communities: Caste days. The viilage W::lS therefore called Nurugullu Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Kuruma, Pad (Nuru- hundred; gullu- temples) which gradually masale, Vadrangi, Kammara, Kamsali, Gowda, became Neerukulla in course of time. It is said Rajaka, Mangali, Kummari; Scheduled Castes that occasionally ancient images and bricks are (431); and Muslims. The chief means of their discovered here. livelihood are agriculture, agricultural labour, sheep rearing, weaving and other traditional occu The population of the village is 1,156 and it pations. is made up of the following communities: Caste HindUS-Brahmin, Vaisya, Tenugu, Sale, Velama, Anjaneyaswamy temple and the temple of the Gowda, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (299)-Mala and village deity, Pochamma, are the places of worship Madiga. The chief means of their livelihood are in the village. agriculture, agricultural labour, trade, cattle breeding and fishing. Beeranna Patnalu is celebrated once in 6 or 7 years with no fixed date. It is chiefly confined Sri Ranganayakaswamy temple with his sto· to the local Kuruma commurlity. Sheep are sac ne image in a reclining posture is the place of rificed to the deity. All common festivals are worship i.n the village. This temple is constructed celebrated with enthusiasm in this village. on a big rock in the middle of the river Maneru which is one mile in breadth at the place. The SOURCE: 1. Sri T. Narayana Rao, Teacher, Sultan river with pahnyrah groves on either side presents pur a picturesque view. 2. Sri Narahari, Headmaster, Sultanpur A popular story is that in the past a zamin dar and his wife were separated in the floods 26. Garrepalle- Situated at a distance of 4 fur while they were crossing the river Maneru. But longs from the Karimnagar-Peddapalle bus routt', they saved their lives by catching hold of the rock 6 miles from Sultanabad and 14 miles from Pedda where the present temple stands. When the palle Railway Station. floods receded they saw the form of Rangaswamy The total population of the village is 3,496 on the rock and COTI5tructed the temple in devo and it is made up of several sub-communities of tion to the Lord. Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (699); and Mus· Another version is that the temple was cons tims. The chief means of livelihood of the tructed after the rock with the image of the Lord people are agriculture, agricultural labour and was found by a farmer when ploughing the fields. other traditional occupations. The place is sacred on account of the Teertham The tern pIes of Anjaneyaswamy, Gopala Maneru and the temple of Ranganayakaswamy swamy and of village deity Pochamma are the which is comparable to that of Lord Ranganaya places of worship in the village. There is Rame kaswamy in the middle of the Ubhayakaveris (two swaraswamy temple on the outskirts of the village. Kaveris) at Srirangam. A stay for a manda/am (40 days) at this kshetram is believed to cure even Gopalaswamy Kalyanothsavam is celebrated chronic diseases. The belief that saints are even for 5 days during Dasara in AsviYlIjam (September now doing penlnce in the caves of the hills on October). It is bei.ng celebrated for the past 100 all the four sides of the village has enhanced years and is of local significance. public veneration about the sanctity of the place. SULTANABAD TALUK 73 Ranganayakaswamy Kalyanam is celebrated The celebration of Vrs in the local mosque for 11 days from Chaitra Suddha N avami to Bahula is also of importance in this village. Chaw·ti (March-April). Kalyanam on Navami, homam on Dasami, Garudaseva on Ekadasi, SOURCE: Sri D. Ramamurthy, Headmaster, Junior Hanumanthaseva on Dwadasi, aswarolzanam on Trio Basic School, Gattepalle dasi, Seshaseva on Chathurdasi, dopu uthsavam on Padyami, pallakiseva on Vidiya, rathothsavam on 29. Mancharami- Situated at a distance of 6 mi Tadiya and chakratheertham on Chaviti are les from Potakapalle Railway Station on the Ka performed. Cocoanuts, cash and fruits, etc., are zipet-Wardha broad gauge section of the Central offered. It is an ancient festival and is confined Railway. to this and the neighbouring villages. About 10,000 people of all communities participate. The total popUlation of the village is 878 Pujari is a Sri Vaishnava with hereditary rights. and it is made up of the following communities: The temple has 8 acres of Inarn land. Prasadam Caste Hindus-Kapu, Goundla, Golla, Tenugu, is distributed to all and free feeding is arranged Chakali, Kummari, Sale, etc.; and Scheduled Cas for Vaishnavas. tes (145). The chief means of livelihood of the A fair is held in this connection. Food-stuffs, people are agriculture and agricultural labour. utensils, lanterns, books and photos, etc., are sold. The temple of Venkateswaraswamy is the Dramas, merry-go-rouuds, Harikathas, burrakathas, place of worship in the village. music competitions, etc., are the entertainments to the visitors. Venkateswaraswamy Uthsavam is celebrated SOURCE: Sri S. Rajaiah, Teacher, High School, for 3 days in Magham (January-February). Sultanabad It is being celebrated since a year. About 200 local Hindus congregate. PI/jari is a Vaishnava. 28. Gattepalle-Situated at a distance of I! miles to the south of Sultanabad and 8 miles from SOURCE: Sri B. Lakshmaiah, Headmaster, Man Kolanur Railway St:;ltion on the Kazipet-Wardha charami broad gauge section of the Central Railway. The ramparts around the village are in ruins 30. Ramulapalle hamlet of Kankulla-- Situated at at present. It is said that to safeguard the village a distance of 5 miles from Kolanur Railway Sta Hanuman images were installed at all the eight tion on the Kazipet-Wardha broad gauge section corners of the village. of the Central Railway. The total population of the village is 1,639 The population of the village is 1,739 and it and it is made up of the following communities: is made up of the following cOlUmunities: Caste Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Sale, Rajaka, Ma Hindus--Brahmin, Perika, etc.; and Scheduled ngali, Kalali, etc.; Scheduled Castes (354)-Mala, Castes (276) . Agriculture and agricultural labour Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of their are the chief means of livelihood of the people. livelihood are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. Sri Rama temple on a hillock nearby is the place of worship in this village. Sri Rangaswamy temple, Hanuman temple and a mosque are the places of worship in this Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam is celebrated for village. There are a Siva temple and a Vaishnava nine days from Chaitra Suddha Navami (March temple in ruins in this village. It is believed that April). Cocoanuts and cash are offered to the the mosque was constructed by Aurangazeb. deity. This festival is being celebrated for the past 80 years and is confined to this and nearby Sri Rangaswamy Jatara is celebrated for 11 villages. Perikas are the patrons. Vaishnavas are days from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Bahula Cha the pujaris. About 500 people congregate. viti (March-April). The deity of this village is Prasadam is distributed to all. taken to the Ranganayaka temple in the Maneru river, which is at a distance of 2 miles from this A fair is held in connection with this festival Village. The villagers celebrate the Jatara there. for 9 days on the hillock. Eatables, cocoanuts, 74 SECTION V brass utensils, mirrors, combs and toys, etc., are The total population of the village is 4,186 sold. and it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (458); and SOURCE: Sri Abdul Khayyum, Assistant Teacher, Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the Kankulla people are agriculture, agricultural labour and other traditional occupations. 31. Moolasala-Situated at a distance of 3 miles Sita Ramaswamy temple and Mallikarjuna from Kolanur Railway Station, 8 miles from swamy temple with the stone Sivalingam are the Peddapalle and 12 miles from Sultanabad. places of worship in this village. This Sivalingam The total population of the village is 1,225 was found in a field when ploughing. It is believed and it is made up of the following communities: that when the plough had struck the Lingam, Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kammara, blood spilled out and on searching that place the Kapu, Vadla, Kummari, Golla, Tenugu, Bestha, Lingam was discovered by the farmer. The scars Chakali, Mangali, Sale; and Scheduled Castes of blood are said to be still there on the (290)-Mala and Madiga. Agriculture, agricul Si valin gam . tural labour and other traditional occupations are the chief means of livelihood of the residents. Mahasivaratri festival celebrations commence from Magha Bahula Triodasi (January-February) The temples of Sri Narasimhaswamy and and continue till Jaishta Bahula Triodasi (May Siva are the places of worship in this Village. June). During these four months, devotees fulfil Sri Narasimhaswamy Aradhana is performed their vows on Sundays and Wednesdays by offering daily. Nithya naivedyam and aradhana are perfor to the Lord silver umbrellas and moustaches and med· Cocoanuts are offered to the deity. One brass and bronze bells. On Chaitra Suddha Padyami Chathada Vaishnava of Ramanuja gotram for Nara (March-April), uthsavam is celebrated with much simhaswamy temple and a Brahmin of Koundin pomp and enthusiasm. For the past two centuries yasa gotram for Siva temple are the pujaris. this is being celebrated and is confined to the nearby villages. The annual income approximately SOURCE: 1. Sri V. Ramaswamy, Headmaster, comes to Rs. 20,000. Festival arrangements and Government Primary School, Moolasala celebration are done under the supervision of the 2. Sri M. Krishna Reddy, Teacher, Moo Government. Thousands of Hindus, local and from lasala the neighbouring villages, congregate. Pujaris are Jangams on monthly wages appointed by the 32. Odela-Situated at a distance of 5 miles Government. Prasadam is distributed to all and from Potakapalle Railway Station on the there is free feeding too on a small scale. Kazipet-Wardha broad gauge section of the Central Railway. • SOURCE: Sri Mohiuddin Sharif, Headmaster,Odela MANTHANI TALUK .. i! ~ ~ E S :J c..: ~ !3 ....:I e "'~ 'g" ":;: ~ :J .'" ..J 13 < ii: ''"'0/1: I- § 0:: ~ ::l OJ Z :5 Z is :i:'< 0 ~... ~ :!i ), )0. ...0: ~ II: .,~ < ~ j ~ " g ~ 0 i:; i ~ ~ :t ~ ~" ... '" i - ~ '" " "~ ei ~ :: ~ ~ g ~ '"... 0 .. ~ ~ ! ./ I ®0~r} :z:.~ "; z""!!-g z·~ Section VI MANTHANI TALUK ®unjapadige-Situated at a distance of 2 miles Station on Kazipet-Wardha Section of the Central from the river Godavari, 6 miles frotn Mant Railway. It lies on the right bank of Godavari river. hani and 16 miles from Ramagundam Railway Station, Peddapalle is the nearest railway station The total population of the town is 9,288 which is also on the Kazipet-Wardha Section of and it is made up of several sub-communities of lhc Central Railway. Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (944); Muslims and Christians. The chief means of their livelihood This village was founded and constructed are agriculture, agricultural labour, services, during the times of Peeshwas and was given away trade and other traditional occupations. to Brahmins in recognition of their talents in study of Vedas. It seems Manthani was also called Manthra~ kutam in olden times. An inscription at Hanam~ The population of the village is 1,675 and konda proclaims that Ka katiya ProIa had defeated it is made up of the following communities: and killed Gundaraja, the ruler of Manthraku~ Caste Hindus--Brahmin, Vaisya, Chakali, tam. Gaya inscription of Pratapa Rudra describes Mangali, Golla, Kamsali, etc.; Scheduled Castes this place as- (375)--Mala and Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, () agricultural labour and other traditional occupa Vindhyadri dakshina pranthe vilasatgowthamithate tions. ~olCf~t.)o ~orl~~o Doi'l'N"O The temple of Sri Rama and of the village dei Manthrukutum sahasranam linganam- Jo<:i:.m~ ~o ties Bhoolak"hmi and Pochamma are the places of ~ ~ worship in the village. sthanamuththamam. "1 Sri Rama festival is celebrated for 15 days meaning- there lies on the banks of the Godavari from Chailra Suddha Padyami to Purnima (March to the south of Vindhyas a fine place called Man~ April). Kalyanam on Navami, aswavahanam, Garuda thrakutam where there are 1,000 Sivalingams. l'alzanam, pnnna vahanam, etc.) upto Triodasi, dopu uthsavam on Chaturdasi and rathothsavam on Purnima The temples of Lakshminarayana, Onkare are the successive items of the celebrations. River swara, Siddheswara anrj of the village deity bath during the days of uthsavam is the domestic Mahalaxmi are the places of worship in the town. observance. It is an ancient festival. Brahmins are the patrons. About 2,000 Hindu devotees, Devi Navarathrulu are celebrated for 10 days local and from the nearby villages, participate. from Asviyuja Suddha Pad;ami to Dasami Pujari is a Brahmin of Gowthamasa gotram with (September-October) in Laxminarayana temple. hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. Pujas and bhajans are performed thrice a day on these ten days. Cocoanuts, fruits, blouse pieces A fair is held in connection with the festival. of cloth, turmeric and vermilion are offered. Eatables, pictures, books, mirrors, combs, etc., Brahmins are the patrons. All communities of the are sold. locality participate. The pujari is a Brahmin. SOURCE: Sri Karne Rajeswara Rao, Sarpanch, A fair is held in this connection for 12 days. Village Panchayat, Guujapadige Food-stuffs, eatables, fancy goods, etc., are sold. 2. Manthani-Taluk headquarters situated at a SOURCE: Sri K. Vissayya, Headmaster, Junior Basic distance of 20 miles from Peddapalle Railway School, M anthani ~---~~------K. lswara Dutt, Prachinandhra Charilraka Bltoogo/am (Ancient Historical Geography of Andhra Pradesh), [A.P. Sahitya Academy 1963]; pp. 249-250 76 SECTION VI "ab Ii velihood are agriculture, agricultural labour and inside. Visitors gather these stones and take them other traditional occupations. home. It is an interesting feature indeed. Muktheswaraswamy temple is the chief place Mahasivaratri festival is celebrated in Muktheswaraswamy temple for 2 days on of worship in this villag~. The significance of the temple is that there are two Sivalingam, on one Magha Bakula Chathurdasi and Amavasya (January. panuvattam. A legend goes to say th:.n originally Fi!bruary). Fasting and jagaraila are observed. there was only one Sivalinglm of MUkthe;wara Oa the second day, Brahm.lua santharpana (free swamy. One whosr: death occurs in Kasi (Banares) feeding of Brahmins) is held. It is of ancient is believed to attain salvation; but it is said that origin and confined to the nearby villages. a mere visit to Mukthe'Swaraswllmy temple is Brahmins are the patrons. Irrespective of caste enough to attain salvation. As such the influx of and creed, some 500 devotees, local and from the persons to the abode of Yamadharma Raja was nearby villages, congregate. Pujari is a Tamballa. considerably reduced. Hence, Yama1harma Raja A few shops are op~ned in this c.:>nnection (Kaludu), the Lord of Hell, represented his near the temple, selling eatables, fancy goods, problem to Iswara. Lord Siva asked him to stand toys, etc. beside Him in the form of a lingam and granted him a boon that one who performed puja to Lord Sita Rama Kalyanam is celebrated far one Siva without worshipping Yama would go to hell. day on Vaisakha Suddha Ekadasi (April·May) in From that time Yama manifested himself by the Rama temple. side of Mukth::swara in the name of Kaleswara. There are two holes (like nostrils) to Muktheswara Kaleshwaram had seen the impact of Muslim lingam. The water when poured into the holes is religi.on also. One is confronted with a big believed to reach the Godavari-Pranahita sangam mosque at the entrance to the Village, which must (confluence of the two rivers) which is 10 furlongs have been built after demolishing a temple that away from the temple. Locally it is believed that was there. It is believed th'lt Mughal Emperor once a king wanted to test the phenomenon and Aurangzeb had sojourned for a night here, and performed abhishekam (holy bath) to the Siva lin that, on account of the sanctity of this place, he gams with milk and that the milk was seen in the forgot to perform namaz that night. He was asto Godavari sangam. It was' supposed that there nished for this obsession and took with him a Ii ttle were as many deities at Kaleshwaram as there of earth of this place to Delhi and sprinkled it un· were in Kasi and hence this place was calle der the couch of his orthodox mother, when she Dakshina Kasi (South Banares). also forgot to say prayers. This legendary belief is one of the many in vogue here about the great Besides the chief shrine of Muktheswara ness attached to Kaleshwaram. swamy, there are the following temples here: The local people fondly hope that many Venkateswara, Bindu Madhavaswamy, R'ljeswara, more interesting and sp~ct:1cular things might be Veerabhadra, Sri Rama, Adi Muktheswara, Chan discovered one day, if the Archaeological Depart drasekhara, Chowdeswara, Siddheswara, Someswa ment takes steps to excavlte the area. Communi~ ra, Saraswati, Annapurna, Gayatri and Mahama· cation facilities are the fir5t need to make the ya. It is believed that the temples dedicated to place regain its past g~ory. It seems the Hindu Lord Brahma are only at 3 places in the country Religious and Charitable Endowm~nts (Administr > of which Kaleshwaram is one. There is an idol ation) Department have taken up the matter of Surya, the Sun.God, in Muktheswaraswamy regarding renovation, etc., of the temples. temple as in Konark. SOURCE: 1. Sri G. Ramachandram, Kaleshwar Adi Muktht:'swara temple is one of the 2. An article from Andhra Prabha numerous temples here, some of which are in , Weekly dated 17-3·1965 utterly dilapidated condition. It is at a distance of about 2 miles from the village. It is said that wherever earth is excavated at any spot in an 5. Mahadevapuram--Situated at a distance 0 f extent of 2 to 3 furlong3 on all the four sides of about 68 miles from Kazipet via Parkal. There is this temple, there are found peculiar reddish bus route from here to Parka I , a taluk headquar stones, which contain white powder of vibhudi ters in Warangal District. ,",0 I,) ~ECTION VI The total population of the village is 3,688 and kolatams, etc., afford entertainment to the and it is made up of several sub~communities of visitors. Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (308); Scheduled The devotees take bath in the river Godavari Tribes and Muslims. The chief means of (12); and observe fasting and jagarana during Sivaratri. livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul turallabour and other traditional occupations. SOURCE; Sri N. Venkata Roo, Junior Inspector, Mahadevapuram The temple of Venkateswaraswamy is the plac~ of worship in the village. 7. Peddampet~-Situated at a distance of 8 miles Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated for from Mahadevapuram and 32 miles from 11 days from Chaitra Suddha Panchami to Purnima Manthani. (March-April). The local Hindus congregate. A Brahmin of Ramanuja gotram is the pujari. The total population of the village is 309 and it is made up of some sub-communities of Caste SOURCE: Sri Venkatachalam, Pujari, Mahadepa Hindus; Scheduled Castes (270); and Scheduled puram Tribl!S (21)-Koya. The chief means ofIivelihood of the people are casual labour and rope making: The village deity Chaduvulamma located in 6. Begloor-Situated at a distance of 35 miles a hut is worshipped by Koyas. from Manthani and 55 miles from Peddapalle Rail way Station. Godavari river is at a distance of Chaduvulamma Jatara is celebrated for one one mile from the village. day on Magha Suddha Purnima (January-February). Cocoanuts are offered to the deity. It is being The total population of the village is 1,014 celebrated for the past 7 or 8 years. Local Koyas and it is made up of the following communities: take part in it. Caste Hindus-Kapu, Golla, Sale, etc.; and Scheduled Castes (164)-Madiga, Manne, etc. SOURCE: An Enumerator, Peddampeta The chief means of their livelihood are agriculture, agricultural labour, weaving and other traditional 8. Pankena-Situated at a distance of 16 miles occupations. from Mahadevapuram. The temple of Hanuinall and Parva tala The total population of the village is 688 Mallannaswamy temple with the. image of the and it is made up of the following communities: deity in human form are the places of worship in Caste Hindus-Kapu, Telaga, etc.; Scheduled this village. Castes (335)-Netakani, etc.; Scheduled Tribes (112); and Muslims. Agriculture and agricultural Parvatala Mallanna Bonala Jatara is celeb labour are the chief means of livelihood of the rated on Margasira Suddha Purnima (November people. December). The procession image of the deity The idol of Sri Anjaneyaswamy under a tree is taken to the river Godavari for sacred bath and and Ahmed Shah Vali tomb are worshipped in is brought back to the village in the evening. this place. .. Bonams are offered by the devotees. Some of the devotees get possessed of the deity. About 3,000 Sri Anjaneyaswamy Ekaham (one day devotees, local and from the neighbouring vill celebration) is celebrated on the last Saturday of ages, congregate including from Chanda District Sraranam (July-August). Cocoanuts and camphor are offered to the deity. It is being celebrated for in Maharashtra. All Hindu communities partici the past 40 to 50 years. Local Hindus of all pate. Prasadam is distributed to all. castes take part in it. Prasadam is distributed to A fair is held in an area of t! acres for a all. There is free feeding too. day. Abou t one hundred shops are opened to sell Ahmed Shah Vali Vrs is celebr:.:ted for 2 eatables, food-stuffs, lanterns, books, pictures and days in the month of Rajab. Daslheelu (clothes) photos, clothes, combs, mirrors, toys, etc. Dramas and udubellam (j::ggery) are offered to the tomb. MANTHANI TAL UK 79 it is being celebrated from olden days and is mujavar is Shaik Farid. Prasadam is distributed to confined to this and a few neighbouring villages. all and there is free feeding too. People, local and from the nearby villages, of all communities take part in it· The name of the SOURCE: Sri Sriramu Narsaiah, Teacher, Pankena HUZURABAD TALUK . , ;z:. ~_ 0 ., ): ... OE>8GGG 0 o ., '2 .t ~ :J ..J ....c( a c( III c( Z c( t- ..J :J I/) °t Section VII HUZURABAD TALUK 'ltlevampalle- Situated at a distance of 3 miles used to observe a ritual called grama barkathi for (tifrom Karimnagar-Kazipet bus route and 20 the welfare of the people and cattle of the village miles from Jammikunta Railway Station on Kazi and its general prosperity. Balikumbham or heap pet-Wardha Section of the Central Railway. of cooked rice, mixed with the blood of sheep or The population of the village is 1,319 and it goat or at times of a he-buffalo, is prepared and is made up of the following communities: Caste balls of that rice are carried on the head and Hindus-Padmasale, Kapu, Chakali, Velama, etc.; thrown all round the village crying aloud 'Ko! Scheduled Castes (2Sl)-Mala, Madiga; and bali-~!e)()' (here is the offering intended for the Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the protective deities of the village in order to satisfy people are agriculture, agricultural labour, wea them). If even the smallest particle of that rice ving and other traditional occupations. (bali annam) is taken stealthily to any other villa ge, the fruits of the function and the prosperity The temple of Ananthaswamy is the place of of the village were supposed to be transferred to worship in this village. that village. Even the best of friends or the Ananthaswamy festival is celebrated for 4 nearest of relatives and the highest of invitees for days from Magha Suddha Purnima (January-Feb the function was kept away from this function and ruary). This festival is of local significance. men mounted on horses guarded the man carrying The local Hindus congregate. Pujari is a Vaish the balls thrown around, lest any particle of it nava with hereditary rights. On the last day there should be stolen. On one such occasion, a daring is free feeding. Bhajans and Harikathas are arran dhobi (washerman) of the neighbouring village ged on all the days of the festival. Kelledu caught a ball of rice with the response 'The! bali-7J!8:l()' (let me receive the ball of rice) SOURCE: Srj V. Satyanarayana Rao, Teacher, when the ball was offered up with 'Ko! bali'. The Devampalle dhobi took the rice ball and ran towards his vil1a ge, but the guards pursued him and overtook him 2. Veldi- Situated at a distance of 2 furlongs to a furlong from the boundary of his village. When the right of river Maneru touching the borders of he swallowed the rice ball, they killed him and Karimnagar and Sultanabad Taluks, 14 miles washed his intestines in the canal that watered from PeddapalJe Railway Station and 22 miles the village fields. His body was buried where he from Huzurabad. It is believed that where the was killed. The name of the dhobi was Veerudu; present village Veldi stands, some villages had and in recognition of his heroism and love for his flourished and had become extinct hundreds of own village, a stone slab with his figure in natu years before the existence of Veldi. It is suppor ral size was installed. Passers~by used to throw ted by the fact that clay mingled with ashes. a stone at the spot as a mark of respect to that bones, pieces of pots, st')ne-built wells, etc., hero. Thus, a heap of stones was formed there were discovered when the ground was excavated near the statue. for foundations of houses and wells. There exists a dilapidated rampart in the middle of the The total popUlation of the village is 3,194 and village. Around and on the outskirts of the it is made up of the fOllowing communities: Caste village there aTe many stone images, most of Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Reddy, Kapu, Kamsali, them being of Anjaneyaswamy indicating the Padmasale, Rajaka (Chakali), Goundla, Tenugu, ashtadikbandhana of the village. There are stone Velama, Kummari, Mangali, Thammala, etc.; images of Bananna, Veerudu and Varala Rajanna Scheduled Castes (1,063)-Mala, Madiga; and in the village. Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the The legend connected with Veerudu idol is people are agriculture, agricultural labour and related as follows: Every village in olden days other traditional occupations. 82 SECTION VII Chennakesavaswamy temple, with His stone Navami; Gorudothsavam on Dwadasi; Hanuman image in human form, which was constructed vahana on Ekadasi; Sesha vahana on Triodasi; aswa about 30 years back, Eswara temple with Siva vahana on Chaturdasi; Ponna seva on Purnima; gaja lingam, Pochamma temple with her stone image vahana on Bahula Padyami, baliharanam on Vidiya, in human form, Anjaneyaswamy temple and Rama rathothsavam on Tadiya, nagabali and pushpayagam swamy temple on the banks of the river Maneru on Chavili and chakratheertham on Panchami are and a mosque are the places of worship and pra the rituals that are observed during the festival. yer in the village. Cocoanuts and money are offered. Thousands of sick and issueless devotees worship the Lord Sri Chennakesavaswamy festival is celebrated for blessings. During rathothsavam, balls of dadh for 5 days from Phalguna Suddha Ekadasi to yojanam are thrown up and there is a firm belief Purnima (February-March). Offerings are made in that the woman who catches the first ball would the form of cash or kind. This festival is being be blessed with children. Sakatothsavam is cele celebrated for the past 30 years l;lnd is of local brated on rathothsavam day, when carts are deco significance. Late Sundaragiri Raghava Rao, r,ated and taken round the temple. This festival is who had constructed the temple, endowed some being celebrated since ancient days and is widely lands to it. The Uthsavam is celebrated out of known. The patrons are local heads of the vill the income of those lands. His heirs continue to age. About 10,000 people belonging to Hindu be patrons for the temple. Pujari is a Vaishnava castes, local and from the nearby districts also, Brahmin. There is free feeding to some of the congregate. The pujaris are Vaishnavas with Vaishnavas during the festival days. heredi tary righ ts. Pochamma festival is celebrated in Phalgunam (February-March), when epidemics prevail in the A fair is held in connection with the festival village. Cocoanuts and clothes are offered to the for one month near the temple. Eatables, utensils, deity. Goats and sheep are also sacrificed. lanterns, mirrors, combs, pictures, photos, clothes, toys and agricultural implements, etc., are sold. SOURCE; Sri Thammala Venkata Srinivasa Reddy, Cultivator, Veldi There are choultries and pandals are erected for the festival. 3. Vegurupalle-Situated at a distance of 4 miles Whirling-wheels, dramas, circus and dances from Sultanabad, 6 miles from Kolanur and 8 afford entertainment to the visitors. miles from Peddapalle Railway Station. SOURCE: Sri P. Hanumaiah, Teacher, Vegurupalle The total population of the village is 1,549 and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Vaisya, Kapu, Telaga, Tenugu, Gou 4. Chelluru-Situated at a distance of 8 miles ndla, Padmasale, Kummari, Golla, Chakali, Man from Potakapalle Railway Station on Kazipet ga1i, Kamsale, Medari, etc.; Scheduled Castes (296) Wardha Section of Central Railway and 20' miles -Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means from Huzurabad. of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agri cultural labour and other traditional occupations. The total population of the village is 2,532 There is the temple of Sri Rangaswamy with and it is made up of the following communities; the stone image of the Lord in human form in a Caste Hindus-- Kapu, Velama, Mangali, Chakali, reclining posture on Adisesha. It is constructed Telaga, Kamsali, Vadla, Kammara, Kanchara, in the bed of Maneru river, but the water does Medari, Kummari, etc.; Scheduled Castes (260) not usually enter the temple even during floods; Mala, Madiga; Muslims and Christians. The chief this phenomenon is attributed to the grace of God. means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, Even if water enters the temple sometimes, it agricultural labour and other traditional occupa never touches the image of the Lord. tions. Sri Rangaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for Lord Venugopalaswamy temple with His 16 days from Chaitra Suddha Navami (March-Ap copper image in human form and a mosque are ril) to Bahula Navami. Kalyanam on Chaitra Suddha the places of worship and prayer in the village. HUZURABAD TALUK 83 Lord Venugopa laswamy festival is celebrated lihood of the people are agriculture, agricultural from Phalguna Suddha Dasami to Purnima (February labour and other traditional occupations. -March) for 6 days. Preparations are made 5 days in advance. Ankurarpana on the first day, Narasimhaswamy temple with the stone im talambralu on the second day, H anumanthaseva age in the form of man-lion on a hillock and on the third day, sadasyam on fourth day, Garu Ankos Shah Vali dargah with two tombs are the a'fJseva and dopu Uthsavam on the fifth, and ra p laces of worship in this village. There are two thothsavam on the sixth day are the rituals that other tombs outside the dargah under a neem are celebrated during the festival. Cocoanuts tree. The tombs inside the dargah are those of and cash are offered to the Lord. This festival the fathers of the two sons, whose tombs are is being celebrated for the past 120 years. under the neem tree. About 1,000 Hindus, local and from the nearby villages, congregate. Pujari is a Vaishnava with Narasimhaswamy Uthsavam is celebrated hereditary rights. Prasadam is distributed to all. for 8 days on Saturdays and Mondays in Sravanam (JulY·August). Vows are fulfilled by offerings in A very small fair is held in connection with cash or kind. Some devotees sacrifice fowls , the festival for 6 days with a few shops selling sheep and goats at a distance from the temple. eatables, mirrors, combs, toys, etc. Vaishnavas are the patrons. The Hindu devo tees, local and from the neighbouring villages, con SOURCE: Sri Narayanachari, Teacher, Chelluru gregate. Pujari is a Brahmin. The chief pur pose of the people thronging to the hillock is vanahhojanam (a community feast) among the 5. Veenavanka- Situated at a distance of about families. There are facilities for 100 families to to miles from Huzurabad. cook their food on the hillock and about 1 ,000 people can stay comfortably at a time. There The total population of the village is 4,638 are water supply sources in ponds and wells. and it is made up of several sub-communities of Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (981); and Mus Ankos Shah VaH Urs is celebrated for 4 days lims. The chief means of livelihood of the people from the 10th of Zilhaj. Clothes, sweets, sugar are agriculture, agricultural labour and other tra and cash are offered and goats and sheep are sac ditional occupations. rificed. The Muslims decorate their houses and observe fasting, feasting and jagarana. Intoxi Sri Venkateswaraswamy is worshipped in this cants are used at the time of the Urs. An intere village. sting feature of the neem tree is that when the Sri Venkateswaraswamy festival is celebrated sandal is brought ncar the tree during the Urs, for 5 day,> from Vaisakha Suddha Ekadasi to Pur a branch of the tree bends down al1d the leaves nima (April-May). About 500 devotees of the of that particular branch taste sweet at that time. vilbge congregate. All communities participate It is said that the sandal is brought from the in the festival. Nizam of Hyderabad. The Urs is of ancient origin and widely known. Muslims are the chief SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished patrons. About 6,000 people including Hindus, by the Collector, Karimnagar local and from distant places, participate. Mu slims form a majority. There is a Muslim muja var for the dargah. 6. Bijgirsharif- Situated at a distance of 4 miles from Jammikunta Railway Station and 14 miles A fair is held m this connection near the from Huzurabad. Formerly, it was the head dargah for 10 days. Eatables, utensils, mirrors, quarters of a local chieftain. There is a fort on combs, lanterns, pictures, photos, books, clothes, the hi 110 ck in ruins. agricultural implements, toys and baskets, etc., are sold. The total population of the village is 3,352 and it is made up of several sub-communities of There are choultr"ies. Pandals are erected. Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (994)- Mala and Magic, gambling and lotteries afford entertain Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of live- ment to the visitors. 84 SECTION VII SOURCE: 1. Sri S. Venkataiah, Headmaster, Govt. celebrated for the past 100 years. The village P. S. School, BijgirshariJ munsiff is the patron. Local people of all 2. Sri D. Rajaiah, Teacher, BijgirshariJ communities take part in it. Pujari is a Tham balla with hereditary rights. Prasadam is distri buted to all. There are choultries. 7. Jammikunta- A Railway Station situated at a distance of 22 miles from Kazipet on the Kazi Peddamma Jatara is celebrated for one day pet-Wardha Section of the Central Railway. in Vaisakham (April-May) or Jaishtam (May-June) in Peddammapalle, hamlet of this village. Dhupam, The total population of the village is 7,670 deepam and naivedyam are offered. Sheep are and it is made up of several sub-communities of sacrificed. This of ancient origin and of local Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (1 ,490)-·Mala significance. Reddys are the patrons. The local and Madiga, etc.; Muslims and Christians. The Hindlls congregate. chief means of livelihood of the people are agri culture, agricultural labour, beedi making, weaving SOURCE: 1. Sri Narasimhachari, Teacher, Jammi and other traditional occupations. kunia Sri Visweswaraswamy temple is the place of 2. Sri K. Raja Narsaiah, Teacher, Pedda worship in this village. mmaplle 3. Sri R. Sambaiah, Teacher, Mothkula The tutelary deity Peddamma is worshipped gudem in the form of 3 stones placed on three sides and 4. Sri T. Chandrasekhar, Headmaster, another stone over it in Peddaromapalle, a hamlet Panchayat Samithi School, Machana~ of this village. There are the village deities Ped paUe damma and Pochamma in Mothkulagudem, ano ther hamlet. The temple of Lord Siva with a stone Sivalingam is the place of worship in Ma 8. Metpalle-Situated at a distance of 8 miles chanapalle, another hamlet of Jammikunta. from Jammikunta Railway Station, 3 miles from Karimnagar-Warangal road and 6 miles from Hu Sri Visweswaraswamy Kalyanamahothsavam zurabad. is celebrated for 6 days from Magha Suddha Trio dasi to Bahula Tadiya (January-February). Festi Some years back this village was at the foot val arrangements are made 10 days in advance. of a hillock on a meUa (metta in vernacular means Vighneswara puja and Rudrabhishekam on the first an elevated place) and was called Mettupall~ or day; seshavahanothsavam and nandiseva on the Metpalle. It has been subsequently shifted to the second day; Kalyanam, gajavahanam, dopu and sa present place in a valley. The remnants of the old katapradakshinam on the third day; rathothsavam on village are still to be seen. the fourth day; vasanthothsavam and purnahuthi on the fifth day and pushpayagam onthe sixth day are The total population of the village is 3,087 some of the rituals observed during the festival. and it is made up of the following commuities: This is being celebrated from 1942 and is of local Caste Hindus-Kapu, Velama, Kuruva, Padmasale, significance. The chief patrons are the local Kummari, Chakali, Golla, Vaisya, Kammara, Go Vaisyas. The local devotees, irrespective of caste undla, etc.; Scheduled Castes (583); and Muslims. or creed, participate. Prasadam is distributed to The chief means of livelihood of the people are all and there is free feeding too. agriculture, agricul turallabour, sheep rearing and other traditional occupations. Gramadevatala (Peddamma and Pochamma) Bonalu are celebrated once in 3 years for one day Jiyyarswamy is worshipped by the villagers. according to the convenience of the villagers in The image is carved in human form on a rock in a Mothkulagudem. Sheep and fowls are sacrificed cave on the hillock called Jiyyarswamy Gutta. to the deities. Jiyyarswamy Uthsavam is celebrated for one Maha Sivaratri is celebrated for 2 days on day on Vaisakha Bahula Amavasya (April-May). Magha Bahula Chaturdasi and Amavasya (January The Uthsavam is celebrated between 2 p.m. and February) in Machanapalle hamlet. It is being 6 p.m. The festival is 100 years old and of local HUZURABAI? TALUK· 85 significance. Sathani Vaishnavas are the patrons. during the festival. Fasting and jagaram are the All communities of the village participate. domestic observances. This festival is an ancient one but is of local significance. All communi SOURCE: 1. Sri N. Jagga Reddy, Teacher, Met- ties of the village participate. Pujari is a Lingayat paJle with hereditary rights. 2. Sri Malia Reddy, Teacher, Metpalle 3. Sri D. Lakshmi Rajam, Teacher, Z.P. SOURCE: Sri M. Shunmukhachari, Headmaster, High School, Metpalle Govt. Primary School, Sirsepalle 4. Sri G. Narasimha Reddy, Teacher, Z. P. High School, Metpalle 11. Potbareddipeta-Situated at a distance of 5 5. Sri B. Narasiah, Teacher, Z. P. High miles from Jammikunta Railway Station and also School, Metpalle from Huzurabad. . 9. Kotbaghattu-Situated at a distance of about The total population of the village is 2,227 12 miles from Jammikunta Railway Station. and it is made u·p of the following communities: Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Velama, The total population of the village is 1,686 Padmasale, Chakali, Kummari, Mangali, Vadla, and it is made up of various sub-communities of Kammara, Kamsali, etc.; Scheduled Castes (475) Caste Hindus; anG Scheduled Castes (237).. The Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The chief means of chief means of livelihood of the people are agri livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricul culture, agricultural labour and other traditional tural labour and other traditional occupations. occupations. Pochamma temple with the image of the deity Mathsyagiriswamy is worshipped in this in human form is the place of worship in this place. village. Lord Mathsyagiriswamy festival is cele Pochamma festival is celebrated in Sravanam brated for 5 days from Magha Suddha Ekadasi to (July-August) and on Ugadi i.e., on Chaitra Purnima (January-February). About 2,000 devotees, Suddha Padyami (March-April). Fasting and local and from the neighbouring villages, con jagarana are observed. Clothes and cocoanuts gregate. are offered and fowls and sheep are sacrificed to the deity. It is confined to this village only. Lo SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished cal Hindus manage and participate in the festival. by the Collector, Karimnagar There is no pujari. SOURCE: Sri B. Viswanatham, Assistant Teacher, 10. Sirsepalle- Situated at a of 3 miles dist~nce Government Z:rimary School, Pothareddipeta from Huzurabad and 4 miles from Jammikunta Railway Station. The total population of the village is 1,716 12. Chelpur - Situated at a distance ot about and it is made up of the following communities: 4 miles from Huzurabad and Jammikunta is the Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Velama, Kapu, nearest Railway Station. Sale, Tenugu, Rajaka, Mangali, Vadrangi, Kum- The total population of the vi.11age is 4,838 ,p1ari, Gowda, Kamsali, Gandla, Golla; Scheduled tastes (493)-Mala, Madiga; and Muslims. The· and it is made up of seveml sub-communities of Caste Hindus; and Scheduled Castes (1,017); and chief means of livelihood of the people are agri Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the culture, agricultural labour and other traditional people are agriculture, agricultural labour and occupations. other traditional occupations. Sri Rajarajeswaraswamy temple with stone Sivalingam is the place of worship in the village. Lord Venugopalaswamy is worshipped in this place. Sri Rajarajeswaraswamy festival is cele brated for a day on Magha Bahula Triodasi (Jan Venugopalaswamy festival is celebrated for uary-February). Carts are taken round the temple 5 days from Phalguna Suddha Ekadasi to Purnima 86 SECTION VII (February-March). About 500 Hindus of the vill festival. Cocoanuts and cash are offered. This fes age congregate. All communities participate in it. tival is being celebrated for the past 18 years and is confined to this and the neighbouring villages. SOURCE: Statement of Fairs and Festivals furnished About 1,000 Hindus, local and from the neigh by the Collector, Karimnaga,r bouring villages, participate. A Vaishnava of Bha radwajasa gOlram is the pujari. Prasadam is distri buted to all. 13. Illanthakunta-Situated at a distance of about 3 miles from Jammikunta Railway Station. A fair is held for three days in connection with the festival. Food-stuffs, eatables, mirrors, The total population of the village is 3,400 combs, toys, etc., are sold. The pilgrims stay for and it is made up of several sub-communities of one day. Lotteries, dramas, etc., afford enter Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (952); and Mus tainment to the visitors. lims. The chief means of livelihood of the peo· pIe are agriculture, agricultural labour and other SOURCE: Sri Malla Reddy, Assistant Teacher, Ma traditional occupations. rripalligudem Sita Ramachandraswamy temple is the place 15. Huzurabad-Taluk headquarters situated at a of worship in the village. distance of 6 miles from Oopal Railway Station, 8 miles from Jammikunta Railway Station on Sri Sita Ramachandraswamy festival is cele Kazipet-Wardha Section of the Central Railway brated for 16 days from Chaitra Suddha Panchami and 24 miles from Warangal as also from Karim to Bahula Panchami (March-April). About 8,000 nagar. devotees, local and from distant places as well, congregate. Prasadam is distributed to all. The total population of the village is 11,166 . and it is made up of the following communities: SOURCE: 1. Statement of Fairs and Festivals fur Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Golla, nished by the Collector, Karimnagar Gowd, Boya, Chakali, Mangali, Kammara, Kam 2. Statement of Fairs and Festivals fur sali, Kummari, Vadla, Bestha, etc.; Scheduled nished by the District Health Officer, Castes (1,765) - Mala, Madiga; Muslims and Karimnagar Christians. The chief means of livelihood of the people are services, trade, weaving, beedi making, agriculture, agricultural labour and other tradi 14. Marripalligudem-Situated at a distance of 5 tional occupations. miles from Kamalapur bus stage on the Huzura-· bad-Parkal road, 7 miles from lammikunta Rail The temples of Anjaneyaswamy and Siva are way Station and 16 miles from Huzurabad. the places of worship in this village. The total population of the village is 2,867 Hanuman festival is celebrated for a day on and it is made up of the following communities: Sankranti (14th January) in Anjaneyaswamy tem Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Goud, Te ple. Hundreds of carts are taken round the temple. nugu, Rajaka, Mangali, Sale, Telaga, Boya, etc.; This festival is being celebrated f(lf the past 30 Scheduled Castes (693); and Muslims. The chief years and is of local significance. All communi means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, ties of the village participate. Prasadam is dis agricultural labour and other traditional occupa tribu ted to all. tions. Vinayaka eha vi ti is celebrated on Bhadra The temples of Ramabhadraswamy on a hil pada Suddha Chaviti (August-September) in Siva lock, of Siva and Vishnu are the places of worship temple. in the village. SOURCE: Sri Lakshmi Kantha Rao, Teacher, Junior Ramabhadraswamy festival is celebrated for Basic School, Huzurabad two days on Phalguna Suddha Chaturdasi and Purni ma (February-March). Garudaseva and procession 16. Kothakonda_ Situated at a distance of 12 of carts are the items of celebration during the miles from the Karimnagar-Warangal bus route HUZURABAD TALVK 87 and 22 miles from Huzurabad. It is connected There is a local legend which runs as follows: only by cart track to all nearby villages as it is About 150 to 200 years ago, a group of Kummaris encircled by hills, There are ruins of a big fort (potters) went to the hillock for wood-cutting with huge gateways resembling the Kakathiya with bullock carts. In the night they had retired architecture on a hillock. that is at a distance of at the foot of the hillock and at midnight they oply 100 yards from the village. This spacious found that their bullocks were missing. A fruit hill top, with many dilnpidated bastions and resi less search was made and they slept disappointed. dential halls is surrounded by a stone wall. There Then, Lord Veerabhadraswamy told an old man are 5 to 6 ponds. It is observed that the water of that group in a dream that, if they installed in two of them does not dry up even if there is His image in the Sakthi temple at the foot of the continuous drought for ten years and the water is hillock, bringing it down frorr, the temple at the as sweet as in cocoanuts. There are many tem top, their bullocks would be found by them. In ples with crumbled sculptures at distances of 2 addition to the Sivalingam there was also a stone to 3 furlongs towards the east, south and north idol of human form behind it, probably represen of the hillock. A few of them have no deities; ting Veerabhadraswamy. The potters placed that some have Sivalingams and some others have the idol in a wooden box packing it carefully with idols of Vishnu holding sankhu (conch) and chakra cotton, and rolled it down the hillock. Unfor (disc). Some of the farmers here discovered whi tunately, the left leg of the image was broken; le ploughing silver coins with an imprint of Sita, the idol was installed in the temple down hill and Rama and Lakshmana. Certian stone wells of the broken leg was kept intact. The Sivalingam ancient days about 12 to 16 yards deep have also is still in the temple on the hillock itself. been found out here. Several such findings indi cate that a flourishing city must have existed here Sri Veerabhadraswamy Kalyanothsavam is in the ancient days, perhaps during the times of celebrated during Makara Sankranti for ten days Kakatiyas. The local people fondly believe that from Pushya Bahula Panchami (December-January). more and more relics, which might reveal a his Vighneswara puja, mantaparadhana, swasthivacha tory, could be discovered if systematic excava nams and ankurarpana on Pancharni; vrishabhapuja tions are carried out here. on Shashti; homams, vedaparayalla and kalyanam on Saptami; sadassu on Ashtami; Harikazha on Navami; IJurnahuthi in the morning and dopu and mangalam The total population of the village is 2,025 in the night on Dasami, etc., are the rituals on the and it is made up of the following communitie's : successive days. The feature of balldluthiruguta Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Reddy, Kapu, (carts going round the temple) is important. It Vadrangi, Kammara, Kamsali, Kanchari, Goun begins on Bhogi with the cart of the Kummari dla, Golla, Kuruma, Chakali, Telaga, Bestha, family at the head of the procession. Then, Bukka, etc.; Scheduled Castes (390)-Mala, Madi follows a stream of various kinds of decorated ga; and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood carts. On Sankramallam, the night following Bhogi, of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour the carts in 4 or 5 lines do continuously untiring and other traditional occupations. pradakshinams round the temple and the congre gation is very large. Cocoanuts, silver moustaches, The temple of Veerabhadraswamy, Bhadra umbrellas, rice, clothes and money, etc., are kali, Hanuman and Pochamma are the places of offered to the Lord. Some people, after a pradak worship in this village. shinam with a bullock, dedicate the bullock to the Lord as an offering, the sale proceeds of which In the temple of Veerabhadraswamy, which are utilised for the uthsavam. Marriages, gandadee is at the foot of the hill, the awe-inspiring image pams, sevas, etc., are performed and charged for of the deity is in human form with four armed according to the rates fixed by the devasthanam. hands and a small sheep-headed human figure of Women perform santhana vratham for being Daksha is at the feet of the Lord in the namaskara blessed with children during the uthsavam. This posture. The Lord has silver coverings for his festival is being celebrated for the past 150 years upper body and to His left there is the image of and is widely known. The Secretary of the Bhadrakali, His divine consort. The image of Devasthanam Committee with the help of the the Lord had its left leg broken and it is kept other members looks to the arrangements of the intact with the image. celebrations. The annual income of the temple is 88 SECTION VII estimated at Rs. 14 to 18 thousands; one-third of and Christians. The chief means of livelihood of that goes to the pujaris, the second part to the the people are agriculture, agricultural labour, Government and the balance is utilised for repairs weaving and other traditional occupations. and decorations of the temple. About 50,000 Hindus of all communities from several places The temple of Siva and of the village deities congregate. The pujari is a Thamballa with Pochamma and Kanakadurgamma are the plac~s hereditary rights. of worship in the village. A fair is held in connection with the festival. The village deities Pochamma and Kanakadu A large number of shops are opened temporarily. rgamma are worshipped in Sravanam (July Utensils, lanterns, torches, toys, mirrors, combs, August) for one day. Local people of all books, pictures, photos, clothes, toilet and fancy communities participate. Sheep and fowls are goods, eatables and articles of daily requirements sacrificed. Kummaris (potters) are the pujaris. and agricultural implements, etc., are sold. There are lodging facilities and pandals are erected for Ganapati Navaratrulu are celebrated for 9 the visitors. The Devasthanam Committee looks days from Bhadrapada Suddha Chaviti to Dwadasi after the facilities. Circus, dramas, merry-go (A ugust-September) in Siva temple. Processions, rounds, etc., afford entertainment to the congre Harikathas and bhajans are arranged. gation. Exhibitions, competitions and prize distributions are also held. SOURCE: 1. Sri T. Venkatanarayana, Mulkanoor 2. Sri A. V. Satchidanand, Mulkanoor SOURCE: Sri L. Mohana Rao, Teacher, Zilla Parishad High School, Mulkanoor 19. Ratnagiri-Situated at a distance of 7 miles from Huzurabad by cart track and 31 miles from 17. Mutharam-Situated at a distance of about Karimnagar. 10 miles from Huzurabad. The total population of the village is 884 The total population of the village is 617 and it is made up of the following. communities: and it is made up of the following communities: Caste Hindus-- ·Brahmin, Vaisya, Gowd, Balija, Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Golla, Ten ugu, etc.; Golla, Rajaka, etc.; Scheduled Castes (159) Scheduled Castes (239 )-Madiga. The chief Mala, Madiga; and Dudekuhs. The chief means means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour and fishing. agricultural labour and other traditional occupa tions. Sri. Si ta Rama temple and Siva temple are the places of worship in this village. Lord Narasimhaswamy is worshipped in the village. But there is no temple. There is a huge Sri Rama festival is celebrated for two days boulder on the hillock near the village. The on Chaitra Suddha Chathurdasi and Purnima (March boulder is broken into two parts, the distance in April). Cocoanuts are offered to the deity. This between them being 2 to 3 inches. An image of is being celebrated for the past 30 years and is the Lord Narasimhaswamy in human form is confined to this village only. Velamas are the carved on this boulder. The image of the Lord patrons. Local Hindus participate in it. A is clearly visible at noon in bright day light. On Vaishnava Brahmin is the pujar;· the northern side of this boulder, there is the image of Hanuman carved out and on the southern side SOURCE: An Enumerator is the image of Garuda. Beside this boulder. there are a tamarind tree and also a small dona (pond). 18. Mulkanoor-Situa ted at a distance of 3 furlongs from Yelkathurthi-Siddipet road and 10 Lord Narasimhaswamy is worshipped on miles from Huzurabad. Mondays and Saturdays during Sravanam (July August) and Jatara is celebrated on the last The total popUlation of the village is 4,087 Saturday. At the foot of the hillock there are two and it is made up of several sub-communities of huge banyan trees, which are the abodes for Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (751); Muslims thousands of bees. The devotees first perform HUZURABAD TALUK 89 pradakshinam (circumambulation) to these trees Vighneswara Navaratrulu are celebrated for five times and then worship the deity on the 9 days from Bhadrapada Suddha Chaviti to Dwadasi hillock, offering cocoanuts and naivedyam. Some (August-September) in Siva temple. An earthen devotees give sugar, milk and rice to the pujari. image of Ganapathi (Vighneswara) is installed Oil for gandadeepam and cash are also offered by temporarily and worshipped. Naivedyam is offered some of the devotees in fulfilment of vows. to the Lord. This is being celebrated for the past 10 years and is of local significance. Kapus, There are bees on the tamarind trees on the Velamas and Vaisyas are the patrons. Local hillock also. It is said that pilgrims who come to Hindus participate. A Brahmin is the pujari .. the Jatara with bad intentions or who have taken non-vegetarian food or intoxicating drinks, before Mahasivaratri is celebrated on Magha Bahula coming for the dar san of the Lord, are chased by Chathurdasi (January-February) in Siva temple. the bees on the banyan trees and stung till they The Lord is worshipped with flowers and leaves leave the premises. It is believed that the bees of of maredu tree. The devotees observe fasting and the tamarind trees near the deity convey the jagarana. tidings of the bad character to the bees on the banyan trees below. SOURCE: Sri M. Deval Reddi, Teacher, Jee/gul The Jatara is being celebrated for the past 21. KamaJapur-Situated at a distance of 3 miles 200 years and is confined to this and the neighbou from Oopal Railway Station on the Kazipet ring villages. It is managed· by the Goverument Wardha Section of Central Railway and 10 miles and there is Inam land for the temple. About from Huzurabad. 1,000 Hindus, local and from the neighbouring villages, participate in the Jatara. The pujari is The total population of the village is 5,174 a Brahmin of Gowthamasa gotram and is depending and it is made up of several sub-communities of upon the Inam. land. Prasadam is distributed to Caste Hindus; Scheduled Castes (727); and all and there is free feeding too. Muslims. The chief means of livelihood of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour and SOURCE: Sri C. Thirpathi Reddy, Headmaster, other traditional occupations. ... Ratnagiri Siva temple and Rama temple are the places of worship in the village. 20. Jeelgul-Situated at a distance of 4 miles from Huzurabad and 6 miles from Oopal Railway Sri Rama Navami is celebrated for 10 days Station on the Kazipet-Wardha Section of the from Chaitra Suddha Navami to Bahula Tadiya Central Railway. (March-April). Preparations are made 10 days in advance.Offerings are made in the form of co The total population of the village is 1,921 coanuts and cash. This is being celebrated since and it is made up of the following communities: ancient times. About 600 Hindus from this and Caste Hindus-Brahmin, Vaisya, Kapu, Velama, the neighbouring villages congregate. A Vaishnava Gowda, Chakali, Mangali, Kammara, Kamsali, is the pjuari. Prasadam is distributed to all Padmasale, Golla, etc.; Scheduled Castes (346) A fair is held near the temple for 11 days. Mala; and Muslims. The chief means of livelihood Food-stuffs, eatables, utensils, torchlights, clothes, of the people are agriculture, agricultural labour toys, mirrors, combs, pictures, books etc., are and other traditional occupations. sold. The temples of Siva, Anjaneya and Pocham SOURCE: Sri B. Mallaiah, Assistant Teacher, Zilla ma are the places of worship in this village. Parishad High School, Kamalapur APPENDICES APPENDIX I CALENDAR OF FESTIVALS COMMONLY OBSERVED IN KARIMNAGAR DISTRICT SI. No. Name of the festival Tidhi in Telugu month Corresponding English month (1) (2) (3) (4) HINDU FESTIVALS 1 Ugadi (Telugu New Year's Day) Chaitra Suddha Padyami March-April 2 Sri Rama Navami Chaitra Suddha N avami March-April 3 Nagula Chaviti Sravana Suddha Chaviti July-August 4 Varalakshmi Vratam 2nd Friday in Sravanam July-August 5 Sri Krishna Jayanthi Sravana Bahula Ashtami and Navami July-August 6 Vinayaka Chaviti Bhadrapada Suddha Chavit; August-September 7 M ahalaya Amavasya Bhadrapada Amavasya (New Moon Day) August-September 8 Dasara Asviyuja Suddha Padyami to DasQmi Septem ber-October 9 Deepava/i Asviyuja Bahula Chathurdasi to Amavasya September-October 10 Dhanalakshmi Puja Asviyuja Bahula Amavasya September-October 11 Subrahmanya Shashti M argasira Suddha Shashti November-December 12 Sankranti Pushyam (Makara Sankramanam) 13th to 15th January 13 Bhishma Ekadasi Magha Suddha Ekadasi January-February 14 Maha Sivaratr; M agha Bahula Chathurdasi January-February 15 Kamadahanam Phalguna Suddha Triodasi February-March 16 Holi Phalguna Suddha Purnitna (Full Moon Day) February-March MUSLIM FESTIVALS Date in Muslim month (Hijri) Ramzan (ld-ul-Fitr) 1st day of Shavval 2 Bakrid 10th of Zilhaj 3 Moharram 10th of Moharram 4 Milad-un-Nabi 12th of Rabi-ul-Avvai 5 Peer-e-Dastagiri 11 th of Rabi-us-Sani 6 Shab-e-Barat 11 th of Shahban CHRISTIAN FESTIVALS Date in English month 1 New Year's Day 1st January 2 Good Friday On a Friday in April 3 Christmas ... 25th December Note:- In addition to the above festivals, the national festivals viz., (1) Republic Day (26th January), (2) Independence Day (15th August) and (3) Gandhi Jayaoti (2nd October) are celebrated by all in Karimnagar District. [4] APPENDIX I COMMON HINDU FESTIVALS of the family with new clothing depending upon the financial means of the family. 1. UOADI (Telugu New Year's Day) is celebra ted on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March-April) by All persons get up early in the morning, cle every Hindu Andhra whether rich or poor. As it an the houses, decorate the floor inside the house is the supposed anniversary of creation or the and in front with rangavalli (ornamental lines, first day of the Sathya-yuga1 great sanctity is atta figures and designs drawn with chunam or rice flo ched to this f.:stival. This is a great day of joy ur) take oil bath and generally put on new clothes and happiness, concord, affection and goodwill. except the poor class. It need hardly be said that There is a strong belief that this day's happenings Ugadi is the festival of villagers. The housewives forebode and colour the course of events in the in the villages get up early in the morning and entire year ahead. People naturally like ple:lsant commence cooking sweets and side dishes. Fes things to happen to them on this da y so tha t they toons (usually made up of green mango leaves) may be happy throughout the year. Hence they are tied to the front door and also to the other take care to keep themselves and others in happy doors inside. Besides bakshyam or other sweets, mood on the Ugadi day. A child's demand, rea the special preparations called ugadi pachchadi or sonable or unreasonable, is met though grudgingly chedu or gojju is tasted by everyone before taking lest the family should be burdened with a weeping the first morsel of the day. Generally it is a child throughout the ·year. Every effort is made to semi-liquid preparation with new tamarind, avoid tears and sad thoughts on this day. A sin fresh water, jaggery or sugar and certain cere attempt is made to maintain a clean mind condiments, the chief ingredient being fresh mar free from fowl thoughts and ill-will towards gosa flowers. Even the poorest man does not fail others. to take in a few petals of margosa flowers with jaggery. The poorer class in the vii lages do not The years in Telugu calendar are not mere bother themselves with the several side dishes, numbers like 1961, 1962, etc., with no significance which the more fortunate upper cla5ses can afford and no end. They recur in a cycle of sixty years to have. The significance of takiug in margosa and the year's possibilities can be foreseen with flowers, which are bitter, along with jaggery, which reference to its performance in the past cycles. is sweet i'l apparently to make people realise They have specific names indicating something and reconcile to the fact that life is a mixture of pleasant (Subhakruthu), anger (Krodhij, disgrace, sorrows and joys. In some places hotels serve a defeat or disappointment (Parabhavaj, enmity little of this vepaprasadam before serving the menu (Virodhij and so on. Why and how this cycle and ordered. the names are fixed is a topic for research for generations. Whatever be the indication of the In towns and bigger places the day is of nor name of the new year, it must be properly invi mal festivity and enjoyment till the evening. But ted and inaugurated. All that the people can do in the villages unceasing activity, mirth and en is to be happy and thankful to the Lord when a joyment are noticed. The feast is over earlier than year like Subhakruthu arrives or be cautious and ten 0' clock in the morning and men and women pray to the Lord for his protection when a year commence their own sports, games and competi like Parabhava comes. tions. Whereas cards and other competitions are the pastimes of the men, the womenfolk use every Ugadi is also an occasion for the critical minute of the day for indoor games and liesu appraisal of the achievements during the closing rely gossip on their new clothing, the new bangles year. It is an occasion for the issue of special and the tiny jewels. messages from religious and political leaders and special radio programmes, Everyone, every Panchanga sravanam in the evening is univer where and everything is made to appear happy sally observed by the rich an d poor alike in all and joyful. The advance preparations for this towns and villages. Hindus gather in temples in most important common festival are getting the towns and at the rachchakmta or rachchabanda (the houses white-washed and providing every member village community platform) or the temple in the Yuga is an age, especially a sub-division of the life of the Universe, The first is called Krita-yuga (Sathya-yuga) to which the Hindus assign, 1,728,000 years. The second called Treta-yuga lasted about 1,1.96,000 years, The third called Dwapara yuga lasted about 864,000 years And the last in which we are living is called Kali-yuga or the Age of Misery. It is ex pected to last for about 432,000 years. COMMON FESTIVALS [5] villages. The new panchangam (aI01anac) is wor ··~.;:m;So~ §'""~~, ~06 [ro~l~e) o$ot3 shipped and read by the purohit. The general in Ramuvanti koduku, I3haratha Sowmithrula vanti fluence of the planets during the new year over e;o:m~al, ~e; o$o~ ~OS, ;S;5Jc:5 cThoc:5:l:5J the local Gods, men, cattle, crops, diseases, etc., thammulu, Sita vanti bharya, vasudha yendunu, and on particular individuals are given out by the (3?:iJ -aO oW':> o:mo~ o$.)rloe:xJ~ ~~~~ purohit. The presiding deities during the year leru leranchu mundu yugambula purushulu over wind, rain, crops, cattle health, etc., are is ~0fu0;5 0$ ~ -a ~a 19 o:l' ~ <50' W':>§'"" <5 also announced together with the effects and the thalayupa valadca reethi varu nadachukona percentages of yield of crops of different varieties. 0$t)"B The functions in towns during the night are the valade." procession of Gods and kathakalakshepams in the usual manner. But the enjoyment in the villages On this day Sri Rama, His consort Sita, His is continuous and enthusiastic. brothers Lakshmana, Bharatha and Sathrughna and his devoted Bhaktha Anjaneya are invoked. The New Year's Day has a special signifi Sita and Sri Rama are worshipped according to cance for the village ryot. He inaugurates the prescribed rites. This is a common Hindu festival annual cultivation by ploughing five or nine roun but celebrated chiefly by Brahmins, Vaisyas and ds in his fields on the first day, fixed by the villa other well-to-do families amongst the Hindus. ge purohit said to be auspicious. At times this is Fast during the day by several people and jagaram prolonged till Eruvaka Purnima i. e., Ashada Sudd during the night by some are observed. In the ha Purnima (June-July). The yoke and the plough temples of Sri Rama, pattabhishekam (coronation) and the bulls are worshipped after applying vibhu~ of Sri Rama is celebrated and His image or pic thi, turmeric powder and kumkum, and a cocoanut ture is taken in procession in which all Hindus is broken either at the house or in the field. participate. It is not a sectarian festival confined The Christians observe this festival though to only Vaishnavites. In the evenings distribution not on elaborate scale, but as the beginning of a of panakam and panneram in Sri Rama temples New Year with which they are blessed by the Lord. and in the houses is common. B:lInboo fans are The time honoured bhakshyam which their. forefa distributed to Brahmins. On the next day i. e., then; had that day is invariably there. In fact on Dasami there is annasanrharpana in Sri Rama there is a conviction gaining ground both among temples. In the houses also feasts are arranged. the Catholics and the Protestants of the area that In some centres the celebrations commence on there is no need to attach importance to the First Clwitra Suddha Padyami, pattabhishekam being held January as a New Year's Day, as it claims no reli on Navami and conclude on Purnima with car gious significance. It may be observed as any festival. other Indian does and all the functions of thanks giving for the closing year and prayers for the There is not generally any family that does New Year, etc., can as well be transferred to the not prepare panakam and vadapappu and that does not break a cocoanu t in the nearest Sri Rama gr Telugu New Year's Day by Andhra, Karnataka Hanuman temple. The poor hwe a feeling of and Maharashtra Christians now that we are an independent nation with a national calendar of festivity and sacredness of the day and observe it our own. Many Hindu shops begin their official with sincere devotion to Lord Rama attending the Kalyanothsavam procession or Harikathas. In New Year on this auspicious day. some places there is free distribution of vadapappu and panakam on Ekadasi be,ides free feeding 2. SRI RAMA NAVA\{I is celebrated on Chaitra on a decent scale on Dwadasi. There will be Suddha Navami (March-April). Sri Rama, the processions of the Lord Sri Rama, some times God king was born to Dasaratha, the King of accompanied by music and fireworks. Ayodhya on the ninth lunar day in the bright fort night of the month of Chaitra (March-April) in the Lord Rama was born on Chaitra Suddha Punarvasu lunar asterism. This festival is the an Navami (March-April) and it is appropriate that niversary of that auspi cious day. Rama as an ideal His birthday anniversary should be celebrated son, Bharatha and Lakshmana as ideal brothers, that day. Great importance is attached to Sita and Sita as an ideal wife are immortalised in the Rama Kalyanam. This needs an explanation. To following: all Ramabhakthas, which t;le Andhras are, [6] APPENDIX I Gopanna who subsequently became Ramadas is the period is sometimes termed Garbhanavarathrulu the standing example to be followed. It is that (nine days before the birth when the Lord was great devotee of Sri Rama who suffered dozen years in the womb of His mother). in imprisonment as a test for his Rama bhakti and set an example. Just before Ramavathara, 3· NAGULA CHAVITI is observed either on Sravana force and voilence ravaged the country resulting Suddha Chaviti (July-August) or Kartika Suddha in massacre and bloodshed. The destruction of Chaviti (October-November). A person whose Karthaveeryarjuna, the hathya (killing) of Jama father, mother or any other relation happens to dagni by a power-blinded king and the revenge have died by snake bite is specially instructed to of Jamadagni's son Parasurama who massacred perform this ceremony, part of which consists in the kings' lineage twenty-one times, and the atro offering milk to snakes with the object of propi ci ties perpetrated by Ra vana created terror in the tiating them. In this district it is performed only minds of sadhus and sajjanas (peace loving and in Sravanam. The people go to the ant-hills, good natured persons). They anxiously prayed worship them with flowers, pasupu, kumkum and for sathvagunayutha shakti to establish santi, tiny silver eyes and hoods, pour fresh cow's milk (peace) by destroying the thamogunayutha rakshasa, into the ant-hill, break cocoanuts, offer fruits, Ravana. Rajogunayutha Janaka played his part in chalimidi, etc., and do pradakshinam to the ant-hill. the noble task by giving Sita in marriage to Sri There is the practice of sisters offering the earth Rama who was an incarnation of Vishnu, and of ant-hill in the name of puttabangaru to brothers santhakaram (personification of peace). But for with the belief that the gift is equal to the gift this alliance of Sri Rama and Sita, the des.truc of nectar. A little earth is taken and applied to tion of Ravana and the tamas could not have persons who suffer from skin diseases or ear been possible Lord Rama exhibited his prowess troubles. The women bring back a little of the by breaking the bow of Lord Siva, a symbol milk from the ant-hill and apply few drops of rajas (~es!G - combination of satwa and to the eyes of their brothers, fathers and other tamas). He then married Sita, the symbol of male members of the family for their good health satwa in order to establish santi, satyam and ahimsa during the year and in return receive presents (peace, truth and non-voilence). from them. One practice is that jonnapelalu (cholum fried and puffed) are prepared in every Of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, family, offered to Nagulu and the ant-hill, and Ramaavataram is of special importance to Andh preserved till Vinayaka Chaviti. It is these pelalu ras, as the period of 14 years' exile was spent that are taken by those who happen to see the mostly in Andhra area. In fact passages in Maha Moon on Vinayaka Chaviti in order to safeguard bharatha indicate Andhra area supporting Kau themselves against the evil effects of the sight of ravas in the great war and Vishnupuranam has the Moon that day. This festival is celebrated on gone a step further and mentioned that Krishna modest scale by all in towns and villages. was anti-Andhra (~~CJ90L~ ~~~~ol);)-Chanoo_ randhra nishoodhanundu). 1 Therefore, Sri Rama 4. VARALAKSHMIVRATAM is celebrated on the Friday ilavami is of greater importance in Andhra preceding the Full Moon Day in Sravanam (July than Krishna Jayanti. Northern Andhra was August) for begetting worthy children and for ge Southern Kosala, the kingdom of the father of neral prosperity. It is based on the following Kousalya, Lord Rama's mother. Thus Rama was legend: A Brahmin lady, Padmavati in the Kosala the grandson of Andhras and he spent vanavasam Kingdom was very pious, dutiful to her husband and in the land of his grandfather. It was Andhra hospitable to the sick, poor and needy. Goddess . Desa that played host to the exiled Rama and Varalakshmi appeared before her in a dream and today his Navami is a great festival to the ordained her to observe the Varalakshmi Vratham Andhras.2 on the Friday preceding the Full Moon Day in Sravanam. Accordingly she performed the vratam, The celebrations performed after Navami obtaining the permission of her husband. The are marked with feast and enjoyment. The cele muthaiduvas get up before sunrise and bathe in the brations during the nine days from Chaitra Suddha nearby river, tank or well, clean the puja room Padyami to Navami are of special significance and and prepare a spot for the worship by smearing 1. Andhra Prabha, Telugu Weekly. dated 24-3-61 2. Ibid COMMON FESTIVALS [7] cow dung. Tbe spot is decorated with muggu _ -J> (designs with flour on the borders and the centre). Namasthe namasthe Mahadeva Sambho Over the central design a measure of rice is heap is:5)1J :6:5)~ 1;$;5~.ls'l)oS'" --8 --D \..:.._ ed and a kalasam is kept over it. A small bam Namasthe namasthe prapannaikabandho boo mantapam covers the whole spot. Varamaha is::5.:>1J iS~~ t507Sr'~O~oS'" lakshmi is invoked with mantrams and worshipped Namasthe-- namasthe-" dayasarasindho with flowers and by offering naivedyam of nine ~:5)1J :6;:D~ :5)~f8 kinds of preparations and with the following Nam~he nam~he Mahesaha dhyanam: -SO:!"~ ::>~~~~ -s~~frodD ~05.~ m Sivaya VishnurupayaEO S'lvarupaya V'hIS nave ~c:5 Q ~~i6~ ~el6dXlo· ';)~8.s~i6b ~e)t5dXlo Vande Lakshmim Parasivamayeem suddha Sivasya brudayam Vishnurvishnosya hrudayam ~o 2:lJ"O i6o-~o -3~8 jam boo sadabham Sivaha 1}~o:,,",;;5o ~iSs;Sr$N"o i6~~ d»~ -s~ :5)Q5ra ::> ~ ~~o::>Q5., Thejorupam kanakavasanam swarna m ~ Yadha Siva mayo Vishnu yevam Vishnu w[t~~e:1"oAo :5)~'.sb'o bhushojwalangeem Maheswaram !l P)'I fu~~b'o S'~s' ° ~:5);;5c:5~o d5JQ'oaoo is;$i'Sg)) aQ'"& Beejapuram kanaka kalasam hemapadmam i6~~ Yadhantharam napasyami thadhame svasthi C) Q"i'J'"o o-cfu:l-t. dadhanam rayushe" ~;::r~o ~!o 0 i6s'P) 2:l:6~o EO Manvam shakthim sakala jananeem Vishnu The concerned legends are recited and listend to. ~~oS' i6o~5:J I, Yogamaya is personified delusion: the great il Iusory energy 0 f V'~s h nu,. b y w h om th e woeh I world is deluded. In the Markan. deya Purana she appears as Durga, but in Vi,hnu Purana as Valshnavl. [8] APPENDIX I Sri Krishna was born in the night. The med him from the sc_urf of her body. There are general observance is to fast the whole day. His many versions to account for the formation of decorated image or His picture is kept in a cradle his head, one of which is that Siva beheaded him and worshipped indicating His birth. Some wor for disobeying His orders; but was requested to re ship the figure of His mother Devaki sitting on a store him to life, which was done only by the cot and feeding the baby. On the following eve addition of a sleeping elephant's head. He is re ning there is a procession of the Lord and in presented as riding a rat. He is the remover of every street there is a celebration of utlu. Two all vighnams (obstacles) and is one of the most vertical poles are erected on either side of a road, popular of Hindu deities. He is the patron of and a horizontal bamboo is tied across and a learning and is said to have written the Mahabha pulley is fixed in the middle over which a rope is rata to the dictation of the sage Vyasa. The plssed. To one end of the rope a small bamboo Ganesa or Vinayaka Chathurdhi is observed 111 basket is tied and a cocoanut and a few rupees commemoration of the birth day of Ganesa. are placed in it. The basket is decorated all aro und with coloured cloth and heads of maize. The Except the poor classes, each family wor other end of the rope is pulled up and down ships an earthen image of Lord Ganesa (Ganapathi) tempting competitors to catch and take the con in their houses. It is also a practice to have darsan tents of the basket which is called utti. As the of at least five such images. Special preparations competitors try to catch, the utti is pulled up and such as undrallu, kudumulu that are supposed to water thrown against their faces. This function be the favourites of Ganesa are prepared and is organised almost in every street of the town offered. On a subsequent day suitable to each through which the procession passes. In towns family, the image is taken to a well or tank , only the Vaishnavites and a few other Hindus worshipped there and immersed in water. All fast. In the villages one or two members in the Hindus under superstitious belief avoid see Vaishnavite families fast and perform the festival ing the Moon that day to safeguard themselves in their homes. In a few places, the Krishna against unmerited accusations during the subse temples are first washed with jaggery water and quent twelve months. If by chance, they see the then with plain water in the morning and the usu Moon, they listen to the legend of Sathrajit in al functions held only within the temple. In the which Lord Krishna was subjected to an accusa villages, vayanams are given to the Brahmin puro tion for having seen the reflection of the Moon on hits and jacket clothes to Brahmin muthaiduvas· that day in a cup of milk. By doing so they are Vayanam is a day's ration, complete in itself with supposed to be absolved of the evil effects of see tamarind, salt and all kept in a new winnow and ing the Moon. offered to a purohit. It is observed by all on a modest scale, with simple devotion and a feeling Practically as a substitute for reciting or lis of festivity. tening to the story of Sathrajit; otherwise known as the story of Samanthakamani, to counteract 6. VINAYAKA CHAVITI is a common Hindu festival the bad effects of seeing the Moon on Vinayaka celebrated by the rich and the poor of the Hindu Chaviti, there is a practice of eating the pelalu community, the scale of celebrations depending on of cholum (puffed cholum) prepared during the social status of the family. This is celebrated Nagula Panchami offered to Nagulu and preserved on the fourth day of waxing moon in the month for the purpose till this day. of Bhadrapadam (August-September). 7. MAHALAYA AMAVASYA is celebrated on Bhadra Ganesa is the Indian God of wisdom. All pada Bahula Amavasya (September-October), the sacrifices and religions ceremonies, all serious day of the New Moon in this month. When the Sun compositions in writing and all worldly affairs of is in the sign Virgo (Kanya) the day is known as importance are begun by pious Hindus with an M ahalaya Amavasya. This day of the conjunction invocation to Ganesa, a word composed of isa, of the Sun and the Moon is considered by all the governor or leader, and gana, a company (of Hindus to be especially set apart for the making of deities). He is represented as a short fat figure oblations and performance of religious ceremonies of yellow or red colour having four hands and to the pitrus or the spirits of departed ancestors. the head of an elephant with a single tusk. He is The [lihasa, a great authority on the religious the son of Parvathi, who is supposed to have for- rites of the Hindus, says that the moment the COMMON FESTIVALS [9] Sun enters the sign Virgo (Kanya) the departed Amasa. Some of the sudras believe that the souls manes, leaving the world of Yama, the Destroyer, of those that died during the year remain as come down to the world of man and occupy the SplfltS and join the ancestors only after the houses of their descendants in this world. There ceremony on Mahalaya Amavasya. They then feel fore, the fortnight preceding the New Moon of the that the dead have joined the ancestors. month of Kanya is considered as specially' sacred to the propitiation of the departed spirits. The ceremonies performed in their honour each day 8. DASARA is a festival of 10 days from Asviyuja of this fortnight are considered to be equal in Suddha Padyami to Dasami (September-October). merit to those performed in the sacred city of It is believed that it is the. anniversary of Gaya.1 It is the special function of the nearest the day when Bhagiratha4 the ancestor of Sri Ra male relative of the deceased to make offerings rna brought down the river Ganga from Heaven. (pinda) to the ancestors in both lines for three Dasahara means removal of ten sins (dasa=ten generations back. By this act he establishes his i. e·, ten sins and hara that which removes or claim to inheritance. expiates). Dasara is perhaps a corrupt form of The fortnight is known as tarpana paksha 2 the word Dasahara. The legend has it that Brah (the fortnight of offerings) and the ceremonies as rna as the head of the Gods prayed to the Goddess Durga for the protection of Rama and the destru sraddha.3 ction of Ravana, who were engaged in a mortal In this district it is observed as an ordinary combat. The Goddess answered the prayer on festival by the Brahmin and Vaisya families. this day and Ravana was killed. A second ver Offering pindams to the souls of the departed sion is that Sri Rarna after abduction of his wife ancestors is the function of the day. Vaisyas Sita by Ravana, came to know of Sita being kept also observe the festival in the same way. under the Asoka tree in Lanka and set out with Some of the non-Brahmins content themselves by huge army to rescue her on this day which ended giving a Brahmin a day's ration in the name of successfully. Every Hindu Raja consequently the departed ancestors. In fact this is the considered this day as the most auspicious one culminating day of a fortnight known as Mahalaya for setting out to wage war. The whole of the paksham or Mahalaya fortnight during which period of ten days beginning from the first day of fortnight ceremonies of the departed souls are the bright half of Asviyujam (September-October) performed. This is called in the village parts is devoted to the worship of Durga in South as Pitharula Amasa, Petharla Amasa or Peddala India. Every Hindu is enjoined to visit Gaya at least once in his life-time to perform the funeral ceremonies of his ancestors and to offer pindas in their honour. 2 Generally speaking the tarpana cannot be performed by a woman, by a man whose parents are alive, or by a Brahmin not endowed with the sacred thread. 3 According to the Hindu belief of the future life there are two paths followed by souls of different sta tes of development according to their karma (actions). The saints who have fulfilled their karma travel by the Devayana, the way of the Gods, through the rays of the Sun and never return to be reborn on earth. Ordinary souls which have yet to finish the cycle of transmigration, travel by theDhllmayr,na of the seven planes, but they can only reach two, Swarloka, heaven or Bhuvai-loka, the astral plane, according to the life they have led in the world. The souls of ordinary mortals will, it is believed, always remain tied to earth, and eventually become evil spirits tormenting mankind, unless the sraddha cere monies are duly performed to help them on their way to Yama. For the first 10 days after death the ceremonies perfor med by the relatives are to help the disembodied spirit to obtain a form or preta-body. which will carry iton to its app ointed pilgrimage. This is supposed to be effected by the pinda offerings, the food presented to the spirit and by recita tion of appropriate mantras. When the preta-body is fully formed on the tenth day it feeds on the pinda and offerings of milk. On the thirteenth day after death the soul is equipped for its solemm journey. There are twelve stages in the pilgrimage, each stage taking a m·)nth to fulfil. Throughout the twelve months the rdatives follow the departed spirit with the sraddha ceremonies, sixteen in number, performed at stated times to provide it with sustenance and to prepare it for the goal. When at last it i~ reached the preta-body is dissolved. The soul now becomes a pitru and assumes an other body adapted for enjoying heavenly enjoyment or for suffering the pains of hell. In this state it comes before th" judge, Yama, the Lord of pitrlls. When the souls have enjoyed their bliss or suffered their alloted punishment, they are again reborn on earth to fulfil the remainder of their karma. 4 Vishnu became incarnate in the person of the the sage Kapila for the destruction of the sixty thousand wicked son<; of Sagara. Kapila was engaged in deep meditation when the sons of King Sagara, who are in search of horse intended for the solemn sacrifice of Asvamedha arrived near him, they found the sage absorbed in deep contemplation and the horse graz ing nearby Accusing him of having stolen it they approached to kill him when fire flashed from his eyes and instantly reduced the whole army to ashes. In order to expiate their sin, purify their remains and secure paradise for their spirts, Bhagiratha, the great grandson of Sagara, did penance and brought down the Ganga from Heaven and led her from the Himalayas where she had alighted to the sea. The sons of Sagara were purified. [10] APPENDIX I Vijaya Dasaml 1S common to all Hindus In villages this Ayudha puja is performed on irrespective of caste or status. Besides the usual any of the convenient days from Ashtami to cleaning of residences, bath and wearing of new Dasami. clothes, the special function of the occasion is to There is a popular festival of much enthu go to the sami tree in the evening with music, siasm for ladies and girls which falls during this worship the sam; tree and offer sami leaves to period. That is Brathakamma Panduga which friends, relatives and elders wishing them well is celebrated from Asviyuja Suddha Padyami to and asking for blessings. While offering the lea Navami (September-October). During the ten days ves the higher classes pronounce the sloka : every house has heaps of flowers of numerous varieties picked not only of gardens but also from "IiRD ,~dS)"'3 ~;JO forests. Sami samayathe papam The story connected with the origin of the I{~ I{cf~ :IN"I{i5o festival is narrated as follows: A Vaisya couple Sami sathru vinasanam had a son, and a daughter called Brathakamma. ~~;S;$g <:)~tp3 el Q. They were married and Brathakamma went to her Arjunasya dhanurdhan 1110ther-in-Iaw's house. According to the practice o-~i0S l?dS)6:5J;S~ the Vaisya couple invited the son-in-law and the Ramasya priyadarsanam". daughter for Mahalaya Amavasya i. e·, Bhadrapada Bahula Amavasya (August-September). The SOll meaning,' sami destroys sin, extinguishes enemies in-law sent Brathakamma for parents' house pro on that sacred day of Asviyuja Suddha Dasami mising to go there for the Dasami festival. A when Arjuna took up the bow and Lord Rama couple of days after Brathakamma reached hef rejoined Sita.' parents' home, her parents had to go to a neigh bouring village. Brathakamma and her sistcr-in Wearing new clothes is not a general order. law were invited for some auspicious function by Only the rich enjoy the privilege. The poor put the neighbours. She wore one of the sister-in on their best and cleanest preserved for the occa law's sarees for the occasion and it got soiled due sion, though for several, this is as marked a fest to smearing of sandal-paste, saffron, etc· This was ival as the Telugu New Year's Day for putting on miscontrued by the sister-in-law as wanton soil new clothes. During the preceding nine days ing of the saree by the innocent Brathakamma. grouped as Navarathrulu or Devi Navarathrulu, The heartless si.ster-in-law induced her thought Goddess Parvathi is worshipped throughout the less husband to do away with Brathakamma fail week and the festival is observed in different ways ing which she would divorce him. Brathakamma in different places and by different communities. was told by the brother that there was an urgent On the sixth day all Brahmin and Vaisya families call for her from her husband and took her and a few non-Brahmin families perform Sara away from home during the absence of her parents, swati puja. They arrange the books, worship Sara killed her in the midst of a thick forest, and swati and offer naivedyam. burried the body by the side of the path and re turned home. Brathakamma manifested herself The eighth day is a day of Durga puja or on her grave as a flower tree. Her sister-in-law Durgashtami on which day all. devotees worship made the parents believe that Brathakamma was Durga in this district. On the ninth day the sent to her husband on an urgent call. But a day Brahmins perform puja to the family Gods while hefore Dasami, the husband of Brathakamma sta the Vaisyas worship weights and measures. The fted to the parents-in-law's house according to agriculturists, carpenters, barbers, etc., worship his previous promise. On the way he was very the implements which they generally use in their much attracted by the flower tree on the grave of profession. The agriculturist, for example wor Brathakamma and attempted to pluck out the ships his plough, scythe, spade, etc. The family flower to present it to his beloved wife. He heard weapons such as guns, daggers, swords, etc., arc a voice saying: also cleaned and decorated and puja performed. In the modern days the motor vehicles are inva "o:mtJ~ ~tl~ ~OJ"& eo eo riably washed, decorated with flowers, turmeric Muttaku muttaku mavaru and kumkum and puja is performed by burning ~tlW~ .;:ip OJ"~ eo incense. Muttaboku mavaru COMMON FESTIVALS [11] ~~~ :.sa~ ~o~o~oa 9. DEEPAVALI AND 10. DHANALAKSHMI pUJA-Dee eJ Papishti vadina champinchindi pavali, also called Naraka Chathurdasi is celebra ~~6S'~d.o:Db ~ooJ-~ ted on Asviyuja Bahula Chathurdasi (Septem ber-Octo Kirathakannayya champadu" ber). Dhanalakshmi Puja comes off on the New meaning, 'touch me not, touch me not, my lord, Moon Day (Amavasya) of Asviyujam. All Hindus the sinful sister-in-law has got me killed and the believe that Lord Krishna along with His consort heartless brother has killed me.' Sathyabhama killed Narakasura and returned home early in the morning on this day. Being an Unable to make out anything from it, he occasion for rejoicing elders and youngsters get straightaway walked to the mother-in-law's house. up early in the morning, take oil bath and He was stunned to hear that Brathakamma was al celebrate the happy occasion with a display of ready taken to his house. Recapitulating the words fireworks. It is a day of festivity with special food he heard on his way he led the parents-in-law to preparations. There is display of fireworks in the the spot where the strange flower tree stood. night also. When his mother-in-law tried to pluck out the flower she was warned by the voice from the tree: In towns and nearby villag~s, hundreds of lamps are lit on pials and compound walls of e.:> e;) their houses by the rich. The merchant class Muttaku muttaku rna amma particularly the Marwaris perform Dhanalak shmi ~t>~~ ~ t;;9;;$)~ Cj Puja in the night inviting friends and relatives. Muttaboku ma amma The Marwaris commence accounts of the year on ~~~ :.sacs iSo~otloa e:: that day. All money due to them is collected and Papishti vadina champinchindi worshipped along with a kalasam decorated with ~~~S'~d.o.'))b ~o~~ jewels inside the house and the picture of Lakshmi Kirathakannayya champadu" is worshipped in the places of business. Fruits, meaning,' touch me not, touch me not, my mother. flowers and tambulam arc distributed to the The sinful sister-in-law has got me killed and the invitees. In some cases there is a practice known heartless brother has killed me.' as chadivimpulu (iSa~o~O)) which is the presenta- tion of a small amount by the invitees as a to They returned home and the brother of Bra ken of good wish for the next year's prosperous thakamma confessed the truth. business. Brathakamma reached her mather's house on Both in towns and villages an atmosphere of Asviyuja Suddha Padyami and her husband started festivity prevails in every family, with cleaning on Navami. In her memory an image of Bratha and white-washing the houses, purchasing new kamma is prepared annually by every Hindu fam clothes for themselves and the newly wedded ily with a variety of flowers. It is more appro daughters and sons-in-law who are invited for the priate to say that huge heaps of several varieties festival. The lighting on a profuse scale and the of flowers are piled up on a big plank, plate or fireworks are marked· This is an eagerly looked tray representing Brathakamma and worshipped. for festival in towns and villages. Puliveshams Ladies dance round the heaps singing the life sto and other mimicry items afford entertClinment. ry of Brathakamma. The function continues day after day with great pomp and devotion till Ashtand. On the ninth day flower heaps of maximum size 11. SUBRAHMANYA SHASHTl takes place on the are arranged on plates or planks and are taken sixth lunar day in the bright fortnight of Marga to a nearby river, tank or a well in procession siram (November-December). SlIbr~!hmanyas,'Va with music· In some places pulihora is offered my, generally known as Kumaraswamy. is the God finally to Brathakamma at the river or well. Then of War, and the g;:neral of th~ ar.ny of the God'" the containers of flowers are taken to deep water He is the son of Siva and Durgq, is mounted 011 and slowly removed from under the water leaving a peacock with its tail spread out, a bow and a the heaps of flowers to remain floating in the water spear is in either of his hands and he is depicted for several days afterwards. The rivers and to be very handsome. It is said that wemen who rivulets present a pleasant sight on Navami and have no male children especially propitiate him the subsequent days with flowers floating down to beget a son as handsome and as courageous the stream. as Subrahmanya. [12) APPENDIX J It is the celebration of the birth of KumaTa fruits and vegetables. In fact, everything will be swamy to save Devas and Brahmins from the Da in plenty. One and all hail this festival as the nava Tarakasura, who had acquired such a boon symbol of affluence with joy and exuberance. that none but the son of Lord Siva could kill him. However, in this district this is not a greatly look But, insulted by her own father Daksha, Parvati ed for festival as in coastal districts. It is given a bad bUrnt herself in the father's sacrificial fire very ordinary place and is observed for a day on and was reborn as the daughter of Himavantha. the 14th January when vayanams are given to Lord Siva was doing severe penance. Nobody Brahmi.n women. Vayanam includes new earthen could disturb Him in order to make Him marry vessels and all new agricul t ural prod uce su eh as Parvati and beget the saviour of the world. Ma fruits, grain, tamarind, jaggery, sugar-cane along nmatha disturbed Siva's penance and got himself with pasupu and kumkum. Sweets are prepared burnt to ashes for the benefit of the universe. in the houses and offered to Gods. This is a Lord Siva married Parvati and the birth of Ku simple festival mostly confined to women. maraswamy was an event of great joy to the whole universe. 13. BHISHMA EKADASI is celebrated by a very few Subrahmanya Shashti is confined to a very Brahmins on Magha Suddha Ekadasi (January few Brahmin families in this district also as February). elsewhere. It has its source in the primitive institutions Fasting, puja, offering cocoanuts and naive of the Hindus, of which the worship of the dyam are the rituals observed. One special fun pitrus, the patriarchs of progenitors, the Diti ction on the occasion is to invi te a Brahmin ba Manes, constituted an important element. This chelor, honour him, feed him and give him new' day is dedicated to Bhishma1, the son of Ganga, clothing. Reading and listening to the story of and great uncle of the Pandava and Kaurava birth of Kumaraswamy is another function which princes. He was killed in the course of the great is believed to bring prosperity to those that parti war between the Panda vas and Kurus, and dying cipate in it. childless left no descendant in the direct line on whom it was incumbent to offer him funeral honours. In order to make good this defficiency 12. SANKRANTI-Makara Sankranti or Uttarayana persons in general are enjoined to make libations Sankranti is the Sun's entrance into the sign cap of water on thiS( day to his spirit and to offer ricornus (Makara) which is identified with the him sesamum seeds and boiled rice. The act Uttarayana or return of the Sun to the north or expiates the sin of a whole year. One of its to the winter solstice. The festival marks the peculiarities is that it is to be observed by persons return of the Sun to the northern hemisphere. of all the four original castes. The intention of It is observed from 13th to 15th January. It is the rite as now understood is expressed in the also known as Pongal in southern India and is mantras uttered at the time of presenting the dedicated to the glorification of agriculture. In offerings: 'I present this water to the childless the coastal districts of Andhra, it is the most hero Bhishma. May Bhishma, the son of San important festival. As Sri Manohar Prabhakar thanu, the speaker of truth, the subjugator of his puts it in his article in the Deccan Chronicle passions obtain by this water the oblations due dated 19-1-1962 it is in the real sense a festival by sons and grandsons.' After his defeat by of the harvest. Every vi llage flourishes with Arjuna, he waited till Magha Suddha Ekadasi and heaps of corn, pots of milk, blossoming flowers, died on this day after the Makara Sankramanam 1 Bhishma was a great general and philosopher. Devotion to truth anj duty. self-restraint and self-sacrifice, were all illust rated by him throughout his long life in a manner almost unparallelled in the history of India. His father fell in love with the daughter of a fisherman, who would not give her in marriage till he was assured of her iSsue from the king suc ceeding to the kingdom. Bhishma having come to know of his father's attachment for the girl went to her father and not only renounc;ed his. own claim to the t~rone, but by taking a v0y! of lifelong celibacy cut off his line of offspring, saying that even dyiDg chIldless he would attam heaven. So firm was hIS attachment to the vow that when on his step-brother's death no male child was left in the family and he was earnestly solicited by even his step-mother to marry and rule the kingdom he replied, 'I can renounce the empire of heaven but truth I shall never renounce.' Lying on his death bed in the battl~ field of Kurukshethra be gave advice to the Pand3v3s upon the duties of kings, upon philosophical and social problems and upon questions of polity, of the art of war, the means of attaining salvati0n, etc. COMMON FEST) VALS [13] called Uttarayana punyakalam. Brahmins observe observances, expiating all sins, and securing the fasting, perform puja to Bhishma and break their attainment of all desires during life and union fast on Dwadasi with parani, a feast. This is Un with Siva or final emancipation after death. known in rural parts. The festival is said to have been enjoined by Siva himself who declared to His consort Uma that the fourteenth day of the dark half of Magham if 14. MAHASIVARATRI 1 falls on the fourt~enth observed in honour of Him should be destructive day of the waning moon in Magham (January of the consequences of all sins and should confer February). This, in the estimation of the follo final liberation. The three essential observances wers of Siva, is the most sacred of all their on this day are fasting during the whole tidhi or 1. We dive into the ethical, m~taphysical and allegorical l~sson anj import of Maha~ivaratri-Vrata. It will not be out of place for us to begin with a bird's eye glance into the historical incident associated with this great vrata. It is briefly as follows: A hunter at Kasi goes into the forest on hunting and on his way back, sinks into deep sleep (owing to sheer physical ex haustion) under a tree and wakes therefrom to find the Sun has already Set. Intense and awe-inspiring darkness envelops the whole forest, no ray of light enters it to pierce the darkness and ;"how him his way home; but the forest night is vigorously alive and resounds with the roarings of lions, tigers and other wild quadrupeds. It was impossible to think of return ing home and he, therefore, decides to ascend the tree and pass the night on that brittle perch, which, however, unsafe seemed safer at any rate than terra firma. Fortunately for him five happy co-incidences combine for his happiness and they ~re -(1) that is the Mahasivaratri night; (2) that is the Bilwa tree which he has climbed; (3) that an ancient Sivalinga is just below him; (4) that owing to his having come out euly at morn and stayed out all the time he has not eaten even a sin gle morsel of food; and (5) that being the Sasiruthu (dew season) the Bilwa leaves which are wetted by the seasonal dew and which (owing to his frequent changing of his uncomfortable posture) displaced from their setting, fall continually all the night through on the Sivalinga beneath. In other wvrds, the hunter has unwittingly observed all the requirements of the Mahasivaratri-Vrata including the fasting the ~Il-night vigil and the Bilwarchana (worship with Bilwa leaves) and Lo! and behold! We find Bhagwan Sri Sanka;a pouriag forth His grac~ on the hunter, purging him of all his innumerable sins and giving him salvation_ The story is a long and beautiful one, pathetic in its setting and soul stirring in its descriptions. This bare skeleton summary of it will, however, suffice for our present purpose. Proceed we now to a brief study of the inner, spiritual, allegorical and symbolical significance of this Mahavrata. But in order to unravel its inner secret it is necessary that we should analyse the compound word Sivaratri -Vrata into its three component parts i. e., Ratri, Siva and Vrata of each separately and then synthesise them again together. Along there with, we shall of course have also to consider the sadhana (means required for) and the phal (result) of the Vrata. That changeless being in whom all the world rests i~ Siva or He who destroys all evils, ignorance and sorrows and is the blissful one. He is omnipresent, omniscient and omnipotent. Rarri is to give and means that which gives peace and ha ppiness. In the present instance Ratri doe~ not mean physical night but symbolises the withdrawing by the sadhaka (aspi rant on the ladder of spiritual progress) of all his semes. his mind and his intellect, nay, his whole being away from all the follies and the distractions, the snares and the d~lu3ion~ of th~ mere sensual wiJrld around him and his in-drawing of himself into the supreme self within. The idea behin:l the vigil prescribed is thus not mechanical one of physical awakeness but of our keeping constant and vigilant watch over ourselves (i. e .• our misleading mind and straying senses) and our keeping absolutely and vigilantly awake and alive to the paramathmathathwa (the inner reality, the supreme self within) which we generally sleep over or are not fully alive and awake to. Upavas does not mean mere physiC'll fasting. It also means turning our senses and mind away from thus bahirmukha vriththi (i.e., t.heir external sense-ward- t.endency, and making tht?rt? antharm(l~ha (turned inwards i.e, towards the sup reme soul withm), we really perform or, 10 other words dwell spmtually and lOtellectually-God-ward. Upavasa thus in volves not a mere physical fasting but also the mental turning of ourselves towards God. Amavasya grammatically means dwelling i.e., dwelling of the Sun and Moon together. On the spiritual plane, however, the Sun and the Moon symbolise the paramatma and jeevathma (the universal soul and the individual soul) respectively. Amavasya means the sama~hiyoga stage wherein th.e j~eya has become one with the /?aramathmc: and there is the actual experience of absolute mOnIsm, .oneness of .God the mdlvldu~l soul and the whC!te uDlverse. Krishna Bahula Chathurdasi night is prescribed because the Jeeva has Withdrawn h"nself Into the Lord but IS not so completely absorbed and merged as to lose his individual consciousness. where no further sadhana is left or even possible. This is the suhhamuhoortha (the auspicious moment) for Sivopasana which can lead us to Amavasya or the samadhiyoga. To sum up, reclpit1111te and c:)ncluje. the hunter of the narrative there isjeeva (the individual soul) who goes out on hi~ incessant quest afler sensual enjoyments but tired and sick and sore and disgusted with his unending travel, and vain se,lfch for real and lasting happiness through sense enjoyments, falls asleep to them and withdraws himself from them and fa,ts absolutely (i. e., shuns sensuality, materialism and bestiality altogether) wakes up to realise the· character of forest d(l.rkne,s of agnana (ignorance) whic:l envelopes him on all sides, seeks protection therefrom and its terrors by climbing the tree of jnanasadhana. keep~ vigil all through i e., is always on his guard against his succumbing any more to the snares and temptations of the flesh and senses and performs perpetual puja. (Worship of Siva the Antharyami, Lord of the Universe and thereby attains the oneness with God which, consciously or unconsciously, is the one ultimate inner wish of the hearts InnermJ~t desire of every jeeva (individu1.l soul) in the whole universe]. Such are the allegorical lessons of Mahasivaratri-Article from Bhavan's Journal, a fortnightly magazine of March 4,1962 on Mahasivaratri and its signi ficance by H. H. Sri Bharathi Krishna Teertha of Puri. [14] APPENDIX I lunar day, holding a vigil and worshipping the having been disturbed in His penance. This extre Linga during the night. After bathing in the me sacrifice was made by Manmadha at the behest morning the worshipper recites his sankalpa or of his father Lord Vishnu in order to save Devatas pledges himself to perform the worship. He then from Rakshasa Tarakasura who could be killed recites special mantras (holy texts) and offers an only by the son born to Lord Eswara and Parvati. arghya (oblation) after which he goes through the Manmadha disturbed the penance of Lord Siva so matrika-nyasa-a set of gesticulations accompanied that He could marry Parvati. by short prayers. T he repetition of nyasa (i. e., touching parts of the body while repeating certain According to Vaishnava Puranas it was the mantras) accompanies every offering made to the . anniversary of a grea t feat of heroism which Kri Linga; they are fruits, flowers and incense and shna performed by destroying a she-demon vario lights and the like during the whole ceremony. usly named Sankhashuda, Hori, Holi, Holika, The Linga is to be propitiated with different Medha and Dhundha. The most probable suppo articles in each watch of the night on which the sition, however, is that it was set apart to celeb vigil is held. Firstly the Linga is bathed with rate the return of spring to typify the general milk. Incense, fruits, flowers and articles of food, influence of spring upon both the animate and boiled rice and sometime.; even dressed flesh, are inanimate creation, and to express the feelings offered with the repetition of mantras. In the spread by the season and the delight which the second it is bathed with curds. Third time it is revival of nature sent forth. The festival dates bathed in ghee. In the fourth watch the Linga from Vedic times. According to a legend, Holika is bathed with honey. Brahmins are entertained was the name of a she-demon who used to devour and presents are made to them. Women as well children that were supplied to her by turns from as men perform this vrata· each family in the places where she held sway. It so happened that one day, an old woman's All Hindus except Vaishnavites observe this only grandson was to be offered as victim and she festival in this district. There is not much diffe was lamenting her bitter misfortune. A holy me rence in the observance of this festival by the ndicant happened to pass her door, and hearing several sub-communities. On Magha Bahula Cha of the cause of her sorrow thought for a while thurdasi, devotees fast the whole day, go to Siva and advised that if Holika could be made to hear temple for abhishekam, worship and offer cocoa vile and obscene expressions she could be killed nuts, fruits, panakam and panneram. They observe for she was destined to die that way only. The jagarana (keeping awake the whole night) attend whole village took this holy man at his word and the purana kalakshepam, Harikathas or dramas with when Holika came for her prey next day she was Saiva themes. The next morning they break their met by such a chorus of vile and filthy abuse that fast after a bath and puja. During the second she dropped dead as prophesied. This event is day also they desist from sleep. One general supposed to be commemorated by the festival, practice is that this festival is observed not at and the obscene language used by some youths their residences but at holy places, such a·s Srisai generally during the Holi festival is believed to lam, Mahanandi, Kalahasti, etc., at times hund have originated from this legend. reds of miles away from home with belief that those places are further sanctified during the This is observed by all the Hindus irrespec period by the presence of Devathas that visit the tive of their economic status. The main function centres to worship the presiding deity. is held on Purnima which is called Kamanna Pun nama or Kamanna Panduga. A pit is dug in the customary places in the middle of the streets and 15. KAMADAHANAM and. 16. HOLl-As in other d:stricts of Andhra Pradesh, these two festivals are wood and other combustible articles are collected clubbed together in this district also. It commences from 3 days in advance. An earthen image of a on Phalguna Suddha Triodasi and concludes on female is placed in the centre of the pit and some Bahula Padyami (February-March), though the kind of puja is performed. Firewood, etc., collec actual Holi is celebrated on the Full Moon Day. ted already are placed all round the image. A picture of Kama or Manmadha, son of Lord One legend which is current is that Manma Vishnu disturbing the penJllce of Lord Siva is dha was burnt to ashes by the fire from the third taken in procession and later burnt in the pit. eye of Lord Siva who in His wrath opened it for Burnt sticks are taken home and oil lamps are lit COMMON FESTIVALS [15] with it. Vasantham is commenced on a small plate in the mosque by several. The last day is scale that very night and increases till it ceases khutba day i. e., 1st day of Shavvalon which the by the next noon. Ryots remove the ash from observance culminates with great pomp and show. the pit and use it for crops particularly vegetab All wear new clothes and each member in the les, with the belief that it is a good insecticide. well-to~do family distribu tes among the poor Ii measures of wheat or rice or cholam to enable the poor also to participate in the common namaz. COMMON MUSLIM FESTIVALS They go .for the namaz to id-gah (open place where a wall is constructed on raised platform on the 1. RAMZAN is an observance taken up during the western ou tskirts of the village or town). One entire ninth month of Ramzan by all Muslims and distinguishing feature at the time of namaz is that on the last day of the month they celebrate ld. the rich and the poor stand together in a row she Prophet Mohammad, while he was doing penance dding the cloak of social status. When the Mus in Gha-e-Hira (a cave) in Mecca at his fortieth lims in a village are too few to form a congregation year is believed to have acquired Quran sent by or poor to have an id-gah to conduct namaz at Allah through Gabriel. The observance of this their own place, they go to the neighbouring vill month is one of the five cardinal practices in Islam age and join the congregational namaz. Accord and express commands regarding it are given in ing to the rules of Sharia t every person after cro the Quran. ssing the age of 12 years must observe all the fasts regularly. He or she can be excused in extra Throughout the entire month Muslims com ordinary circumstances, like serious illness, mon mence their fast at 4.30 a. m. every day and bre thly period for women, etc. It is a fact that a ak it only after sunset. In the large towns of great deviation has taken place from the injunc this district these timings are indicated for the tions of Shariat in this matter. But then again a convenienee of the public by a siren or bursting Muslim would incur public opprobrium, if, during a fire cracker. In certain towns and big villages the period of Ramzan, he takes food or smokes of this district where the Muslim population is publicly. Usually the procession to id~gah goes considerable one or more groups of Muslims go by one route and returns by another, wherever it round the streets and lanes singing in praise of is convenient to do so· The beggars that line up the Prophet thus waking up the Muslims by 4 0' on both the routes will then have the benefit of clock in the morning, so that they may take their the charity of the rich. food before the scheduled time. This appears to be the duty of some poor Muslims for which they are remunerated either in cash or k:ind. All lux 2. BAKRID (The cow-feast) is also called uries and also such habits as smoking, chewing ld-e-Qurban (the great feast of sacrifice) and ld-ul and snuffing are avoided during this period and a Kabir or Bari-ld (the great feast). It is celebrated complete fast during day time is observed. The on the 10th Day of Zilhaj and it is part of the observance of fast is so strict that during that rites of the Mecca pilgrimage. It is observed in period some orthodox Muslims do not even swa all parts of Islam, both as a day of sacrifice and llow their own saliva. During the nights Mou! as a great festival. It is founded on command in vies deliver lectures on Islam. In addition to isha the Quran, Chapter XXIII, verses 33-38. Two of (the night prayer) every day ad ditional prayer the verses are: namely ta ra-yeh (20 rakaths) is offered and a part of the Ho!y Book (Quran) is recited: On badi "Ye may obtain advantages from the cattle up to the set time for slaying them; then the place ralh or the best night (shab-e-khader) which for sacrificing them is at the ancient house. By falls on the 26th or 27th day according as the no means can their flesh reach unto God, neither their blood; but piety on your part reacheth Him. month consists of 29 or 30 days recitation of the Thus hath He subjected them to you that Ye mag Holy Book is completed. On the badirath all nify God for His guidance; moreover announce glad tidillgS to those who do good deeds."1 keep awake till 4.00 a. m., when the reading of Quran will be completed and sweets are distribu The legend goes that before the birth of ted. The fast is broken in the night at horne by Prophet Mohammad, there was Ibrahim (Abraham), some and with a common dinner from a common a Prophet, who condemned polytheism and E. Denison Ross. An Alphabetical List of the Feasts and Holidays of the HindlH and Muhammadans (Calcutta: 1914). p. 102 [16] APPENDIX I animal sacrifice before images. It is he that sacrifice for all, but the number of persons so com bining must not exceed seventy. Some authorities constructed Kaba. He beheaded the minor idols limit the number to seven."l secretly, placed the sword in the hand of the presiding deity and proclaimed that the crime The skin of the sacrificed animal should be was committed by the deity itself. The enraged sold and the money thus got distributed among mob threw him into the fire but the angels and the poor. Quite apart from its religious ceremonies God saved him. God commanded that he should the festival is observed as a great occasion of sacrifice his only son Ismail, begot at the ripe rejoicing. Chappatis (wheat bread), sweets and age of eighty. Though Satan tried to dissuade him, fowls or khima are the only preparations for the Ibrahim executed the Lord's command. However, dinner. Rice is not cooked generally. Presenta it was only a test and his son was restored to tions are made to the youngsters. life. An orthodox version is that God desired For the subsequent four days three takbirs Ibrahim to sacrifice to him the best he loved. The are recited after every namaz (prayer) in His best he loved was his youngest son Ismail who praise for the mercy shown in restoring Ismail to was made to prostrate blind-folded. Ibrahim with life. Rich persons give alm~ to the poor. his eyes covered, repeating the words Bismillahi Allah-ho-Akbar (with the name of God who is 3. MOHARRAM - "The name of the first great) drew the sword across his neck. In the month of Muslim year is also the name given to meanwhile, however, the archangel Gabriel, the first ,en days of the month observed by the Shiahs in commemoration of the martyrdom of snatching Ismail from underneath the blade, Hussain the second son of Fatimah, the Prophet's substituted a broad-tailed sheep in his stead. daughte~, by Ali. A short account of t~is tragic event is necessary to understand the quaint cere Abraham unfolding his eyes observed to his monies which are observed on this festivaL"2 surprise and joy the sheep slain and his son "Ali the son-in-law of Muhammed was the standing behind. God ordained that a cow fourth Kh'alif of Islam. He is described as 'the (or a buH) or a sheep or a goat be sacrificed in last and worthiest of the primitive Musalmans who imbibed his religious enthusiasm from com his place. Animal sacrifice appears to have come panionship with the Prophet Umself and who fol into vogue from then. lowed to the last the simplicity of his character'. He was a man calculated by his earnest devotion to the Prophet and his own natural graces to win In commemoration of this sacrifice, Bakrid as he has done, the admiration of succeeding ge is observed on the tenth day in the Muslim nerations. A strong opposition, however, arose and Ali was assassinated in a mosque at Kufa. It month of Zilhaj. On that day the Muslims go to is not easy. amid the conflicting statements of his Id-gah (an open place where a wall is constructed torians of the rival sects, to arrive at the truth in on araisedplatformon the western outskirts of the all the details of the events which happened then; but generally received opinion is that after the as village or town), without having their breakfast as sassination of Ali, Hassan. his Son renounced his a mark of respect to Ismail and offer their namaz. claim to the Khalifate in favour of his father's rival Muavia. Hassan was ultimately poisoned by (prayer). It is believed that the deer in the forest his wife, who, it is said, was instigated by Muavia stands on one leg without even feeding its young to do the deed, in order to leave the coast clear for his Yezid. The most tragic event has yet to one tiJl the namaz is over. Therefore, the namaz come. Yezid, who succeeded his father. was a very is performed early even before taking breakfast. licentious and irreligious man. The people of Ku fa being disgusted at his conduct, sent messengers Within three days, the head of the family takes a to Hussain, the remaining son of Ali, with the re~ sheep or a cow or a goat and turning its head quest that he would assume the Khalifate. In vain, the friends of Hussain tried to persuade him to towards Mecca, says: let the people of Kufa first revolt, and thus show the reality of their wishes by their deeds. In an "In the name of the great God verily my evil hour Hus,ain started with a small band of for prayers. my sacrifice. my life, my death. belong to ty horsemen and one hundred foot-soldiers. On God the Lord of the :worlds. He has no partner: the plain of Karbala he found his way barred by that'is what I am bidden; for I am first of those a force of three thousand men. 'We are few in who are resigned." "And then he slays the anima1. number' said Hussain 'and the enemy is in force The flesh of the animal is divided into three por I am resolved to die. But you-I release you from tions, one-third being given to relations, one your oath of allegiance; let all those who wish to third to the poor and the remaining one-third res do so leave me'. 'O! Son of A postle of God,' was erved for the family. It is considered highly the reply, 'what excuse could we giVe to grandfather meritorious to sacrifice one animal for each mem on the day of resurrection' did we abandon thee ber of the family, but as that would involve an to the hands of thine enemies? One by one these expenditure few could bear, it is allowable to Sac brave men fell beneath the swords of the ememy, rifice one victim for the household. In extreme until Hussain and his infant son alone were left. cases, men may combine together and make one Weary and thirsty, Hussain sat upon the ground. 1 E. Denison Ross, op.cit., p. 103 2 E. Denison Ross, op.cir., p. 106 COMMON FESTIVALS [17] The enemy drew near, but no one dared to kill the grandson of the Prophet. An arrow pierced in procession. It is a scene of great confusion, the ear of the little boy and he died. 'We came for men and boys disguised in all sorts of quaint from God and we return to Him', were the pathetic get up run about fencing and jLlmping. At a words of Hussain as with a sorrowful heart he laid the dead body of his son on the sand. He convenient hour in the night of the ninth day fought bravely for a while; but at last fell covered burning cinders are levelled in the pit in front of with many wounds."l the ashur khanah and devotees both Muslims and Several piou", Shiah and Sunni Muslims Hindus, a few holding alams w.l1k across the fire. l1bserve fast , recite the Quran at home during Whltever the principle might be, the influence of the ten days and the tenth day is observed as the ten days' observance of Dasara with fire ashurah (mourning day). It is the Muslim belief walking in several places is seen in the ten days' that the future khiamalh (destruction of the observances of Moharram. It is the carnival of world) wlll be on Friday of this ten days period the lower class Muslims and Hindus. On the of Moharram. The Shiahs, a sub-com:nunity of following day after fatihahs are read the taziyahs Islam, observe this as an occasion of immense and alams are taken away to the nearby river, pain and sorrow. They weep and wail beating tank or a well outside the town. There the their breasts during these ten days. Cots are immersion Ceremony takes place, which IS upturned, mats are wound up and the bare floor washing the peerlu in water and removing them is made the sleeping place during the period. from the poles on which they were kept mounted They wear only black clothes. They perambulate from the first of the festival. the streets with a flag expressing their sorrow, recounting the activities of the departed heroes The buthi (curd and cooked flce with Hassan and Hussain and calling out their names. condiments) brought from home is offered as The highly orthodox Shiahs condemn even the farihahs at the river ~nd distributed in small processions. They consider the two heroes equal quantities to as many of those assembled as to Prophet Himself. possible. After the immersion ceremony, the alams are wrapped in cloth and kept in ashur "Some days previous to the festival the imam bara (house of the Imam), also called ashur khanah khanahs for 3 days. Though non-vegetarian food (ten day house) is prepared. As soon as .the new is prohibited for 3 days, it is observed only for a moon appears the people gather together 1D van ous imambaras and offer fatlhahs over some sharba t day except by the Shiahs. Sherbath is . generally orsome sugar in the name of Hussain. Thefatihahs distributed. After the third day the alams are concludes thus: '0 God grant the reward of this taken home and kept in safe cUHody for the next to the soul of Hussain.' The shel bat and sugar are then distributed The imambara is generally a tem Moharram. porary structure or some large hall fitted up for the occasion .. The alams or standards which are co mmonly made of copper and bras~. though occas ionally of gold or silver are placed agai'1st the walls. 4. MILAD-UN-NABI is observed by all Muslims on The usual standard is that of a hand placed on a pole. This is emblematic of the fi\~ members (the tbe twelfth day of the month Rabi-ul-Avval in Prophet Himself. Ali. Fatimah. Hassan and commemoration of the birth day of Prophet Hussain) the familY of the Prophet, and is the special stundard of the Shiahs. "2 Mohammad as also of his death day. For the first six d~ys nothing else takes The story goes that beL'g an orphan, place. From seventh to ninth day they are taken Mohammad was fed by Halim(!, a poor woman, out in procession in the streets Fires are kindled with her milk and when he grew up he was in open spaces and the people both old and young tending the sheep along with the son of Halima. fence across the fire and jump about calling out Even as a baby he refus::d the milk from the 'Hussain! HassanL' The three days are enjoyed right breast of Halima Which he left it to her with fancy dresses of tigers, bears, etc., and son. One day Gabriel cut the chest Mohammad, mimicry. Both Hindus and Muslims go to the washed the heart with s:lcred water and prepared imambara for offering fatihahs to alams. On the him to be a Prophet and a reformer of the world. evening before the tenth day which according to He performed penance and got Quran from God the Muslim mode of computing time is the tenth through Gabriel. He preached that Almighty was night, all the taziyahs and the a/ams are' taken out one and as a consequence had to escape from 1 Rev. Edward Sell, The Faith of Islam (1880), pp. 236-237 2 E. Denison Ross, op,cit., pp, 107-108 APPENDtx I Mecca to Madina where he acquired 330 disciple<; had with him and where he had kept it. When in the first imtance. He spread his Gospel, the robbers questioned him why he revealed the gradually regained Mecca and passed away in the fact while there was an opportunity to save his year 1775 on the twelfth day of Rabi-ul-Avval. money, he replied that normally it was a great On this day food is cooked and after fatihahs have sin to utter a lie and that it would be a greater been read over it, it is distributed to the poor. one in his case as he had promised his mother at Both in private houses and mosques, meetings are the time of leave taking and receiving her bless held at which the story of the birth, miracles and ings not to utter a lie. The gang of robbers death of the Prophet are recited· They keep reformed themselves and became a group of his awake throughout the night and namaz is perfor disciples. The festival is more conspicuous in med. Quran is recited in mosques during which villages than in towns. period the moustache (often a single hair of it and a piece of black blanket) are removed slowly from the box in which they are preserved and are 6. SHAB-E-BARAT or NIGHT OF RECORD--- This shown to the gathering by the Qazi. This is done festival is held on the night of the fourteenth only in big towns. Relatives are entertained to a of the eight month i. e., Shaban and it is believed good feast. This festival is, however! not obser that the duties of the men for the ensuing year ved in rural parts in this district. Even in towns are recorded. The whole night is spent either in it is observed by a limited number of families prayer or in recitation of Quran in a happy and which are pious or rich or educated. pleasant mood with illuminations and display of fire works. We find in these celebrations the influence of Deepavali celebrations conducted by 5. PEER-E-DASTAGIRI is celebrated on the ele the Hindus with great mirth and joy extravagantly venth day of the fourth month i. e., Rabi-us-Sani indulging in fireworks. This is a common festival by the Sunnis in honour of the saint Abdul Kha among Muslims, though the celebration is confi dar Jeelani or Geelani. His tomb stands at Bagh ned to a few rich and educated Muslims of dad and is visited by Sunni Muslims and some towns. non-Muslims as well. This is an occasion of his birth day celebration. In his name a green flag is taken in procession to the accompaniment of COMMON CHRISTIAN FESTIVALS music and is finally erected on a platform speci ally constructed for the purpose in places where 1. THE NEW YEAR'S DAy-The 1st of January is the Sunnis are in a majority. In other places the celebrated as the New Year's Day by all Chri flag is fixed on a margosa tree near the entrance stians. Celebrations commence an hour or two to the place. This is done with the belief that a before the actual birth of the New Year. Bet flag of Peer-e-Dastagiri who was a great saint ween 10 and 11 O'clock on the night of the 31st would protect the place warding off all epidemics December of the preceding year, there is the and foul play of Satan. Just as in Moharram it 'WOItch Night' service in churches. The function is a very happy occasion though for a single commences with the distribution of sweets to the night. In the rural parts of this district it is an assembly. A speech is delivered about the clo~ interesting sight to witness a vast crowd of Hin sing year. Exactly at 12 O'clock in the midnight dus with a handful of Muslims moving together a speech is delivered ushering in the New Year. in a procession with the green flag flying above Songs about the coming year, about the glory of and music playing in front, practically the God, and in praise of Christ and prayer for his entire cost being contributed by the leading Hin blessings are sung individually and in chorus. du community of the village concerned. In At about 0.30 hours the function concludes by a towns, a few orthodox Muslims who are educated service and mutual exchange of greeting for the commence ten days earlier reading the life and New Year by those assembled there. At 5.30 other holy books on Islam and conclude the festi hours in the morning of the New Year's Day each val with poor feeding on a small scale whether there family conducts service in the house. Prayers is a procession or not. Several miracles are attri are offered for the benefitc; of the previou~ year buted to the credit of the great saint. At the and for blessing~ in the ensuing year. After bath earlier stages of his life he converted a gang of and wearing of new clothes, greeting cards, gifts robbers by telling them how much of money he and sweets are distributed to friends and relatives. COMMON FESTIVALS [19] Church service between 9 and 11 a. m. is att 2. GOOD FRIDAy-Jesus christ was crucified in ended by all. Dedication of Biblical names by Jerusalem by the Jews on Friday and Good the pastor to the new born babies and special Friday is celebrated to commenora te the day. prayers for the extension of the kingdom of Chr It is a part of the celebration of the Easten and ist brings the function to a close. comes immediately before the Easter Sunday, Easter being the most joyous of Christian At home each family exhibits the greetings festivals observed annually throughout Christ and gifts such as toys, clothing, ~,weets etc., re endom in commemorrttion of the resurrection of ceived from friends and relatives on a table in the Jesu& Christ on the first Sunday after the full well appointed hall of the house, cleaned and de moon following the vernal equinox. Though Easter corated. The day is one of rejoicing with cho Sunday is the central point in the observance of ice sweetmeats and non-vegetarian dishes for di the events connected with Christ's death on a nner. Friday and His resurrection on Sunday, the ideal Easter season extends from Ash Wednesday, the Besides contributing one tenth of a month's first day of Lentto Whit Sunday which commemor income to the church by all devoted Christians, ates the day of Pentecost. This period of the special offerings are made to the church for the Easter cycle may be div;ded into 3 periods (1) the extension of the kingdom of the Jesus Christ i.e., preparatory fast of the forty days of Lent; (2) for the mission of converting others into Chris the fifteen days beginning with the Sunday before tianity. The exchange of greetings is not confined and ending with the Sunday after Easter, during to Christians alone. It is extended to all classes which the ceremonies of the holy week and the of educated people. The Christians distribute services of the Octave of Easter are observed; sweets to all their Hindu and Muslim friends in (3) the Octave of Easter during which the newly the locality. baptised wear their white garments and for the paschal season beginning at Easter and lasting For the recently converted uneducated Hari till Whit Sunday. In this district fasting is jans of the countryside, the New Year's Day has observed for a week commencing from the 4th no special significance, unless the concerned pa day preceding Good Friday up to Easter i.e., the stor undertakes to hold the function of dedicating Sunday after Good Friday. The period is known Biblical names to the converts here and there du as Lamentation period or Passion week. The ring the close of the year· Inspite of these cele religious minded elders observe the fast very brations Christians do not attach much religious strictly and engage them3clves in prayers. On importance to this New Year's Day. There is a Friday church service is cond ucted from 11.00 convention gaining ground both among the Cath hours to 16.00 hours, when only 7 persons speak, olics and the Protestants that there is no need to the significance being that the Lord spoke only attach importance to 1st January as a New Year's seven words from the cros, before His death. Day. It may be observed, as any other Indian Each speech is preceded and followed by a prayer. does, as the first day of the official calendar year. No true Christian fails to ob~erve fast at least Along with the preparation and enjoyment of the 011 that day. The Sunday following is Easter. Early time-honoured bhakshyam from the days of fore in the morning at 5.00 hot,I:> all the members of fathers, all the functions of thanks giving for the the Chu!'ch start in procession from the Church closing year and prayers for the New Year etc., to an open space preferably a grove. There they can as well be transferred to the Telugu New sing in praise of the Lord after which there is a Year's Day by the Andhra, Karnataka and sermon by a learned preacher. By 7.00 hours they Maharashtra Christians now that we are an return home and get ready to attend the church independent nation with a national calendar of by 9.00 hours. Roman Catholics, however, do not our own. go in procession but attend their respective 1. Easter-The day the Christiam celebrate Christ's rising fro'l1 the dead is called El~te It alww, comes off on a Sunday falling either in March or in April. The date depends. on when the moon appears in full in those months. However, it can never be earlier than March, 22 nor later than Apni 25. To many, Easter means the coming of spring. In this season tr~es give out n.ew leaves; seeds th:lt have rested in the ground all winter send up leaves and flower.s; mot~s ~ome <;Jut of th~lr. cocoons, birds build nest~ and lay egg). For hundreds of years eggs have signified that awakenmg of hfe In sprmg. ChrIs.tlans colour Easter eg~, and give them to their friends as a way of saying "Spring is here" (The Golden book 0/ Enyc[opaedta-Book V. page 4n by Butha Mori.~ Parker). [20] APPENDIX I churches, have service from 3 to 4 p.m. as Jesus made to wander about in thl! congregation, is believed to have been crucified at 3.00 p.m. distributing sweets, etc., to children from the They obseve jagarana on the night of Saturday stockings hung to a bamboo stick on his shoulder. previous to the Easter Sunday which they call On the night of 24th December, the members of 'Easter Vigil'. Immediately after the service in the church specially youngsters go around the the church 'Lord's supper' is observed by those town in groups singing Christmas carolls to wake who beEeve in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. up the Christians and inviting them to church Bread and diluted wine in little quantities for the important celebration on the 25th representing the flesh and blood of Jesus are morning. Some of the Christian families receive t:1ken by Christians. New born babies are brought such parties and offer them sweets and cakes. to the church and christened with Biblical names After the service in the church on the morning by the pastor. Nominally the members of of the 25th they return home and spend the day Christian family are baptised as token of rebirth, in merriment, exchanging greetings and inviting affirming their belief in Christ. This is done by friends and relatives to participate in the immersing the Christian in the water and taking Christmas dinner. The well-to-do Protestants him out by the pastor or some other church prepare the 'Christmas tree' with canes and authority chanting hymns. This is the practice bamboos and decorate it with coloured paper, with the majority of the Protestants who immerse candles and a variety of coloured bulbs. Gifts the new convert not particularly in sacred or holy and greetings received from friends and relatives water as John, the Baptist baptised for the first are conspicuously exhibited on the Christmas tree. time in the waters of Jordon. It signifies a spiritual turning away from sins and the entry The Roman Catholics do not have the into a new and purer life. A few of the Christmas tree but exhibit in a crib (a small hut Protestants and all the Catholics sprinkle holy like erection) the articles of presentations, the water on the new converts before Baptism, after statues of Babe Jesus, Mother Mary and foster saying prayers over the water before it is fa ther Joseph. Some figures of animals represen sprinkled. Feasts are held and consumed in every ting the stable are also kept to indicate the actual house with friends and relatives. place of the birth of Lord Jesus. Christmas is a common festival for all 3. CHRISTMAS is the birthday celebration of Jesus Christians in Karimnagar District whether rich Christ. Though 25th is the birthday of Jesus, the or poor in towns or villages. The well-to-do in the celebrations commence on the night of 23rd towns celebrate the festival in the manner December with the Christmas Candle Lighting detailed above. Even the poor on account of the Service. The evening of 24th is called the close association with the rest in the town observe "Christmas Eve" and special prayers and services it with equal zeal though they cannot afford the are held in churches. In order to keep the costly dinners or exchange of sweets. The children awake on the night of 24th the parents 'Christmas Tree' is a luxury for them, For the tell them that "Christmas Father" visits them uneducated Harijan converts of the village, with presents. This 'Christmas Father' or Santa Christmas is, perhaps, a festival. Rich feasts of Claus is an imaginary person with a white flowing the year are held though they are not advanced beard and a red snow suit who is believed to fill enough to conceive the idea of 'Christmas Father' the children's stockings with Christmas presents or a 'Christmas tree'. But the missioneties and by night. The children generally fall asleep by the local pastors are innovating several methods mid-night of the Christmas Eve; then the parents of conversion 011 the Christmas day. Processions keep presents like sweets, baloons, toys, etc., in singing songs in Telugu, door to door personal stockings and keep them under their beds or on invitation to one and all of the place to take part the tables. In the morning the children are told in the procession, enacting dramas of the life and that Christmas Father had come and left them teachings of several of the Christian saints and presen ts. Even in the church the eldest member arranging burrakathas about the saints are resorted \s dressed like the 'Christmas Father' and is to to support their mission. APPENDIX II [22] o- 'l)::l'''' 1:<.-60'8 co 8:t: _d c = '"::l _"0 c I >. o:s ..i ~ 8 ~ ..c .~ ":;i~ c'O ...... I:: ::l ,...., , '"c .;::E til ~ E o 00 [23] 0);:)I '" .... "0 ~.9 8::.: ~Cl 0::10 ...... c::l <:.).~ dO 0'" o.~0 ...... l~ ....l~ III 8 8«I ..d o<:.) ll. ~ -0 '"::s '";::I C;;°on ·0 c;j.;,·0 o·~ c;j'bO <:.).~ 0._ 00 0- 0- ....l'" ....l~ ....l~ 1 I E ;:) «I.e 0) .... » ..co o ,c", '0 .... o" ~'O '00:1 ~- ::l~ tI.l~ d'S . .~ ~S'~ ~-g Q.~ Ull.«_ , .;:E n ~ ao .!:: i'l 's a OIl --=' o N -r- 00 [24] o.... 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Abhaya hastam Raised right palm of dei Bandlathopu Taking bullock carts ties representing the pro round the temple tection-affording attitude Beejaksharams Incanta tion, mantra re in a posture of reassurance lating to a deity Abhishekam Religious nte of pouring Bhajan Singing in chorus in or sprinkling sacred wa praise of God ter on the image ofa dei Bhakshyam Sweetmeat ty or Sivalingam Bheripuja Worship of the drums Adhyayanant Reciting of Vedas Bhuvarloka Astral plane Adhyayanothsavam A kind of festival asso Biruda Name, title ciated with recital of Bonams A preparation of rice and Vedas greengram dhal intended Alams Standards wich are com for offering to a deity monly made of copper and Bugga Spring; stream of water brass, though occasional Burrakatha Folklore related to some ly of gold or of silver deity or hero, usually Allah Almighty related to the accompa Agnigundam A ritual during a festival niment of a special type involving fire walking of drum and a stringed Agraharam Small village gifted to instrument Brahmins Ananthavahanaseva Procession of a deity on the vehicle of Ananta Chadivimpulu Gifts or presentations Ankurarapnam ... Inauguration Chakrateertham Taking the chakram (dis Annasantarpana Free feeding cus of Lord Vishnu) to a Aradhana Special worship well or a pond for bath Archana Woro;hip ing it in the water Ashtadikbandhana Establishing a talisman chanting hymns at each of the eight cor Chakrapongali A sweet preparation ners of the village, lest made of rice, milk and an evil spirit should enter green gram dhal the enclosed space Chandanagoshti An assembly of devotees Aswamedha Ritual associated with before the deity horse sacrifice Chaturvedadhyayanam Reciting the fo ur Vedas Aswarohanam Taking the deity on the Cheruvu Tank or pond vehicle depicting a horse Aswavahanaseva Procession (of a dei ty) on the vehicle depicting a Daddhojanam Curd rice horse Dakshina Cash paid to pujari or Avathars Incarnation'> purohit on a ceremonial occasion; south Danava Demon BaJiharanam Offering of cooked rice Dargah; Place of religious impor mixed with the blood of Darga tance for Muslims gene sacrificed animal or red rally having a tomb coloured cooked rice Darsan Audience Balihomam A kind of sacrifice Deep am Light (burning lamp) Bandlaseva Procession of the deity on Deeparadhana Burning oil lamps before carts; carts being taken a deity round a temple or deity Devatapuja Worship of the deity [56] Devatharadhana Worship of the deity Harikatha Legend of exploi t of some Devathas Celes tial beings God or hero related with singing classical music Dharmasala Choultry and dance Dhupam The wave of incense smoke Dhw(ljarohanam Inauguration of the fes Homam Sacrifice tival (flag hoisting) Dhyanam Meditation or concen tration of mind on a Jdgah Open place where a wall particular thing or God is constructed on a ral Dishti Eye sorcery sed platform on the wes Do larohanam; Procession of a deity on tern outskirts of the Dolothsavam a swing village or town Imam Muslim priest Dopothsavam A ritual during a festival in which the deity is Imambara House of the imam robbed and the culprits traced Jagarana; Keeping awake through Dopu Plunder Jagaram out the night; perno cta tion Jagirdars The feudal chiefs holding Edurukollu A ritual observed during an assignment of land marriage ceremony of from a ruler in return the God and his consort; for military or other the deity is welcomed as service a bridegroom Jammi A kind of tree Ekanthaseva Worship involving plac Jatara Fair having religious im ing the Lord and his portance consort in a swing Jeevasamadhi Entering a tomb alive Eruvaka Field Kalasam A vessel of copper or Fathihah Offering in the name of brass or even of earth God or saint into which water is pou red and a cocoanut is placed at the top surroun Gadha Truncheon; mace ded by 5 betel leaves Gajavahanam Elephant vehicle fixed with their tips up Gandadeepams Taking buring wicks wards under a canopy; the wicks Kalyanam Marriage burning before the image of the deity Kalyanamanlapam Wedding ha 11 Garudaseva; Procession of a deity on Kathakalakshepam Listening to stories, ge Garudothsavam the vehicle depicting the nerally relating to Gods sacred kite called Garuda Kazi Muslim priest Gotram Clan Khiamath Destruction of the world Khima A kind of minced meat preparation H anumanthaseva Procession of a deity on Kollagoltu Plunder a vehicle depicting Ha Kolatam A dance to the beat of numan short sticks held in the Harathi Wave offering generally hands with lighted camphor or Kshetram Holy place wick dipped in ghee Khseerasagara Milk sea [57] Kudumulu A bun or cake of cereal Namaz Prayer flour mixed either with Navarathrulu or .... Festival of nine nights, jaggery or salt and boiled Devinavarathulu generally Dasara in steam Ni/Ya naivedyam Daily offering to a dei ty Kumkum Vermilion Panakam Jaggery solution taste Linga Phallic representation of ...... fully spiced Lord Siva Panchangam Almanac Panchangasravanam Listening to almanac Pandals Tents (temprorary sheds) Madugu '.' Pond Panuvattam Pedestal on which a Siva M akarathoranam A type of festoon in a lingam stands temple Panneram Soaked greengram dhal M akarasankramanam .•• The time when the Sun salted and spiced returns to the northern Paramannam A sweet preparation with hemisphere rice, milk and sugar or Mango/am Auspicious ending of a jaggery ceremony by singing a Paramapadothsavam Festival invoking bless song etc. ings of heaven Mantapam or A small room with pi Pasupu annam or Cooked rice and green Mandapam llars and roof a 11 of Pulagam gram dhal stones, a structure for Pattenamams placing an idol Vaishnavite caste marks represented by 3 vertical M antaparadhana Worship of a deity plac lines on forehead ing the images in a man Peerlu tapam Alams (in the form of palms or standards) which Mantram Incantation or spell. In Sanskrit and other lan are commonly made of guages derived °from it, copper and brass, though occasionally of gold or ita 1 s a de-notes hymn, silver sacred text and mystical Pindam verse Fa 0 d presented at a Moredu A kind of tree sraddha to the spirit of departed person Mujavor Muslim priest; one who Pitrus conducts worship, a mi The spirits of the depar ted ancestors nistrant Pongali A sweet preparation with rice and greengram dhal Ponnachettu A kind of tree Worship on the last day Nagaba/i Ponnaseva Procession of a deity on a of the festival replica of Ponna tree /fagava/li The concluding ceremony Pradoshapuja Worship at dawn during a marriage Prasadam Eatable distributed after Nagulu Serpents offering to a deity Naivedyam Offering in kind made to Preta God and consumed later Dead body or spirit Namam Vaishnavaite caste mark Pujar; Priest; one who conducts represented by three ver worship-a ministrant tical lines on the fore Pulihora A preparation with rice head and tamarind juice etc. Namaskara Folding hands in rever Pulivesham I;>isguise of a tiger ence; salutation Puranakalakshepam Spending time in listen N amaskaramudra Posture a f salutation; ing to Puranas namaskara Puranic Pertaining to Puranas [58] Purohit Pries t Satrasala Choultry or hall where Purusharthas The four alms to be as free boarding and lodging pired for by a man viz, is provided Dharma, 'Artha, Kama and Sherbat Cool drink Moksha Seva Worship or procession Pushpayagam Worship with many kinds Shatsasthrapathanam .,. Recital of six Sastras of flowers Sikharam The highest point of a temple or a tower; peak Sivopasana Worship of Lord Siva Rakshasas Demons; evil - minded Smartha The sect of non-Vaish strong beings similar to navite Brahmins aSurQS who are enemies Snanam Bathing of suras Sou mya rupa Graceful appearance Ramayanaparayana Reciting Ramayana Sraddha Oblation ceremony Rathasala Hall where the temple Stambham Pillar chariot is kept parked Swar/oka Heaven Rathaprathishta .•• Installation of ratha Rathothsavam Car festival Talambralu A ri tual at which bride Rishi Sage and the bridegroom pour Rudrabhishekam ... Religious rite of pouring rice over the heads of or sprinkling sac red e a c h other during the water on the image of a marriage ceremony imme deity or Sivalingam dia tely after the tali is tied Takbirs Hymns Sadassu or Sadasyam .. Ceremonial gat her i n g Tapam Penance before the deity Taziyahs Alams procession Sadhu One who has renounced Teertham Festival; sacred place, the worldand its concerns sac red or sanctified Sahasranamarchana Worship by u t t e r in g water; stream thousand names of God Thambulam The whole apparatus of or Goddess betel i. e., the leaf, the Sakatapradakshina Carts being taken round nut, the chunam and the a temple or deity spicery in the manner the Samanthakmani. .. Name of the precious Indians take it; generally diamond gifted to Satya bete1 leaves and areca bhama, consort of Lord nuts Krishna, by her father Thirukkalyanothavam .•• Marriage ceremony Satrajit Tho llakumchatm aru A ritual during a festival Sami A kind of tree (prosopis Tilhi Lunar day of Telugu spicigera) calendar Samudramadhanam Ch urning the sea Tulasi Holy basil (ocimum Sankhu Conch sanctum) Santharpana Poor feeding San! anavratam Vow to worship the deity with a view to begett Udvasana Concluding ceremony ing children Ugrarupa Awe inspiring posture Sanyasi One who has renounced the world and its con Undrallu A preparation of rice cerns flour cooked on steam Sastras HoI y scriptures laying Upastambham A pillar where the sacri down the code of conduct ficial animal is tied be etc. fore the deity [59] Urs Muslim festival celebra Vayanam A day's ration complete ted in memory of a saint in itself, all kept In a Uthsavam Celebration, as applied new winnow to the pagoda ceremonies; Vedaparayana Reciting Vedas festival Veena Musical instrument Vibhuti Purified or sacred ash Vratam Vow; special worship in Vada Hot dish prepared with fulfilment thereof soaked blackgram dhal Vrushabhapuja Worship of the sacred etc. bull of Lord Siva Vadapappu Soaked greengram dhal Vahanams Chariots V anabho janam Dinner arranged in a Yaguasala Hall where yagnam or garden or picnic in the holy sacrifice is perfor precincts of the village med Vasomham Coloured water Vasanthothsavam Sprinkling of coloured water Zanda Flag INDEX Name of village Taluk or Page Name of village Taluk or Page or town Sub-taluk No. or town Sub-taluk No. (1) (2) (3) (1) (2) (3) Adivarampeta Sultanabad 68 GUll.iapaduga Jagtial 58 Appannapeta Sultanabad 67 Gunkulkondapur Karimnagar 12 Aravalli Jagtial 60 Guliakota Jagtial 56 Arnakonda Karimnagar 3 Hasnapur Karimnagar 9 Arenda Manthani 76 Husnabad Karimnagar 18 Arepalle Karimnagar 9 Huzurabad Huzurabad 86 Arpapalle Jagtial 47 Atmakur Jagtial 57 Ibrahimpatnam Metpalle Aunoor Sirsilla 32 35 Illanthakunta Huzurabad 86 Israjpalle Jagtial 54 Baddipalle Karimnagar 4 Itkial Jagtial 45 Basvapur Karimnagar 13 Iyalapur Metpalle Beerpur Jagtial 44 37 Begloor Manthani 78 Jabhithapur Begumpet Sultanabad 69 Jagtial 59 Jagtial Jagtial Bejjanki Karimnagar 10 52 Jaggasagar Metpalle Bhushanaraopet Metpalle 41 40 Jammikunta Bijgirsharif Huzurabad 83 Huzurabad 84 J a ngamredd ipalle Buggaram Ja.l1;tial 50 Sirsilla 33 Jangaon Sultanabad 65 Jeelgul Huzurabad 89 8 Chakunta Karimnagar Jogapuram Sirsilla 22 Huzurabad 82 Chelluru Julapalle Sultanabad 67 Chelpur Huzurabad 85 Cherlaboothkur Karimnagar 8 Kaleshwar Manthani 76 Cherlapalle Jagtial 43 Kamalapur Huzurabad 89 Cherlapur Karimnagar 12 Kamalapuram Jagtial 50 Chigurmamidy Karimnagar 18 Kandikatkur Sirsilla 33 Chilwakodur Jagtial 58 Kandlapalle Jagtial 43 Chinnapuram Jagtial 51 Kanl;\arthi (Kadeem) Sultanabad 65 Choppadandi Karimnagar 3 Kappa.raopet Sultanabad 63 Karimnagar Karimnagar 9 Dattojipet Karimnagar 2 Kathlapur Metpalle 41 Desarajpalle Karimnagar 4 Kodimyala Jagtial 60 Devampalle Huzurabad 81 Kodurupaka Sultanabad 70 Dharmapuri Jagtial 47 Koheda Karimnagar 15 Dubba Metpalle 35 Koorella Karimnagar 13 Dumpeta Metpalle 41 Kondapur Metpalle 40 Dursed Karimnagar 8 Koratla Metpalle 39 Koratpalle Karimnagar 2 Ekeenpur Metpalle 39 Kothagattu Huzurabad 85 Eigaid Sultanabad 71 Kothakonda Huzurabad 86 Eigandal Karimnagar 5 Kothapal1e (Haveli) Karimnagar 7 EllareddipQt Sirsil1a 21 Kothapalle Sirsilla 21 Kummarikunta Sultanabad 67 Gangadhara Karimnagar 1 Gannervaram Karimnagar 10 Lakshmipuram Jagtial 57 Garrepalle Sultanabad 72 Lingannapet Sirsilla 21 Garsekurthi Karimnagar 2 Lingapuram Jagtial 59 Gattepalle Sultanabad 73 G Name of village Taluk or Page Name of village Taluk or Page or town Sub-taluk No. or town Sub-taluk No. (1) (2) (3) (1) (2) (3) Manthani Manthani 75 Raikal Jagtial 46 Maqdumpur Karimnagar 8 Rajaram Jagtiai 44 Marripalligudem Huzurabad 86 Ramachandrapur Karimnagar 14 Medpalle Metpaile 35 Ramagundam Sultanabad 65 MetpalJe Metpaile 38 Ramancha Karimnagar 16 Metpalle Huzurabad 84 Ramannapet (hamlet Jagtial 59 of Nukapalle) Molugupalem Karimnagar 17 Sultanabad Moolasala Sultanabad 74 Ramulapaile 73 (hamlet of Kankulla) Mootapalle Jagtial 45 Rapalle Jagtiai 58 Sirsilla 32 Morraipalle Regunta Jagtial 45 Karimnagar 4 Motha Ratnagiri Huzurabad 88 Huzurabad 88 Mulkanoor Rudravaram Karimnagar 4 Mulkunur Karimnagar 17 Munjampalle Sultanabad 63 Sirsilla Muppiritota Sultan bad 70 Sankepalle 33 Metpalle Murumuru SUltanabad 64 Sangam 39 Mustabad Sirsilla 32 Sarvareddypalle Karimnagar 1 Mutharam Huzurabad 88 Shabajpalle Sirsilla 33 Muthyampet Metpalle 37 Shakalla Jagtial 51 Myadaram Sultanabad 66 Sirsepalle Huzurabad 85 Sirsilla Sirsilla 31 Nagulmalyal Karimnagar 5 Nagunur Karimnagar 7 Somanapalle Jagtiai 51 Jagtial Nallagonda Karimnagar 16 Sthambampalle 55 Nallagonda Sirsilla 22 Sultanabad Sultana bad 71 Nampalle Sirsilla 30 Sultanpur Sultanabad 72 Sundaragiri Karimnagar 18 Nancharla Jagtial 57 Narsimiapalle Karimnagar 1 Sundilla Sultanabad 65 Narsingapuf Sirsilla 33 Navabpet Karimnagar 15 Takkallapalle Jagtial 51 Neerukulla Sultanabad 72 Tandriyal Metpalle 42 Nemilikonda Jagtial 61 Tatpalle Jagtial 52 Nimmanapalle Sultana bad 70 TeegaJa D harm:!Iram Jagtial 44 Thangallapalle Karimnagar 14 Odela Sultanabad 7~ Thunguru Jagtial 43 Odyaram Karimnagar 5 Tirmalapuram Jagtial 57 Totapalle Karimnagar 13 Padira Sirsilla 31 Paidumadugu Metpalle 36 Vachnoor Karimnagar 13 Paltham Sultanabad 66 Varsekonda Metpalle 35 Pankena Manthani 78 Vedurughatta Karimnagar 3 Parveda Karimnagar 15 Veenavanka Huzurabad 83 Pathagudur Sultanabad 63 Vegurupalle Huzurabad 82 Peddampeta Manthani 78 Veldi Huzurabad 81 PeddapaJle Sultanabad 69 Velgonda Jagtial 50 Peddapur Metpalle 38 Vellulla Metpalle 38 Peddapuram Sultanabad 66 Vempalle Jagtial 45 Peggerla MetpalJe 40 V en kataraopet Pembatla Jagtial 47 Vemulavada Sirsilla 23 Paias J?gtiai 53 Vengumatla Jagtiai 55 Potharam Metpalle 42 Venkatapur Sirsilla ... 31 Pothareddipeta Huzurabad 85 Venkatapur Metpalle 40 Potiapalle Karimnagar 19 Voddad Jagtial 59 VootupaJle Metpalle 41 Rachchapalle Sultanabad 68 Raghavapuram Sultan';tbad 68 Yusufnagar Metpalle 37 ERRATA Page CO/limn No. No. Fartjelilars For Read (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) v I Para 2 Delate the last but one sentence 2 Para 3-last line women woman 6 Foot note Eswar Butt Eswar Dutt 46 2 Para 2-1ine 8 three there 59 S. No. 37-Para 3-line 1 temple temples 67 2 Last but one line Embarumanar Embarumannar 69 Source Adivarampet Adivarampeta 77 Para 2-last but one line Kamsale Kamsali 8S 2 Source above S. No. 11 Shunmukhachari Shanmukhachari [5] 2 Line 8 Valadea reethi Valade areethi [9] Foot note 4-line I of the the sage of the sage [15] S. No. I-Para 2-line 5 convenienee convenience [17] 2 Line 6 from bottom chest Mohammad chest of Mohammad [18] 2 S. No.6-line 3 eight eighth [19] Foot note-line 1 called Easte called Easter [22] 3 S. No. I-line 2 Lakhsettipet Lakshettipet [24] 5 S. No. 26-lines 1 & 2 (October) (October-November) [26] 7 S. No. 40-line 1 Sita Ramaswamy Sri Rama [30] 3 S. No. I5-line 2 Raiway Railway (31] 8 s. No.5-line 2 ahd and [33] 3 S. No. 17-line 4 and from Metpalle from Metpalle [33] 8 S. No. 20-line 1 ocal Local [36] 10 S. No. 17-lines 3 & 4 (February-May) (February-March) [37] 4 S. No. 27-lines 1 & 2 Ven ka teswararaswamy Vcnkateswaraswamy [41] 10 s. No. IO-lines 1 & 2 in workshipped is worshipped [411 3 S. No. Ii-line 2 Sultaaabad Sultanabad [42] 5 S. No. 12-line 1 Sudda Suddha [43] 3 S No. 20-line 1 mies miles [43] 7 S. No. 20-litle 1 Narasmhaswamy Narasimhaswamy [431 9 S. No. 21-line 3 conqs combs [43] 5 S. No. 25-line 4 perioD period [46] 5 S. No.2-line 2 Purdima Purnima [46] 10 S. No.2-line 1 festtval festival Page Column No. No. Par tieu/ars For Read (1) {2) (3) (4) (5) [46] 10 S. No.2-lines 2 & 3 Pholgunam Phalgunam [47] 10 S. No. ll-line 4 Aprii April [49] 3 S. No. I8-lines 1 & 2 Yelkakurthi Yelkathurthi [~] 5 Column head-line 2 whic:h with which [52] , Lines 10 & 11 from bottom Rathosav21Jl1 Rathothsavam [$4} S Lines 3 ~ 4 Ardahana Aradhana [55} 1 Line 10 Ankurarapnam Ankurarpanam [56] 2 Line 14 from bottom buring burning !57J 3 Line 3 Devinavarathulu J)evinavarathrulu [57] 4 LiRe 9 temprorary temporary [58] 1 Line 15 Samanthakmani Samanthakamani [58J 3 Line 8 from bottom Thirukkalyanothavam Thirukkalyanothsavam [59] 3 Line 6 from bottom Tithi Tidhi [61] 1 Last line Gunjapadigll. Gunjapadi,ge [61) 4 Line 7 Ibrahimpatnam Ibrahimpatam o ;;56~ e3b:JI:l&'OJ:l? 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