Context:
Recently, a 390-year-old Deepastambham (lamp post) was discovered on the banks of the River Krishna’s edge in Nalgonda district, Telangana.
About Deepastambham (Lamp Post):
- It is situated in Mudimanikyam village in the Nalgonda district of Telangana.
- It is equipped with hollows crafted for lamps and designed with multi-lingual inscriptions.
- The inscription on the Deepastambham is a blend of Telugu and Tamil languages and dates back to June 1635.
- It is dedicated to Kasi Viswanatha, adding religious and cultural significance to its historical importance.
- Beyond its religious ties, it is believed to have played a practical role as a lighthouse along the riverine trade route which contributed to the establishment of trade connections during the early medieval period.
- Such structures are uncommon in the Deccan region but are prevalent in temples along the west coast, particularly in Goa.
Note:
- Nalgonda District: It is near Hyderabad which is ruled by Qutb Shahi rulers mentioned by European travelers, including Tavernier, highlighting the significance of riverine trade routes alongside land trade.
Krishna River:
- Origin: Mahabaleshwar (Western Ghats), Satara district, Maharashtra.
- Flowing area: It flows through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
- Tributaries: Ghataprabha, Malaprabha, Bhima, Tungabhadra, and Musi.