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Geographical Features of Telangana

Formation

  • Telangana was formed as the 29th state of India on June 2, 2014.

Position and Extent

  • Latitude: 15°55′ to 19°56′ North
  • Longitude: 77°15′ to 80°47′ East
  • Area: 114,840 sq. km (12th largest state in India)
  • Physiographic Region: Deccan Plateau

Borders

Direction Bordering State
Northeast Chhattisgarh
Northwest Maharashtra
West Karnataka
East & Southeast Andhra Pradesh

Geographic Features

  • The landscape consists of plateau, hill ranges, and plains.
  • Eastern Ghats and Western Ghats influence the terrain.

Major Rivers

Krishna River

  • Enters Telangana in Mahbubnagar district.
  • Eastern Ghats split into Nallamala and Yerramala ranges.
  • Nallamala forests are inhabited by Chenchu tribe.

Godavari River

  • Flows through scenic Papikondalu hills.
  • Extends through Warangal and Khammam districts.

Mountain Ranges

  • Sahyadri Ranges: Known locally as Nirmalgualu; extend into Adilabad.
  • Rakhi Ranges: Extend into Karimnagar district.
  • Kandagal Ranges: Extend into Warangal–Khammam region.
  • Balaghat Ranges: Found in Hyderabad and Mahbubnagar; Golconda Fort located on these hills.

Climate

  • Type: Semi-arid
  • Rainfall: 700 mm to 900 mm annually
  • Moderate humidity
  • Warm dry nights and moderate daytime temperatures
  • Supports diverse flora and fauna

Cultural Confluence of Telangana

The Melting Pot

  • Telangana acts as a cultural corridor between North and South India.
  • Influenced by Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh.

Cultural Influences

  • Deccan Culture: Blend of Persian, Mughal, and indigenous traditions; seen in architecture and cuisine.
  • Hyderabad Culture: Urban expression of Deccan culture; known for Hyderabadi cuisine, Urdu dialect, pearls, and lacquer bangles.
  • Telangana Folk Culture: Includes Janapada songs, Perini Shivathandavam, Gussadi dance, Cheriyal scroll paintings.
  • Rural Culture: Agricultural lifestyle, village festivals, Bonalu, Bathukamma, traditional practices.
  • Tribal Culture: Practiced by Gonds, Chenchus and other tribes; strong connection with forests and nature.
  • Islamic Culture: Influence of Qutb Shahi and Asaf Jahi rule; visible in architecture, language, and traditions.

Political Features - The Asaf Jahi Dynasty and British Influence

Treaty and Subsidiary Alliance:

  • On October 12, 1800, the Asaf Jah kings (Nizams) entered into a treaty and subsidiary alliance with the British.
  • This agreement made Hyderabad a subsidiary state under British influence.
  • A British Resident was stationed in Hyderabad to advise the Nizam, particularly on matters of great importance, such as the appointment of the Prime Minister (Diwan).

Financial Crisis and Reforms:

  • The financial condition of Hyderabad deteriorated sharply during the reign of Nizam IV (Nasir-ud-Daula), leading to enormous debts by 1853.
  • To settle the debt, the British took control of Berar, one of the five Subhas (provinces) ruled by the Nizam.
  • Mir Turab Ali Khan (Salar Jung I) was appointed Diwan (Prime Minister) and carried out major administrative and financial reforms.
  • His efforts were highly successful; by the time of his death in 1883, the state's financial health had greatly improved.

Assistance Rendered during the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny:

  • The Fifth Nizam (Afzal-ud-Daula), advised by Salar Jung I, gave the British unconditional support during the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny (known as the First War of Indian Independence).
  • In gratitude for this loyalty:
    • The British returned the districts of Osmanabad (Naldurg) and Raichur to the Nizam.
    • They also wrote off a debt of 50 lakh rupees. At that time, the annual income from these two districts was 21 lakh rupees.
  • Honorary Recognition: In 1861, the Nizam was awarded the GCSI (Grand Commander of the Order of the Star of India) by the British as an honorary title.

Early Administration under Nizam-ul-Mulk:

  • Under the first king of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, Nizam-ul-Mulk (Asaf Jah I), the state was divided into 6 Subhas (provinces):
    • Aurangabad
    • Berar
    • Bijapur
    • Bidar
    • Hyderabad
    • Khandesh

Social Conditions in Telangana

Caste and Subcaste System:

  • Telangana is marked by the existence of a varna-caste system alongside distinctly diverse social conditions across the region.
  • Historical, cultural, and linguistic evidence confirms the presence of diverse social structures throughout Telangana.
  • According to Professor Jayadheer Tirumala Rao, a noted scholar and linguist, "subcaste" systems were particularly predominant in the region.
  • These subcaste systems served various purposes, but predominantly they functioned as systems that allowed for the payment of respects to the dominant castes.

Jagirdari System:

  • A powerful Jagirdari system (landlord-based feudal system) existed in Telangana.
  • Under this system, upper-caste landlords formed productive relations based on land tenure and ruled villages from small forts known as Gadis, typically built on high ground.
  • These systems were notorious for establishing undemocratic and even despotic caste relations, creating a top-down social structure that favored allies and punished opponents.
  • Despite this oppression, there were and are instances of people challenging and questioning these relations.

Jogini and Basivini Systems:

  • For centuries, the Jogini and Basivini systems existed in Telangana.
  • These are traditional practices where young girls are dedicated to deities and often subjected to social exploitation, despite religious sanction.
  • These systems have historically affected marginalized communities, particularly Dalits and lower-caste groups.

Tribal Communities (Adivasis):

  • Large populations of Adivasis (aboriginal and tribal groups) live in and around Telangana.
  • They are known for their distinctive languages, cultures, and forms of worship.
  • Their unique customs and traditions make them a distinctly Adivasi people, preserving heritage that differs from mainstream society.
  • These communities are primarily located in the dense forest regions of Adilabad and Khammam districts.

Religious Diversity:

  • Telangana is home to several religious communities who coexist peacefully.
  • The major religious communities include:
    • Hindus
    • Muslims
    • Christians
  • Other communities such as Parsis, Buddhists, and Jains also practice their own traditions.
  • The state is known for maintaining a high level of religious tolerance among all these groups.

Contributions to Literature

Palkuriki Somanatha:

  • Wrote the "Basava Puranam", an important piece of classical prose.
  • His work predates and even influenced the work of the first poet, Nannayya (who is traditionally known as the Adi Kavi or first poet of Telugu literature).
  • Somanatha was a prominent follower of the Veerashaiva tradition and wrote in both Telugu and Sanskrit.

Bammera Pothana:

  • Renowned for his writing of the "Maha Bhagavatham" (Andhra Maha Bhagavatam).
  • He translated the Sanskrit Bhagavata Purana into Telugu, dedicating it to Lord Rama (Sri Rama) rather than to any king, which was unconventional for that era.
  • His work is considered a masterpiece of Telugu literature, known for its simplicity and devotion.

Other Literary Luminaries:

Several scholars have contributed to Telangana's literary legacy by using the local dialect in their works:

  • Mallinadha Suri: A renowned commentator and writer known for his commentaries on Sanskrit works (like the Amara Kosha and Meghadoota). He hailed from the Telangana region.
  • Koravi Goparaju: Author of the "Simhasana Dwatrimsika", a notable work that adapts the classic tales of Vikramaditya's throne.
  • Gona Buddha Reddy: A warrior and poet who wrote the "Ranganatha Ramayanam", which is considered one of the earliest Telugu Ramayanas. He patronized many poets and scholars.

Note: These writers are instrumental in making the Telangana dialect more popular and accepted in literary circles, contributing to the region's distinct linguistic identity.

Overview:

  • A significant tribal populace lives in Telangana, dispersed throughout the state's forests, mountain ranges, and plains.
  • These indigenous communities possess unusual dialects, traditional costumes, and distinctive customs and diets that form the basis of their unique identities.
  • Several tribal groups make their living from farming, while others, like the Chenchus, traditionally gather food from the forest.
  • Government recognition of certain groups as Scheduled Tribes has led to increased variation in their socio-economic status.

Key Government Initiatives:

  • 1976: The then Andhra Pradesh government recognized the Lambadas as a Scheduled Tribe, resulting in a significant rise in their population.
  • 2015: The Telangana government set up the Chellappa Commission to look into the inclusion of the Valmiki Boyas and Khaithi Lambadas under the Scheduled Tribe designation.

1. Gonds

  • Origin of Name: The name Gond comes from Gondwana, a region geographically connected to the tribe.
  • Geographical Spread: Spread over Telangana, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh. In Telangana, they are concentrated mostly in the Komaram Bheem Asifabad and Adilabad districts.
  • Self-Designation: According to the Gondi language, the Gonds call themselves Koyathur.
  • Subgroups:
    • Rajgonds: Serve as prominent leaders of the community in Telangana.
    • Pradhans: Serve as the tribe's traditional storytellers, responsible for preserving and passing on the tribe's cultural history and accumulated wisdom.

2. Lambadi (Banjaras / Sugalis)

  • Nomenclature:
    • Lambada: Derived from the Sanskrit term 'Lavanam' meaning salt—an item they were historically known to trade.
    • Banjara: Believed to spring from the Persian 'Berinj Arinj' (rice trader) or Sanskrit 'Banij' (merchant).
  • Historical Background: Reputed to be grain traders from North India who supplied grains to the South during the era of the Mughal armies in the 17th century.
  • Population Status: Count as the largest Scheduled Tribe in Telangana, with population dispersed across the state.
  • Settlements: Live in settlements known as "Thandas," which are self-sufficient spaces located on the fringe of main villages.
  • Traditional Attire:
    • Males: Dhoti, shirt, and turban.
    • Females: Elegant lehengas, heavy jewelry including bangles extending up to the elbow (Kada), large earrings, and nose pins. Married women wear Balia (elephant trunk bangles from wrist to elbow).
  • Religious Beliefs: Worship nature and various gods, among whom Sevalal holds a place of honor as their revered guru.
  • Festivals: Celebrate Teej, Sithla Bhavani, and Tulja Bhavani. Unmarried girls especially participate in the festivities of Teej.
  • Livelihood: Known for rearing livestock and earning a livelihood through the dairy business.
  • Cultural Artists: Traditional artists known as Dappans perform at weddings using instruments like the Jange and Kinjri.
  • Community Governance: The Lambadi system of Panchayat is called "Nasaab."

3. Chenchus

  • Status: Telangana's first officially recognized Primitive Tribal Group (PTG).
  • Major Settlements: Located in the Amrabad forest (Nagarkurnool, Nalgonda) and Nallamala forests.
  • Traditional Lifestyle: Historically relied on hunting and foraging. Today, they are more settled and live in structures made of mud and thatch.
  • Diet: While they used to eat wild roots and tubers, they now grow more of their own food. They consume Mahua flowers (Ippa Puvvu) and make an alcoholic drink (Sara) from them.
  • Social Structure: Husbands and wives share equal responsibility. Their traditions accept and simplify divorce.
  • Religious Beliefs: Worship Bhairava, Garela Maisamma, and Mallikarjuna Swamy of Srisailam.
    • Srisailam Mallikarjuna Swamy is looked upon as their son-in-law.
    • The festival of Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with great grandeur.
    • Chenchu priests serve in the Srisailam temple.
  • Important Fairs:
    • Mannanuru Jatara
    • Mallela Tirtham
    • Loddi Mallayya Jatara
    • Salleshwaram Jatara

4. Kolam Tribe (Kolavarlu)

  • Alternate Name: Called Manneru Varlu, which means "forest dwellers."
  • Geographical Spread: Mostly found in the Adilabad district.
  • Livelihood: Practice shifting cultivation and settled agriculture.
  • Language: Speak their own Kolam dialect.
  • Mythological Belief: Consider themselves descendants of Bhima and Hidimbi from the Mahabharata.
  • Tradition: Follow a Levirate tradition, where a widow marries her deceased husband's brother.
  • Diet: Jowar is their staple food.

5. Koyas

  • Geographical Spread: Mainly live in the districts of Warangal and Khammam.
  • Connection to Godavari: Their lives are profoundly impacted by the Godavari River, which influences their social, economic, and cultural practices.
  • Self-Designation: Call themselves "Koya Dora."
  • Mythological Belief: Consider themselves descendants of Bhima, due to a long-ago marital union between Bhima and a Koya woman.
  • Distinctive Practice: Well known for Chilaka Josyam (Parrot Astrology).
  • Social Status: Hold a prominent place as "Dorala Sattam" (ruling class).
  • Major Festivals:
    • Sammakka Sarakka Jatara (one of the largest tribal festivals in the region)
    • Muthyalamma festival
  • Religious Practices: The Patadi family provides the priests.
  • High Population Areas:
    • Bhadrachalam, Ashwaraopeta (Bhadradri Kothagudem)
    • Eturnagaram (Jayashankar Bhupalpally)

1. Pochampally Ikat

  • Location & Heritage:
    • Pochampally and nearby hamlets in Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district are famous for Ikat weaving.
    • Telangana is one of the primary centers for Ikat weaving in India, along with Gujarat and Odisha.
  • Weaving Technique & Unique Features:
    • Ikat (Tie and Dye) weaving involves transferring designs onto warp threads prior to weaving.
    • This technique gives the fabric a unique edge effect.
    • Process: Lining up warp threads → Tie-dyeing → Dyeing in a dye bath → Unwrapping the final product.
    • Materials Used: Cotton, silk, and sico (silk-cotton blend).
  • Artisanal Craftsmanship:
    • Pochampally has over 5,000 looms creating Ikat fabrics.
    • Features durable colors, premium fibers, and pure dyes.
    • Designs are meticulously planned on graph paper before weaving.
  • Cultural & Economic Significance:
    • Ikat sarees from Bhoodan Pochampally are famous for their geometric patterns.
    • A saree must look good from any angle due to its natural drape.
    • The Pochampally Handloom Weavers' Cooperative Society Ltd., established in 1955, comprises 125 weaver families and generates an annual turnover of over ₹2.5 crores.
  • Recognition:
    • GI Status: 2005
    • UNESCO tentative list of world heritage sites includes Pochampally.

2. Karimnagar Silver Filigree

  • Definition & Origins:
    • Filigree is a delicate form of metalwork involving tiny beads and threaded strands twisted and soldered onto metal surfaces.
    • The term comes from Latin "filum" (thread) and "granum" (grain/bead).
    • The art stems from Italian and French metalwork of the 17th to 19th centuries.
  • Karimnagar – A Hub of Filigree Art:
    • Karimnagar is renowned for world-class artisans practicing Silver Filigree craft.
    • Products: Jewelry, spoons, buttons, boxes, ashtrays, paandans, perfume containers.
    • Common Motifs: Peacocks, parrots, and fish.
  • Intricate Craftsmanship:
    • Delicate loops of fine silver wire are twisted and knitted into zigzag patterns for a lace-like appearance.
    • More than 90% of the alloy is silver, ensuring high quality.
    • Platinum polish is applied to enhance luster.
    • Modern adaptations include tea trays, key chains, ornament containers, and cigarette boxes.
  • Recognition:
    • GI Status: 2007
    • Treasured by art collectors across India; requires years of practice to master.

3. Nirmal Toys and Art

  • Historical Significance:
    • Nirmal town in Adilabad district is renowned for wooden toys, paintings, and furniture.
    • This 400-year-old tradition traces back to the Kakatiya era and flourished under the Nizams.
  • Materials & Unique Craftsmanship:
    • Toys are crafted using Poniki (White Sander), a softwood indigenous to the area.
    • Duco colors and enamel paints provide a unique shiny finish.
    • Herbal extracts give the toys a distinctive golden sheen.
    • Designs are inspired by Ajanta, Ellora frescoes, and Mughal miniatures.
  • Influence of Naqqash Artisans:
    • From the 17th century, Naqqash artisans from Rajasthan migrated to Nirmal, bringing unmatched artistic expertise.
    • They also created intricate designs on war drones and ammunition for the Nizam's army.
  • Wide Range of Products:
    • Furniture, handicrafts, paintings with Mughal miniatures, art pieces for home, office, and galleries.
    • The Nirmal Toys Industrial Cooperative Society (established 1955) supports artisans.
  • Significance:
    • Nirmal's strategic location as a junction for North, Central, and South India has popularized this craft.
    • Intense academic interest attracts craftsmen and collectors from around the world.

4. Nirmal Furniture

  • Artistic Legacy:
    • Nirmal's craftsmanship is influenced by Indian Schools of Art (Kangra, Ajanta frescoes) and Mughal miniatures.
  • Historical Patronage:
    • Originated during the Kakatiya era.
    • The Nizam of Hyderabad became a patron after being impressed by a stunning golden petal shower created by artisans for his welcome.
  • Nirmal Painted Furniture – A Unique Craft:
    • Represents high-quality, handcrafted wooden furniture with intricate painting.
    • Combines artistic painting with expert woodcraft skills.
    • Types: Rajasthani and French-style soft sets, partition screens, rocking chairs, chowkis, pen holders, Pooja mandapams, wooden platforms, and trolleys.
  • Recognition:
    • GI Status: 2009
    • A true embodiment of Telangana's storied artistic legacy.

5. Nirmal Painting

  • Historical & Cultural Significance:
    • Practiced by Naqqash artisans since the 14th century.
    • Influenced by Kangra, Ajanta frescoes, and Mughal miniatures.
    • Originated during Kakatiya era; flourished under Mughals and Nizams.
  • Royal Patronage:
    • Mughal rulers admired Nirmal paintings.
    • In the 1950s, Lady Hyder promoted the craft under Cottage Industries.
  • Distinctive Features:
    • Signature gold color is a unique element.
    • Themes: Hindu epics (Ramayana, Mahabharata), nature, musicians, dancers, birds, floral motifs.
    • Organic colors from herbs, vegetable dyes, minerals, and gum.
    • Crafted on Puniki (soft white wood) or Indian Teak wood.
    • Luppam paint (NC Patti) applied in multiple layers for moisture absorption.
  • Manufacturing Process:
    • Wood cut, framed, smoothened → 5-6 layers of luppam paint → designs traced in chalk → painted with bright colors and gold accents → varnished for glossy finish → clear spray coating for water resistance.
  • Global Recognition:
    • Exported to Australia, USA, and UK through Golkonda Handicrafts Emporia (TS Government Undertaking).
    • Widely regarded as souvenirs and collector's items.

6. Gadwal Handloom

  • Introduction:
    • Gadwal town is world-renowned for its handloom zari sarees.
    • So finely woven that a Gadwal saree can be folded to fit into a matchbox.
  • Unique Features:
    • Quintessential cotton body with attached silk border and silk pallu.
    • Constituents: Silk/Cotton/Zari; Tussar or Mulberry silk for border; unbleached cotton for body; colored cotton or silk checks for design variation.
    • Pure silk Gadwal sarees are also woven.
  • Weaving Process:
    • Requires 4-8 days of work by two skilled weavers.
    • Interlocked-weft technique (Kuppadam or Tippadam Kotakomma).
    • Due to this technique, Gadwal sarees are also known as Kotakomma or Kumbam sarees.
    • Yarn dyeing → shade drying → loading onto loom → weaving.
  • Significance:
    • Soft, durable fabric with vibrant, long-lasting colors.
    • Perfect for summer wear.

7. Cheriyal Scroll Painting

  • Historical & Cultural Significance:
    • A unique modified version of Nakashi art, deeply rooted in Telangana's heritage.
    • Today primarily practiced in Hyderabad.
    • Narrates mythological tales from Puranas, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and regional folklore.
    • Traditionally used by the Kaki Padagollu community for storytelling with music and dance.
    • Earlier scrolls were up to 45 feet long and 3 feet wide; now reduced to frames but still epic in scale.
  • Artistic Elements:
    • Vertically oriented, typically 4-8 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
    • 4-6 panels, each illustrating part of a story.
    • Bright primary colors with red dominating the background.
    • Instantly recognizable color palettes and traditional motifs.
  • Traditional Process:
    • Canvas: Khadi cotton.
    • Paint ingredients: Starch, white clay, tamarind seed paste, gum arabic.
    • Colors are organic, derived from nature (herbs, vegetable dyes).
    • Outlines drawn freehand with considerable skill.
    • Varnished for vibrancy and preservation.
  • Recognition:
    • GI Status: 2007
    • Subject of scholarly research; dedicated efforts underway to preserve this living art form.

8. Pembarthi Metal Craft

  • Historical Significance:
    • Renowned metal handicraft from Pembarthi village, Warangal district.
    • Known for intricate sheet metal brass engravings.
    • Over 800 years of history; gained prominence during Kakatiya dynasty.
    • Developed by the Vishwakarma community of skilled metalworkers.
    • Used to adorn temple vigrahas (statues) and vahanas (chariots).
  • Evolution & Expansion:
    • During Muslim rule, artisans evolved to create individual decorative items: paandaans, Ittar pots, Jhummars (chandeliers), vases, plaques, mementos.
    • Post-independence revival blended traditional aesthetics with modern utility.
    • Unique aspect: Seamless blend of Hindu and Muslim artistic influences.
  • Recognition:
    • GI Status: Awarded GI status (year not specified in notes).
    • Staple at handicraft exhibitions; synonymous with Telangana's rich artistic traditions.

9. Gollabhama Saree (Siddipet)

  • Introduction:
    • Siddipet district is famous for its traditional weaving, with a significant population of weavers.
  • The Tie and Dye Weaving Technique:
    • Warp and weft threads are dyed in "tie and dye" style before weaving.
    • Produces vibrant patterns with long-lasting colors.
    • Basic fabric: Pure cotton.
    • Colors: Natural dyes or blended dyes.
  • Gollabhama Saree – The Signature Weave:
    • Most iconic handloom variety in Siddipet.
    • Known for exceptional Butta (motif) designs depicting patterns akin to the Gollabhama (milkmaid).
    • Features durability, meticulous detailing, and vibrant color combinations.
  • Weaving Process:
    • Handwoven on frame looms.
    • Loom preparation requires specialized skill, creating a niche for Siddipet handlooms.
  • Market Demand:
    • Growing acclaim for handwoven textiles has put Siddipet crafts in the international spotlight.
    • Products beyond sarees: Towels, bed sheets, pillow covers, decorative fabrics.

10. Narayanpet Saree

  • Location & Heritage:
    • Narayanpet region in Mahabubnagar district.
    • Legend: Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj rested here; weavers from his entourage stayed behind and brought this weaving tradition.
    • Clear Maharashtrian influence observed in these sarees.
  • Unique Features:
    • Characteristic checked surface design with embroidery.
    • Borders and pallus feature intricate ethnic designs.
    • Contrasted look with small zari designs.
    • Unique process: Eight sarees are made in one go on the loom (56 yards of fabric mounted at once).
    • Relatively lighter in weight; comfortable for year-round wear.
  • Design Elements:
    • Traditional borders with rich pallus featuring alternating red and white bands.
    • Border accompanied by flat stretch of deep maroon, chocolate red, or red.
    • Double shade sarees with blends like pink-purple and maroon-mustard.
    • Cotton-silk blends and light pure silk sarees are the best models.
  • Dyeing & Weaving:
    • Warp and weft dyed in Vat colours.
    • Yarn dipped in boiled color water at high temperature for uniform color.
    • Yarn dried under shade (not sun).
    • Weavers easily make 30 sarees out of one beam of warp.
    • Interlocked-weft technique used.
  • Significance:
    • Fusion of Telangana and Maratha style.
    • Affordable, durable, low-maintenance.
    • Known as the pride of Palamuru.

11. Dhokra Metal Craft

  • Historical & Cultural Significance:
    • Ancient metal casting practice performed by Ojha metal smiths (Ojjis).
    • In Telangana, primarily practiced in Jainoor Mandal, Adilabad district (about 50 families).
    • Over 4,000 years of history in India; traces found in Mohenjo-Daro.
    • Artifacts crafted of brass without joints; every piece is distinctively handmade.
  • The Lost Wax Casting Process:
    • Single-use mold; broken after casting – hence "lost" wax.
    • Two varieties:
      1. Liquid Casting (North India)
      2. Hollow Casting (uses clay core)
    • Process:
      • Clay core made → encased in wax and resin, carved with fine details
      • Clay mold placed over wax model; drain holes made
      • Molten brass/gold/bronze/silver poured in
      • After cooling, mold broken; metal form shined and completed
  • Labor-Intensive Craftsmanship:
    • 4-5 days for simple designs; 2-3 weeks for intricate pieces.
    • Products: Animals (elephants, horses), birds (peacocks), folk art motifs, lamp caskets, measuring bowls.
  • Recognition:
    • Renowned for primitive simplicity and aesthetic allure.
    • Highly salable in national and international markets.

12. Warangal Durries

  • Introduction:
    • Attractive handloom widely used in home and office spaces.
    • Created by hundreds of artisans in Warangal district.
    • Made of pure cotton and jute.
  • Popular Patterns:
    • Techniques: Tie and Dye, interlock, Jacquard.
    • Popular designs: Lahari, Mogga, Sitammajada, Diamond, Fish, Dilkush.
    • Patterns change with customer preferences and trends.
  • Key Features:
    • Seamless finish
    • Washable
    • Multiple color options
    • Kalamkari block prints on plain woven Durries have gained importance.
  • Market:
    • Cater to domestic and export markets.
    • Available in abundant colors and sizes based on customer needs.
    • Used as mats for special occasions and religious purposes.

1. Gussadi Dance

  • Community/Region: Performed by men of the Gond tribe in Adilabad district.
  • Occasion: Performed before Deepavali, from Ashwayuja Shuddha Pournami to Ashwayuja Bahula Chaturdasi. Also prominently performed during the Nagoba Jatara.
  • Performance Style:
    • Performers dress in colorful costumes, wear ornaments, and travel in troupes to neighboring villages, singing and dancing.
    • A troupe typically consists of 15 to 20 members, known as Dandari troupes.
    • From these large troupes, five members form Gussadi troupes.
  • Costume & Accessories:
    • Peacock feather turbans (Mal Boora/Maljilina Cap)
    • Deer horns
    • Artificial mustaches and beards
    • Ash applied all over the body
    • Carry Gussadi Rokhhari

2. Dhemsa Dance

  • Community/Region: Performed by both males and females of the Raj Gond clan.
  • Occasion: Primarily during festivals and marriages.
  • Performance Style: Follows the rhythm of traditional music.
  • Musical Instruments: Pepre, Dhol, Kalikom, and Tamak.

3. Koya Dance (Bison-Horn Dance / Permakoki Play)

  • Community/Region: Performed by the Koya tribe in the tribal regions of Warangal and Khammam. Also referred to as Dorala Sattam (ruling class dance).
  • Occasion: During festivals and marriages; a significant part of the Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara in the Mulugu region.
  • Performance Style:
    • Performed by both men and women.
    • Troupe consists of 30 to 40 members.
    • Male dancers wear colorful costumes and large bison-horn headgears, making the performance visually striking.

4. Kurru Dance

  • Community/Region: Performed by the males of the Koya tribe in Warangal district.
  • Occasion: Mainly associated with the Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara.

5. Lambadi Dance

  • Community/Region: Performed by Banjara women.
  • Inspiration: Dance movements reflect daily agricultural tasks like planting, sowing, and harvesting.
  • Occasion: Performed during marriages, Teej festival, Holi, and Sankranthi.
  • Performance Style:
    • During Holi, Banjara women form a circle around the Kamudi Manta (burning of Kama) and dance while holding hands in synchronization with the music.

6. Mango Dance (Konda Reddys)

  • Community/Region: Performed by the Konda Reddy/Bison Reddy tribe in Khammam district.
  • Occasion: Ceremonial festival before plucking mangoes.
  • Deities: Dedicated to Mutyalamma and Konda Devatha.
  • Performance Style: Performed in groups with rhythmic beats played on the Dappu musical instrument.

7. Goravayya Dance

  • Community/Region: Performed by Golla caste members.
  • Location: Inavolu Mallanna temple (Warangal) and Komaravelli Mallanna temple (Siddipet).
  • Performance Style:
    • Dancers wear blankets (Kambali/Gongadi).
    • A member of the Kuruma family is chosen as Goravayya.
    • The Goravayya dancer carries a deer-skin bag (Bandaru) filled with turmeric.
    • Dances with a Dhamarukam in one hand and Kambali in the other.
    • Wears a necklace made of small shells.
  • Unique Feature: Performers bark like dogs, calling themselves "Lord Mallanna's Dogs." After the performance, they lick and drink milk like a dog.

8. Siddi Dance (Khadga Nrityam)

  • Community/Region: Performed by the Siddi community, whose ancestors migrated from Abyssinia (Africa) to Hyderabad.
  • Occasion: During festivals and marriages in Hyderabad.
  • Performance Style:
    • Resembles Sword Fight (Kathi Samu).
    • Performers wear desi-style attire and wield swords, creating an energetic and fierce performance.
    • Involves the use of weapon tools.

9. Garaga Dance

  • Community/Region: Performed across Telangana.
  • Occasion: Significant part of the Bonalu festival.
  • Performance Style: Involves balancing a clay pot (Ghatam) on the head while performing rhythmic dance movements.

10. Perini Sivatandavam

  • Community/Region: Ancient warrior dance from Warangal; historically significant.
  • Deity: Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Location: Performed in front of Nataraja statues or inside Shiva temples.
  • Historical Significance: Traditionally performed by soldiers before heading to battle to invoke Shiva's blessings and strength.
  • Revival: Revived by Nataraja Ramakrishna.

11. Veera Natyam (Heroic Dance)

  • Community/Region: Performed in Veerabhadra temples at Korivi and Kothakonda in Telangana.
  • Communities Involved: Performed by Verra Mushti, Jangams, Balijas, and Devangas.
  • Deity: Associated with Lord Shiva.
  • Occasion: Key attraction during the Shivaratri festival.
  • Significance: Symbolizes Shiva's cosmic energy.

12. Dappu Natyam

  • Community/Region: Performed across Telangana.
  • Performance Style:
    • High-energy percussion-based dance performed using Dappu drums (made from animal hides and beaten with sticks).
    • Performed by 15-20 members in a group.
    • Dancers wear anklet bells.
  • Occasion: Typically seen during processions and feasts.

13. Chindu Bhagavatam

  • Community/Region: Folk theatrical art performed by the Madiga community. The Dakkali caste (dependent on the Madiga community) primarily performs this art.
  • Performance Style:
    • Blends music, storytelling, and dance.
    • Known for its leaps, jumps, and humorous dialogues.
    • Depicts stories from Hindu Puranas and Ithihasas.
  • Major Performance: The Jamba Puranam play is one of their major performances.

14. Chindu Yellamma

  • Community/Region: Born in 1923 in Basara.
  • Art Form: Legendary performer of Yakshaganam and Chindu Bhagavatam.
  • Legacy:
    • Known for her ability to transform her expressions from a delicate woman into a ferocious Narasimha Swamy, captivating audiences.
    • Earned recognition from Nataraja Ramakrishna and other prominent artists.

ADILABAD DISTRICT

Overview:

  • The district derives its name from Adilabad, the headquarters town, which was named after the ruler of Bijapur, Ali Adil Shah.
  • The district was historically ruled by multiple dynasties: Mauryas, Satavahanas, Vakatakas, Chalukyas of Badami, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas of Kalyani, Mughals, Bhosle Rajas of Nagpur, Asaf Jahis, and the Gond Rajas of Sirpur and Chanda.
  • 2016 Reorganization: Adilabad district was reorganized into 4 districts:
    1. Adilabad
    2. Nirmal
    3. Mancherial
    4. Kumrambheem Asifabad

Kuntala Waterfalls:

  • Location: 12 km from Neredikonda village, about 64 km from Adilabad.
  • Feature: The Kadem River cascades 45 meters down and rushes deep into the jungle.
  • Significance: The highest waterfalls in Telangana, offering a spectacular sight when the river is flush with inflows.
  • Best Time: Winter months are ideal for witnessing the falls.

Pochera Waterfalls:

  • Location: 52 km from Adilabad, 40 km from Nirmal, and 8 km from Boath Buzurg.
  • Feature: The Godavari River cascades down rocky slopes, gathering in a large opening in the rocks at a depth of 20 meters, forming an enchanting pond.
  • Atmosphere: The sounds of gushing water and surrounding verdure make it a memorable visual treat.

BHADRADRI KOTHAGUDEM DISTRICT

Overview:

  • Formed from the erstwhile Khammam district.
  • Borders: Bhoopalapalle, Mahabubabad, Khammam districts, and the states of Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
  • Bhadrachalam, a key town of pilgrimage importance, is located in this district on the banks of the Godavari River, sharing historical significance with the Ramayana Era.

Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary:

  • Location: 12 km from Palvancha town.
  • Area: Covers 635.4 sq km.
  • Wildlife: Home to leopards, spotted deer, gaurs, and various bird species.
  • Significance: Named after the Kinnerasani River; part of the Dandakaranya Forests.

Sri Seetha Ramachandra Swamy Devasthanam (Bhadrachalam):

  • Significance: Abode of Lord Rama, attracting lakhs of devotees worldwide.
  • Location: Hillock encircled by the holy river Godavari, flowing southward toward the shrine.
  • Etymology: Name derived from Bhadragiri (Mountain of Bhadra, a boon child of Meru and Menaka).
  • Ramayana Connection: This place existed in Dandakaranya during the Ramayana period, where Rama, Sita, and Laxmana spent their vanavasa. The Parnashaala (connected to the Golden Deer episode and Sita's abduction) is in the vicinity.

HYDERABAD DISTRICT

Golconda Fort:

  • History: Construction began in the 12th century under the Kakatiya dynasty, initially named Mankal (a mud fort on "Golla Konda" or Round Hill). Later expanded by the Qutub Shahi dynasty into the granite fort known today.
  • Structure: Consists of 8 gateways (Darwajas) and 87 bastions. The main entrance is Fateh Darwaja (Victory Gate). The Platela tower is the largest bastion.
  • Acoustic Design: A clap at the entrance echoes clearly at the Bala Hisar Pavilion (the fort's highest point, nearly a kilometer away).
  • Architecture: The main entrance features a unique design called "Svatankriti."

Qutub Shahi Tombs:

  • Location: 1 km north of Golconda's outer walls.
  • Significance: Mausoleums of the Qutub Shahi dynasty, blending Persian, Pathan, and Hindu architectural styles.
  • Features: Each tomb features minarets, arches, columns, and domes.

Toli Masjid:

  • Location: Karwan near Golconda Fort.
  • History: Constructed in 1671 in Qutub Shahi architectural style by Mir Musa Khan, a royal architect during Abdullah Qutub Shah's reign.
  • Legend: Mir Musa Khan received one Damri for every rupee spent on Mecca Masjid and used these funds to build Toli Masjid.

Taramati Baradari:

  • Location: On the banks of the Musi River, close to Golconda Fort.
  • History: Constructed by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah.
  • Function: Served as a cultural venue for courtesans Taramati and Premavati, who entertained the royal court of Abul Hasan Tanisha.

Paigah Tombs:

  • Location: 4 km southeast of Charminar.
  • Significance: Final resting place of Paigah nobles (loyal to the Nizams).
  • Architecture: Known as the "Taj Mahal of the South," constructed with lime, marble, and slate stone, blending Mughal and Rajasthani styles.

MEDAK DISTRICT

Medak Cathedral Church:

  • Significance: The second-largest church in Asia.
  • Architecture: Stunning Gothic-style architecture.
  • History: Construction started in 1914 under Charles Walker Posnett. Built using a food-for-work methodology during a severe famine induced by World War I.
  • Specifications: Rises 173 feet high; designed by architect Thomas Edward Harding; can accommodate 5,000 worshippers at once. Mosaic tiles were imported from Britain.

Medak Fort:

  • Original Name: "Methuku Durgam".
  • Dynasty: Attributed to the Kakatiya dynasty.
  • Three Grand Entrances:
    1. Pradhana Dwaram (Main Entrance) – features the double-headed Gandabherundam (Kakatiya dynasty's official symbol)
    2. Simha Dwaram (Lion Gate)
    3. Gaja Dwaram (Elephant Gate)

VIKARABAD DISTRICT

Overview:

  • Formed from portions of the old Rangareddy district.
  • Borders: Sangareddy, Rangareddy, Mahabubnagar, and Karnataka.
  • Known for its hilly makeup, making it ideal for trekking, adventure sports, and wildlife exploration.

Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple (Ananthagiri Hills):

  • Location: Ananthagiri Hills.
  • Deity: Lord Vishnu.
  • Significance: A revered Hindu pilgrimage site offering spiritual tranquility amidst lush hilltop surroundings.

Ananthagiri Hills:

  • Significance: One of Telangana's most beautiful hill stations, with a cool climate, scenic beauty, and dense forests.
  • River Source: The Musi River (which flows through Hyderabad) originates here.

Vikarabad Adventure:

  • Activities: Rock climbing, rappelling, trekking.
  • Features: Well-chalked-out paths for novices and experienced trekkers; ideal for wildlife photography and camping.

RANGA REDDY DISTRICT

Chilkur Balaji Temple (The "Visa God"):

  • Location: Chilkur Village, Moinabad Mandal.
  • Significance: Known as the "Visa Temple" or "Visa God" – devotees believe that performing circumambulations with a wish leads to visa approval.
  • Unique Features:
    • No hundi (donation box) and no acceptance of gifts.
    • Devotees perform 11 circumambulations while wishing, and 108 circumambulations in gratitude after wishes are fulfilled.

Sanghi Temple:

  • Location: Sanghi Nagar.
  • Deity: Lord Venkateshwara Swamy.
  • Architecture: Constructed in Chola-Chalukya style on Paramananda Giri hill.

Other Temples:

  • Nandeeshwara Temple – Wanaparthy, Yacharam Mandal (Lord Shiva)
  • Jahangir Peer Dargah – Draws worshippers of all faiths

Mrugavani National Park:

  • Location: Chilkur, Moinabad Mandal.
  • Area: 1,211 acres with 600 plant species.
  • Wildlife: Spotted deer, Indian hare, forest cats, civets, Indian rat snakes, Russell's vipers, flower peckers.
  • Features: Watchtower; over 100 bird species (warblers, peacocks, lapwings, flower peckers).

Osman Sagar Lake (Gandipet Lake):

  • History: Created in 1920 by damming the Musi River.
  • Purpose:
    1. Supplementary drinking water for Hyderabad
    2. Flood control after the Great Musi Flood of 1908
  • Named After: Last Nizam of Hyderabad, Osman Ali Khan.
  • Tourism: Surrounding parks with amusement facilities make it a popular nature destination.

MEDCHAL MALKAJGIRI DISTRICT

Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple (Keesaragutta):

  • Location: Keesara (Village & Mandal), about 35 km from Hyderabad.
  • Era: Believed to have existed since Trethayuga.
  • Legend:
    • Lord Ramachandra visited after killing Ravana and desired to install 101 Shivalingams.
    • Hanuman was sent to Varanasi to bring them but couldn't return before the muhurtham.
    • Lord Shiva appeared before Rama and gave a self-manifested (Swayambhu) Shivalingam for installation.
    • Hanuman returned later with the 101 Shivalingams and, disappointed, threw them out in frustration.
  • Evolution: Kesarigiri became "Keesara Gutta" over time. The temple was named Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy Devasthanam.

Shamirpet Lake (Pedda Cheruvu):

  • Location: 27 km from Secunderabad.
  • Features: Beautiful artificial lake near Jawahar Deer Park; deer can be seen quenching their thirst on the banks.
  • Amenities: Forest cottages, boating facilities.
  • Activities: Photography, bird-watching.

NIZAMABAD DISTRICT

Overview:

  • A district in northern Telangana abundant with historical, religious, and natural attractions: ancient temples, forts, mosques, eco-tourism spots, and adventure destinations.

Dichpally Ramalayam:

  • Location: 20 km from Nizamabad.
  • Era: 14th century temple built by Kakatiya kings.
  • Material: Black and white basalt stones.
  • Features:
    • Exquisite stone carvings depicting gods, goddesses, animals, demons, and erotic art (reminiscent of Khajuraho).
    • Keerthi Thorana (decorative gateway) in Kakatiya architectural style.
    • 105 steps to reach the temple.
    • During monsoon, the temple appears as an island temple rising above floodwaters.

Raghunatha Temple (Nizamabad Fort/Quilla):

  • Location: Southwest of Nizamabad city.
  • History: Fort constructed by Rashtrakuta kings in the 10th century.
  • Architecture: Blending of Hindu and Muslim styles with huge walls and bastions.
  • Temple: Raghunatha Temple at the pinnacle, thought to be built by Chhatrapati Shivaji. Features roomy halls (3,900 sq ft) with an unusual ventilation system.
  • Historical Prison: Where poet and freedom fighter Dasharathi Krishnamacharyalu was confined. His famous line, "Naa Telangana Koti Rathanala Veena," remains a symbol of Telangana's cultural pride.

Siddulagutta (Sri Navanatha Siddeshwara Temple):

  • Location: Armoor town, 27 km northeast of Nizamabad.
  • Significance: Ancient temple complex among natural rock formations. Historically called Navanathapura – believed that nine sages (Navanathas) meditated here.
  • Temples: Shivalayam, Ramalayam, Hanuman Temple, Durga Devi Temple – all Swayambhu (self-manifested). The Shiva temple is inside a cave with a 3-foot-wide entrance.
  • Temple Tank: Jeeva Koneru.

Bada Pahad Dargah (Peddagutta):

  • Location: 15 km from Varni, 43 km from Nizamabad.
  • Significance: Venerates Hazrat Syed Sadullah Hussain. Both Muslims and Hindus pay respects here.
  • Urs Festival: Held annually in September, drawing thousands from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.
  • Access: Requires ascending 1,000 steps; aerial tramway is being planned.

Ali Sagar:

  • Location: Jankampet village, Yedlapally Mandal, 6.5 km northwest of Nizamabad.
  • History: Developed in the 1970s by Nizam Mir Osman Ali Pasha.
  • Area: 33 acres with fountains, flowering plants, an island, a hilltop guest house, trekking, and water sports.

Ashok Sagar:

  • Location: Janakampet village, Yedlapally Mandal, 7 km from Nizamabad, 26 km from Basara.
  • Features: Rock Garden, octagonal restaurant, swinging bridge, children's park, and a 15-foot statue of Goddess Saraswathi in the middle of a pool.

Sri Ram Sagar (Pochampad Dam / SRSP):

  • Significance: One of the major irrigation projects in North Telangana, spanning the Godavari River.
  • Features: Well-maintained garden, boating, and an island in the reservoir that attracts migratory birds.

Mallaram Forest:

  • Location: 8 km southwest of Nizamabad.
  • Features: Dense forest for eco-tourism with trekking trails, a pagoda, and a viewpoint tower.
  • Geological Attraction: A 1.45 billion-year-old rock formation and a mushroom-shaped rock pedestal estimated to be 2 billion years old.

JAYASHANKAR BHUPALPALLY DISTRICT

Kaleshwaram Mukteshwara Swamy Temple:

  • Location: Kaleshwaram town, at the border of Telangana and Maharashtra.
  • Significance: One of the most auspicious Shaivite pilgrimage centers in India, unusual for being dedicated to two deities:
    • Kaleshwara: Assigns life and death, ensures the cycle of rebirth.
    • Mukteshwara: Grants moksha (spiritual liberation).
  • Unique Feature: Unlike most Shiva temples with a single Lingam, this temple boasts two Shiva Lingams on a common pedestal (Panavattam), called "Ekamreshwara Swaroopam".
  • Location: At the meeting point of the Godavari and Pranahita rivers.
  • Festivals: Extremely crowded during Karthika Masam and Maha Shivaratri.

Nainpaka Temple:

  • Location: 25 km from Jayashankar Bhupalpally.
  • Era: 15th or 16th century temple built on a pink stone rock.
  • Architecture: Constructed in Sarvatobhadra architectural style, allowing the deity to be worshipped from all four directions.
  • Features: Four deities etched into a jutting boulder; today lies in ruins but retains sculptural beauty.

Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP):

  • Location: At the confluence of the Godavari and Pranahita rivers.
  • Significance: A system of enormous dimensions, lifting water from the Godavari River for irrigation and drinking purposes.
  • Scale: Irrigates more than 4.5 million acres; transforms Telangana into a state with ample irrigation facilities.
  • River System: The Pranahita River is formed by the confluence of Wardha, Painganga, and Wainganga rivers – India's seventh largest drainage basin, discharging an estimated 280 TMC annually.

Pandavula Gutta (Regonda Mandal):

  • Significance: Important prehistoric site featuring rock art and cave paintings predating written language.
  • Age: Thought to have been home to Paleolithic humans.
  • Features:
    • Rock paintings showing hunting scenes, daily life, and religious rituals.
    • Natural caves and rock shelters likely used as dwellings.
    • Popular for rock climbing, combining history with adventure.
  • Folklore: Name comes from local belief that the Pandavas stayed here during their exile.

YADADRI BHUVANAGIRI DISTRICT

Yadagirigutta (Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple):

  • Significance: One of the most vital religious sites in Telangana, dedicated to Lord Narasimha worshipped in five forms – the "Pancha Narasimha Kshetram" (Five Narasimhas Temple), unique in India.
  • Historical Mention: Sri Krishnadevaraya visited and mentioned it in his autobiography.
  • Development: First temple in India to be supported by exclusive state government funds. Features meditation centers, Kalyana mandapas, parks, Veda Patashalas, and a 400-acre Narasimha Deer Park.

Bhuvanagiri Fort:

  • Location: 47 km from Hyderabad, 610 meters above sea level – one of the tallest mountains in Telangana.
  • History:
    • Controlled by Qutub Shahi dynasty, then Mughals (1687).
    • Won back in 1708 by Sarvai Pandu, a soldier from a humble family, who used it as a base against British colonialists. Historians believe he hid fantastic wealth in the fort.
  • Architecture: Constructed by Mughal Prince Vikramaditya; most features attributed to Kakatiya dynasty. Set on an 18-acre fortified base in the Ananthagiri Hills (Balaghat Hill Range).
  • Features:
    • Military barracks, granaries, stables, underground tunnels beneath Rajaprasadas (royal palaces).
    • Stone sculptures, floral motifs, Chalukyan-style carvings.
    • Shiva temple with a black Nandi statue.

MULUGU DISTRICT

Bogatha Waterfall (The Niagara of Telangana):

  • Location: 120 km from Bhadrachalam, 329 km from Hyderabad.
  • Significance: Often called the "Niagara of Telangana"; the second-largest waterfall in the state.
  • Setting: Picturesque backdrop of lush, green, rocky terrain.
  • Access: Requires a short hike; the Eturnagaram Bridge on NH-202 has reduced travel time.

Laknavaram Lake:

  • Location: Govindaraopet Mandal, 70 km from Warangal.
  • History: Discovered and expanded in the 13th century by the Kakatiya dynasty as a crucial irrigation source.
  • Formation: Created by damming three narrow valleys; the valleys and hills act as natural dam walls.
  • Attractions: Mini-islands reached by a suspension bridge.

Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple:

  • Location: 90 km from Bhadrachalam, 130 km from Warangal, deep in the forest.
  • Deity: Main deity (Moolavirat) is 10 feet tall, with a belly that is soft to the touch.
  • Features: Flagstaff is 60 feet high; Ugra Anjaneya Swamy is a rock-formed insignia, the first of its kind in South India, believed to date back to the Ramayana. Natural water flow creates a swimming pool.

Medaram Jathara (Sammakka Saralamma Jathara):

  • Location: Medaram, Tadvai Mandal.
  • Significance: The largest tribal festival in India, honoring ancient tribal goddesses Sammakka and Saralamma, who fought an oppressive ruler to protect their people.
  • Attendance: Over 10 million in 2012; estimated closer to 20 million recently.
  • Timing: Held biennially in February.
  • Setting: Deeply associated with the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary and Dandakaranya forest belt.

Jampanna Vagu:

  • Significance: A tributary of the Godavari River tied closely to tribal folklore.
  • Legend: Jampanna, son of goddess Sammakka, died fighting the Kakatiya rulers. The water in the stream ran red with his blood. Devotees consider it a sacred spot to honor gods and ancestors.

Ramappa Temple (Palampet):

  • Significance: Represents the finest Kakatiya architecture; a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Era: Built in the 13th century under Kakatiya King Ganapati Deva.
  • Deity: Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Features: Intricately carved stone pillars and profusion of life-sized sculptures depicting Shiva's celestial retinue of Ganas.

KHAMMAM DISTRICT

Jamalapuram (Venkateswara Swamy Temple):

  • Location: 85 km from Khammam town and Vijayawada.
  • Age: Over 1000 years old; known as "Swayambhoo" and "Swayam Vyakta" (self-manifested).
  • Significance: Often referred to as "Telangana Chinna Tirupati", closely resembling the Tirumala temple. Saturdays draw substantial gatherings of devotees.

Kallur:

  • Location: 50 km from Khammam.
  • Venu Gopala Swami Temple: About 400 years old, built by Queen Rudrama Devi. Dedicated to Lord Krishna.
  • Lord Shiva Temple: Built by Kakatiya King Prataparudra. Features five lingas and a massive water tank.

Khammam Fort:

  • History: Constructed in 950 AD by Kakatiya rulers. Later controlled by Qutub Shahi sultans and the Asaf Jahi dynasty (Nizams) in the 17th century.
  • Architecture: Built of granite, blending Kakatiya, Qutub Shahi, and Asaf Jahi influences.
  • Location: Overlooks the heart of Khammam town from its hilltop setting.

Kusumanchi:

  • Location: 20 km from Khammam.
  • Significance: Ancient Shiva temple from the Kakatiya period featuring one of the largest Sivalingams in Telangana. Draws crowds during Maha Sivaratri.

Nelakondapalli:

  • Location: 21 km from Khammam.
  • Era: Historical and archaeological site from the 3rd and 4th centuries CE.
  • Features:
    • Mud fort (100 acres circumference).
    • Excavations (1990-97) revealed brick monastic structures, a Great Stupa with relics, figurines, and a bronze image of the Buddha.
  • Legend: Associated with the Mahabharata – the Pandavas spent their incognito exile working under King Virata of Viratanagaram.

PEDDAPALLI DISTRICT

Dhulikatta (Buddhist Complex):

  • Location: Vadkapur and Dhulikatta villages, 30 km from Karimnagar.
  • Findings: Excavations revealed a Buddhist Stupa and fortification walls.
  • Dating: A Brahmi-inscribed slab is palaeographically dated to the 2nd century B.C.
  • Sect: Belonged to the Hinayana sect (anthropomorphic representation of Buddha was taboo). Buddha is shown through symbols: Chatra, Padukas, throne with Swastika, Pillar of fire.
  • Structure: Lower pradakshana patha, circular drum with ayaka platforms on four cardinal directions. Embellished with carved limestone slabs during the early Satavahana period. The Naga Muchilinda (snake guarding Buddha) is prominent.

Ramagiri Fort:

  • Location: Near Begumpet village, Kamanpur mandal.
  • History: Controlled by Gundaraja of Manthani and Edaraja of Ramagundam; defeated by Kakatiya Prola II. Later ruled by Musunuri Kapayanayaka, Bahamani Sultan Ahmed Shah I (occupied 1433 AD), Qutb Shahis, Mughals, and Asaf Jahis.
  • Features: Stone fort with several bastions spread over several kilometers; known for beautiful natural surroundings with rare plant species and medicinal roots.

Sabitham Waterfall (Gauri Gundala):

  • Location: Sabitham village, 4-15 km from district headquarters on Peddapalli-Manthani road.
  • Timing: Draws visitors from July to November during monsoon season.
  • Source: Overflowing water from Gattusingaram hillocks.

RAJANNA SIRICILLA DISTRICT

Vemulawada (Sri Raja Rajeshwara Swamy Temple):

  • Significance: One of the famous Shiva temples in Telangana, popularly called Dakshina Kasi.
  • Deities: Presiding deity Sri Raja Rajeshwara Swamy (fondly called Rajanna), along with Sri Raja Rajeshwari Devi and Sri Laxmi Sahitha Sidhi Vinayaka.
  • History: Capital of the Vemulawada Chalukyas from 750 AD to 973 AD (evidenced by rock-cut inscriptions).
  • Literary Connection: Famous Kannada poet Pampa lived here as court poet of Arikesari-II and dedicated his "Kannada Bharatha" to his royal patron.
  • Festivals: Thronged during Shivarathri and other auspicious occasions.

JOGULAMBA GADWAL DISTRICT

Alampur:

  • Location: On the banks of the Tungabhadra River; western gateway to Srisailam.
  • Significance: Spectacular temples showcasing Badami Chalukyan architecture (540-750 CE). Principal deities: Jogulamba and Balabrahmeshwara. The goddess appears in her fierce form.
  • Legend: Associated with saint Rasa Siddha (6th century) who could change base metals into gold; close to King Pulakesi II (Chalukya dynasty). Temples bear names alluding to the nine forms of Shiva and nine medicinal herbs.
  • Confluence: The Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers meet near Alampur, earning it the name Dakshina Kailasam.
  • Mythology: Site where Brahma performed penance to please Lord Shiva, who rewarded him with powers of creation – hence the deity Brahmeswara and goddess Yogini/Jogulamba (mother Parvathi).

Gadwal:

  • Status: City and district headquarters of Jogulamba Gadwal district.
  • Distance: 188 km from Hyderabad.
  • History: Served as the capital of Gadwal Samsthanam, a vassal of the Nizam of Hyderabad. Previously part of the Raichur region of Hyderabad-Karnataka.

NAGARKURNOOL DISTRICT

Uma Maheshwaram (Maheshwaram):

  • Location: In the picturesque Nallamala forest ranges, 51.4 km from Nagarkurnool, 100 km from Hyderabad on the Hyderabad-Srisailam highway.
  • Significance: Considered the northern gateway of Srisailam and one of the Jyotirlingas. A visit to Srisailam without visiting Umamaheshwaram is considered incomplete.
  • Setting: Located atop a hill covered by huge trees; the 500-meter stretch to Papanasanam receives hardly any sunlight, maintaining cool temperatures year-round – also called "Poor Man's Ooty".
  • Deity: The Shivalinga has two colors – white on one side and red on the other.
  • History: Dates back to the 2nd century AD, believed to have been built during the reign of Maurya Chandragupta.
  • Natural Feature: The deity is in a naturally formed cave with continuous water flow from the hillocks falling on the temple, as if Goddess Ganga is bestowing her purity.
  • Location: Near Rangapur village, Achampet mandal.

NALGONDA DISTRICT

Overview:

  • Overflowing with important historical, religious, and architectural sites, including ancient Buddhist relics, historic temples, and impressive forts.

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam:

  • Location: On the Krishna River in the Nandikonda area.
  • Significance: One of India's significant hydroengineering projects.
  • Specifications:
    • World's largest masonry dam
    • Height: 124 meters
    • India's largest dam made of stone
    • Construction: Started 1955, finished 1967 under Jawaharlal Nehru's leadership
  • Discovery: Relics of the Buddha were uncovered during construction, now kept in the Nagarjuna Konda Museum (Island Museum).

Sri Chaya Someswara Temple (Panagal/Paragallu):

  • Era: Kakatiya-era architectural masterpiece, built by Kanduri Chodas (local rulers under Kakatiya dynasty).
  • Unique Phenomenon: The temple is renowned for a column's shadow (Chaya) that consistently falls upon the Shivalinga day and night, with no readily apparent light source – an engineering anomaly.
  • Nearby: Pachchala Someshwara Temple also in Panagal.

Devarakonda Fort:

  • Location: Built on seven hillocks.
  • Builders: Recharla Padmanayak rulers.
  • Significance: A grand hill fort demonstrating ancient military engineering; served as a stronghold against enemy encroachments.
  • Tourism: Sought-after for historical and adventure tourism, offering a peek into medieval military construction.

Overview:

  • The several forts found in Telangana are powerful reminders of the region's rich political and cultural history.
  • They were built centuries ago by different ruling dynasties that governed the region.
  • These forts showcase remarkable architecture, handy military strategies, and strong religious sentiments.
  • Whether built by the Kakatiyas, the Qutub Shahis, the Mughals, or the Asaf Jahis, the architectural marks left on these structures testify to the ruling dynasties' strong interest in monumental construction.

1. Bhongir Fort

  • Original Name: Tribhuvanagiri
  • Location: Perched atop a massive, monolithic rock at a height of 500 feet (150 m).
  • Area: Spans nearly 50 acres.
  • Builder: Built in the 10th century by the Chalukya ruler Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya VI.
  • Features:
    • A moat surrounding the fort
    • Underground chambers
    • A secret passage believed to connect the fort to Golconda Fort (located about 50 km away)
  • Historical Significance: Played a very important role during the reign of Queen Rudramadevi and King Prataparudra.

2. Devarakonda Fort

  • Location: Built on seven hillocks.
  • Builder: Built by the Padma Nayaka Veluma Rajas; later turned into a cultural landmark by Maada Naidu after he conquered it.
  • Period: Was a power hub in the 13th and 14th centuries and remained so until 1482.
  • Religious Structures:
    • Temples dedicated to Lords Rama and Shiva within the fort.
  • Unique Feature: A unique stairway that leads to Patala Ganga in Srisailam.
  • Later Ruler: After Maada Naidu, the fort was under his warrior son Pedha Vedagiri Naidu, who ruled for 26 years.

3. Domakonda Fort

  • Alternate Names: "Gadi Domakonda" or "Killa Domakonda"
  • Location: 100 km from Hyderabad.
  • Architectural Style: Combines Mughal and Western architectural styles.
  • Key Feature: Houses a palatial mahal called "Addhala Meda" (Glass House).
  • Design Details:
    • Ground floor features exquisitely worked stucco
    • First floor has round pillars and a flat ceiling
  • Religious Structure: Also houses a Shiva temple built by the Kakatiya rulers.

4. Elgandal Fort

  • Location: Occupies a picturesque hill overlooking the Manair River.
  • Historical Significance: Has been under the dominion of five major dynasties:
    1. Kakatiyas
    2. Bahmanis
    3. Qutub Shahis
    4. Mughals
    5. Nizams
  • Current State: Now stands in ruins, but its main entrance gate and overall site continue to draw tourists.

5. Gadwal Fort

  • Location: 16 km from Gadwal town, adjacent to a major highway.
  • Builder: Constructed in the 17th century under the directive of Peda Soma Bhupaludu (Somanadri).
  • Features:
    • Formidable stone walls
    • Profound moats
    • Temples of Sri Chennakesava Swamy, Sri Ramalayam, and Sri Venugopala Swamy
  • Artillery: A 32-foot-long cannon captured from the Nawab of Kurnool is now on public display at the fort.

6. Golconda Fort

  • Initial Construction: Built by the Kakatiyas in 1143 AD as a mud fort.
  • Expansion: Later transformed into a massive granite fortress spanning 5 km in circumference by the Bahamani Sultans and Qutub Shahis.
  • Capital City: Became the capital of the Qutub Shahi dynasty in the 16th century.
  • Diamond Trade: Famous for its diamond trade, including the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond.
  • Features: Palaces, mosques, mounted cannons, and secret tunnels.
  • Engineering Marvel: The Fateh Darwaza (Victory Gate) has an acoustic design where a hand clap at the entrance reverberates 1 kilometer away at the hilltop pavilion.
  • Later History: Captured by Aurangzeb in 1687 and left in ruins. Today it is one of India's celebrated heritage sites.

7. Khammam Fort

  • Initial Construction: Built by the Kakatiyas in 950 AD.
  • Location: Atop its namesake hill, overlooking Khammam town.
  • Expanders: Later expanded by the Velama Rulers, Musunuri Nayaks, and Qutub Shahis.
  • Architectural Style: A unique blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Kakatiya architecture.

8. Medak Fort

  • Original Name: "Methuku Durgam"
  • Age: Constructed 800 years ago by the Kakatiyas.
  • Renovations: Later renovated by the Qutub Shahis.
  • Area & Height: Sprawls over 100 acres and rises to a height of 90 meters.
  • Emblem: Features the emblem of the Vijayanagara Empire, the Ganda Bherunda (double-headed eagle), on its third gate.
  • Internal Features: Inside, one can find a barrack, a lake, and a storehouse.

9. Nagnur Fort

  • Builder: Built under the Kakatiya dynasty.
  • Significance: Was a significant political and religious center.
  • Temples:
    • Vaishnava temples
    • Shiva temples
    • Trikuta temple (three-shrined temple)
    • Ramalingala Gudi
  • Archaeological Importance: The Kalyana and Kakatiya periods are well represented through significant ruins. This is an important archaeological site.

10. Warangal Fort

  • Builder: Built in the 12th century by Prola Raja of the Kakatiya dynasty.
  • Enlargement: Enlarged in the 13th century by King Ganapati Deva.
  • Significance: Remains one of the most iconic heritage sites of Telangana.
  • Kakatiya Legacy: The Kakatiya rulers (12th to 14th centuries) built several architectural wonders in and around Warangal.
  • Key Structures within the Fort Complex:
    1. Swayambhu Temple (AWADHANA) – A temple dedicated to Shiva with a self-manifested lingam
    2. Kakatiya Toranas – Massive stone gateways that have become the emblem of Telangana
    3. The fort itself, with its impressive ramparts and ruins

1.Bathukamma: The Floral Festival of Telangana

Telangana boasts a wealth of traditions, culture, and spirituality. Of all its festivals, Bathukamma is the most vibrant and unique way of displaying devotion to the Mother Goddess, Gauri (Parvati). As Telangana's state festival, declared in 2014, Bathukamma has become an identity marker, a rallying point for communities throughout the state to come together and joyously commune in holy devotion.

A Festival of Colors, Flowers, and Togetherness

  • Exclusive to Telangana: Often called the "festival of life."
  • Timing: Starts on Bhadrapada Amavasya (New Moon Day) and lasts for nine days until Saddula Bathukamma (Durga Ashtami). This period marks the beginning of autumn when fields are filled with colorful blooming flowers.
  • Maternal Home Tradition: Women celebrate the festival in the warmth of their maternal homes, engendering solidarity and togetherness among mothers, daughters, and sisters.

The Rituals of Bathukamma

  • Floral Arrangement: Women collect flowers such as Thangedu (Tanners Cassia), Gunugu (Celosia), Marigold, Gaddi Poolu (Amaranth), Lotus, and Chrysanthemum, and fashion them into a cone shape. A doll of turmeric (Gouramma) is placed on top as an offering to the divine feminine.
  • Evening Celebrations: At sunset, women form circles around the glowing Bathukamma, singing traditional folk songs while clapping in rhythm and dancing in joyous harmony.
  • Immersion: At the close of each day, the Bathukamma is brought to a nearby body of water and immersed with reverence as a gesture of thanking nature and asking for blessings.

The Nine Days of Bathukamma

Each day has specific names and food offerings (Naivedyam):

Day Name Special Offering (Naivedyam)
1 Engili Pula Bathukamma Sesame seeds and coarse rice
2 Atukula Bathukamma Boiled lentils, flattened rice, and jaggery
3 Muddapappu Bathukamma Mashed dal, milk, and jaggery
4 Nanabiyyam Bathukamma Wet rice, milk, and jaggery
5 Atla Bathukamma Pancakes (Atlu) or dosa
6 Aligina Bathukamma No Bathukamma today
7 Vepakayala Bathukamma Rice flour shaped like Neem tree fruits
8 Vennamuddala Bathukamma Sesame seeds, ghee, and jaggery
9 Saddula Bathukamma Sattu pindi (roasted flour); special sweet dish Maleeda (crumbled roti and jaggery)

More Than Just a Festival

  • Spiritual Significance: Bathukamma is linked with the feminine form of energy and the worship of Goddess Parvati. It is believed to bestow blessings upon women, grant marital bliss, protect husbands, and ensure family prosperity.
  • Sacred Ritual: Women apply turmeric paste from the Gouramma idol to the Mangala Sutra as a prayer for long life and good health for their husbands.

Official Recognition

  • Declared a state festival on June 16, 2014 by the Telangana government.
  • Bandaru Sujatha Shekar, an eminent research scholar, has made an extensive study of Bathukamma folksongs and traditions in her book "Telangana Bathukamma: Pauranika, Samajika, Samskrutika Basha Parishilana."

2.Boddemma: The Festival for Unmarried Girls

  • Meaning: "Bodde" translates to "small girl," making this festival dedicated to the essence of growing up female in Telangana.
  • Timing: Observed in the month of Bhadrapada, beginning on Bahula Panchami and culminating on Mahalaya Amavasya (nine days).

Rituals and Celebrations

  • Preparation: A gopuram is made using mud and placed on a small table, decorated with Tangedu and Katla flowers. A Kalasham filled with rice is prepared, adorned with a new blouse piece, and placed with a Gouramma idol made of turmeric on top.
  • Gathering: Children and their families gather around the Boddemma structure each evening, forming a circle and singing traditional folk songs while revolving around the makeshift altar.
  • Offerings: Dal (lentils) and jaggery are offered as Naivedyam.
  • Final Day: On the ninth day, a special sweet dish is prepared using the rice from the Kalasham and shared among family members and friends.

3.Bonalu: The Grand Festival of Goddess Mahakali

Bonalu is a major Hindu festival celebrated in Telangana, especially in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. It is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Mahakali.

  • Timing: Held in July or August, coinciding with the lunar month of Ashada.
  • Duration: Celebrated over three consecutive Sundays at different temples:
  • First Sunday: Golconda Fort
  • Second Sunday: Ujjaini Mahakali Temple (Secunderabad) and Balkampet Yellamma Temple
  • Third Sunday: Pochamma and Katta Maisamma Temple (Chilkalguda) and Matheshwari Temple (Lal Darwaza, Old City)
  • Other Locations: Akkanna Madanna Temple (Haribowli) and Muthyalamma Temple (Shah Ali Banda)

The Rituals of Bonalu

  • Preparation of Bonam: Women prepare a special meal of rice, milk, and jaggery cooked in a new earthen or brass pot. The pot is decorated with neem leaves, turmeric, and vermilion, with a lit lamp placed on top.
  • Procession: Women carry these pots on their heads in a grand procession to the temple, offering the Bonam along with bangles and sarees to the Mother Goddess.
  • Traditional Attire: Ladies wear traditional sarees and jewelry; young girls wear half-sarees.
  • Trance Dancing: Some women go into a trance, dancing while balancing pots on their heads to the beat of drums. Water is sprinkled on their feet to soothe the spirit.
  • Thottelu: Devotees offer Thottelu – small, colorful structures made of paper and mounted on sticks – as gifts to the Goddess.

Pothuraju: The Protector of Bonalu

  • A distinctive aspect of Bonalu is the presence of Pothuraju, the divine brother of the Mother Goddess.
  • He is portrayed by a half-naked, muscular man wearing a tight red dhoti, anklets that jingle, and a torso painted with turmeric.
  • He leads the procession with maximum energy, his power dance accompanying the drums of the Palaharam Bandi.

3.Ugadi: Telugu New Year

  • Meaning: The word "Ugadi" literally means "new era." It is the Telugu New Year day.
  • Timing: Begins in the month of Chaitra (April or May).

Celebrations and Rituals

  • Preparations: Celebrations begin weeks prior. People decorate house entrances with mango leaves to please the deities.
  • Cultural Activities: Poets join together and recite poems in Kavisammelans.
  • Ugadi Pachadi: The most famous dish associated with the festival, containing six ingredients symbolizing the six different flavors of life:
Ingredient Taste Symbolism
Jaggery Sweet Happiness
Salt Salty Interest in life
Tamarind Sour Challenges
Neem flowers Bitter Difficulties in life
Raw mango Tangy Surprises and new challenges
Chilli powder Spicy Angry moments in life
  • Significance: The dish teaches that life is a mixture of all emotions. Each ritual – hanging mango leaves, placing a kalash, and the priest making the yearly forecast – has its own significance.

TRIBAL FESTIVALS IN TELANGANA

1. Teej Festival (Banjara/Lambada)

  • Significance: A major event in the Banjara (Lambada) calendar; a pre-harvest festival preceding the sowing of seeds in the month of Shravan.
  • Rituals: Communities place wheat seeds in woven baskets and worship them for nine days until they sprout. On the ninth day, the seedlings are immersed in water.
  • Offerings: A preparation of rice, jaggery, and ghee is offered to the god Sevabhayya.
  • Participants: Largely for unmarried women, who fast and pray for future blessings.

2. Sheetla (Sithla) Bhavani Festival

  • Timing: At the start of the rainy season.
  • Rituals: Lambadas install seven stones under a neem tree, each representing one of the seven forms of the Bhavani Goddess. Bonam (made with green and Bengal grams) is offered, followed by a goat sacrifice.
  • Unique Custom: "Edla Datudu" involves oxen crossing the site.

3. Sri Sri Sri Sevalal Maharaj Jayanthi

  • Date: February 15th
  • Significance: Celebrates Sri Sevalal Maharaj, a Banjara spiritual leader known for reducing superstitions and substance consumption.
  • Rituals: A special offering called "Bhog Bandar" is made using cow ghee and jaggery, and shared among devotees.

4. Nishani Goddess Festival

  • Timing: Ugadi during Chaitra Masam.
  • Rituals: The village priest gives a child a bow and arrow to lead a hunting procession. An animal is hunted and offered to the Nishani Goddess for protection and prosperity.

5. Pedda Devudu Festival

  • Timing: Month of Vaishaka.
  • Purpose: Prayers for village prosperity and abundant rains.
  • Rituals: Sacrifice of a bird called Parigi Pitta (considered sacred), offered to the deity Pedda Devudu.

6. Aki Pen Festival (Gonds)

  • Rituals: The Gonds make initial offerings of fruits, flowers, and vegetables to their Goddess Aki Pen.

7. Persa Pen Festival (Gonds)

  • Purpose: Dedicated to seeking protection and prosperity from Persa Pen, the chief deity of the Gonds.

8. Rajul Munda Festival

  • Purpose: Before cutting teak and plucking leaves, tribal folk perform rituals to invite divine blessings for sustainable harvesting.

9. Masoba Festival

  • Deity: Masoba is considered the guardian deity of village borders, revered to ward off evil and protect the village from disasters.

10. Dhund Utsav (Khammam District)

  • Significance: A tribal Holi ritual celebrating husband and wife.
  • Rituals: Wives defend food from their husbands, who try to playfully steal it. When the food is stolen, wives retaliate by reprimanding their husbands with sticks.

MUSLIM FESTIVALS IN TELANGANA

1. Muharram (Peerla Panduga)

  • Significance: The first month of the Islamic calendar, one of the four sacred months where fighting is forbidden. The term comes from "Haram" (forbidden).
  • Observance: Shia Muslims mourn the death of Imam Hussain and the martyrs of Karbala from the 1st to the 10th of Muharram (Youm-e-Ashura).
  • In Telangana: Observed by both Hindus and Muslims. The Badeshahi Ashurkhana in Hyderabad is a notable site. The last day features a grand procession carrying "Peerlu" (Alam relics) from Bibi Ka Alam to Chaderghat, led by an elephant.
  • Ashurkhanas: Also called Iyambara, Barga, or Alava – pilgrimage sites where Alams (battle standards) are installed to honor Imam Hussain's sacrifice.

2. Ramadan (Ramzan)

  • Significance: The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the most sacred time for Muslims.
  • Observance: Fasting from dawn until dusk (Roza), intense prayers, and charity.
  • Meals: Pre-dawn meal is "Sahar"; post-sunset meal is "Iftar."
  • Hyderabadi Special: Haleem – a porridge with meat, wheat, and spices – is uniquely prepared during Iftar.
  • Laylat-ul-Qadr (The Night of Power): The 27th night of Ramadan, signifying when the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad.

3. Zakat and Charity

  • Zakat: An obligatory charitable donation based on financial capacity, given by every Muslim.
  • Fitr (Fitra): Charity given to the poor before Eid so they can also celebrate the holiday.

4. Bakrid (Eid-ul-Adha)

  • Significance: Honors the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim, who was ready to sacrifice his son as a sign of obedience to God.
  • Ritual: An animal is sacrificed in a ritual known as Qurbani. The meat is shared with family, friends, and those in need.

5. Milad-un-Nabi

  • Significance: The birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad.
  • Observance: Celebrated with religious assemblies, prayers, and sermons highlighting the Prophet's life and teachings.

6. Shab-e-Barat

  • Date: The 14th of Shaban.
  • Significance: A night of deep reverence. Muslims honor the graves of loved ones, pray (Fateha) under the open sky, and recite the first Sura of the Holy Quran.

7. Sufism and Urs

  • Sufism: A spiritual side of Islam emphasizing loving devotion to Allah. Sufi saints treated all religions equally, staying away from politics and becoming respected figures who influenced blended cultures, particularly in Hyderabad.
  • Dargah: A shrine built over the tomb of a Sufi saint.
  • Urs (Urus): The death anniversary of a Sufi saint, observed as "Urs," where devotees gather at the shrine to seek blessings.

SAMMAKKA SARAKKA JATARA (MEDARAM JATARA) : The Largest Tribal Festival in India

Aspect Details
Location Medaram village, Mulugu district (erstwhile Warangal), Telangana
Deities Tribal goddesses Sammakka (mother) and Sarakka / Saralamma (daughter) – worshipped as bamboo sticks smeared with turmeric and vermilion
Community Koya (Gond) tribe
Period of Origin Believed to date back to the 12th century CE (Kakatiya era)
Festival Cycle Held biennially (once every two years) during Magha Sudha Pournami (January – February)
Duration Four days
Scale Second-largest fair of India, after the Kumbh Mela; attendance crosses 10 million (1 crore+) devotees

Historic-Cultural Significance

  • Anti-Tax Legend: Sammakka and Sarakka led an armed protest against Kakatiya rulers who tried to extract heavy taxes from the Koya tribes. They became martyrs, and the shrine commemorates their sacrifice.
  • Eco-Spiritual Practice: Deities are brought from the reserved forest only for the festival; no permanent stone idol or sanctum exists.
  • Offerings: Devotees present "Bangaram" (lumps of pure jaggery) equal to their body weight, symbolizing gold.
  • Associated Sites:
    • Chilukalagutta hill – starting point of Sammakka procession
    • Kanneboyina Palli – origin of Sarakka procession
    • Jampanna Vagu stream – ritual bath for devotees; named after Jampanna, Sammakka's warrior son
  • Epic Link: Medaram lies within the larger Dandakaranya zone, where the Ramayana situates part of Rama's exile.

NAGOBA JAATARA : The Grand Tribal Festival of the Mesaram Clan

Aspect Details
Location Keslapur village, Inderavelly Mandal, Adilabad district
Deity Nagoba (also known as Persa Pen – "The Great God")
Community Mesaram clan of the Gond tribes
Duration Nearly 10 days
Scale Second-largest tribal carnival in India
Participating Regions Communities from Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh participate

Nagoba Jatara Celebrations and Rituals

  • Opening Ritual: Tribal priests conduct the sacred abhishekam to the Nagoba idol using holy water fetched from the Godavari River (located 70 km away in Jannaram Mandal). This purification ritual is allowed only once in a lifetime for an idol.
  • The 'Jhari' Ritual: A sacred 1,400-year-old water container is placed before the puja commences. Gond and Pradhan elders fetch holy water from Hastina Madugu, a revered spot on the Godavari River.

Bheting Ceremony: Introducing New Brides

  • An important tradition where newly married Gond women are formally introduced into the clan.
  • Those married in the previous year must go through Bheting to meet the clan deities and become eligible to enter the temple.
  • Dressed in white saris, the women are now called Bheti Koriad.
  • They offer naivedyam in bamboo baskets filled with freshly harvested food grains – bamboo symbolizes their connection with nature, and naivedyam indicates gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

Cultural Festivities

  • Gusadi Dance: Performed by Gond tribal dancers, drawing thousands of spectators.
  • Traditional Music: Performances at the entrance of the Jangubai cave temple (Kota-Parandoli, Kerameri Revenue Mandal).
  • Community Work: Festival women participate communally in food preparation, grinding grains, and providing meals for all involved.

Nagoba Puja: Worship of Persa Pen

  • The festival culminates with the Mahapuja of Nagoba (Persa Pen – "Great God").
  • This highly revered nighttime ritual marks the initiation of the yearly tribal fair, where thousands gather to obtain blessings and protection from their ancestral deity.

GOLLAGATHA JATARA (PEDDAGATTU JATARA / DURAJPALLY JATARA)

Aspect Details
Location Durajpally village, Suryapet district
Deity Sri Lingamanthula Swamy
Cycle Once every two years
Duration Four days
Scale Second largest Jatara in Telangana (after Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara)

Unique Features

  • Begins with ceremonial arrival of Devarapette, a divine box carrying thirty idols.
  • Yadavas from Khasimpet decorate a gold pot on the temple's Gopuram.
  • A grand procession carries the Makara Toranam.
  • Distinctive Custom: Devotees lick prasadam like dogs as a sign of humility.
  • Culmination: Ends with the Kesaram ritual.

EDUPAYALA JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Edupayala Vana Durga Bhavani Temple, Medak district (where the Manjeera River splits into seven streams)
Deity Vana Durga Bhavani
Timing Three days during Mahashivaratri
Also Known As Garuda Ganda

Unique Features

  • Water Temple: Devotees take a holy bath in Papala Madugu, where the river close to the temple is stuck with a rock, becoming the source of water.
  • Multi-Community Participation: Representatives from 18 different communities perform rituals in their respective traditions.
  • Grand Finale: Rathotsavam (chariot procession) – the idol of the goddess is paraded around in a chariot.

KONDAGATTU JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Anjaneya Swamy Temple, Jagtial district
Deity Anjaneya Swamy (with a unique idol)

Unique Features

  • The temple's distinctive idol possesses Narasimha Swamy's visage on one side and Anjaneya Swamy's on the other.
  • Worshippers observe a 40-day devotion period either before or during the Jatara.
  • The site features strange cave formations and a perilous cliff, creating a hidden, sacred atmosphere.

KOMARAVELLI MALLANNA JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Komaravelli village, Siddipet district
Deity Mallikarjuna Swamy (Mallanna)
Timing Commences in the month of Magha and continues until Ugadi

Unique Features

  • Multiple rituals conducted by the Oggu Pujaris.
  • Devotees perform prayers under the Gangireni tree and earnestly implore the deity at Volla Banda (Vallubanda).
  • Legend: Lord Mahadeva appeared as Mallanna to wed Balimedala Devi.

KURUMURTHY JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Mahbubnagar district
Deity Sri Venkateshwara Swamy
Temple Name Telangana Tirupati (stands on seven hills – Edukondalu)

Unique Feature

  • The Madigas of Vaddeman village stitch Uddalu, which is offered to the deity, and receive blessings in return.

MANYAMKONDA JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Manyamkonda, Mahbubnagar district
Deity Sri Venkateshwara Swamy
Also Known As Poor Man's Tirupati or Palamoor Tirupati

Unique Features

  • Undug water tank (a unique water body)
  • Unchiseled idol (not carved but naturally formed)
  • Daily pujas performed with Jammi tree leaves

KORAVI JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Koravi village, Mahbubabad district
Deity Sri Veera Bhadra Swamy
Timing Shivaratri festival

Significance

  • Celebrated in a grand way, dedicated to the local deity south of the river Godavari.

BEJJANKI JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Siddipet district
Deity Laxmi Narayana Temple

Unique Features

  • The temple features intricate carvings of characters from the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).
  • Also depicts other deities including forms of Shiva, Krishna, and Vishnu seen in Rasa Nritya.
AspectDetails
LocationVelala, Mancherial district
DeityGattu Mallanna
TimingMahashivaratri

Setting

  • The temple stands on a hill not far from the flowing waters of the Godavari River.

INAVOLU MALLANNA JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationWarangal Urban district
DeityMallikarjuna Swamy (initially worshipped as Mailar)

Unique Feature

  • Commences with "Peddabandi" – a ritual performed by the Marneni Clan.

TULJA BHAVANI JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationNalgonda district
TimingDuring Navaratri
CommunityDraws the Lambadi tribes; the chief priest is also from the Lambadi community

NALLAKONDA JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationJagtial district
DeitySri Narasimha Swamy

Legend

  • This hill was the site where Sri Maha Vishnu, in the form of Narasimha, stepped after defeating Hiranyakashyapa.

KETAKI SANGAMESHWARA SWAMY JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationSangareddy district
DeitiesBrahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara
TimingFrom Magha Bahula Dashami to Phalguna Shudda Padyami

Unique Feature

  • The festival is thought to heal skin ailments for those who immerse themselves in the Amrutha Gundam (sacred water tank).

JOGINATHA JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationJogipet, Sangareddy district
TimingEvery March
DeityLocal goddess Jogamma

SIDDULAGUTTA JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationArmoor Mandal, Nizamabad district
DeitySiddalingeshwara Swamy (Lord Shiva)

MALDAKAL JATARA (TIMMAPPA JATARA)

AspectDetails
LocationMaldakal, Jogulamba Gadwal district
DeityVenkateshwara Swamy (Timmappa)

KOTHAKONDA JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationBhimadevarapalli Mandal, Warangal Urban district
DeityKora Meesala Veera Bhadra Swamy

Unique Feature

  • The tradition of the mustache offering to this deity has its roots in the Kakatiya period.

SALESHWARAM JATARA

AspectDetails
LocationSaleshwaram Shiva Temple, Nallamala Forest, Nagar Kurnool district
DurationFive days
Also Known AsTelangana's Amarnath
CommunityPrimarily conducted by the Chenchu tribe

RANGAPUR JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Nagar Kurnool district
Temple Uma Maheshwara Temple, located in the Nallamala forest

GANGAMMA JATARA

Aspect Details
Location Bikkamalla village, Suryapet district
Timing Ugadi festival
Community Celebrated by the Masanapalli Yadavas

Unique Ritual

  • Lemur Puja: A devotee in the role of a lemur prays to the idol of the deity for allowing the village to partake in the good fortune of the upcoming year. After the puja, the villagers partake in the festival leftovers.

Introduction

Mir Turab Ali Khan, Salar Jung I, was the Prime Minister (Diwan) of Hyderabad State during the reign of Nizam V (Afzal-ud-Daula) and later. His reforms, implemented between 1853 and 1883, transformed the administrative, financial, and educational landscape of Hyderabad, modernizing the state and improving its efficiency and stability.

Administrative Reforms under Salar Jung-I

Kingdom's Extent and Population

  • Area: Hyderabad State spanned 82,698 square miles under Salar Jung-I.
  • Population: As per the 1881 census, there were 9,845,594 people in the state.

Administrative Structure

Salar Jung-I reorganized the administrative hierarchy into a clear chain of command:

Administrative Level Units Headed By
Kingdom 1 Nizam
Subas 5 Sadar Talukadars
Districts 17 Talukdars
Taluks Multiple Tahsildars
Villages Multiple Patels/Patwaris

Village Administration

Each hamlet had particular officials accountable for various administrative and security duties:

Official Responsibility
Patwari Responsible for collecting land taxes and maintaining revenue accounts
Talari Ensured safety and provided all other requisite services
Dhed Aided in tasks associated with government and community affairs
Neri Managed irrigation systems
Sedisindi Guaranteed the security of nearly 50 homes in the village

Council of Ministers (Sadar-ul-Mihams)

Salar Jung-I reorganized the Council of Ministers with key appointments:

Minister Portfolio Name
Minister of Revenue Revenue Mukarram-ud-daula Bahadur
Minister of Law Law Bashir-ud-daula Bahadur
Head of Police Police Shamshir Jung Bahadur
Head of Public Works Public Works & Other Departments Shaheb Jung
Private Secretary Secretariat Syed Hussain Bilgrami
Prime Minister Finance, Postal Services, Military Salar Jung I (himself)

Revenue Reforms

Timeline of Key Reforms

  • 1864: Revenue Board was established.
  • 1865: Introduction of the Zilabandi System.
    • The Diwani territory was divided into districts for revenue and judicial administration.
    • Nizam at the time: Afzal-ud-Daula
    • British Resident: George Yule
  • 1867: Revenue Board was abolished; replaced by Sadar Mahake-i-Malgujari (Central Revenue Board).
    • Officers of this department were known as Muhtamim and Ruknu.
    • Police department was separated from the revenue department.
  • 1875: Central Inam Institute was established.
  • 1875: Land Revenue Survey and Settlement Department was established for demarcation of boundaries and surveying of lands.

District Classification (Based on Annual Income)

Salar Jung divided districts into three categories based on their annual income:

Category Annual Income
Primary Category Income > ₹12,00,000
Secondary Category Up to ₹10,00,000
Tertiary Category Up to ₹8,00,000

Land Tax Systems

System Description Salar Jung's Reform
Battai System Land tax collected in the form of crop produce. Officers (Bilmuktadars) collected tax; they were given authority through auction. Abolished the Battai system and started collecting tax in the form of money.
Ryotwari System Land tax paid in currency form directly by farmers to the government. Introduced during Afzal-ud-Daula's period, empowering farmers and eliminating middlemen.

Land Measurement

  • Land was measured using a 10-yard chain.
  • This standard was known as Bigha or 6/6 chain.
  • Significance: Bigha remains an important unit for land measurement in Telangana even today.

Financial Reforms under Salar Jung

Salar Jung I made major financial reforms to improve the economic situation of Hyderabad, focusing on combating graft, raising revenue, modernizing the monetary system, and building an efficient tax apparatus.

1. Replacement of Revenue Farmers with Paid Collectors (1855)

  • Appointed paid Collectors in districts to replace Talukdars (contracted revenue farmers).
  • This eliminated corrupt practices and created a more transparent and accountable revenue system.

2. Introduction of Hali Sicca Currency (1857)

  • Introduced the state's official currency, the Hali Sicca.
  • Established a government mint in Hyderabad and abolished all private mints.
  • Standardized the currency, ensuring uniform quality and trust in the financial system.

3. Establishment of an Accountant General's Office

  • Set up a dedicated office to handle and maintain state accounts.
  • Ensured methodical recording of income and expenditure.
  • Brought improved financial clarity and accountability.

4. Nationalization of Land Under Tax Farmers

  • Took back lands previously controlled by tax farmers and brought them under direct government control.
  • Resulted in increased government revenue and stabilized land taxation.

5. Introduction of the Ryotwari System

  • Adopted the Bombay model of the Ryotwari system for direct tax collection.
  • Impacts:
    • Eliminated middlemen in revenue collection.
    • Improved government revenue intake.
    • Empowered farmers with rights of access to land.

6. Land Survey and Settlement Reforms

  • Established a department for accurate land measurement.
  • This was a necessary step toward granting individual rights to landowners.
  • Enabled fair and systematic tax collection.

7. Expansion of Credit Facilities and Debt Reduction

  • Introduced credit facilities at reasonable interest rates.
  • Reclaimed and brought under government control lands that had been mortgaged.
  • Significantly reduced the State's enormous debts.

Impact of Financial Reforms

  • The economy of Hyderabad became transparent, efficient, and remarkably stable.
  • Uniform tax collection increased state revenue.
  • Direct tax collection and land surveys created a fairer system for all.

Educational Reforms under Salar Jung I

Sir Salar Jung I played a crucial role in the foundation of Western and modern education in the Hyderabad State. His vision was to create a "Skilled Workforce" to run an effective administration.

Establishment of Educational Institutions

Year Institution Significance
1855 Darul Uloom School (Oriental College) Offered instruction in modern languages; signified a shift towards modern education
1870 City High School and Engineering Colleges Offered general education and technical skills
1872 Chaderghat School Among the very first contemporary educational institutions in Hyderabad
1873 Madarasa-e-Aliya Founded to provide education to the offspring of nobles
1878 Madarasa-e-Aizza Established for the offspring of the royal family
1881 Gloria Girls High School First institution for girls in Hyderabad
1882 Islamia School First school for Muslim girls in all of India (founded by Syed Hussain Bilgrami)

Higher Education & Professional Training

Institution Details
Nizam College (Hyderabad College) 1880: Merged from Chaderghat English High School and School of Engineering.
1887: Re-established with Aghoranath Chattopadhyaya as first principal.
1946: Initially affiliated to Madras University.
1947: Switched affiliation to Osmania University.
Mahabubia College (1884) Began in Secunderabad, offering opportunities for higher education.

Support for Educational Institutions

  • Aligarh Movement: Salar Jung provided generous financial support to Sir Syed Ahmed Khan for establishing educational institutions in Aligarh.
  • Appointment of W.H. Wilkinson (1869): Appointed as secretary of the education department; introduced new methods of education that changed the curriculum and teaching approaches.

Administrative Reforms in Education

  • Muhtamims Talimat: Appointed to manage the education department, ensuring structured oversight and quality education.
  • Khangi's Schools: Private schools in the Nizam period were known as Khangi's, which significantly helped broaden access to education.

Mulki Movement and Its Emergence

Introduction

The Mulki Movement was a struggle for rights and job opportunities for local residents against those from outside the region. The term "Mulki" refers to a local or native resident, while "Gair Mulki" designates a resident from elsewhere. The Mulki issue has its roots in the medieval period and evolved into a full-fledged movement during the rule of the Asaf Jahis.

Historical Context of Mulki Issues

1. Bahmani Period (14th – 16th Century)

The Bahmani Sultanate, which ruled the Deccan after the fall of the Kakatiyas, saw the beginnings of conflict between two groups:

Group Description
Sunnis (Mulki) Sunnis from the Delhi Sultanate, especially from the Khilji and Tughlaq dynasties, settled in the Deccan and became part of the Mulki.
Afaqis (Gair Mulki) Also called Aphakis; those hired from Afghanistan (Afaghana) and Persian converts to Islam as administrators. They were Shias who had migrated from Iran, Iraq, Arabia, and Turkey. They had superior knowledge of Arabic and Persian, which helped them outshine their Sunni rivals.

Result: The Deccanis (Mulkis) became increasingly frustrated as this bias towards the Afaqis extended to official appointments.

2. Qutb Shahi Period (16th – 17th Century)

In the Qutb Shahi dynasty, the founder Quli Qutb Shah was an Afaqi, but he was careful not to replicate the errors made by the Bahmani rulers.

Policies Enacted

  • Putting Deccanis in government service as administrators to ensure stability.
  • Supporting local cultures (especially Telugu culture) to keep local-outsider relationships peaceful.
  • Appointing Telugu key officials like Akkanna and Madanna to ensure that no local grievances arose during his rule.

Result: A relatively peaceful period in terms of local employment policies and administrative representation.

3. Asaf Jahi Period (1724 – 1948)

The Asaf Jahi dynasty, established by Nizam-ul-Mulk in 1724, revived Mulki concerns that had been largely neglected.

Key Developments

  • The Nizam brought with him a band of loyal followers from North India, appointing them as ministers and administrators. These officials and their descendants settled in the Deccan but were still regarded as Gair Mulkis (outsiders).
  • The situation worsened during Afzal-ud-Daulah's reign (1857–1869), as Gair Mulkis occupied key positions, leading to resentment among native Mulkis.
  • This frustration intensified under the last Nizam and gave rise to the Mulki Movements.
First Phase of Mulki and Non-Mulki Conflict (1853-1883)

Introduction

The Mulki-Non-Mulki conflict in Hyderabad became a major socio-political issue during the reign of the 5th Nizam, Afzal-ud-Daulah (1857-1869). It started coming to the fore when Salar Jung-I was appointed Diwan in 1853. His administrative and revenue reforms intensified the conflict between natives (Mulkis) and immigrants (Non-Mulkis).

Causes of the Conflict

1. Administrative Reforms and Influx of Non-Mulkis

  • Salar Jung's reforms modernized Hyderabad's administration and attracted Kayasthas and Khatris from North India seeking employment.
  • Professionals from the Madras Presidency who spoke English were also recruited due to their administrative proficiency.
  • Following the Sepoy Revolt of 1857, the disintegration of the Mughal Empire resulted in many North Indians migrating to Hyderabad.

2. Control of Public Service by Non-Mulkis

  • Salar Jung-I, despite knowing local resentment, hired educated Non-Mulkis (especially from Aligarh University) because they had better administrative skills.
  • Over time, Non-Mulkis filled high-ranking positions and appointed their relatives and friends from North India.
  • This led to widespread discontent among native Mulkis.

Attempts to Control Non-Mulki Influence

Measure Description
Meeting Restrictions Meetings with the Nizam, Diwan, and British Resident required special permissions for Non-Mulkis.
No Titles or Jagirs Prohibited granting titles and Jagirs to Non-Mulkis.
Army Restrictions Non-Mulkis could not hold positions in the Hyderabad army.
Language Policy Persian was not replaced by Urdu as official language, preserving Non-Mulki dominance (since they could not speak Urdu).

Balancing Employment: Salar Jung strove to balance both groups, ensuring employment of skilled individuals while protecting native rights, but the ongoing domination of skilled Non-Mulkis continued to create friction.

First Mulki Orders of 1868

In 1868, during Afzal-ud-Daulah's time, Salar Jung-I formalized job security for Mulkis with the issuance of the First Mulki Orders:

  • Mulkis should be appointed exclusively to all administrative offices in Hyderabad.
  • Priority to locals in recruitment for education and government to enable them to acquire skills to compete with Non-Mulkis.
  • This was an early attempt to resolve Mulki grievances and set a precedent for local employment conflicts.

Phase II (1884–1911) – Mahboob Ali Khan & Salar Jung II

Key Events

Year Event Details
1883-84 Salar Jung II as Diwan He was biased in favor of Non-Mulkis.
1884 Language Change Replaced Persian with Urdu and introduced English as compulsory – disadvantaging Mulkis who were not proficient.
- Salary Disparity Non-Mulkis were paid higher salaries; locals lost prominence.
- Mulki Patram Mulkis submitted a petition to the 6th Nizam protesting discrimination.

1886 Employee Civil List Data

Category Number Percentage Salary Share
Mulkis 246 52% 42%
Non-Mulkis 230 48% 58%

Result: Despite being fewer in number, Non-Mulkis received higher salaries, widening resentment among Mulkis.

1888 Gazette Notification

  • Issued by Nizam Mahboob Ali Khan.
  • First official use of the term "Mulki" in government records.
  • 12-year residence defined as criteria for Mulki status.
  • Preference to Mulkis in jobs; Non-Mulkis required special permission.
  • However, Non-Mulki appointments continued despite the notification.

Religious and Cultural Divide

  • Though 90% of the population were Hindus, most jobs were held by Non-Mulki Muslims (10%), causing communal tension.

1894 Civil List Data (Under Salar Jung II)

Category Number
Total Gazetted Employees 680
Mulkis 233
Non-Mulkis 447
Hindus (Total) 63
Mulki Hindus Only 20

Result: Non-Mulki domination more than doubled since 1886.

Maharaja Kishan Parshad (1901–1912)

  • A Mulki Hindu and Diwan, he strongly supported Mulkis.
  • Clashed with Kaasan Walker, Finance Minister, who:
    • Promoted Non-Mulkis.
    • Divided Urdu dialects (Northern = civilized; Southern = uncivilized).
  • Kishan Parshad resisted this bias and is considered the "Godfather of the Mulki Movement."

1910 Notification

  • Non-Mulki posts are temporary.
  • Merit-based recruitment through exams.
  • Priority to qualified locals.

Result: These efforts partially succeeded in curbing Non-Mulki dominance.

Publications and Press Support

Stance Publication Position
Pro-Mulki Hyderabad Recorder Defended Mulki rights
Pro-Non-Mulki Ilahibaksh "Where is a clever Mulki to rule Hyderabad?"
Pro-Non-Mulki The Mohammadin Justified Non-Mulki presence, citing Salar Jung's invitations

Prominent Individuals

  • Rai Balamukund:
    • First Hindu Mulki graduate (Madras University, 1885).
    • Became Chief Justice of Hyderabad High Court in 1908.
    • (Hyderabad High Court was established in 1890).

Third Phase of Mulki and Non-Mulki Conflict (1911-1948)

Introduction

Phase three emerged under Mir Osman Ali Khan, the 7th Nizam of Hyderabad. The years from 1911 to 1948 were pivotal, seeing developments that lay behind the Mulki identity and exacerbated the Mulki-Non-Mulki divide. The conflict intensified in the 1930s and 1940s, giving birth to Deccan Nationalism.

Leadership Change and Educational Developments

Development Details
Osmania University (1918) Founded with Urdu as medium of instruction – an unprecedented step providing higher education to Hyderabad's people.
Language Tension Non-Mulki officers from North India preferred Lakhnavi Urdu (North Indian dialect) over Deccani Urdu, causing linguistic tensions and reinforcing perceptions of cultural dominance.

Academic Institutions and Employment Disparities

Institution Medium Outcome
Osmania University Urdu Unable to produce sufficient government officers due to low English proficiency; Mulki students limited in high-status jobs.
Nizam College English Graduates well-prepared for high-paying government jobs; Non-Mulki graduates dominated prestigious appointments.

Result: Employment inequalities worsened; Mulkis were left behind while Non-Mulkis thrived.

Cultural and Political Developments: Rise of Deccan Nationalism

The Mulki-Non-Mulki issue transformed into a larger cultural and political movement, fostering a new Deccani identity that aspired to preserve the cultural and political essence of Hyderabad state.

Key Figures and Institutions

Entity Contribution
Dr. Jorey (Professor, Osmania University) Early champion of Deccan nationalism; advocated for cultural and political self-determination.
Idara-E-Adabiath-E-Urdu Library (1930) Founded by Osmania University scholars; became intellectual hub for Deccan Nationalism; published works asserting the uniqueness of the Deccan and lobbying for Mulki rights.

Political Slogans and Mobilization

  • Slogan: "Long live Nizam, the royal embodiment of Deccan Nationalism."
  • Goal: The movement sought to bring together diverse communities—regardless of caste or religion—under a single regional identity.
  • Claim: The Deccan possessed a distinct and special status threatened by the increasing influx of Non-Mulkis and external forces.

Summary Timeline of Mulki Movement

Period Key Events
Bahmani Period Origins of Mulki-Afaqi conflict
Qutb Shahi Period Relatively peaceful due to inclusive policies
1724 Asaf Jahi dynasty begins; Gair Mulkis enter with Nizam-ul-Mulk
1853-1883 First Phase: Salar Jung-I reforms; influx of Non-Mulkis; First Mulki Orders (1868)
1884-1911 Second Phase: Salar Jung II bias; 1886 data shows salary disparity; 1888 Gazette defines Mulki; 1894 data shows Non-Mulki domination; 1910 Notification attempts reform
1911-1948 Third Phase: Osmania University (1918); employment disparities; rise of Deccan Nationalism; Idara-E-Adabiath-E-Urdu (1930)

Nizam's Subjects League (Jameeyat Riya Mame Nizam)

Introduction

In 1935, the Nizam's Subjects League, more commonly referred to as Jameeyat Riya Mame Nizam, was established. Its founding slogan was the powerful rallying cry "Hyderabad for Hyderabadis." Its primary motive was to promote and protect local identity, as well as cultural sovereignty, among the residents of the Nizam's dominion.

Aspect Details
Year Established 1935
Alternative Name Jameeyat Riya Mame Nizam
Founding Slogan "Hyderabad for Hyderabadis"
Primary Motive Promote and protect local identity and cultural sovereignty
Specific Agenda Procurement of government jobs for Mulkis (locals)

Origins of the Slogan "Hyderabad for Hyderabadis"

1. Administrative Reforms and Policy Shifts

The governance in Hyderabad saw an enormous shift, chiefly with the disbanding of the old cabinet council in 1919. The new model of rule was that of an executive council.

Change Impact
Disbanding of Cabinet Council (1919) Abolished several old-government employment policies
Executive Council Introduced Emphasized recruitment of local subjects (Mulkis) in civil services
Post-World War I Policy Recruitment of locals during WWI was retained after the war

Key Development: The Hyderabad Civil Service Committee was established in 1919 via a Farman (Royal Decree). This Committee played a crucial role in enforcing employment policies and sowing the seeds of institutionalized efforts to protect Mulkis from being overpowered by Non-Mulkis in government employment.

2. Implementation of Mulki Rules and Regulations

To further protect the people of Mulki, the Nizam took additional steps:

Measure Details
Article 39 Implementation New rules created under Article 39 of the covenant signed by Syed Ali Ahsan (established Gulbarga cantonment in 1853)
Appointment Restrictions Restricted appointments to native-born subjects and long-term residents
Exclusive Employment Only Mulkis could get government jobs
Objective Ensure employment opportunities were preserved for Hyderabadis; prevent Non-Mulkis from dominating administrative structure

3. Formation of Mulki Organizations

In the 1920s, several Mulki organizations emerged that were important in pushing for the rights of local graduates and professionals:

Organization Focus
Osmania Graduates Association Concerned with local graduates' job security
Society of Union and Progress (London) Lobbied on an international basis for Mulki rights

Unification in 1935

  • Guaranteeing sufficient representation of Mulkis in decision-making bodies
  • Obtaining management posts for native residents
  • Reinforcing political activism among Hyderabad's local populace

Implications of the "Hyderabad for Hyderabadis" Slogan

1. Cultural and Social Mobilization

The slogan "Hyderabad for Hyderabadis" took on a meaning far deeper than its immediate, literal sense. It became a symbol of pride for the people of the region.

Impact Description
Identity Definition Defined who the Hyderabadis were and their cultural heritage
Cultural Politics Implied politics of cultural reproduction and economic access
Local Resistance Defined space for immediate local resistance against state policies that disadvantaged local communities
Hindu-Muslim Unity Brought together Hindu and Muslim Mulkis for a common purpose: protecting employment rights
Regional Identity Fostered regional identity, promoting local patriotism and resistance to outside administrative interference
Discontent Expression Brought to light the growing discontent of native Hyderabadis feeling shut out of their own government

2. Political Reactions and Reforms

The agitation put significant political pressure on the Nizam's administration, leading to:

Outcome Details
Investigation Committees Committees formed to look into Mulki complaints, like the Aravamudur Ayyangar Committee (1939)
Mulki Rules Revision Strengthened local employment protections
Nizam's Initial Support The Nizam recognized the political value of resolving the Mulki issue
Increased Tensions When the call for a Responsible Government gained force, the Nizam withdrew support, leading to political instability

3. Decline and Dissolution of the Nizam Subjects League

Although it had early successes in gaining rights for Mulkis, the Nizam Subjects League encountered increasing resistance, resulting in its being dissolved in 1939.

Factor Description
Rise of Ittehadul Muslimin Emerged as a potent political force demanding Muslim dominion in Hyderabad, drawing political energy and resources away from the Mulki movement
Internal Divisions Lack of real support and internal divisions made the organization ineffective
Dissolution Year 1939
Post-1939 Period From 1939 until the mid-1940s, the organization ceased to be a real player in the political field

Integration of Hyderabad into Indian Union

Introduction

In India's post-independence history, a crucial moment was the 1948 integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union. The state's Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, sought to maintain its independence rather than accede to India or Pakistan. The violence of the Razakars (a paramilitary force led by Kasim Razvi) and the oppression of the Nizam's police created widespread unrest, justifying the military operation ordered by Governor General C. Rajagopalachari and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

The Join India Movement (1947)

Date Event
7th August 1947 Join India Movement launched, claiming Hyderabad's accession to the Indian Union
13th August 1947 Nizam declared Hyderabad's independence, refusing to join either India or Pakistan
15th August 1947 Ramananda Theertha defiantly hoisted the Indian National Flag in Hyderabad

Outcome

  • The movement morphed into a massive popular uprising within a short time.
  • Instead of negotiating, the Nizam had his policemen and the Razakars (a privately-recruited militia) carry out violent reprisals against people in the movement.

The Standstill Agreement and Its Violations (1947-1948)

Standstill Agreement (29th November 1947)

Aspect Details
Signatories Nizam of Hyderabad and Government of India
Terms India took over defense, foreign affairs, communication, and currency of Hyderabad
Nizam's Retained Authority Internal administration of the state (for one year)
Future Arrangement After one year, Indian government and Nizam were to decide on future arrangement

Nizam's Violations of the Agreement

The Nizam began violating the agreement almost immediately:

Violation Details
International Diplomacy Corresponded with USA, England, and Pakistan seeking support for Hyderabad's independence
Arms Procurement Sent E.L. Edroos and Ahmed Sayyed to England to procure arms through British dealers
Military Organization Contracted T.T. Moor (former British army officer) to produce gunpowder for the state
Currency Restrictions Restricted use of Indian currency; attempted to establish auxiliary currency (stopped by Indian government)
Financial Transaction Loaned ₹20 crore to Pakistan from Hyderabad's treasury
UN Complaint Mir Laik Ali (Prime Minister) lodged a formal complaint with the United Nations against India, with help of Sir Walter Monkton

Result: These stark violations made it necessary for the Indian Government to contemplate military force.

Police Action on Hyderabad State (1948) – Operation Polo

Initial Hesitation

Leader Position
Lord Mountbatten Opposed military action; favored peaceful resolution
Jawaharlal Nehru Hesitant; worried about harming India's international reputation and provoking communal riots
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Strongly supported military force; argued Hyderabad could not continue as a feudal state within modern India

Operation Polo Launch

Aspect Details
Date 13th September 1948
Objective Integrate the princely state of Hyderabad into the Indian Union
Indian Commanders Lt. Gen. Maharaj Singh (Overall), Maj. Gen. J.N. Choudary (Solapur front), Maj. Gen. Rudra (Vijayawada front)
Nizam's Commander Maj. Gen. Noor Mohammed

The Surrender of the Nizam (17th September 1948)

Timeline of Surrender

Date Event
17th September 1948 Prime Minister Mir Laik Ali left office; Nizam accepted defeat
17th September 1948 (Night) Nizam addressed people via Deccan Radio, ordering forces to stand down
18th September 1948 Military Commander E.L. Edroos officially surrendered to Maj. Gen. J.N. Choudary
22nd September 1948 Nizam withdrew complaint from UN Security Council

Aftermath

Appointment Details
Military Governor Maj. Gen. J.N. Choudary appointed Military Governor of Hyderabad
Nizam's Position Continued as Rajpramukh (Governor) of Hyderabad State under Indian Union

Secret Financial and Political Maneuvers by the Nizam

Action Details
Document Destruction Mir Laik Ali ordered destruction of all critical government documents
Fund Transfers 5000 pounds transferred to London agent Mir Nawab Jung
Planned Attack (Foiled) Kasim Razvi instructed Razakars to attack Hindus after Friday prayers on 17th September 1948
Plotters Plan foiled by Director General of Police Mendi Yar Jung and Muhammad Hyder

Impact of Hyderabad's Integration

Aspect Details
Celebration Integrated as 'Mukti Diwas' (Liberation Day) in Telangana, Maharashtra, and Karnataka
Key Architect Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the forefront; his iron-fisted leadership feared by princely state rulers
Nizam's Resistance Had bitterly resisted integration for more than a year
Internal Conflict Most top government officials, including Razakars and secret police, were not on speaking terms with the Nizam

Summary Timeline: Integration of Hyderabad

Date Event
7th August 1947 Join India Movement launched
13th August 1947 Nizam declared Hyderabad's independence
15th August 1947 Ramananda Theertha hoisted Indian flag
29th November 1947 Standstill Agreement signed
1947-1948 Nizam violated agreement (arms procurement, UN complaint, Pakistan loan)
13th September 1948 Operation Polo launched
17th September 1948 Nizam surrendered; Mir Laik Ali resigned
18th September 1948 E.L. Edroos formally surrendered
22nd September 1948 UN complaint withdrawn

Violation of Mulki Rules and Its Implications

Introduction

Following the Police Action of 1948 and the integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union, the Mulki Rules— which had been established to protect local employment rights—were systematically violated. This led to widespread resentment among the local population and sowed the seeds for future regional movements in Telangana.

Post-Police Action Administration (1948-1949)

Aspect Details
Military Governor Major General J.N. Chaudhuri
Period September 19, 1948 – December 1, 1949
Local Expectations Mulkis, particularly Hindus, anticipated increased employment opportunities
Reality Government jobs predominantly filled by individuals from other Indian states (Madras, Bombay, Central Provinces)
Justification Outsiders cited for their proficiency in English

Key Issue: Despite the removal of the Nizam's administration, local Mulkis continued to be sidelined in government employment, now by Non-Mulkis from other Indian states rather than from North India or abroad.

Targeted Removal of Muslim Officials

The Military Government systematically removed high-ranking Muslim officials from key administrative positions:

Position Action
Chief Secretary Removed
Engineer-in-Chief Removed
Directors of Major Departments Removed
Muslim Judges Forced to retire, transferred out of Hyderabad, or pressured to resign

Impact

  • Explicit effort to reduce Muslim representation in civil services
  • Created resentment among the Muslim community
  • Significant demographic shift in government employment
  • Deliberate action that undermined the Mulki principle of local representation

Vellodi Administration and Nehru's Intervention (1950)

Aspect Details
Chief Minister M.K. Vellodi (appointed 1950)
Policy Continuation Exclusion of Muslims from government services continued

Nehru's Intervention

Date Action
December 23, 1950 Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru wrote a letter expressing concerns over mistreatment of Muslim civil servants
Nehru's Warning Urged that discriminatory practices be halted to avoid fostering religious animosity
Outcome Policies remained largely unchanged despite Nehru's concerns

Result: Further marginalization of Muslims in governance and continued violation of Mulki principles.

Language and Cultural Shifts

One of the most significant changes imposed by the new administration was the replacement of Urdu with English as the official language and the medium of instruction at Osmania University.

Change Impact
Official Language Urdu replaced by English
Osmania University Medium of instruction changed from Urdu to English
Affected Population Those educated in Urdu (particularly local Muslims) were alienated
Result Exclusion of Urdu-educated locals from bureaucratic and academic roles

Historical Parallel

The forced transition from Urdu to English mirrored an earlier shift from Persian to Urdu during the reign of Salar Jung II, intensifying the cultural and identity crisis faced by the people of Hyderabad.

Appointment of Non-Mulkis in Government Jobs

Pre-Police Action Scenario (1946-1948)

Category Details
Muslim Appointments Approximately 50,000 Muslims (mostly non-natives) appointed in critical departments
Departments Military, Police, and Excise

Post-Police Action Scenario

Category Details
Dismissals Many of the 50,000 Muslim officials dismissed
New Appointments 7,000 to 8,000 Non-Mulkis appointed to fill positions
Andhra Appointments 3,111 from Andhra among the new appointees

Cultural Tensions

  • These Non-Mulkis often demeaned the local Telangana people
  • Stereotyped their language and cultural practices
  • Exacerbated regional tensions between Telangana and Andhra regions

Result: The influx of outsiders further diminished the influence of locals in government administration, directly violating the Mulki Rules that had been established to protect local employment.

K.V. Ranga Reddy's Advocacy for Mulki Rights

Recognizing the growing injustice against Telangana natives, K.V. Ranga Reddy emerged as a key advocate for the strict enforcement of Mulki rules.

Aspect Details
Forum Congress Party Meetings
Dates January 23-25, 1950
Key Demands 1. Fixed timeline for removal of Non-Mulki employees
2. Prioritization of local Mulkis in government employment

Significance

K.V. Ranga Reddy's advocacy represented the first organized political response to the violation of Mulki Rules after Hyderabad's integration. His demands would later become central to the Telangana movement for separate statehood.

Summary: Violation of Mulki Rules (1948-1950)

Period Administration Key Developments
1948-1949 Military Gov. (J.N. Chaudhuri) Non-Mulkis from other states appointed; Muslim officials removed
1950 Vellodi Administration Exclusion of Muslims continued; Nehru's intervention ignored
1950 Language Policy Change Urdu replaced by English at Osmania University
1948-1950 Employment Shifts 7,000-8,000 Non-Mulkis appointed; locals sidelined
January 1950 Congress Meetings K.V. Ranga Reddy demanded Mulki rule enforcement

Introduction

In an effort to regulate and define Mulki status in Hyderabad State, J.N. Chowdhury's Military Government issued a Farman on November 1, 1949, outlining the conditions under which individuals could be classified as Mulki. These revised Mulki Rules sought to streamline employment and residency criteria, ensuring that government jobs and privileges were reserved for bonafide residents of Hyderabad.

Aspect Details
Issuing Authority Military Government under J.N. Chowdhury
Date November 1, 1949
Document Type Farman (Royal Decree)
Purpose Regulate and define Mulki status; reserve government jobs for bonafide residents

Definition of Mulki Status

According to Rule No. 1, a person qualifies as Mulki if they meet any of the following criteria:

Criterion Description
1. Birth Born in Hyderabad State
2. Residence Residing in Hyderabad State with a legitimate claim to Mulki status
3. Father's Service Having a father who completed at least 15 years of government service in Hyderabad at the time of their birth
4. Marriage A woman married to a Mulki is also considered a Mulki

Eligibility Criteria and Exceptions

Rule Provision
Rule No. 2 A person is automatically recognized as a Mulki by birth if their father was Mulki at the time of their birth
Rule No. 3 Individuals who have permanently resided in Hyderabad for at least 15 years, with no intention of returning to their previous residence, can obtain Mulki status by submitting a magistrate-attested affidavit affirming their claim
Rule No. 4 Non-Mulki women married to Mulki men are granted Mulki status
Rule No. 5 Further extends the classification to spouses (reaffirmation of Rule 4)

Issuance and Regulation of Mulki Certificates

The Farman also outlined procedural rules regarding Mulki certificates:

Rule Provision
Rule No. 6 Specifies the authority responsible for issuing Mulki certificates
Rule No. 7 Details the application process and the legal consequences of providing false information to obtain a certificate
Rule No. 8 If a Mulki certificate application is rejected, the individual may appeal to the Subedar within one month; the Subedar's decision is final
Rule No. 9 Provides conditions under which a Mulki certificate can be cancelled, including cases where the individual is found guilty of falsifying information or engaging in anti-government activities

Summary: Key Provisions of the 1949 Mulki Rules

Category Key Points
Mulki by Birth Born in Hyderabad; father Mulki at time of birth
Mulki by Residence 15 years permanent residence with magistrate-attested affidavit
Mulki by Service Father completed 15 years government service in Hyderabad
Mulki by Marriage Women married to Mulki men
Certificate Process Issuing authority specified; appeal within one month if rejected
Penalties Certificate cancelled for false information or anti-government activity

Introduction

With the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950, the princely state of Hyderabad was formally integrated into the Union of India under a specific constitutional category. This marked the transition from feudal rule to constitutional governance.

The Indian Constitution categorized states into four parts based on their historical and political backgrounds:

Category Description Governance Examples
Part A States Former British provinces Elected Governor and Legislature Assam, Bihar, Bombay, East Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Madras, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal
Part B States Former princely states or groups of Covenanting states Rajpramukh (a former prince) Hyderabad, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Bharat, Mysore, PEPSU, Rajasthan, Saurashtra, Travancore-Cochin, Vindhya Pradesh
Part C States Smaller princely states and provinces Chief Commissioner Ajmer, Coorg, Cooch-Behar, Bhopal, Bilaspur, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Kutch, Manipur, Tripura
Part D States Union Territories Governor appointed by President of India Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Hyderabad's Position in the New Constitutional Framework

Aspect Details
Category Part B State
Effective Date January 26, 1950
Constitutional Status Former princely state under Rajpramukh

Key Appointments (January 26, 1950)

Position Appointee Previous Role
Rajpramukh Mir Osman Ali Khan Last Nizam of Hyderabad
Civil Chief Minister M.K. Vellodi Prime Minister of Hyderabad (continuing)

Significance

  • The Nizam, who had resisted integration until September 1948, was now the constitutional head of Hyderabad as Rajpramukh.
  • M.K. Vellodi transitioned from Prime Minister of the princely state to Chief Minister under the constitutional framework.
  • This marked the formal end of princely rule and the beginning of democratic governance in Hyderabad.

Summary: Transition of Hyderabad (1948-1950)

Date Event Significance
17-18 Sept 1948 Police Action / Surrender of Nizam Military takeover; end of Nizam's sovereign rule
19 Sept 1948 – 1 Dec 1949 Military Administration (J.N. Chaudhuri) Interim military governance
Dec 1949 – Jan 1950 Transition period Preparation for constitutional integration
26 January 1950 Constitution implemented Hyderabad becomes Part B State; Nizam as Rajpramukh; Vellodi as Chief Minister

First General Elections in Hyderabad State (1952)

Introduction

The first general elections in Hyderabad State were conducted in February 1952, marking a significant shift towards democratic governance after centuries of princely rule and a brief period of military administration.

Aspect Details
Election Date February 1952
Assembly Seats 175 members elected to Hyderabad Legislative Assembly
Parliament Seats 25 members elected to Indian Parliament
Significance First democratic elections after integration into Indian Union

Pre-Election Political Landscape

Congress Party Divisions

Internal divisions within the Congress Party, known as the Gosai-Desai factions, weakened the party's position in the elections. These factions were led by:

Leader Faction
Ramananda Thirta Gosai Faction
Burgula Ramakrishna Rao Desai Faction

Election Results and Communist Influence

Overall Hyderabad State Assembly Results (175 seats)

Party/Alliance Seats Won
Congress Party 93
People's Democratic Front (Communists) 42
Socialist Party 12
Independents and Others 28
Total 175

Regional Performance

Region Congress Performance
Maharashtra Region Secured majority
Karnataka Region Secured majority
Telangana Region Faced significant opposition

Telangana Region Results (101 seats out of 175)

Party/Alliance Seats Won
Congress Party 46
People's Democratic Front (Communists) 35
Socialist Party 12
Scheduled Castes Federation 5
Independents 3
Total (Telangana) 101

Key Factors in Telangana

  • The Communist Party was under a ban at the time of elections
  • Communist members contested under the banner of People's Democratic Front
  • The influence of the Communist-led Telangana Armed Struggle played a crucial role in their electoral success

Challenges and Allegations Against the Communists

Aspect Details
Congress Allegations Claimed Communists used coercion, intimidation, and armed threats to influence voters
Counter-Evidence High number of votes secured by independent candidates contesting against prominent Congress leaders suggested broader dissatisfaction with Congress

Prominent Congress Leaders Who Faced Strong Opposition

  • Jamalapuram Keshava Rao
  • Madapati Hanmantha Rao
  • Kaloji Narayana Rao

Formation of the First Elected Government

Despite the Communists' impressive victory in Telangana, Congress was able to form the government due to its majority in the Marathwada and Karnataka regions.

Position Appointee Details
Chief Minister Burgula Ramakrishna Rao First Chief Minister of independent Hyderabad State
Selection Basis Congress High Command preferred a Telugu leader as Telugu-speaking people constituted 50% of the state's population

Profile of Burgula Ramakrishna Rao

Aspect Details
Profession Distinguished lawyer
Scholarship Proficient in Telugu, Urdu, English, Marathi, Sanskrit, and Persian (polyglot)
Political Background Active participant in national movements
Social Standing Strong political and social background
Ideal Choice His qualifications made him the ideal candidate for leading the newly formed government

Introduction

Burgula Ramakrishna Rao was a distinguished leader, lawyer, and freedom fighter who served as the first elected Chief Minister of Hyderabad State. His leadership was instrumental in the transition from princely rule to democratic governance and the integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union.

Personal Life and Education

Aspect Details
Birth Name Pullamraju Ramakrishna Rao
Date of Birth March 13, 1899
Birth Place Padakal village near Kalwakurthy
Family Background Telugu Brahmin family
Early Education Dharmavant School, Hyderabad
Higher Education BA Honours from Ferguson College, Pune
Legal Education Law degree from Bombay University

Political and Administrative Career

Timeline of Key Positions

Period Position Significance
1923 Practiced law in Hyderabad Briefly practiced before joining freedom struggle
1931 President of Second Andhra Mahasabha Held at Devarakonda; marked his leadership in regional politics
1942 Arrested in Quit India Movement Imprisoned for resistance against British rule
March 6, 1952 – Nov 1, 1956 Chief Minister of Hyderabad First elected Chief Minister
1956-1960 Governor of Kerala Appointed after reorganization of states
1960-1962 Governor of Uttar Pradesh Continued in gubernatorial role
1962-1966 Member of Rajya Sabha Served in the Upper House of Parliament

Key Achievements as Chief Minister

  • Instrumental in integrating Hyderabad into the Indian Union
  • Addressed socio-political challenges of the post-integration period
  • Led the state during its transition from princely rule to democracy

Honors and Literary Contributions

Academic Honors

Year Honor Institution
1953 Doctorate in Literature Andhra University
1956 Doctorate in Law Osmania University

Literary Works

Work Type/Language Notes
Sri Krishna Shatakam Telugu Poetry Original composition
Saaraswatha Vyasa Muktavali Literary essays Collection of writings
Karma Kankanam Telugu Original work

Translations

Original Work Translated As Language
Lahari Panchakam Pandita Panchamrutham Telugu
Shankaracharya's Soundaryalahari Kanakadharastavam Telugu
Parsi Vagmaya Charitra (Translated) Telugu

Other Literary Contributions

  • Provided forewords for several prominent Telugu literary works
  • Wrote foreword for Dasharathi's Galib Geethaalu

Legacy and Significance

Aspect Contribution
Governance First elected CM of Hyderabad; oversaw integration into Indian Union
Freedom Struggle Active participant in Quit India Movement; President of Andhra Mahasabha
Literature Prolific writer and translator in Telugu
Education Held doctorates from two major universities
Public Service Served as Governor of two states and Rajya Sabha MP

Introduction

The City College Incident of September 3rd and 4th, 1952, marked a turning point in the Mulki Movement, escalating tensions between student protesters and the police. This event transformed the movement from a student-led agitation to a broader public protest, drawing the general public into the struggle against Non-Mulki dominance in government employment.

Aspect Details
Date September 3-4, 1952
Location City College, Pattar Ghat, Afzalganj (Hyderabad)
Context Protests against Non-Mulki appointments in government jobs
Significance Turning point in Mulki Movement; transformed student agitation into public protest

Background: Prohibitory Orders and Student Protests

September 2, 1952 – Police Commissioner's Warning

Official Action
Sri Shiva Kumarlal Hyderabad's Police Commissioner issued a stern warning urging parents to control their children to prevent violence or misbehavior
Threat Threatened punishment for any violations of law and order

September 3, 1952 – Prohibitory Orders Issued

Aspect Details
Legal Basis Section 22 of the Hyderabad City Police Act
Restrictions Strikes, meetings, and rallies banned in the city
Notification Principal of City College, Dr. Ram Lal, officially notified students about restrictions
Student Response Despite the ban, students at City College and surrounding areas continued to protest against non-Mulki appointments

Attempt at Pacification

Leader Action Outcome
Konda Laxman Bapuji Attempted to pacify protesting students Unsuccessful; agitation intensified

Police Firing and Casualties

Day 1: September 3, 1952 – City College and Pattar Ghat

Aspect Details
Location City College and Pattar Ghat
Action Police opened fire on Mulki protesters
Deaths 2
Injuries 147

Day 2: September 4, 1952 – Afzalganj

Aspect Details
Location Afzalganj
Action Additional police firing
Deaths 4
Injuries Many more

Note: Several casualties were not students but ordinary civilians caught in the chaos.

Victims of Police Firing

Name Age Occupation
Mohammad Khasim 22 Factory worker
Shaik Mohammad 30 Rickshaw puller
Mohammad Khan 35 Private employee
Ramulu 18 Private employee
Shaik Mukthar 40 Private employee
Jamaluddin 40 Private employee

Significance of Victim Profile

  • Victims included factory workers, rickshaw pullers, and private employees
  • Ages ranged from 18 to 40
  • Diverse occupational backgrounds showed that the movement had transcended student boundaries
  • The deaths of ordinary civilians drew the general public into the struggle

Impact of the City College Incident

Impact Description
Transformation of Movement Shifted from student-led agitation to broader public protest
Public Involvement Drew the general public into the struggle against Non-Mulki dominance
Escalation Marked the first major violent confrontation in the Mulki Movement
Martyrs Created martyrs for the cause, strengthening popular resolve
Political Pressure Increased pressure on the government to address Mulki grievances

Introduction

As the Mulki Movement intensified following the City College Incident (September 3-4, 1952), the government responded by forming a Ministerial Sub-Committee on September 7, 1952, to examine the Mulki Rules and propose necessary revisions. However, alongside this conciliatory measure, the government also resorted to stringent actions to suppress dissent.

Composition of the Ministerial Sub-Committee

Aspect Details
Date Formed September 7, 1952
Purpose Examine Mulki Rules and propose revisions; address concerns of local Mulkis regarding recruitment of non-Mulkis in government jobs

Committee Members

Member Background/Association
Konda Venkata Ranga Reddy Prominent Congress leader; advocate for Mulki rights
Phoolchand Gandhi Prominent leader
Dr. Melkote Prominent leader
Nawazjung Prominent leader

Mandate

The committee was tasked with analyzing employment policies and addressing the concerns of local Mulkis regarding the recruitment of non-Mulkis in government jobs.

Use of Preventive Detention to Suppress Protests

As the movement gained momentum, the government resorted to stringent measures to suppress dissent.

Arrests of Journalists (September 13, 1952)

Journalist Publication Action Allegation
Sayyad Akthar Hussain Urdu newspaper 'Aavaadh' (editor) Arrested under Preventive Detention (PD) Act Alleged role in supporting Mulki agitation
Begum Sadiq Jahan Journalist Detained Supporting Mulki movement

Significance of Arrests

  • Highlighted the government's crackdown on media voices advocating for the movement
  • Seen as an effort to silence voices supporting the Mulki cause rather than addressing legitimate demands
  • Escalated tensions further

Impact of the Committee and Arrests

Measure Intended Effect Actual Outcome
Ministerial Sub-Committee Pacify unrest through dialogue and policy review Failed to curb public resentment; protests continued
Arrest of Journalists Suppress dissent and media support Escalated tensions; seen as attack on free speech

Overall Result

The Mulki Movement continued to evolve, with growing pressure on the government to implement stricter employment regulations that would prioritize local candidates over non-Mulkis in state administration.

Introduction

As the Mulki agitation escalated following the City College Incident (September 3-4, 1952), the Hyderabad State Government appointed a committee under the chairmanship of Justice Pingali Jaganmohan Reddy to investigate the police firing on protestors. The committee conducted an extensive inquiry into the circumstances leading to the violence, the role of law enforcement, and the political impact of the movement.

Aspect Details
Committee Chair Justice Pingali Jaganmohan Reddy
Appointed By Hyderabad State Government
Purpose Investigate police firing on protestors (Sept 3-4, 1952)
Report Submission Date December 28, 1952

Investigation Process and Key Findings

Areas Visited by the Committee

Location Significance
High Court Area affected by protests
City College Primary site of first firing (Sept 3)
Pattarghat Site of first firing (Sept 3)
Afzalgunj Site of second firing (Sept 4)

Inquiry Methodology

Aspect Details
Nature Conducted publicly
Witnesses Nearly 100 eyewitnesses provided testimonies
Officials Interviewed Multiple key officials (listed below)

Officials Interviewed by the Committee

Name Position
Burgula Rama Krishna Rao Chief Minister of Hyderabad
Mohanappa Inspector General of Police
Shivakumarlal Police Commissioner
Sunder Pillai Deputy Commissioner of Police
Brigadier Subbaiah Military official
Dr. Ramlal City College Principal
Collector of Hyderabad District Administrator

Key Observations and Analysis

1. Causes of Police Firing

Finding Details
Primary Cause Lack of coordination between political leaders, representatives, and law enforcement authorities
Effectiveness Despite opening fire, police failed to effectively control the situation
Assessment Highlighted serious lapses in handling public protests

2. Scale and Nature of Agitation

Aspect Details
Estimated Agitators Around 40,000
Commitment Level Intense dedication to the movement
Protestor Actions Burned a wireless van; attacked police officers with stones
Escalation Point Protestors appeared to be moving towards attacking a police station
Police Justification This perceived threat prompted police to resort to firing

3. Assessment of Police Action

Finding Details
Initial Confidence Police initially confident they could control agitators
Recourse to Firing Committee deemed the firing unnecessary
Overall Judgment Critical of police response to the agitation

4. Role of Political Leaders

Finding Details
Pacification Efforts Political leaders and officials made efforts to pacify protesting students
Underlying Cause Deep-rooted insecurity among students regarding non-Mulkis continued to fuel the movement
Effectiveness Negotiations proved ineffective due to intensity of grievances
Serious Allegation Certain political leaders accused of exploiting the movement and manipulating students for personal gains

Recommendations and Government Response

Recommendations to the Public

Recommendation Description
To Students, Parents, and Public Maintain discipline and adhere to principles of responsible citizenship

Key Policy Recommendation

Recommendation Significance
Implement Mulki Rules Strongly recommended that the government implement and enforce Mulki rules and regulations to address local grievances and prevent further unrest

Impact of the Report

Aspect Contribution
Policy Formation Played a crucial role in shaping future policies related to employment and administrative reforms in Hyderabad
Government Accountability Underscored the importance of government accountability in handling mass movements
Crisis Management Highlighted need for effective crisis management strategies

Formation of Andhra State (1953)

Introduction

The formation of Andhra State on October 1, 1953, with Kurnool as its capital, marked a significant milestone in the reorganization of Indian states based on linguistic identity. However, the process leading to this decision was shaped by several historical agreements, committee reports, and political debates. The demand for Telangana as a separate state also emerged during this period due to regional concerns and disparities.

Formation of Andhra State and Early Efforts

Andhra State Congress (1918)

Leader Position
Nyapathi Subbarao President
Konda Venkatappayya Secretary

Role: Played a key role in mobilizing support for a separate Andhra state.

The Sreebagh Pact (1937)

Aspect Details
Date 1937
Parties Rayalaseema and Andhra leaders
Location Kashinathuni Nageshwar Rao's residence, "Sreebagh" in Madras
Purpose Attempt to resolve internal disputes within Telugu-speaking regions
Issues Addressed State capital selection and resource allocation

Significance: The Sreebagh Pact was an early attempt to address regional disparities within the Telugu-speaking areas, though its implementation would later become contentious.

Committees on State Reorganization

1. S.K. Dhar Commission (1948)

Aspect Details
Appointed By Indian Constitutional Council
Date June 1948
Chair S.K. Dhar
Members Jagat Narain Lal, Panna Lal
Report Submission December 1948
Purpose Assess feasibility of forming states based on linguistic identity

Key Recommendation

Finding Details
Opposition to Linguistic States Argued that state formation should be guided by administrative efficiency rather than language

2. J.V.P. Committee (1948)

Aspect Details
Convened By Indian National Congress
Date December 1948
Purpose Review Dhar Commission's findings
Members Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel, Pattabhi Sitaramayya

Key Recommendations

Decision Details
General Principle Recommended delaying the creation of linguistic states
Exception Supported the formation of an Andhra state on linguistic grounds

Significance: The J.V.P. Committee's recommendation to create Andhra State marked the first recognition of language-based statehood in India, setting a precedent for future reorganization.

Emergence of Telangana Demand

The formation of Andhra State in 1953, while fulfilling the long-standing demand of Andhra leaders, also gave rise to concerns in the Telangana region:

Concern Description
Regional Disparities Fear of dominance by more advanced coastal Andhra region
Employment Concerns Mulki Rules (already violated) faced further threat
Cultural Identity Distinct Telangana culture and dialect at risk of being subsumed
Economic Resources Concerns about exploitation of Telangana's resources

State Reorganisation Commission (SRC)

Introduction

With the formation of Andhra State in 1953, the demand for the formation of states on a linguistic basis increased across the country, including South India. Gujaratis, Punjabis, Marathas, Malayalis, and Kannadigas demanded the formation of separate linguistic states. The central government decided that the reorganization of states should be done on a permanent basis and formed the State Reorganisation Commission (SRC) to study these demands.

Formation of the State Reorganisation Commission (SRC)

Aspect Details
Announcement December 22, 1953 (Prime Minister Nehru in Parliament)
Establishment December 29, 1953 (by resolution of Home Department)
Purpose Examine the issue of reorganization of states in the Indian Union beyond emotions; welfare of the people to be kept in mind

Commission Members

Position Name Background
President Syed Fazal Ali Governor of Orissa
Member Hridaynath (H.N.) Kunjru Member of the Council of States
Member Kavalam Madhav (K.M.) Panikkar Indian Ambassador in Egypt

Process

  • The SRC toured many parts of the country to understand the opinions of various groups and organizations
  • Visited Hyderabad in 1954 (June-July)

Representations Made to SRC in Hyderabad

Positions Presented to SRC (June–July 1954)

Position Advocates
In favor of separate Telangana K.V. Ranga Reddy, Marri Chennareddy
In favor of Vishalandhra Burgula Ramakrishna Rao, Swamy Ramananda Tirtha, and others

Slogan by Swami Ramananda Tirtha: "Dismantle the Hyderabad Empire and clean up the traces of royalty"

Representations from Different Regions and Groups

Location/Group Position Key Figures
Karimnagar district (July 1954) Demanded Telangana state Students
Warangal Vishalandhra Kaloji Narayanarao (on behalf of Telangana Writers Association)
Warangal Congress Separate Telangana N. Ramchandra Reddy
Warangal Vishalandhra Hayagrivachari, Dr. T. Suryanarayana
Osmania University Separate Telangana Students (including Jayashankar)
Teachers' Association Separate Telangana Thota Anandarao

SRC Report Submission and Presentation

Date Event
September 30, 1955 Fazal Ali submitted report to central government
October 10, 1955 Central government presented SRC report before Parliament
August 31, 1956 President approved the SRC bill

Report Structure

Chapter Content
Chapter 5 Hyderabad state
Chapter 6 Andhra state
Paragraphs 359-368 Partition of Hyderabad state
Paragraphs 369-389 Detailed discussion of Vishalandhra and Telangana state arguments

SRC Recommendation on Number of States

  • Recommended 16 states and 3 Union Territories (along with Hyderabad/Telangana and Vidarbha)

Three Options Considered by SRC

Option Description
Option 1 Divide Hyderabad state into 3 parts on linguistic basis; merge Telangana with Andhra to form Vishalandhra
Option 2 Divide Hyderabad state and form a separate Telangana state with its 10 districts
Option 3 Keep the Hyderabad state as it is

Key Decision on Hyderabad Partition

Since public opinion was strong to divide the Hyderabad state both inside and outside, SRC recommended the partition of Hyderabad state:

  • Kannada areas to merge with Mysore state
  • Maratha areas to merge with Bombay state
  • Telugu region (Telangana) – special consideration (not simply merged)

Arguments for Vishalandhra (Paragraphs 369-374)

Advantage Details
Size & Population Coastal state with 32 million people
Resources Vast water resources, power, minerals, important raw materials
Capital Twin cities (Hyderabad-Secunderabad) best suited as capital; solves Andhra's capital problem
River Management Krishna and Godavari under same control; Krishna-Godavari Rivers Scheme becomes prestigious project
Irrigation Larger scope for implementation of schemes in eastern areas of two river basins
Food Security Telangana suffers foodgrain shortage; Andhra has surplus
Coal Resources Andhra needs coal; Telangana has Singareni coal reserves
Revenue Telangana can generate significant revenue for general administration
Sentiment Vishalandhra sentiment emotionally attached from a long period; worthy of consideration unless strong reason to contrary

Arguments for Separate Telangana (Paragraphs 375-380)

Concern Details
Financial Disparity Andhra facing financial difficulties; per capita income much less than Telangana
Telangana's Revenue High income from land taxes and ₹5 crore excise annually; fewer chances of economic problems
Fund Diversion Fear Fear that Telangana money will be transferred to Andhra region; Telangana will face shortage for welfare schemes
Administrative Benefits Uniting with Andhra has no additional administrative benefits for Telangana
Development Plans Doubts about Telangana's importance in future plans; Nandikonda, Kustapuram, Godavari projects vital for Telangana
River Rights Telangana not ready to give up independent rights on Krishna and Godavari river waters (planned for delta region)
Employment Competition Andhra people ahead in education; fear of losing opportunities; Telangana becoming "migratory home" for Andhra businessmen
Self-Sufficiency Telangana income: ₹17 crore; can be spent on Krishna-Godavari projects; many ways to increase income
Financial Position No reason to worry after Finance Commission recommendations (April 1952); central income tax and excise likely to increase

SRC's Final Recommendation

The "Telangana with Merger Option" Formula

Element Details
Immediate Decision Form separate Telangana state (can be named Hyderabad state) with 10 districts
Merger Option If two-thirds of members elected to Hyderabad state assembly in 1961 agree to merge with Andhra, merger can be considered
If Not Telangana continues as separate state

Districts Proposed for Telangana / Hyderabad State

Region Districts/Areas
Telangana Districts Mahbubnagar, Nalgonda, Warangal (along with Khammam), Karimnagar, Adilabad, Nizamabad, Hyderabad, Medak
Additional Areas Bidar, along with Munagala Paragana in present Krishna district of Andhra

Advantages of the Transition Period

Advantage Description
Governance Stability Two governments stabilize governance in next five years
Unobstructed Unification No obstruction to Andhra's unification process
Revenue Review Opportunity to review land revenue systems
Overcoming Fear Transition period helps overcome fear of merging
Consensus Building Time for consensus between two states
Reconciliation Common interests may result in reconciliation

Final Note

"Telangana will remain as a separate state if the Public Opinion in Telangana is against unification and if there is no favorable atmosphere for the merger of the two regions."

Leaders' Views on Telangana and Vishalandhra

Support for a Separate Telangana State

Leader Position Viewpoint
K.V. Ranga Reddy Minister, Hyderabad State Advocated separate Telangana; emphasized economic self-sufficiency and protection of regional welfare
J.V. Narsing Rao President, Hyderabad Pradesh Congress Committee Supported majority opinion of Telangana; urged impartial recommendation
Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy Agriculture Minister, Hyderabad State Favored two Telugu states; stressed governance efficiency over linguistic unity
Shahabuddin Ahmad Khan Mayor of Hyderabad Opposed Vishalandhra citing widespread Telangana opposition

Support for Vishalandhra (United Andhra Pradesh)

Leader Position Viewpoint
Bezawada Gopal Reddy Chief Minister, Andhra State Encouraged patience; willing to accept SRC recommendations
Ayyadevara Kaleshwara Rao President, Vishalandhra Mahasabha Criticized delay; supported immediate merger
Paga Pulla Reddy Secretary, Vishalandhra Mahasabha Opposed delay; demanded quick legislative resolutions
Tenne Vishwanadham Andhra Leader Favored unified Andhra Pradesh; noted contradiction in SRC conclusions

Conclusion

The passionate arguments from both sides presented to the SRC underscored the deep emotional and political significance of the state's reorganization, setting the stage for complex negotiations and the eventual Gentlemen's Agreement that followed.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar – Views on Smaller States

Introduction

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, one of India's foremost constitutional experts and social reformers, had a nuanced perspective on the creation and administration of smaller states in India. His views on this topic are derived from his writings, speeches, and contributions to the framing of the Indian Constitution. Ambedkar's insights into the need for smaller states are rooted in his broader vision of an inclusive and equitable governance structure that could cater to the diverse needs of India's vast and varied population.

Historical Context: Merger of Princely States

Period Development
Pre-1947 India had more than 500 samsthans (principalities) of varying sizes
1947-1950 Merger of all these samsthans into the Indian Union
1950 28 units formed after integration
Example In 1948, 30 samsthans with 27,000 sq. km. merged to form Himachal Pradesh

Challenges

  • Smaller samsthans could not be self-sufficient or meet administrative expenditure
  • Multilingualism and diverse cultures posed administrative and cultural problems
  • Strong desire emerged for language-based states

Ambedkar's Critique of the State Reorganization Commission (SRC)

Observations on SRC Recommendations

Critique Details
Geographical Area Commission not according due weightage to geographical area
Consequences of Merger Not considering consequences of diverse geographical areas of merging states
Grave Mistake Called this the "most grave mistake" of the commission
Warning If lapses not corrected, severe consequences would follow; country would pay heavy price for population differences

Main Cause of Opposition

Issue Description
Imbalance of Political Power Genesis of imbalance in political power across the country
North-South Disparity Smaller states in south, bigger states in north could lead to future crisis

Suggested Solution

Recommendation Details
Divide Large States Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh should be separated into smaller states
Population Limit For efficient administration, no state should have more than 2 crore people

Principle of "One Language, One State"

Ambedkar's Elaboration

Principle Explanation
One Language, Multiple States People speaking same language could form several states to enable balance of power, meet people's needs, and ensure efficient administration
Progressive Development This approach would lead to progressive development of the country

Application to Maharashtra

Aspect Details
Area 1.74 lakh square miles (Marathi-speaking)
Population 3.3 crores
Conclusion Impossible for efficient administration as single unit
Proposed Division Should be separated into 4 parts: Bombay, Paschim (Konkan), Marathwada, Eastern Vidarbha

Outcome

Though states were not immediately separated as per Ambedkar's suggestions, territories underwent significant change in the 1960s and 1970s.

Arguments for Smaller States

1. Administrative Efficiency

Argument Explanation
Responsive Governance Smaller states lead to more efficient and responsive governance
Easier Management Smaller administrative units more easily managed
Better Implementation Ensures better implementation of policies tailored to regional needs
Reduce Bureaucracy Reduces bureaucratic delays; local issues receive attention

2. Representation and Local Governance

Argument Explanation
Better Representation Facilitates better representation of diverse communities
Avoid Neglect Prevents certain areas/communities from feeling neglected
Attuned Governance Local governance attuned to specific cultural, social, economic contexts
Inclusive Participation Leads to more inclusive and participatory governance

3. Economic Development

Argument Explanation
Focused Development Can focus more effectively on economic development
Local Resources Policies designed to harness local resources and promote local industries
Regional Disparities Addresses regional disparities
Balanced Growth Prevents concentration of economic activities in few areas

4. Cultural and Linguistic Identity

Argument Explanation
Preserve Languages Helps preserve and promote regional languages and cultures
Marginalization Prevented Languages often marginalized in larger states get recognition
Stronger Identity Linguistic/cultural homogeneity leads to stronger sense of identity
Social Cohesion Fosters social cohesion and stability

Ambedkar's "Thoughts on Linguistic States"

Key Arguments

Argument Details
Need for Linguistic States Diversity of languages requires states organized on linguistic lines for better governance
Prevent Language Dominance Prevents dominance of any single language; promotes linguistic equality
Balanced Regional Development Smaller, linguistically homogeneous states can focus on specific development needs
Prevent Linguistic Chauvinism Warned against dangers of linguistic chauvinism; stressed need for tolerance and national unity

Ambedkar's Concerns and Safeguards

Concern Safeguard
Risk of Parochialism States should not foster narrow regionalism that undermines national unity
Economic Viability Ensure states have sufficient resources to sustain themselves; avoid dependency on central assistance
Administrative Challenges Well-thought-out process for smooth transitions and effective governance
Minority Rights Protect linguistic, cultural, and religious minorities within each state; ensure states don't become exclusionary

Contemporary Relevance

Recent State Reorganizations

State Year Basis
Uttarakhand 2000 Mountain region development
Jharkhand 2000 Economic foundation and Girijan (tribal) area development
Chhattisgarh 2000 Economic foundation and tribal area development
Telangana 2014 29th state; formed keeping in view advantages of smaller states

Assessment of Newer States

State Progress Challenges
Uttarakhand Successful in economic and political stability goals -
Chhattisgarh Political stability; some economic progress Internal Maoist threat
Jharkhand Dismal picture politically and economically Governance challenges
Telangana Taking rapid strides under able administration -

Key Observation

"Irrespective of the area of state, with suitable and apt leadership the state could take a rapid path to social and economic growth and development."

Ambedkar's Population Formula

Parameter Recommendation
Ideal State Population About 2 crores (as suggested by Ambedkar)
Theoretical Implication India would need 50 small states
Political Feasibility Not politically feasible
Practical Alternative States with population of 5 crores could be basis for reorganization for good governance

Conclusion: Ambedkar's Vision and Telangana

Aspect Significance
Administrative Efficiency Smaller states ensure efficient governance
Representation Better representation for diverse communities
Economic Development Focused development harnessing local resources
Cultural Identity Preservation of regional languages and cultures
Telangana's Formation (2014) Vindication of Ambedkar's principles
Current Trajectory Telangana taking rapid strides under able administration

The creation of Andhra Pradesh was a result of a long-standing demand for linguistic reorganization, political movements, and central government interventions. After the formation of Andhra State on October 1, 1953, the State Reorganisation Commission (SRC) was appointed to assess linguistic state demands across India. The SRC submitted its report on September 30, 1955, laying the foundation for merging Telangana with Andhra, despite opposition from several Telangana leaders.

EARLY ADVOCACY FOR VISHALANDHRA

Role of the Communist Party

Leader Contribution
Puchalapalli Sundarayya Outlined benefits of unifying Telangana with Andhra in his book "Vishalandhra lo Praja Rajyam" (1946); advocated slogan "One race, one language, one state"
Ravi Narayana Reddy Wrote about lobbying efforts for Vishalandhra in his autobiography "Na Jeevana Patham lo"

FIRST VISHALANDHRA MEETING (FEBRUARY 1950)

Aspect Details
Location Warangal
Chair Hayagrivachari
Date February 1950

Key Developments

Participant Position
Swami Ramananda Tirtha Strengthened demand for Vishalandhra
Marri Chenna Reddy Opposed merger; favored separate Telangana
K.V. Ranga Reddy Opposed merger; favored separate Telangana

Crucial Resolution

  • Establish Vishalandhra with Hyderabad as its capital

Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu's Declaration

"Formation of Vishalandhra is the birthright of all Andhra people."

First Anniversary

  • Celebrated on November 26, 1950
  • Leaders like Prakasam Pantulu communicated with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, emphasizing its importance

SECOND VISHALANDHRA MEETING (1954)

Aspect Details
Location Hyderabad
Chair Shrirangam Srinivas Rao (Shri Sri)
President of Invitation Society Baddham Ellareddy
Secretary Ravi Narayana Reddy
Promoter Devulapalli Ramanuja Rao (distributed pamphlets and publications)

Supporting Newspapers

  • Vishalandhra
  • Kakatiya
  • Andhra Janata
  • Andhra Patrika

Central Government Support

Leader Position
Kailashnath Katju Defense Minister
Lal Bahadur Shastri Railway Minister
Sayyad Mohammad External Affairs Minister

Opposition and Reservations

Leader View
C. Rajagopalachari Suggested keeping Hyderabad as a multilingual state
S.K. Patil (Mumbai PCC President) Secret survey revealed many Telangana residents preferred separate state

PRIME MINISTER NEHRU'S STAND ON VISHALANDHRA

Initial Position (July 15, 1951)

Event Statement
All India Congress Committee Meeting Dismissed Vishalandhra as "loose talk"
Location Bengaluru

Later Characterization

  • Described Vishalandhra as a form of "aggression and imperialism"

Factors Influencing Nehru's Shift

Factor Explanation
Threats from Andhra Leaders Warned that if Hyderabad remained separate, it could revive Nizam's appeal to the United Nations, disrupting India's stability
Fear of "Southern Pakistan" Argument that an independent Telangana might encourage separatist tendencies, creating another "Pakistan-like" situation in South India
Lack of Capital for Andhra Andhra lacked a capital after separating from Madras; leaders pushed for Hyderabad to be the capital
Nehru's Caution Despite supporting merger, he remained cautious, famously comparing it to a "marriage" where divorce was an option if things didn't work out

RESOLUTIONS IN FAVOR OF VISHALANDHRA

1. Bejawada Gopala Reddy's Resolution (November 5, 1955)

Aspect Details
Leader Bejawada Gopala Reddy
Date November 5, 1955
Key Promise Educational and employment reservations for Telangana based on its population

2. Hyderabad State Assembly Discussion (November 25, 1955)

Aspect Details
Leader Chief Minister Burgula Ramakrishna Rao
Assurance Andhra people were "not conquerors"; promised special protections for Telangana

3. Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy's Resolution (February 1, 1956)

Aspect Details
Leader Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy
Date February 1, 1956
Key Safeguards Promised
  • No claim by Andhra on one-third of Telangana jobs
  • Utilization of Godavari waters for regional development

KEY FIGURES IN THE VISHALANDHRA MOVEMENT

Leader Role/Position
Puchalapalli Sundarayya Communist leader; author of "Vishalandhra lo Praja Rajyam"
Ravi Narayana Reddy Communist leader; Secretary of 2nd Vishalandhra Meeting
Hayagrivachari Chair of 1st Vishalandhra Meeting (Warangal)
Swami Ramananda Tirtha Strengthened demand for Vishalandhra
Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu Declared Vishalandhra as "birthright" of Andhra people
Shrirangam Srinivas Rao (Shri Sri) Chair of 2nd Vishalandhra Meeting
Baddham Ellareddy President of Invitation Society (2nd meeting)
Devulapalli Ramanuja Rao Promoted merger through pamphlets and newspapers
Bejawada Gopala Reddy Passed resolution with safeguards (Nov 1955)
Burgula Ramakrishna Rao Gave assurances in Assembly (Nov 1955)
Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy Passed resolution with specific safeguards (Feb 1956)

Introduction

A meeting of the representatives of Andhra and Telangana regions was called at Hyderabad House Guest House in Delhi on 20th February, 1956. The two regions were represented by their top state leadership, with four representatives each from both regions, under the supervision of Govind Vallabh Pant. The agreement was arrived at on 20th February, 1956, and was signed by both Telangana and Andhra leaders who attended the meeting.

SIGNATORIES TO THE GENTLEMEN'S AGREEMENT

Leaders from Andhra Region

Name Position
Bezawada Gopala Reddy Chief Minister of Andhra
N. Sanjeeva Reddy Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra
Sardar Gouthu Latchanna Minister in Andhra Cabinet & Leader of Krishikar Lok Party (constituent of United Congress Front)
Alluri Satyanarayana Raju President, Andhra Provincial Congress Committee

Leaders from Telangana Region

Name Position
Burgula Ramakrishna Rao Chief Minister of Hyderabad
K.V. Ranga Reddy Revenue Minister, Hyderabad
Dr. M. Chenna Reddy Planning Minister, Hyderabad
J.V. Narsinga Rao President, Hyderabad Provincial Congress Committee

14 POINTS OF THE GENTLEMEN'S AGREEMENT

Point 1: Financial Arrangements

The expenditure of the Central and General Administration of the State should be borne proportionately by the two regions and the balance of income from Telangana should be reserved for expenditure on the development of Telangana area. This arrangement will be reviewed after five years and can be continued for another five years if the Telangana members of the Assembly so desire.

Point 2: Prohibition of Liquor

Prohibition of liquor in Telangana should be implemented in the manner decided upon by the Assembly members of Telangana.

Point 3: Educational Safeguards

The existing educational facilities in Telangana should be secured to the students of Telangana and further improved. Admission to Colleges, including technical institutions in the Telangana area, should be restricted to the students of Telangana area, or they should have admission to the extent of one third of the total admission in the entire state, whichever is advantageous to Telangana students.

Point 4: Job Retrenchment

Retrenchment of jobs should be proportionate from both regions if it becomes inevitable due to merger of two regions.

Point 5: Recruitment Based on Population

Future recruitments to jobs will be on the basis of population from both regions.

Point 6: Language and Urdu

The position of Urdu in the administrative and judicial matters existing at present in the Telangana area may continue for about five years; after that if needed the regional council by discussions may amend the position of Urdu. So far as recruitment to jobs is concerned, there should not be any rule like the person should know the Telugu language, but they should be required to pass a prescribed Telugu test in two years' time after appointment.

Point 7: Domicile Rules

Some kind of domicile rules were made e.g., residence for 12 years should be there, to be considered as Local and those candidates only eligible to enter into jobs allocated for Telangana region.

Point 8: Agricultural Land Sales

Sales of agricultural lands in Telangana area to be under the control of the Regional Council.

Point 9: Establishment of Regional Council

A Regional Council will be established for the Telangana area with a view to secure its all-round development in accordance with its needs and requirements.

Point 10: Composition of Regional Council

  • 9 members of the assembly, representing each district of Telangana, to be elected by the Assembly members of the Telangana districts separately
  • 6 members of the Assembly or the Parliament, elected by the Telangana representatives in the Assembly
  • 5 members from outside the Assembly to be elected by the Telangana members of the Assembly
  • All ministers from Telangana region will be members
  • The Chief Minister or the Deputy Chief Minister, whoever is from Telangana, will be the Chairman of the Council
  • Other Cabinet Ministers may also be invited to the meetings of the Regional Council

Point 11: Powers of Regional Council

The Regional Council will be a statutory body empowered to deal with and decide about matters mentioned above, and those relating to:

  • Planning and development
  • Irrigation and other projects
  • Industrial development within the general planning
  • Problems related to Telangana employees insofar as they relate to Telangana area

If there is difference of opinion between the views of the Regional Council and the Government of the state, an appeal may be made to the Government of India for final decision. Unless in between if any amendment is made to agreement by acceptance, this agreement is reviewed only after 10 years.

Point 12: Cabinet Representation

The Cabinet will consist of members proportionately 60:40 per cent for Andhra and Telangana respectively. Out of the 40 per cent Telangana Ministers, one will be a Muslim from Telangana.

Point 13: Leadership and Key Portfolios

If the Chief Minister is from Andhra, the Deputy Chief Minister will be from Telangana and vice versa.

Two out of the following portfolios will be assigned to Ministers from Telangana:

  • Home
  • Finance
  • Revenue
  • Planning & Development
  • Commerce and Industry

Point 14: Separate PCC for Telangana

The H.P.C.C. President desires that the P.C.C. should be separate for Telangana up to the end of 1962. For this A.P.P.C.C. President has no objection.

UNRESOLVED POINTS (NO UNANIMITY)

Issue Telangana Position Andhra Position
Name of New State Wanted "Andhra Telangana" (as proposed in draft bill) Wanted "Andhra Pradesh" (as indicated by Joint Selection Committee)
High Court Wanted a bench at Guntur with principal seat at Hyderabad Wanted no bench at Guntur; entire High Court located only at Hyderabad

FROM GENTLEMEN'S AGREEMENT TO NOTE ON SAFEGUARDS

Date Event
February 20, 1956 Gentlemen's Agreement signed
August 10, 1956 "A note on the safeguards proposed for Telangana area" laid before Parliament (Lok Sabha)
August 10, 1956 Note introduced as answer to question of Raj Bahadur Gaur
Changes About 10 to 12 changes made to Gentlemen's Agreement in preparing the Note on Safeguards
August 31, 1956 Andhra Pradesh Bill approved by President of India
November 1, 1956 Ceremony at Hyderabad; Andhra Pradesh formally inaugurated by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru

TELANGANA REGIONAL COMMITTEE

Introduction

In the wake of the merging of Hyderabad and Andhra State, the formation of the Telangana Regional Committee was one of the most important protections provided to the Telangana region. It was called "Telangana People's Voice." The political, financial, educational, and employment-related matters constituted in the Gentlemen's Agreement (1956) formed the basis for ensuring protection of Telangana's interests, especially financial and educational aspects.

CONCEPT OF REGIONAL SAFEGUARDS: HISTORICAL CONTEXT

International Parallel: Scottish Standing Committee

Aspect Scotland-UK Telangana-India
Union Scotland joined England in 1707; Northern Ireland joined in 1921 Telangana merged with Andhra in 1956
Safeguard Scottish Standing Committee enacted by British Parliament Telangana Regional Committee under Gentlemen's Agreement
Outcome Scotland satisfied; 2014 referendum showed 55.33% favored staying in UK Telangana movement intensified when safeguards were violated

Indian Parallel: Rayalaseema Development Board

Aspect Details
Region Rayalaseema (facing famines and disasters in Madras Province)
Safeguard Created Separate "Development Board" formed in 1949
Original Name "Seeded District Economic Development"
Later Name "Rayalaseema Development Board"
Chairperson Minister administering development works
Abolished October 1, 1953 (when Andhra State was formed)

Inspiration from West Bengal-Bihar Proposal

During the SRC consultations, the then Chief Minister of West Bengal B.C. Roy and Bihar Chief Minister S.K. Sinha proposed merging their states as a "West Bengal-Bihar Joint State" along with formation of regional committees for development and equality. Though their desire was not fulfilled, their proposal of the Regional Committee inspired the formation of Telangana Regional Committee.

BACKGROUND: TELANGANA'S POSITION DURING SRC (1954-1955)

SRC Visit to Hyderabad (June-July 1954)

Position Advocates
Separate Hyderabad State Most leaders and people preferred this
Opposed Vishalandhra K.V. Ranga Reddy, Marri Chenna Reddy
Initially Opposed, Later Supported Burgula Ramakrishna Rao

Key Developments

Date Event
1952 Mulki Movement violence; authoritarian ideology of Andhra region for Vishalandhra
September 30, 1955 SRC recommended separate Telangana State with 10 districts (including Bidar)
After SRC Report Andhra leaders pressured Central Government and Telangana leaders for merger
February 1956 Telangana Congress leaders met Home Minister Govind Ballabh Pant; he proposed Regional Committee

SRC's Telangana Recommendation

The Commission analyzed profits and losses of both options and, despite strong proposals from Andhra leaders for Vishalandhra, preferred separate Telangana. It recommended that after the 1962 Assembly elections, Vishalandhra could be formed if 2/3rd of Telangana Assembly members accepted.

FORMATION OF TELANGANA REGIONAL COMMITTEE

Gentlemen's Agreement (February 20, 1956)

Aspect Details
Point 9 Proposed formation of Telangana Regional Council
Signed July 19, 1956
Parliamentary Bill "Note on Safeguards" introduced for statutory provision
President's Assent August 31, 1956 (President Babu Rajendra Prasad)

Key Change in Nomenclature

Document Name Used
Gentlemen's Agreement "Telangana Region Council"
Andhra Pradesh State Act "Telangana Regional Committee"

Constitutional Basis

  • 7th Constitutional Amendment Act (1956) : Abolished A, B, C, D parts of regions; empowered President to form Development Boards and Regional Committees
  • Regional Committees formed in Andhra Pradesh and Punjab under this amendment
  • Punjab had two Regional Committees (1957-1966), abolished when Punjab was divided

Presidential Order

  • Telangana Regional Committee formed in 1958 through Presidential Order
  • First Chief Minister Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy did not form the executive body
  • Executive Council finally formed in 1960 under Chief Minister Damodaram Sanjeevaiah (due to pressure from Telangana leaders)

STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION

Total Members: 20

Category Number Election Method
District Representatives 9 One from each of 9 districts, elected by Telangana MLAs (district-wise)
MLAs/MPs 6 Telangana MLAs or MPs, elected by Telangana MLAs
Non-MLA Members 5 From outside Assembly, elected by Telangana MLAs
Ex-Officio Members - All ministers belonging to Telangana

Chairman and Deputy Chairman

Aspect Details
Election Elected by Telangana MLAs (105 members) through Open Ballot System
Notification Governor issues notification for election
Term Lose membership if they lose MLA seat
Removal Can be removed by special majority (never used)

First Chairman Election (1960)

Candidate Party Votes
K. Achyutha Reddy Congress 63
Raavi Narayana Reddy CPI 22
  • Masuma Begum unanimously elected as first Deputy Chairman

Chairpersons of Telangana Regional Committee

Period Chairperson
1960-64 K. Achyutha Reddy
1964-67 T. Hayagriva Chary
1967-72 J. Chokka Rao
1972-73 K. Raja Mallu

Deputy Chairpersons

Period Deputy Chairperson
1960-64 Masuma Begum
1964-67 T. Ranga Reddy
1967-72 K. Raja Mallu
1972-73 Sayyed Rahmat Ali

POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

Areas Under Committee's Purview

Area Specific Responsibilities
Land Permission necessary for sale of agricultural lands in Telangana
Planning Observe powers of General plan, Development Institutions, District Board
Education Primary and Secondary Education development; regulate admissions; prepare action plans
Prohibition Regulate and observe prohibition in Telangana
Industries Cottage and small scale industries
Agriculture Agriculture, Co-operative Societies, Markets, Fairs
Employment Supervise job recruitment process in Telangana region
Legislation Drafting of Regional Bills (non-financial) must get Committee approval before introduction in Assembly
Governor's Role Decides whether a bill is regional or not

Bills NOT Under Committee's Purview

  • Bills extending Andhra region through a provision (need not be reported to Committee)
  • All Money Bills

WORKING PROCESS: SUB-COMMITTEES

1. Standing Sub-Committees (3)

Sub-Committee Focus Area
Standing Sub-Committee on Local Administration Public health
Standing Sub-Committee on Education Educational matters
Standing Sub-Committee on Development Plans Planning and development

2. Ad Hoc Sub-Committees

Aspect Details
Purpose Formed on special issues
Duration Abolished after completion of work
Number No fixed number
Membership 9 members (elected from Regional Committee members)
Chairman Appointed by Regional Committee Chairman from among sub-committee members
Quorum 4 members
Powers Can summon government officers
Outcome Proposals unanimously accepted by Regional Committee

ACHIEVEMENTS OF TELANGANA REGIONAL COMMITTEE

1. Education Sector

Achievement Details
Admissions Framed rules and regulations for admissions into Telangana schools
Implementation Government instructed educational institutions to implement Committee's rules
Osmania University Approved ₹3 crores reserve funds to Osmania University (invested in Development Bonds in Electricity Board for 10 years)
Benefit Interest used for Osmania University Development Schemes; university greatly benefited

2. Public Health and Sanitation

Achievement Details
Management Played important role in management of Public Health and Sanitation
Guidelines Provided guidelines to Government for all districts of Telangana
Grants Provided grants for "Prakruthi Chikitsa Hospital" (Nature Cure Hospital) at Ameerpet, Hyderabad
Report Submitted report for protection of sanitation and public health

3. Local Governance Recommendations

Recommendation Details
Election Commission Form national-level Election Commission at state level for local bodies (Municipalities, Gram Panchayats)
Constituency Reorganization Form independent commission for reorganization of local bodies constituencies

4. Telangana Regional Committee Schemes (1961-63)

The Committee framed and implemented many schemes using Telangana's surplus funds. These were called "Telangana Regional Committee Schemes."

NEGLIGENCE AND DECLINE

Initial Negligence (1958-1960)

Period Issue
1958-1960 Though statutory provision in 1958, Sanjeeva Reddy did not form Executive Council
1960 Formed only due to pressure from Telangana leaders

Attempts to Dominate

Incident Details
K. Achyutha Reddy's Press Meet Highlighted injustice to Telangana; Chief Minister responded negatively
T. Hayagriva Chary's Tenure Andhra leaders did not respond at all

Teacher Recruitment Issue (1964)

Issue Details
Problem Acute shortage of teachers in secondary schools in Telangana
Recommendation Recruit teachers from Telangana's surplus funds
Government Response Finance and Planning Department falsely reported no surplus funds (deficit claimed)

Contradiction: Governor's Speech (1961-66)

Statement Details
Governor's Speech in Assembly Stated there were ₹30.54 crores surplus funds in Telangana region
Implication Andhra leadership ignored reporting of Telangana benefits; Regional Committee kept in dark

Dispute over Surplus Funds

Position Argument
Regional Committee Surplus funds = profits at Revenue account of Telangana region
Government Investment amount must be deducted from revenue profits to estimate surplus
Outcome Differences continued; Committee made plans despite disputes

Government Employees Services Issue

Point Details
Gentlemen's Agreement Points 4, 6, 7 related to government services
Presidential Order No provisions for government employee services
Government Argument Services-related matters not in Committee's purview
Result Differences between Government and Chairman

REVIEW AND DISSOLUTION

Review Provisions

Document Review Period
Gentlemen's Agreement Review after 10 years
Note on Safeguards Review after 10 years

Later Developments

Year Event
1969 Telangana agitation reached peak stage
April 11, 1969 Prime Minister Indira Gandhi announced "8-Point Formula" to solve Telangana problems
Point 5 of 8-Point Formula Powers of Telangana Regional Committee increased
1972 Supreme Court upheld Mulki Rules as constitutional
1972-73 Jai Andhra movement started in Andhra region
September 21, 1973 Six-Point Formula declared
1973 Mulki Rules and Telangana Regional Committee abolished

ASSESSMENT OF TELANGANA REGIONAL COMMITTEE

Aspect Assessment
Purpose Act as safeguard for Telangana region
Achievements Significant in education, health, local governance; framed many schemes
Limitations Due to arrogance of Andhra leaders, expectations not fully reached
Legacy Gave inspirational instructions within its purview
Impact Misleading stand on safeguards led to 1969 agitation
Historical Significance Proved that institutional safeguards without political will are ineffective

VIOLATION 1: REGIONAL COUNCIL VS REGIONAL COMMITTEE

Original Agreement vs. Actual Implementation

Aspect Gentlemen's Agreement Actual Implementation
Name Telangana Regional Council Telangana Regional Committee
Nature Vast-powered; like a mini government Weak legislative committee
Power to Prepare Plans Could prepare plan for Telangana on lines of AP State plan Could only make non-financial recommendations
Supervisory Powers Supervise entire Gentlemen's Agreement No power to implement supervisory powers of Mulki rules
Education Full oversight No power to supervise higher education
Status Platform for political expression Remained only as advisory body

Consequence

"By forming a weak Telangana Committee in place of a strong Telangana Council was the first violation of Telangana rights."

VIOLATION 2: CABINET REPRESENTATION AND PORTFOLIOS

Deputy Chief Minister Issue

Agreement Actual
If CM from Andhra, Deputy CM from Telangana Sanjeeva Reddy refused to appoint Deputy CM, calling it a "sixth finger"

Portfolio Allocation

Issue Details
Important Portfolios Not given to Telangana Ministers
Department Division Departments divided; important portions kept with Chief Minister
Home Department Given to Telangana without Law and Order Power (Chief Minister retained Law and Order)
Industries Divided as big, medium, small industries; one part given to Telangana
Irrigation Similar divisions

Conclusion

"The Andhra leaders who signed the Gentlemen's Agreement violated their own promises. Injustice was done by manipulation."

VIOLATION 3: ABOLITION OF SEPARATE TELANGANA CONGRESS COMMITTEE

Agreement Actual
Separate Telangana Congress Committee to continue till 1962 Abolished in 1957 and merged with Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee

Consequences

Consequence Details
Political Leadership Telangana lost opportunity to develop independent political leadership
National Representation Lost representation at national level
Decision-Making Power Lost power to decide on regional problems
Ticket Allocation Lost power to allot tickets to Telangana candidates
Andhra Supremacy Increased after single APCC was formed

Panchayati Raj Impact

Development Consequence
Panchayati Raj Introduction Sustenance of leaders and local governments went into Andhra leaders' hands
Tradition of Decision-Making Panchayati Samithi Presidents and Zilla Parishad Chairmen decided from Hyderabad
Andhra Dominance Further increased
Submissive Leaders Encouraged Andhra leaders encouraged Telangana leaders who were submissive to them

Final Outcome

"With these developments Telangana lost its political identity. Except the leaders who emerged before independence, other Telangana leaders were not allowed to develop."

VIOLATION 4: IRRIGATION SECTOR

General Violation

Principle Reality
Projects with permissions and under construction to be completed in time Did not happen with Telangana projects

Water Allocation Disparity

River Allotted to AP Telangana's Actual Receipt
Krishna 811 TMCs Less than 91 TMCs
Godavari 14850 TMCs 197 TMCs (out of allotted 1050)

Equity Analysis

Basis Telangana's Entitlement Reality
River Flowing Area Should get 1500 TMCs Getting only 197 TMCs
Backwardness Projects should have priority Projects neglected

Irrigated Area Comparison (Post-Third Five Year Plan)

Region % of Land with Irrigation
Telangana 16.6%
Andhra 48.3%
  • Telangana's Dependency: 80% land cultivated under wells and tanks

Plan Expenditure on Irrigation (Second & Third Five Year Plans: 1956-67)

Region Expenditure
Andhra ₹93.67 crores
Telangana ₹56.76 crores

POCHAMPADU (SRIRAM SAGAR) PROJECT

Original Nizam's Plan

Aspect Details
Storage Capacity 260 TMCs
Irrigation Target 20 lakh acres
Components Reservoirs at Kadem, Lower Manair Dam, main project near Kistapuram village

AP Government's Reduction

Aspect Reduced Plan
Storage Capacity 66 TMCs
Irrigation Area 5.7 lakh acres

Further Neglect

Event Details
Foundation Stone July 26, 1963 (Prime Minister laid foundation; cost estimated at ₹40 crores)
Funds Allotted (up to 1968) Only ₹9.77 crores
Delay Consequence Had it been included in Second Five Year Plan, project would have been completed early

NAGARJUNA SAGAR PROJECT

Original Plan (Pre-Independence)

Aspect Details
Surveys Conducted jointly by Nizam and Madras state
Location Nandikonda on river Krishna
Construction Start 1955 (as per Khosla Committee recommendations)

Original Irrigation Targets

Canal Target Area
Right Canal 18.58 lakh acres (Guntur, Nellore)
Left Canal 10 lakh acres (Nalgonda, Khammam) + 2.93 lakh acres (Krishna, West Godavari)

AP Government's Changes

Change Details
Left Canal Area Reduced to 5.2 lakh acres
Andhra Area Increase 3.11 lakh acres added in Andhra region
Technical Issue Water release through sluices reduced water level; left canal failed to supply assured water

Expenditure Disparity (up to 1968)

Canal Expenditure Irrigation Achieved
Right Canal (Andhra) ₹37.80 crores 5.6 lakh acres
Left Canal (Telangana) ₹26.58 crores 0.9 lakh acres

AGRICULTURE SECTOR DISPARITY

Government Expenditure on Agriculture (1950-1968)

Region Expenditure Ratio
Andhra ₹35.43 crores 2.2
Telangana ₹15.66 crores 1

Equity Analysis

Basis Telangana's Entitlement Actual Received
Irrigated Land Proportion Should get 41.9% resources Got only 15.66 crores (should have got 21.36 crores)
Land Calculation Telangana: 1.13 crore acres; Andhra: 1.58 crore acres Ratio should be 5:4

VIOLATION 5: EMPLOYMENT AND MULKI RULES

Legal Framework for Mulki Rules

Provision Details
Article 16(3) Parliament has power to make law to decide residential conditions of employment
Article 35(A) Only Parliament has power to make such laws, not state legislatures
1957 Act Parliament approved Employment (Residential Eligibility) Law; came into force December 7, 1957
Section 3(A) and (C) Power to Central Government to impose conditions for Telangana, Manipur, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh
1959 Conditions Centre issued conditions for AP government employment (residential eligibility)

Residential Eligibility Conditions (1959)

Condition Details
Residence Period 15 years permanent residence for local government jobs
Secretariat/Head Departments For 2 out of 3 jobs, residence eligibility shall be followed
All Recruitments Local reservations applicable to direct, transfer, or promotion
Temporary Recruitments Only Mulkis eligible
Exemptions May be given with written reasons
Transparency List of exemption recruitments published in gazette every 4 months; copy to Central Government

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT (PWD) VIOLATIONS

The Seniority Issue

Event Details
Provisional List Prepared April 1963
Final List Released April 1964 (after court verdict)
Violation Found Between numbers 194 to 574, illegal promotions given to Assistant Engineers (Andhra employees)
Correct Action Illegal promotions should have been abolished; promotions should have gone to Telangana employees

Central Government Intervention

Date Action
December 24, 1965 Central Government Advisory Committee refused those promotions
AP Government Response Did not follow Central advice, citing pending court case
Central Government's Shift Initially firm, later accepted AP Government request

Court Verdict

Aspect Details
Court Decision Accepted Telangana employees' plea and Central Committee's advice
Implementation Verdict not implemented

Impact if Implemented

Category Number of Andhra Employees to be Reverted
Chief Engineers 5
Superintendent Engineers 18
Executive Engineers 13
Assistant Engineers 265

"To protect all those Andhra employees, the A.P. government did not care even about the court verdict."

EDUCATION DEPARTMENT VIOLATIONS

Issue Details
Appointment Practice Non-trained candidates appointed first; opportunity to get trained later
Salary Disparity Telangana employees paid ₹85-175 scale instead of ₹154-275
Official Response Officials insulted them and advised approaching "Hyderabad government"
Service Insecurity Even after 12 years of Hyderabad state's existence, services not regularized; lived under threat of termination
Promotions Denied Refused to teachers appointed during Nizam period

VIOLATION 6: SURPLUS FUNDS

The Ambiguity in Gentlemen's Agreement Point 1

Ambiguity Issue
1 Did not define "central and general administration"
2 Did not mention the ratio for proportionate expenditure

AP Finance Department Guidelines (1957)

Category Allocation Rule
Governor's Office, Secretariat, Assembly, PSC, Head of Departments, etc. 2:1 ratio from Andhra and Telangana incomes
Pension Expenditure (up to Oct 31, 1956) From respective region's income
Pension Expenditure (after AP formation) 2:1 ratio
Loan Interest (up to Oct 31, 1956) From respective region's income
Loan Interest (combined state) Based on investment made in that region

Agreed Principles (Government and Regional Committee)

Principle Details
1 Income and expenditure of region allotted to that region only
2 Combined expenditures and Hyderabad expenditures on 2:1 ratio
3 Central grants and funds distributed on 2:1 ratio
4 Central grants to schemes/projects belong to region of implementation

The Problem

"The above principles were agreed upon but did not come into force."

Definition of Surplus Funds

Almost all years, Telangana's income was higher than its expenditure. The funds Telangana was legally entitled to but did not receive were called surplus funds.

ALL-PARTY MEETING ON SURPLUS FUNDS (January 19, 1969)

Background Discussions

Date Event
February 8, 1968 CM Kasu Brahma Reddy met Regional Committee Chairman J. Chokka Rao, Vice Chairman Kodati Rajamallu, and member A. Vasudeva Rao to discuss methods to identify surplus funds
June 17, 1968 Finance Secretary wrote to Regional Committee mentioning agreed principles

Agreements from All-Party Meeting

Agreement Details
1 Existing agreements on fund allotments to continue
2 Investment account surplus to be clubbed with revenue surplus
3 Telangana entitled to 1/3 under investment account; amount spent less than 1/3 becomes investment surplus
4 Revenue surplus + Investment surplus = Telangana surplus
5 Profit/expenditure of state-level corporations treated as state government's
6 Electricity production and high voltage line expenditure shared 2:1
7 Industrial Trust funds (established by Nizam) to be spent for Telangana
8 Accountant General level officer to calculate surplus; start by January 24, 1969; report by March 1969

FAZAL ALI'S PROPHETIC WARNING

Warning Details
Central Supervision Needed Safeguards would not be implemented without Central Government supervision
Insufficient Models Arrangements like Sribagh Agreement or Scottish devolution failed to give protections
Essential Condition Unless Centre directly interferes and supervises, protections have no value

"History proved Fazal Ali's analysis of the Andhra Pradesh government; the Andhra elite did not show any interest in the implementation of the protections given to Telangana."

CONCLUSION: THE PATH TO 1969

Factor Consequence
Violation of Safeguards Systematic violations across all areas: political, financial, irrigation, employment
Failure of Regional Committee Weak committee without real powers
Surplus Funds Denied Telangana's own money not spent on its development
Irrigation Disparity Projects neglected; water denied
Employment Discrimination Mulki rules violated; promotions denied
Political Marginalization Separate Congress Committee abolished; leadership suppressed

Final Outcome

"With failure to protect the safeguards provided to Telangana, the survival of Andhra Pradesh state itself became a question mark. The main reason for the 1969 movement was the violations of the protections given to Telangana."

NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF MULKI RULES

Introduction

Despite the promises made in the Gentlemen's Agreement and the Mulki Rules, there were widespread reports of violations in employment and service rules. Government jobs and educational seats intended for Telangana locals were increasingly occupied by people from the Andhra region, leading to widespread resentment and protests.

Non-Implementation of Mulki Rules

Issue Details
Recruitment Processes Often ignored domicile criteria
Jobs Filled by Non-Locals Significant number of positions went to people from Andhra region
Key Administrative Positions Often held by individuals from Andhra, leading to feelings of neglect and discrimination among locals

SPECIFIC VIOLATIONS

Employment Data Disparity

The systematic violation of Mulki Rules was evident in employment statistics. According to records from the period:

Category Issue
Gazetted Officers Disproportionate representation from Andhra region
Non-Gazetted Posts Similar patterns of discrimination
Promotions Andhra employees favored over Telangana counterparts

Examples of Discrimination

  • Recruitment notices often published in a manner that favored candidates from Andhra
  • Interview panels dominated by Andhra officials who favored candidates from their region
  • Language bias – Telangana candidates sometimes discriminated against for not speaking "standard" Telugu
  • Transfer policies used to marginalize Telangana employees

KOTHAGUDEM PROTESTS

Background

Aspect Details
Location Kothagudem, a town in Telangana region
Significance Became a major center for protests against employment violations
Focal Point Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) – a major public sector enterprise

Significance of Singareni Collieries

Factor Details
Economic Importance Major source of employment and revenue in Telangana
Employment Hub Thousands of local workers depended on SCCL for livelihoods
Violation Issue Jobs in SCCL increasingly went to non-locals despite Mulki Rules
Symbolic Value Became symbol of Andhra exploitation of Telangana resources

Major Incidents

Protests and Strikes

Form of Protest Details
Strikes Workers organized strikes demanding implementation of Mulki Rules
Demonstrations Local activists organized public demonstrations
Participation Significant participation from local populace, including students and intellectuals

Violence and Police Action

Incident Details
Clashes Some protests turned violent, leading to clashes between protesters and police
Police Action Use of force by police to disperse crowds
Outcome Police action further fueled anger and resolve of protesters

Other Affected Areas

Similar protests erupted across Telangana:

Area Nature of Protests
Warangal Rallies, strikes, and sit-ins
Karimnagar Demonstrations demanding Mulki Rule implementation
Hyderabad Student protests, intellectual support
Nalgonda Rural protests against employment discrimination
Khammam Worker-led agitations

Common Demands

  • Proper implementation of Mulki Rules
  • Fair employment practices
  • Reservation of jobs for local candidates
  • Investigation into recruitment violations

GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

Initial Government Response

Measure Details
Assurances Various assurances given to placate protesters
Orders Issued Government orders reaffirming commitment to Mulki Rules

Government Order 36 (GO 36)

Aspect Details
Purpose Reaffirmed implementation of Mulki Rules
Provisions Reserved jobs for locals; established mechanisms for enforcement
Perceived Effectiveness Implementation often seen as inadequate
Outcome Continued dissatisfaction among Telangana populace

Continued Discontent

Factor Details
Implementation Gap Gap between policy and actual practice
Government Commitment Perceived lack of genuine commitment to enforce rules
Result Agitation kept alive despite official measures

LONG-TERM IMPACT AND RESOLUTION

Resurgence of Telangana Movement

Period Development
1969 First major Telangana agitation
1970s-1980s Relative lull but grievances persisted
1990s Movement gained significant momentum
2000s Widespread support for separate state demand

Key Factors in Resurgence

Factor Details
Employment Violations Continued discrimination in jobs and education
Resource Exploitation Perception that Telangana's resources (water, coal, revenue) were exploited
Political Marginalization Lack of adequate political representation
Cultural Identity Distinct Telangana culture and dialect felt threatened

Fast unto Death by Ravindranath (1969)

Introduction

The "Fast unto Death" by Ravindranath is a pivotal episode in the Telangana movement, representing the intense desire and determination for a separate Telangana state. His sacrifice became a symbol of the struggle and inspired countless others to join the movement.

Aspect Details
Activist Ravindranath
Date April 1969
Action Fast unto death
Demand Creation of separate Telangana state
Significance Pivotal episode intensifying Telangana agitation

Initiation of the Fast

Background

Factor Details
Context Widespread violations of Mulki Rules and safeguards; growing discontent in Telangana
Timing April 1969 – during peak of Telangana agitation
Motivation Belief that separate state was the only solution to Telangana's problems

Ravindranath's Motivation

Issue Area Specific Grievances
Employment Violation of Mulki Rules; jobs going to non-locals
Resource Allocation Surplus funds not spent on Telangana; irrigation neglect
Political Representation Marginalization of Telangana leaders
Cultural Identity Fear of erosion of distinct Telangana identity

Key Developments During the Fast

Public Response

Group Response
Students Organized protests, rallies, and demonstrations
Intellectuals Extended support through writings and public statements
Political Groups Rallied around Ravindranath; used his fast to mobilize support
General Public Widespread sympathy and support across Telangana

Government Response

Phase Response
Initial Hesitant; did not immediately respond
As Support Grew Took notice of growing agitation
Efforts Made Attempted to persuade Ravindranath to end fast
Assurances Promised to address concerns of Telangana people

Impact and Aftermath

Immediate Impact

Impact Description
Intensification of Agitation Fast significantly intensified Telangana movement
National Attention Brought national focus to Telangana issue
Pressure on Government Forced government to consider demands more seriously
Mobilization United various sections of Telangana society

Ravindranath's Health and End of Fast

Stage Details
Health Deterioration As fast continued, health worsened
Public Concern Growing concern among supporters and general public
Pressure to End Fast From various quarters to save his life
Government Assurances Promises to address Telangana grievances
Fast Ended Ravindranath ended fast under immense pressure and with assurances

Long-term Impact

Impact Description
Symbol of Struggle Became enduring symbol of Telangana statehood struggle
Inspiration Inspired future leaders and movements
Depth of Discontent Highlighted the lengths activists were willing to go
Movement Legacy His sacrifice remembered in Telangana's collective memory

Introduction

The Telangana Movement of 1969 was a reaction to the dominance of Andhra leaders and economic exploitation in Telangana following the formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1956. The people of Telangana had not initially supported linguistic-based states, but due to political developments and pressure from Andhra leaders, Vishalandhra was formed, merging Telangana with Andhra. However, post-merger, discrimination, economic disparities, and violations of agreements fueled discontent, leading to a strong demand for a separate Telangana state.

Factors and Causes

1. Failure of Gentlemen's Agreement

Promise Reality
Job security for Telangana locals Jobs increasingly went to Andhra candidates
Educational opportunities for Telangana students Educational seats occupied by Andhra students
Separate Regional Committee with powers Weak committee without real authority
Financial safeguards Surplus funds not spent on Telangana

"The provisions were systematically ignored or suppressed by leaders from Seemandhra, leading to economic exploitation and growing resentment among Telangana people."

2. Committees on Telangana Surplus Funds

Kumar Lalit Committee (January 1969)
Aspect Details
Appointed By Brahmananda Reddy Government
Purpose Investigate surplus funds issue
Period Reviewed 1956-1968
Findings Revenue surplus: ₹102 crores
Net Surplus ₹63.92 crores
Actual Spent on Telangana Only ₹34.10 crores
Bhargava Committee (April 22, 1969)
Aspect Details
Finding ₹28.34 crores of Telangana's revenue not spent on the region
Recommendation Additional measures to ensure justice for Telangana's financial rights
Wanchoo Committee (1969)
Aspect Details
Purpose Examine implementation of Mulki rules
Recommendation Constitutional amendments suggested
Conclusion No power could enforce separate rules for different regions; Mulki regulations not being implemented properly
Impact Further fueled discontent

3. Dissatisfaction Among Telangana Employees

Factor Details
Indo-Pak War Impact Budgetary constraints led to job cuts, disproportionately affecting Telangana employees
Unemployment Engineers and youth faced high unemployment
New Recruitments Favored candidates from Andhra region, violating Mulki rules
Teacher Appointments (by 1967) Over 4,000 Andhra teachers appointed in Telangana schools, despite qualified local candidates being available

4. Large-Scale Migration of Andhra People

Area Affected Details
Nizamabad, Warangal, Khammam, Adilabad Andhra migrants acquired vast tracts of agricultural land
Godavari Basin 60-80% of fertile lands taken over by Andhra landlords
Irrigation Projects Lands under Nagarjuna Sagar, Nizam Sagar, and Alampur acquired by Andhra settlers
Colonies Established Andhra migrants set up colonies with Andhra names: Gunturpalle, Bandarpalle, Andhra Colony, Ashok Nagar, Shanti Nagar

"The perception that Telangana was being colonized reinforced the demand for a separate state."

5. Discrimination Against Telangana Ministers

Incident Details
Portfolio Allocation Important portfolios (Home, Finance, Revenue) given to Andhra leaders; Telangana ministers assigned less significant roles
Burgula Ramakrishna Rao's Funeral Former Hyderabad State Chief Minister denied state honors
Prakasam Pantulu's Funeral Former Andhra Chief Minister received full state honors
Impact Blatant discrimination deepened anger among Telangana political leaders and public

6. Discrimination in Employment at Thermal Power Station

Aspect Details
Location Khammam district
Resources Used Telangana's coal and Godavari water
Employment Most staff recruited from Andhra
Hunger Strike Launched on July 10, 1969
Leaders Sri Ramdas (Illendu) and Ravindranath (student from Palvancha)
Organization Formed Telangana Rakshana Samithi (by students and unemployed youth)
Slogans "Non-Mulki Go Back", "Idli Sambar Go Back"

Key Political Leaders of the 1969 Telangana Movement

Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy

Aspect Details
Role Most prominent leader of the movement
Contribution Played decisive role in formation of Telangana Praja Samithi (TPS); organized protests; mobilized public support
Impact Unified various factions; strengthened movement's demands

Konda Laxman Bapuji

Aspect Details
Role Veteran Telangana activist
Contribution First to resign from ministerial position in protest against injustice
Significance Brought national attention to movement
Title 'Father of Telangana'
Impact His commitment inspired many activists

Makhdoom Mohiuddin

Aspect Details
Background Renowned poet and Communist Party of India (CPI) leader
Contribution Used literary and political influence to articulate socio-economic injustices
Impact Poetry and speeches mobilized masses and intellectuals; gave cultural dimension to movement

Acharya Konda Lakshman Bapuji

Aspect Details
Role Close associate of Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy
Contribution Resigned from cabinet position to protest marginalization
Impact Strengthened moral and political legitimacy of movement

Student Leaders and Their Role

M. V. Ranga Reddy

Aspect Details
Role Most influential student leader
Contribution Organized protests, rallies, demonstrations, particularly at Osmania University
Impact Channeled student activism into coordinated mass movement

Mallikarjun

Aspect Details
Role Student leader
Contribution Coordinated protests, strikes, and sit-ins
Impact Maintained momentum of student activism; amplified voices of Telangana youth

Civil Society and Intellectuals

B. J. Ranga Reddy

Aspect Details
Role Influential intellectual and social activist
Contribution Shaped public discourse through writings, public discussions, advocacy

P. V. Narasimha Rao

Aspect Details
Role Later Prime Minister of India
Contribution Played mediatory role during 1969 movement
Significance Deep understanding of Telangana's historical and economic issues; acted as bridge between movement and central government

Women Activists and Their Contribution

Mandalapu Ramadevi

Aspect Details
Role Prominent women's rights activist
Contribution Instrumental in mobilizing women's participation in the movement
Impact Ensured voices of Telangana's women were heard; strengthened mass movement

Key Events and Their Leaders

Formation of Telangana Praja Samithi (TPS)

Aspect Details
Leaders Involved Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy, Konda Laxman Bapuji
Significance Became main political platform for Telangana agitation; organized protests, rallies, negotiations; made separate state demand a formal political agenda

Student Protests

Aspect Details
Leaders Involved M. V. Ranga Reddy, Mallikarjun
Significance Students played crucial role in intensifying movement; Osmania University and other institutions became epicenters of protests

Mass Rallies and Strikes

Aspect Details
Leaders Involved Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy, Konda Laxman Bapuji, student leaders
Significance Widespread strikes and rallies demonstrated deep-rooted support; created political pressure on AP government and central leadership

Resignation of MLAs

Aspect Details
Leaders Involved Konda Laxman Bapuji and other Telangana legislators
Significance Several Telangana MLAs resigned in protest; showed intensity of regional discontent; proved movement had significant political backing

Meeting and Participants

Aspect Details
Convened By Central Government
Purpose Address grievances and find solution to escalating agitation
Participants Representatives from major political parties in Andhra Pradesh

Political Parties Represented

Party
Congress Party
Praja Socialist Party (PSP)
Swatantra Party
Other parties (not specified)

Objectives

Objective Details
1 Discuss issues raised by Telangana movement
2 Seek consensus on how to address grievances
3 Find way to implement safeguards promised to Telangana during formation of Andhra Pradesh

Key Provisions of the Accord

1. Implementation of Gentlemen's Agreement

Provision Details
Reaffirmation Commitments made in Gentlemen's Agreement reaffirmed
Job Protection Protection of job opportunities for locals in Telangana
Resource Allocation Fair allocation of resources to Telangana

2. Development Measures

Provision Details
Development Projects Commitment to expedite development projects in Telangana
Irrigation Infrastructure Focus on irrigation projects
Educational Infrastructure Focus on educational facilities
Fund Distribution Equitable distribution of funds for developmental activities

3. Employment and Education

Provision Details
Local Representation Guaranteeing local representation in government jobs
Educational Institutions Local representation in educational institutions
Mulki Rules Adherence to Mulki Rules (local domicile rules)

4. Administrative Reforms

Provision Details
Local Officials Ensure administrative positions in Telangana filled by locals
Address Dominance Address concerns of dominance by individuals from Andhra region

Outcomes and Aftermath

Short-term Impact

Impact Details
Temporary Calm Accord managed to temporarily calm the agitation
Immediate Concerns Addressed Some immediate concerns were addressed
Implementation Efforts Government made efforts to implement promises
Inadequacy Measures often seen as inadequate or delayed

Long-term Impact

Impact Details
Underlying Issues Unresolved Accord did not fully resolve underlying issues
Periodic Revivals Led to periodic revivals of Telangana movement
Renewed Movement (1990s-2000s) Dissatisfaction culminated in renewed, more vigorous movement
Final Outcome Formation of separate state of Telangana in 2014

Major Players

Political Leaders

Leader Role
Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy Prominent political leader who initially supported Telangana cause; played crucial role in negotiating with government
K.V. Ranga Reddy Influential leader advocating for Telangana's rights and interests

Students and Intellectuals

Group Role
Students Significant participation; organized protests
Intellectuals Articulated region's demands; provided ideological direction

Assessment of the Accord

Aspect Assessment
Immediate Impact Successfully calmed agitation temporarily
Implementation Measures inadequate and delayed
Resolution of Grievances Did not fully resolve underlying issues
Historical Significance Important attempt at political solution
Legacy Demonstrated that dialogue alone could not address deep-seated grievances

GO 36 (Government Order 36) – 1969

Introduction

GO 36 (Government Order 36) is a significant directive issued during the Telangana movement, which has historical importance due to its implications on employment and local rights in the Telangana region. Issued in January 1969 by the Andhra Pradesh government in response to the intensifying Telangana agitation, the order aimed to address some of the grievances regarding employment opportunities for locals in the Telangana region.

Key Provisions

The order contained several important provisions designed to protect the interests of Telangana's local population. Most significantly, GO 36 reaffirmed the implementation of the Mulki Rules, which mandated that certain government jobs should be reserved for locals in Telangana.

Provision Details
Mulki Rules Reaffirmed Only those residing in Telangana for at least 15 years or born in Telangana considered as Mulkis
Lower Cadre Jobs 80% of non-gazetted posts reserved for locals
Higher Cadre Jobs Significant proportion of gazetted posts reserved for Mulkis
Educational Reservations Preference for local students in Telangana educational institutions

Impact and Reactions

Aspect Details
Initial Reaction Seen as positive step addressing Telangana agitators' concerns
Effect on Agitation Temporarily reduced intensity of movement
Implementation Issues Reports of non-implementation or partial implementation
Public Perception Government perceived as not fully committed
Result Continued dissatisfaction and periodic protests

Aftermath and Further Developments

Aspect Details
Long-term Discontent Issues with implementation led to continued agitation
Movement Continuation Demand for separate Telangana persisted
Final Outcome Formation of Telangana state on June 2, 2014
Historical Significance Highlighted unresolved grievances of Telangana people

Conclusion

GO 36 was a pivotal government order issued during the 1969 Telangana agitation aimed at addressing concerns of local employment and educational opportunities. Although it temporarily alleviated agitation, continued issues in implementation revealed deeper unresolved grievances, ultimately contributing to the sustained demand for a separate Telangana state realized in 2014.

Formation of Telangana Praja Samithi (TPS)

Introduction

The formation of the Telangana Praja Samithi (TPS) and the subsequent movement it led were pivotal in the history of the Telangana region's struggle for statehood. The TPS emerged as the primary political organization channeling the aspirations of the Telangana people and coordinating the agitation for a separate state.

Aspect Details
Formation 1969 (emerged from Telangana People's Convention)
Founding Figures Marri Chenna Reddy, Konda Laxman Bapuji, and others
Primary Objective Creation of separate Telangana state
Nature Initially a movement platform; later became political party (1970)
Key Electoral Victories Khairatabad (1970), Siddipet (1970), Legislative Council seats

Background

Historical Context
Event Details
1956 Andhra Pradesh formed by merging Andhra State with Telangana region of Hyderabad State
1956 Gentlemen's Agreement established to protect Telangana's interests
1956-1969 Systematic violation of safeguards; growing discontent
Growing Discontent
Issue Grievance
Jobs Allocation skewed in favor of Andhra region
Education Educational opportunities perceived as unfair
Development Funds Disproportionate allocation to Andhra
Political Representation Telangana's voice marginalized

Formation of Telangana Praja Samithi (TPS)

Inception

Aspect Details
February 28, 1969 Telangana People's Convention formed under leadership of Anantula Madan Mohan (young lawyer from Siddipet)
March 25, 1969 Convention transformed into Telangana Praja Samithi
1969 Later period: transformed into political party due to entry of political leaders

Founders and Key Leaders

Leader Role
Marri Chenna Reddy Central figure and key leader of TPS; mobilized support; articulated demands
Konda Laxman Bapuji Prominent leader; earlier resigned from ministry
V. Narsing Rao Significant leader
A. Madhava Reddy Significant leader
M. Sridhar Reddy Led one faction of TPS
Mrs. Sadalakshmi Led another faction of TPS

Objectives

Objective Details
Primary Achieve creation of separate Telangana state
Secondary Address grievances regarding employment, education, and regional development

Strategies and Activities

Mobilization and Protests

Activity Details
Public Meetings Organized numerous meetings and rallies to garner support
Demonstrations Raised awareness about neglect and discrimination
Student Involvement Students organized strikes, protests; educational institutions became centers of activism
Civil Disobedience Boycotts of government programs; refusal to pay taxes

Political Maneuvering

Activity Details
Lobbying Engaged with central government; delegations sent to Delhi
Negotiations Presented case to Prime Minister and central leaders
Elections Contested elections to demonstrate widespread support

MAJOR EVENTS (1970-1971)

First State Level Meeting (January 10, 1970)

AspectDetails
LocationBoys Scout Headquarters, Secunderabad
Inaugurated ByMarri Chenna Reddy
Invitation Committee PresidentNagari Krishna
Special GuestP. "Gray" of the British Labour Party
Key DemandMarri Chenna Reddy requested referendum on separate Telangana statehood

January 15, 1970 – "Day of Protest"

AspectDetails
PurposeMark completion of one year of Separate Telangana Movement
EventBig open meeting at Keshav Memorial ground
ChairM. Sridhar Reddy

January 21, 1970 – Merger of TPS Factions

AspectDetails
Factions MergedTPS headed by Mrs. Sadalakshmi and TPS headed by M. Sridhar Reddy
OutcomeFormed single entity

January 24, 1970 – Martyr's Day

AspectDetails
BackgroundMartyr Shankar died on January 24, 1969 during firing in Sadashivpet
Call Given ByMrs. Sadalakshmi
Observance24th January 1970 observed as "Martyr's Day"

TELANGANA UNITED FRONT (JANUARY 1970)

Formation

AspectDetails
MeetingLegislative members seeking Telangana organized meeting in Hyderabad
ChairmanNukala Ram Chandra Reddy
DecisionSome Telangana legislators decided to quit State Government
Party FormedTelangana United Front
Date of FormationFebruary 6, 1970
PresidentV.B. Raju (resigned from State Cabinet)
Composition28 rebel Congressmen + 3 Independent members = 31 total

Note: Palvai Goverdhan Reddy was first to sign but later withdrew. The rest of the list was given to Assembly Speaker B.V. Subba Reddy.

Recognition as Opposition Party (February 9, 1970)

AspectDetails
Announcement BySpeaker B.V. Subba Reddy
StatusTelangana United Front recognized as opposition party
Leader of OppositionNukala Ram Chandra Reddy (replaced Gouthu Lachchanna)

Important Leaders in Telangana United Front

  • Nukala Ram Chandra Reddy
  • Achyutha Reddy
  • Konda Laxman Bapuji
  • Ram Chandra Reddy

Walkout During Budget (March 24, 1970)

AspectDetails
OccasionBudget introduction by Finance Minister Vijay Bhasker Reddy
ActionTelangana United Front members walked out
DemandSeparate budget estimations for Andhra and Telangana regions

Presidential Order (March 7, 1970)

AspectDetails
OrderPresident issued order extending powers of Telangana Regional Committee
BasisAmending Andhra Pradesh Regional Committee Order – 1958
Effective DateMarch 9, 1970

Increased Powers

AreaNew Provision
FinancialIncome-expenditure details department-wise to be shown separately for Andhra and Telangana
EducationUniversity Education came under ambit of Regional Committee
EmploymentJobs and industry under Regional Committee ambit
RecruitmentRules for recruitment of Telangana locals under Regional Committee
Service MergerState Government to submit report on implementation of Central Government decision on merger of services
ReportingReport every six months on steps taken on Regional Committee recommendations

HIGH-LEVEL SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYEE ISSUES (1970)

AspectDetails
Appointed ByState Government
BasisResolution by Telangana Regional Committee (August 1969)
ChairmanJustice Nasirullah Baig
MembersIqbal Chand, R. Krishna Swamy, Rao Saheb
PurposeGive suggestions on issues of Telangana employees

V.B. RAJU'S "SUB-STATE" DEMAND (MAY 13, 1970)

Rajya Sabha Election (March 28, 1970)

AspectDetails
CandidateV.B. Raju
Elected ToRajya Sabha from Telangana Region
Margin31 votes in third set of counting

Speech in Rajya Sabha (May 13, 1970)

AspectDetails
DemandRequested Central Government to give "Sub-State" status to Telangana
ReferenceSimilar to status given to Meghalaya

K.V. RANGA REDDY'S DEATH (JULY 24, 1970)

AspectDetails
DateJuly 24, 1970
Time10:30 pm
Age80 years
FuneralBody covered with Telangana Flag
LocationAmberpet Cemetery
HonorFuneral held with Government's mandate

FORMATION OF TELANGANA PRAJA PARISHAD

AspectDetails
PurposeAchieving Separate Telangana
Important MembersR. Amos, Jagan Mohan Reddy, P. Saxena, Ansari

MEMORANDUM TO PRIME MINISTER (SEPTEMBER 3, 1970)

AspectDetails
Number of MPsAbout 250
ActionPresented memorandum to Prime Minister
ProposalEstablish legislative mechanism for implementation of Telangana Regional Committee decisions

TPS AS A POLITICAL PARTY

DateEvent
February 28, 1969Telangana People's Convention formed
March 25, 1969Transformed into Telangana Praja Samithi
July 23, 1970Telangana Praja Samithi changed as Political Party

KHAIRATABAD BY-ELECTIONS (JUNE 1970)

Background

AspectDetails
ConstituencyKhairatabad
CauseDeath of Congress MLA B.V. Guru Murthy

Candidates

PartyCandidate
Telangana Praja SamithiNagam Krishna Rao
Ruling CongressS. Yadagiri

Election Result (June 15, 1970)

AspectDetails
WinnerNagam Krishna Rao (TPS)
SloganSeparate Telangana
MarginAbout 14,000 votes
Comment"This is a victory for the Telangana people" – Chenna Reddy

Impact

ConsequenceDetails
Municipal ElectionsCongress deferred municipal elections due to fear of losing
Panchayati Raj ElectionsTPS failed to win as expected

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ELECTIONS (JUNE 24, 1970)

AspectDetails
Total Seats in Telangana6
TPS Contested5 seats
TPS Won3 seats

Winners

District/ConstituencyWinnerParty
Hyderabad (local constituency)Venkat Rami ReddyTPS
Hyderabad (another constituency)K. Prabhakar ReddyCongress
MahbubnagarTPS candidateTPS
MedakTPS candidateTPS

SIDDIPET BY-ELECTION (NOVEMBER 17, 1970)

Background

AspectDetails
ConstituencySiddipet (rural)
CauseMLA V.B. Raju elected to Rajya Sabha

Candidates

PartyCandidate
Telangana Praja SamithiMadan Mohan
CongressP.V. Rajeshwar Rao

Election Result (November 17, 1970)

AspectDetails
WinnerMadan Mohan (TPS)
Margin19,800 votes majority
Comment"The TPS victory in Siddipet by-election will ensure support for Separate Telangana" – Chenna Reddy

Impact on Other Parties

PartyResponse
Jan SanghLeadership decided to review earlier opinion on Telangana
CPIStated Siddipet outcome proof of public opinion for Telangana

TELANGANA LIBERATION MOVEMENT COMMITTEE (JANUARY 28)

AspectDetails
LocationWarangal
LeadershipKaloji Narayana Rao presided over meeting
Key Resolutions • Demand for resignation of Chief Minister
• Call for imposition of Presidential Rule in the state

ANNOUNCEMENT AND OBJECTIVES

ObjectiveDescription
1Provide immediate relief to the aggrieved region
2Ensure equitable development
3Improve administrative efficiency and transparency
4Strengthen implementation of safeguards promised to Telangana

DETAILED EXPLANATION OF THE EIGHT POINTS

Point Area Objective Details
1 Committee for Developmental Programmes Review and assess development needs of Telangana Committee to formulate and monitor implementation of development projects; ensure adequate attention and resources for economic and infrastructural growth
2 Proportional Representation in Services Address disparities in government employment Ensure proportional representation of Telangana people in government services; address complaints of biased recruitment; ensure fair employment opportunities for locals
3 Regional Committees Decentralize administration and ensure regional representation Establish regional committees with representatives from Telangana to oversee policy implementation and developmental activities; ensure local issues addressed
4 Review of Financial Allocations Ensure equitable financial distribution Periodic review of financial allocations to Telangana; ensure fair share of resources and budgetary provisions for development
5 Educational Opportunities Enhance educational facilities and access Improve and expand educational infrastructure in Telangana (schools, colleges, technical institutes); ensure better educational opportunities for youth
6 Irrigation Projects Improve agricultural productivity Prioritize and expedite irrigation projects in Telangana; enhance agricultural productivity; support agrarian economy
7 Employment in Public Sector Ensure local employment in public sector undertakings Guarantee significant proportion of jobs in public sector undertakings and industries reserved for locals; address local unemployment grievance
8 Monitoring Mechanism Ensure effective implementation Establish robust monitoring mechanism to oversee implementation; ensure transparency, accountability, timely execution of projects and policies

REACTIONS AND OUTCOMES

Initial Reception

ResponseDetails
Mixed Reactions Intended to address grievances but did not fully satisfy agitators seeking separate state
Perception Seen by some as temporary measure rather than long-term solution

Political and Social Response

GroupResponse
Telangana Leaders Viewed formula as inadequate; continued to demand statehood; measures seen as insufficient to address deep-rooted issues
General Public Mixed feelings: some appreciated government efforts; others remained skeptical about implementation and effectiveness

Implementation Challenges

ChallengeDetails
Bureaucratic Inertia Slow implementation due to administrative hurdles
Political Opposition Resistance from various quarters
Complexity Addressing long-standing grievances through administrative measures alone proved difficult
Sustained Effort Required Proportional representation, fair allocations, effective monitoring required sustained political will (often lacking)

Long-term Impact

ImpactDetails
Immediate Relief Brought some immediate relief
Government Recognition Highlighted government's recognition of Telangana's issues
Core Demand Unresolved Fell short of resolving core demand for separate state
Continued Discontent Demand for Telangana statehood persisted
Renewed Agitations Led to renewed agitations in subsequent decades
Final Outcome Formation of Telangana state in 2014

Introduction

The Five Point Formula was declared on November 27, 1972, as an attempt by the Central Government to address the ongoing tensions between Telangana and Andhra regions. However, this formula was completely opposed by Andhra leaders, leading to the Jai Andhra Movement demanding a separate Andhra state.

AspectDetails
Date DeclaredNovember 27, 1972
Declared ByCentral Government (Prime Minister Indira Gandhi)
ContextOngoing tensions following 1969 movement and Mulki rules disputes
OppositionCompletely opposed by Andhra leaders
Resulting MovementJai Andhra Movement (demand for separate Andhra state)

THE FIVE POINT FORMULA

PointProvision
1 Mulki rules applicable to Non-Gazetted Appointments up to the level of Tahsildar, Civil Assistant Surgeon, Assistant Engineer in Telangana region
2 In combined or mixed offices (such as Secretariat with employees from all regions), for direct appointments to Non-Gazetted posts, for every 3 vacancies, the 2nd post shall be allotted to Telangana locals
3 With regard to Gazetted posts, the 1st or 2nd level posts in various services were to be recognized as local posts
4 Educational facilities were arranged for Andhra people in twin cities Hyderabad-Secunderabad
5 Recruitments from both regions for police force of Hyderabad-Secunderabad; a combined police force was established

1. Opposition from Andhra Leaders (Initial Reactions)

DateEvent
Nov 30, 1972 Non-gazetted employees of Andhra region reject the Five Point Plan
Dec 5, 1972 Bandh (total closure) in Andhra region
Dec 7, 1972 Non-gazetted employees begin strike

Political Support for Jai Andhra Movement

Party/GroupPosition
Jana SanghSupported
Swatantra PartySupported
Congress PartySome leaders supported
CPISupported
CPMSupported

Lawyers' Protest

  • Lawyers of Rajahmundry held a meeting protesting the Five Point Plan.

2. Parliamentary Approval & Aftermath

DateEvent
Dec 23, 1972 Indian Parliament passes the Five Point Plan bill
Dec 23, 1972 PM Indira Gandhi states the plan aims to keep the state united; her effort is praised

P.V. Narasimha Rao's Efforts (CM of Andhra Pradesh)

AspectDetails
Action Tried to convince Andhra leaders after parliamentary approval
Andhra leaders' demand Strongly opposed Mulki rules; insisted on abolition
CM's response Said it was not correct, but no change in leaders' opinion

3. Violence in Vijayawada (December 24, 1972)

AspectDetails
LocationVijayawada
OrganizersActivists in favor of a combined state, with CPI help
PurposeRally opposing Parliament's approval of the Five Point Plan
OutcomeLarge-scale violence
Police actionCRPF resorted to firing
Casualties8 people died
AftermathAttacks on supporters of the combined state
Arrests (Jan 1, 1973)Movement leaders arrested by government

4. High Court Judgments on Mulki Rules

First Case (Filed December 1972)

  • Filed by: Some non-gazetted employees of Andhra
  • Question: Seeking the meaning of the word "Mulki"

First Judgment (Feb 17, 1973)

AspectDetails
Court Andhra Pradesh High Court
Verdict Those born in Telangana are not Mulki; those who came from other states and settled in Telangana are called "Mulkies"

Second Judgment (July 11, 1973)

AspectDetails
Court Andhra Pradesh High Court
Verdict Mulki rules apply to appointments for public employment, but not afterwards for seniority, promotions, sending back to initial jobs, or termination

Impact: By this judgment the people of Telangana lost the opportunity in getting the few benefits extended by the Five Point Plan approved by the Parliament.

5. Political Developments (January 1973)

Cabinet Expansion (Jan 12, 1973)

AspectDetails
Action P.V. Narasimha Rao brought another minister from Andhra into his cabinet
Purpose To safeguard Telangana's privileges and convince Andhra leaders

President's Rule (Jan 18, 1973)

AspectDetails
Action Central government asked Rao's government to resign within a week
Result President's Rule imposed

Telangana Leaders' Response (Jan 21, 1973)

AspectDetails
MeetingCongress members of Telangana gathered
Presided byDr. Marri Chenna Reddy
DemandSeparate Telangana state once again
OutcomeTelangana Congress Forum established
SentimentDissatisfaction among Telangana leaders

Kodati Rajamallu's Demand

AspectDetails
Position Chairman of Telangana Regional Committee
Demand Execute Mulki rules as before; more powers to Telangana Regional Committee
Context In light of the Supreme Court judgment (reference to High Court judgments)

6. Jai Andhra Movement: Key Developments & Decline

DateEvent
Dec 7, 1972Non-gazetted employees begin strike
Dec 24, 1972Violence in Vijayawada; 8 die in firing
Jan 1, 1973Movement leaders arrested
Mar 25, 1973Non-gazetted employees call off 108 day agitation

Reasons for Movement Losing Intensity

ReasonDetails
Leader's deathKakani Venkata Ratnam (Jai Andhra leader) died
Leadership vacuumOther Andhra leaders not inclined to take up leadership
Public supportWeakened over time
Central negotiationsPM invited leaders to Delhi for discussions

7. Negotiations & Six Point Formula

Delhi Discussions (from Feb 7, 1973)

AspectDetails
Invitation PM invited leaders demanding separate Andhra state to Delhi
Participants Some leaders went to Delhi to discuss with PM
State administration Chief Advisor to Governor H.C. Sareen looked after administration; discussed problems as Central Government representative

Compromise Solution (September 1973)

AspectDetails
Negotiators PM Indira Gandhi and Home Minister K.C. Pant discussed with Andhra Telangana leaders
Outcome A compromise solution/remedy found
Basis Six Point Formula created to satisfy both regions
Purpose President's Rule to be removed after agreement

End of Jai Andhra Movement (Oct 1, 1973)

AspectDetails
Meeting Andhra Congress Working Committee gathered
Decision Agreed to Six Point Formula
Declaration Called off Jai Andhra Movement (had been ongoing for 10 months)

Reasons for Calling Off Movement

ReasonDetails
DurationMovement could not be sustained for a long time
Public supportWeakened over time
LeadershipDisabled leadership
Central formulaPeople agreed to the Six Point Formula

Marri Chenna Reddy (1919-1996)

Marri Chenna Reddy, born in Siripuram, Vikarabad Taluk, stands as one of the most towering figures in the Telangana movement, playing a crucial role in shaping its political direction. His early efforts included organizing the Hyderabad Telugu Weekly Magazine from Vijayawada, which served as a platform to voice regional concerns. His political career began at the national level when he served as a Provisional Member of Parliament from 1950 to 1952.

He later served as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh (1978–1980, 1989–1990). One of his major contributions was the formation of Ranga Reddy District on 15th August 1978. His second term ended in 1990 following religious conflicts in Hyderabad’s Old City.

K.V. Ranga Reddy (1890-1970)

Born in Pedda Mangalaram in Chevella Taluk, K.V. Ranga Reddy was a political leader and educationist. He established Vemanandhra Bhasha Nilayam in 1923 and founded AV College and Institute of Education in 1944.

He served as Revenue Minister (1952–1956) and later Deputy Chief Minister. Ranga Reddy district was named in his honour in 1978.

Makhdoom Mohiuddin (1908-1969)

Makhdoom Mohiuddin, born in Andol village in Medak district, was known as "Shayar-e-Inquilab". His works include Bisat-e-Raqs, Surk Savera, and Gul-e-Taar.

He participated in the Join India Movement and helped found the Communist Party of Andhra Pradesh. He received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1969.

J.V. Narasinga Rao

Native of Lakshettipet in Adilabad district, he served as President of the Hyderabad Pradesh Congress Committee in 1956. He was elected MLA from Lakshettipet and worked for the development of Adilabad.

Anantula Madan Mohan

Frontline leader of the 1969 Telangana movement and instrumental in forming Telangana Praja Samithi. He was elected MLA from Siddipeta in 1972, 1978, and 1983.

He served as Minister of Technical Education and played a role in establishing JNTU Hyderabad.

Tanguturi Anjaiah

Born in Banur village, Medak district, he rose from labour movement leadership to become Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh (1980–1982).

His cabinet was popularly known as the "Airbus Cabinet". He promoted World Telugu Conferences.

Sangam Laxmibai (1911-1979)

Known as "Jhansi Rani of Telangana", she participated in Salt Satyagraha and served as MP from Medak (1957, 1962, 1967). She led Vinobha Bhave’s Bhoodan Movement and founded Indira Sevasadan Society.

Masuma Begum

First Muslim woman minister in India and President of All India Women’s Conference (1962–64). She supported the Telangana movement.

TN Sadalaxmi

Prominent Dalit leader, chaired Telangana Praja Samithi and became first woman Deputy Speaker of AP Legislative Assembly.

J. Eshwaribai

Dalit leader inspired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Elected MLA from Ellareddy and worked through Republican Party of India.

Geetanjali Pillai, Hamsa Rani, Narasamma

Young women leaders who led Satyagrahas in Secunderabad, Chadarghat, Isamia Bazaar, and Abids during the 1969 Telangana movement.