ASI To Survey Inscriptions In Nallamala
The exercise follows similar studies carried out earlier in the Lankamala reserve forest in Andhra Pradesh and the Gundaram reserve forest in Telangana: Reports
HYDERABAD: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will conduct an inscription survey in the Nallamala reserve forest from June to uncover insights into the history, culture and heritage of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. During the survey, officials will copy ancient inscriptions, considered valuable cultural treasures, which are expected to provide information about the history and culture of South India.
The exercise follows similar studies carried out earlier in the Lankamala reserve forest in Andhra Pradesh and the Gundaram reserve forest in Telangana.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, ASI epigraphy director Dr K. Muniratnam Reddy said he had received about 40 inscriptions from the Chenchu tribes in the forest area. “Due to increased awareness by the department, many inscriptions are now being reported and brought to light,” he said.
Most of the inscriptions received so far belong to the Vijayanagara empire and mention donations made to the Srisailam temple, he said. According to Dr Reddy, more inscriptions, particularly in the forest areas of Nizamabad, Karimnagar and Adilabad, need to be researched.
The recently documented inscriptions from the Gundaram reserve forest about the Satavahanas were important for Telangana, he said, adding that the area could be developed into a tourism destination similar to Naneghat.