Accompanied by former BRS MLAs Dasyam Vinay Bhaskar and Nannapuneni Narendar, Kamal Chandra visited the historic Bhadrakali and Thousand Pillar temples in Hanamkonda and offered prayers
Warangal: Maharaja Kamal Chandra Bhanjdeo, a descendant of the Kakatiya dynasty, on Tuesday emphasised the importance of preserving Indian culture, noting that while Western countries are respecting Indian traditions, many Indians are increasingly drawn to Western lifestyles.
Accompanied by former BRS MLAs Dasyam Vinay Bhaskar and Nannapuneni Narendar, Kamal Chandra visited the historic Bhadrakali and Thousand Pillar temples in Hanamkonda and offered prayers. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “Our attire reflects our identity and the nation we belong to. People must be aware of their traditions and heritage. In places like Puri Jagannath, only dhotis and pyjamas are worn—this reflects our culture.”
Recalling his time studying in London, he said he observed that children in Western countries often lack close relationships with their grandparents. On returning to India, he was dismayed by widespread corruption and stressed that culture must be placed above education. “True education is about understanding global developments and contributing meaningfully to the world,” he averred.
Referring to his lineage, Kamal Chandra said the Kakatiya dynasty is vast, and of the 52 Shakti Peethams, he serves as one of the priests. “God has given me the opportunity to serve the people. A true king is a servant of the people,” he said. Urging citizens to preserve India’s ancestral legacy, he said, “On holidays, instead of taking children to movies, restaurants or amusement parks, parents should take them to museums, science centres or exhibitions. That is real Indian culture,” he urged.
According to historical sources, after the fall of the Kakatiya kingdom, some members of King Prataparudra’s family embarked on an adventurous journey along the banks of the Godavari River and eventually reached Dandakaranya.
As the successor to the Kakatiya dynasty, Annamadev established a new empire with its centre at Jagdalpur. British historical researchers have also recognised Annamadev as the rightful heir of the Kakatiyas. Today, Kamal Chandradev Bhanj continues the lineage of Annamadev. Although the monarchy no longer exists, the Jagdalpur fort remains a proud symbol of Kakatiya heritage, preserving its traditions and the vibrant local festivals that celebrate its glorious past.
