390-Year-Old Deepastambham (Lamp Post)

Source-This post on 390-Year-Old Deepastambham (Lamp Post) is based on the article “390-year-old lamp post in Nalgonda dedicated to Kasi Viswanatha unravels trade links of Telangana” published in “The Hindu” on 7th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, archaeologists discovered a 390-year-old Deepastambham (lamp post) on the banks of the River Krishna in Nalgonda district, Telangana. This discovery sheds new light on trade ties in the region during early medieval times.

About the Deepastambham (lamp post)

1. According to the inscription found on the lamp post, the pillar can be dated back to June 1635.

2. The inscription, comprising a fusion of Telugu and Tamil languages which suggests that the pillar was dedicated to Kasi Viswanatha.

3. The impressive height of the pillar hints at its possible role as a a lighthouse, aiding ships along the riverine trade route in the early medieval era.

What is the history of the Nalgonda region?

1. During the construction of the lamp post, the region was governed by the Qutb Shahi dynasty.

2. European travelers like the French diamond trader Tavernier, who visited the Hyderabad kingdom has also made note of these land trade routes.

About Krishna river

1. It is the third-longest river in India, after the Ganges and Godavari.

2. It is the fourth-largest in India in terms of water inflows and river basin area after the Ganges, Indus, and Godavari.

3. Its Basin extends over Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka.

4. Left Bank tributaries – Bhima, Dindi, Peddavagu, Musi, Paleru, Munneru.

5. Right Bank tributaries – Kudali (Niranjna) Venna, Koyna, Panchganga, Dudhaganga, Ghataprabha, Malaprabha and Tungabhadra (largest tributary).

UPSC Syllabus- History and Art & Culture