Krishnadevaraya-era inscription offers earliest epigraphical evidence of Bonalu festival in Telangana
GS1History · Society · Geography· Art, architecture & culture· Prelims·
Why in news
An inscription from the Vijayanagara Empire era was discovered at Gobbur, providing the earliest epigraphical evidence of the Bonalu festival in Telangana.
Background
The inscription dates back to the reign of Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is currently housed in the State Archaeology Museum, Hyderabad, and was identified by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceGobbur: Location of the inscription discovery in Telangana
- PostK. Munirathnam Reddy: Director of Epigraphy at the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- FactBonalu: Annual Hindu festival celebrated during Ashada Masam (July-August)
- FactRangam: A traditional oracle ceremony involving direct communication with Goddess Mahakali
For Mains
Q. How do epigraphical discoveries contribute to reconstructing the socio-cultural history of regional festivals in India?
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Historical continuity: Evidence of pre-Vijayanagara ritualistic practices in Telangana
- Cultural preservation: Role of state museums in safeguarding intangible heritage and archaeological finds
Keywords: Epigraphy · Vijayanagara Empire · Intangible Heritage · Socio-cultural history · Archaeological Survey of India
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