Orugallu Andhalu - History & Cultures

   What is Bathukamma?      Bathukamma literally means “Mother Goddess of Life.” It is the most beloved festival of Telangana women. Women worship Goddess Gauri by arranging seasonal wildflowers in a conical shape. This festival reflects Telangana’s culture, traditions, and the power of women.  Historical Background of Bathukamma Origin linked to the Kakatiya dynasty (1263 AD) . Queen Rudramadevi of Warangal introduced the worship of Kakatamma at Mogilicharla. These celebrations gradually evolved into Bathukamma. During Durga Ashtami , Kakatamma was taken in processions with music and dance, later immersed in water. The cooked rice offerings, called “saddulu” , were distributed to everyone. This tradition became the Saddula Bathukamma , the grand finale of the festival. Warangal is often referred to as the birthplace of Bathukamma.   Bathukamma Songs – Women’s Expression Folk ...

Kashmir Before Islamic Invasions  When we think of Kashmir , the first images that come to mind are snow-covered mountains, breathtaking valleys, and sparkling lakes. But beyond its natural beauty lies a glorious history – a land sanctified by sages, adorned with temples, enriched with philosophy, and ruled by powerful Hindu kings. This is the story of Kashmir’s Golden Age before the Islamic invasions . The Sacred Lake – Satisaras Ancient texts describe Kashmir not as a valley, but as a vast lake known as Satisaras . According to the Nilamata Purana , sage Kashyapa drained the waters of this lake after destroying the demon Jalodbhava . Thus, fertile land emerged, which came to be known as Kashmir – literally, “the land drained of water.” From then, the valley became a holy abode for humans, sages, and divine beings. Watch the Ancient History of Kashmir's vibarnt hindu heritage on YouTube: Nagas, Yakshas, and the Arrival of Sages Legends say that Nagas, Yakshas,...

  Erumbeshwarar Temple History – Thiruverumbur The Erumbeshwarar Temple , also known as Malai Kovil , is an ancient and sacred Lord Shiva temple situated in Thiruverumbur , on the outskirts of Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), Tamil Nadu . Located just 15 kilometers from the world-famous Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam , this temple is one of the revered Padal Petra Sthalams mentioned in the Tevaram hymns. Historical Significance The temple stands majestically on a 60-foot hill along the banks of the holy River Kaveri . Built by Aditya Chola in the 10th century to commemorate his victory in the Thirupurambiyam battle , it carries inscriptions dating back to the Chola period. With its two gopurams, multiple sanctums, and a temple tank at the foothill, it is a fine example of Chola architecture and devotion. The Legend of Erumbeshwarar The name Erumbeshwarar is derived from the Tamil word Erumbu , meaning ant . According to legend, when the demon Tharukasuran oppress...

Geography and Origins of Easter Island Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. Located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, it lies more than 2,000 kilometers away from the nearest human settlement. Despite its isolation, the island has played a central role in human imagination due to its enigmatic past and colossal statues. Shaped like a triangle, the island is volcanic in origin. Its three corners are marked by extinct volcanoes—Terevaka (510 m, the highest), Poike, and Rano Kau. Smaller craters and cones dot the island, including Rano Raraku, the quarry where most statues were carved, and Puna Pau, the source of the red stone used for the moai “hats.” Rapa Nui Legends and Early Settlement Polynesian oral traditions tell of Hotu Matu‘a, a legendary chief who led the first settlers to Rapa Nui by sea. These early voyagers carried plants, animals, and traditions, building a culture deeply tied to navigation, ancestor worsh...

The Kohinoor Diamond, excavated in Kakatiya era and now in London, carries a mysterious curse. Discover its untold history from Golconda mines to British Crown Jewels.    The Untold Story of Golconda Diamonds In ancient times, India was the treasure house of the world. The most famous and priceless diamonds in history came from the Golconda mines of South India, a land that holds its share of mysteries and secrets. Among these legendary gems are the Kohinoor, Darya-i-Noor, Regent, Nizam Diamond, and the Hope Diamond. But none of them is as infamous as the Kohinoor Diamond, a jewel feared for the curse it is said to carry.                Origins of the Kohinoor The Kohinoor was excavated during the reign of the Kakatiyas of Warangal and was dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. However, during the invasion of Warangal by Alauddin Khilji’s forces, this priceless gem was looted and began its tragic journey across empires. From the Delhi Sultanat...