Nidigonda Trikutalayam – A Sister’s Love Carved in Stone | Forgotten Kakatiya Temple

 

Nidigonda Trikutalayam, a 13th-century Kakatiya temple built by Kundamamba in Jangaon district, Telangana

Deep in the quiet village of Nidigonda, Jangaon district, stands a remarkable yet neglected heritage site – the Nidigonda Trikutalayam. Built in the glorious era of the Kakatiyas, this temple is a hidden treasure that few know about, though its stones still whisper stories of devotion, architecture, and lost grandeur.


The Story Behind the Temple

According to an inscription dated 21st April, 1219 CE, this temple was constructed by Kundamamba, the sister of the great Kakatiya monarch Ganapati Deva and wife of Natavadi ruler Rudra. About 50–60 years after the construction of the famed Thousand Pillar Temple of Hanamkonda, Kundamamba created this temple with even greater sculptural finesse.

Here’s our Orugallu Andhalu video on Nidigonda Trikutalayam – the temple built by Kundamamba  under Kakatiya sovereignty:

 

She consecrated three shrines here:

Rudresha Linga – in the name of her husband Rudra

Mahadeva Linga – in the name of her father Mahadeva

Surya and Ganesha idols – in honor of her brother Ganapati Deva

This unique plan followed the Trikuta model of Kakatiya temples – three sanctums connected through a central hall.

Interestingly, the inscription was found near the village tank, reminding us how Kakatiyas always linked temple construction with water management – tanks and stepwells were part of their holistic governance.


Architectural Beauty

Beautifully Carved kakatiya nandhi at Nidigonda Trikutalayam


The temple is adorned with finely carved pillars, Nandi idols, makara toranas and exquisite sculptures. Though smaller in scale compared to the Thousand Pillar Temple, the carvings here are often described as more delicate and detailed.


Sister’s Devotion Immortalized in Stone  

Idol of Lord Vishnu with Paricharikas at Nidigonda Trikutalaya


The story of Nidigonda Trikutalayam is not just about kings and dynasties – it is also about a sister’s love.  

Kundamamba, the sister of Kakatiya monarch Ganapati Deva, did something extraordinary in 1219 CE. She consecrated a Surya idol and a Ganesha idol in her brother’s name inside the Trikutalayam.  

At a time when temples symbolized power and devotion, this act stood as a timeless message – that love between siblings can be celebrated not only in festivals like Raksha Bandhan, but also through eternal monuments carved in stone.


Present Neglect

Sadly, today the Nidigonda Trikutalayam lies in ruins. According to reports in The Times of India (2021) and The Hans India (2017), the temple has been left without proper restoration. Stones and pillars have collapsed, some stolen, and valuable sculptures face the risk of being lost forever.

Locals continue to demand its restoration and recognition as a heritage site, but until that happens, this jewel of the Kakatiyas is slowly slipping into the sands of time.


Why It Matters


For lovers of history and heritage, the Nidigonda Trikutalayam is not just another ruined temple – it is a testament to women patrons like Kundamamba, the Kakatiya vision of temple–tank ecosystems, and the timeless artistry that defined Warangal’s golden age.

If you’re passionate about Telangana’s lost heritage, don’t miss our other stories on Kakatiya temples at Orugallu Andhalu.


#NidigondaTrikutalayam #KakatiyaTemples #TelanganaHeritage  

#WarangalHistory #JangaonTemples #Kundamamba #TrikutaArchitecture  

#OrugalluAndhalu #తెలంగాణఆలయాలు #కాకతీయశిల్పకళ

Location: P6JM+QJ3, Nidigonda, Telangana 506244, India

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