Warangal District (వరంగల్ జిల్లా) | Telangana State PSC (TSPSC): Preparation Course - TSPSC (Telangana) PDF Download

History

• The city of Warangal served as the ancient capital of the Kakatiyas dynasty, witnessing the rule of notable kings such as Beta Raja-I, Prola Raja-I, Beta Raja-II, Prola Raja-II, Rudra Deva, Mahadeva, Ganapathi Deva, Pratapa Rudra, and Rani Rudrama Devi, who notably was the sole female ruler in Andhra's history. The Kakatiyas were responsible for numerous architectural marvels, including a formidable fortress, four grand stone gateways, a significant Shiva temple, and a large artificial lake. They also constructed several Shiva temples and vast reservoirs to facilitate irrigation in the region.
• Following the decline of the Kakatiya dynasty, Warangal fell under the control of the Delhi Sultanate. Subsequently, the territory was governed briefly by Nayaka Chieftains. After the decline of the Nayakas, Warangal became a part of the Bahmani Sultanate of Golkonda. In 1687, it was annexed by the Mughal Empire, eventually becoming a part of the Hyderabad state in 1724. Finally, in September 1948, Warangal joined the independent Indian government.
• In 1956, as a consequence of the State Reorganisation Act, the Warangal district became a part of Andhra Pradesh, catering to the Telugu-speaking populace. Following a period of agitation for a separate Telangana state, Telangana was officially established on June 2, 2014, with Warangal becoming an integral part of the new state. Subsequently, as part of the reorganization of districts in Telangana, the former Warangal district was divided into five distinct districts, with the formation of the Warangal (Rural) District taking effect on October 11, 2016.

Places of Interest

• The impressive Kakatiya, Telugu ruler Ganapati Deva commissioned the creation of Pakhal Lake in a remote forest area to support future agricultural needs.
• Pakhal Lake, nestled amidst rolling forested hills and valleys, serves as a popular destination for tourists. Constructed around the year 1213 A.D. by Kakatiyan monarch Ganapatideva, the lake spans an area of 30 square kilometers, offering a picturesque setting. Surrounding the lake's shores is the expansive Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, covering an area of 839 square kilometers. This sanctuary serves as a dense forest habitat for a diverse range of wildlife.
• The sanctuary is home to various mammals such as nilgai, chital, leopard, jackal, sloth bear, porcupine, langur, bonnet macaque, as well as reptiles including python, cobra, Russell's viper, common krait, monitor lizard, Indian chameleon, and occasionally, marsh crocodiles. The lake itself hosts several fish species like Botcha, Rohu, Jella, Chandamama, Naayanikuntha, Peraka, Poomeenu, Korramatta, Kodipe, Kailam, and more, representing at least 6 different orders of freshwater fishes.
• Pakhal Lake remains a significant attraction due to its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, offering visitors a tranquil and captivating experience in the heart of nature.

Annaram Shareef Dargah

• Located in Warangal Rural District, Parvatagiri Mandal, and Annaram Sharif.
• Distance from Hyderabad: Approximately 144 km.
• Distance from Akkad mountain range: 38 km.
• Distance from Parvatagiri: About 10 km.
• Belief among devotees: Fulfillment of wishes by Yakub Shawali Baba soon.
• Historical background: Dargah with a millennial history.

Yakub Shawali Baba

• Immigrant from an Arab country.
• Family members claimed by devotees: Younger brother - Ghomshavali, younger sister - Mahabubiyamma, teacher - Gousfat.
• Known for charitable acts towards the poor.
• Alleged actions: Donation of all money and departure from the country, settlement in Annaram, disappearance after physical attacks into a pond.

Tourist Places

Warangal Fort

• Warangal is known as one of India's finest heritage cities, situated 150 km away from the state capital, Hyderabad. It stands as the second largest city in Telangana. The city's name originates from the Telugu words 'Oru' meaning 'one' and 'gallu' meaning 'stone'. It served as the capital for the illustrious Kakatiya rulers during the 12th to 14th centuries.
• The city was founded in the 12th century by Prola Raja of the Kakatiya dynasty. Over their 200-year reign, the Kakatiyas endowed future generations with numerous grand monuments and architectural marvels, including the renowned Warangal Fort, Swayambhu Temple, and various other ancient structures. 
• The Warangal Fort, a major attraction, sprawls over a 19-kilometer radius between Warangal and Hanamkonda. Erected in the 13th century under Kakatiya King Ganapati Deva's rule, the fort boasts intricately carved arches and pillars, with four imposing stone gateways.

How to Reach

• The closest airport can be found in Hyderabad, approximately 150 kilometers away from Warangal.
• The nearest railway station is situated in Warangal, about 3-4 kilometers away.
• The nearest bus station is also in Warangal, at a distance of 3-4 kilometers.

Culture & Heritage

• Warangal is home to a diverse population comprising both Hindus and Muslims. The predominant languages spoken in the region are Telugu and Urdu, with a basic understanding of Hindi and English among the residents. 
• The literacy rate stands at an impressive 84.16%, with a notable 76.79% female literacy rate and 91.54% male literacy rate. Agriculture serves as the primary livelihood for the majority, although tourism presents an additional avenue for economic sustenance.

Significant Figures from Warangal District

• Pendyala Varavara Rao
• Daasaradhi Krishnamacharyulu
• Bammera Pothana
• Chukka Ramaiah
• Kaloji Narayana Rao
• Pamulaparti Venkata Narasimha Rao

Traditional Attire

• The traditional attire of Warangal reflects the broader Andhra Pradesh culture. Women in the rural areas predominantly wear sarees, while men opt for lungis paired with shirts, typically crafted from cotton and often white in color. 
• However, there has been a noticeable shift towards western clothing like jeans, t-shirts, skirts, shorts, and pants in recent years. These modern outfits are favored for their comfort and style, gradually replacing the traditional garments.

Cultural Festivals in Warangal Region

• Hindu and Muslim festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm in the region.
• Special festivals include Bonalu, Bathukamma, Kakatiya, Shakambari, and Sammakka-Sarakka Jatra.

Heritage and Architecture of Warangal

• Warangal is a UNESCO-listed heritage city influenced by various dynasties.
• Notable attractions are the Thousand Pillar Temple, Ramappa Temple, Ghanpur Group of Temple, Warangal Fort, and Khush Mahal.
• Architecture mainly reflects the Kakatiyan Dynasty of the 12th Century.
• The city was previously known as Orugallu, meaning "carved out of single rock."