Nizamabad (నిజామాబాద్) | Telangana State PSC (TSPSC): Preparation Course - TSPSC (Telangana) PDF Download

History

• Nizamabad – a well-known princely district in Telangana located approximately 175 kilometers northwest of Hyderabad, derived its name from the Nizam of Hyderabad Asaf Jahi VI, who governed Deccan in the 18th century AD. Initially referred to as INDUR, the district's name is believed to have originated from King Indradatta, who ruled over the region in the 5th century AD.
• During Sir Salar Jung-I's tenure as Prime Minister in 1876 AD, the district, which was under the Nizam's Dominion, was reorganized, leading to INDUR being established as a district.
• Until June 2, 2014, Nizamabad district was a part of Andhra Pradesh State. Following the division of Telangana State, Nizamabad district became one of its constituent districts.
• The district's history is rich with the influence of various ancient dynasties such as the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Rastrakutas, Chalukyas, and Kakatiyas, as well as medieval rulers like the Bahamani Sultans, Qutub Shahis, and Barid Shahis. In more recent times, it saw governance under the Mughals and Asaf Jahis.

Nizamabad District Overview

• During the tenure of Sir Salar Jung-I as Prime Minister in 1876, the districts in the Nizam's Dominion underwent reorganization, leading to the establishment of Nizamabad district.
• Before 1979, Nizamabad district comprised 7 taluks. In December 1979, Armoor and Kamareddy taluks were split, giving rise to two new taluks - Bheemgal and Domakonda, increasing the total taluk count to 9.
• In May 1985, the district was further divided into 35 Mandals for more efficient administration.
• By August 1988, Yedapally Mandal was created, bringing the total Mandal count to 36 with 3 administrative divisions.

Recent Developments in Nizamabad District

• On October 11, 2016, a new district was formed consisting of 27 mandals, along with 1 corporation and 2 municipalities.
• Recently, 8 new mandals have been established: Mupkal, Mendora, Yergatla, Nizamabad North, Nizamabad Rural, Nizamabad South, Mugpal, and Rudrur.

Population and Governance

• Nizamabad town boasts the highest population of 3.10 lakhs as per the 2011 Census, while Armoor town has the lowest population of 64,042.
• Nizamabad town attained Municipal Corporation status in March 2005, whereas Armoor town became a Municipality in May 2006.
• The district contains a total of 96 thandas, with 71 proposed to be converted into Grama Panchayats.

Geographical Boundaries and Area

• Nizamabad district is bounded by Nirmal district to the North, Jagtial district to the East, Kamareddy district to the South, and Nanded district of Maharashtra State to the West.
• The district covers a geographical area of 4288 square kilometers, situated between certain latitudes and longitudes.

Places of Interest

• The Ramalayam Dichpally, situated around 20 kilometers from Nizamabad on the way to Hyderabad, is a historic temple constructed in the 14th century by the Kakatiya Kings. This temple, known as Dichpally Ramalayam, stands as one of the oldest temples in Nizamabad. It is crafted from black and white basalt stone, showcasing exquisite architecture and intricate carvings depicting goddesses, animals, demons, and Khajuraho-style erotic structures.
• The temple boasts remarkable sculptures with intricately beautiful carvings adorning its walls, ceilings, pillars, and door frames. Featuring 105 steps and a pedestrian subway linking it to the Raghunadha Temple in Nizamabad's urban center, this site attracts thousands of devotees, particularly during the festival of Sri Rama Navami.
• Dichpally Ramalayam serves as a prime example of stone architecture, predominantly constructed using white and black Basalt stone. A decorative gateway called "Keerthi Thorana" welcomes visitors at the entrance of the steps, showcasing elaborate engravings in the Kakatiya architectural style. During the monsoon season, the temple's surroundings are filled with water, creating the appearance of an island.

Raghuanatha Temple

• Nizamabad fort, also known as Nizamabad of quilla, was constructed in the tenth century by Rashtrakuta Kings. It is located at the southwest of Nizamabad city. The fort features expansive masonry walls and large bastions that exhibit influences of Muslim architecture.
• Raghunatha temple, positioned at the pinnacle of the fort, stands out as a prominent tourist destination. It is traditionally attributed to the renowned ruler, Chatrapathi Shivaji.
• The temple encompasses spacious halls that cover an area of 3900 square feet. Notably, it incorporates a distinctive ventilation system designed to maintain a cool atmosphere, particularly during the summer months.
• Within the fort premises lies a historical prison where the esteemed poet and writer, "Dasharathi Krishnamacharyalu," resided during the early years of independence. His time in captivity was productively utilized for composing poetry.
• One of his notable quotes, "Naa Telangana Koti Rathanala Veena," has been widely embraced since the inception of Telangana, resonating through the annals of history till the present day.

Siddulagutta – Armoor

• Sri Navanatha Siddeshwara temple is situated in Armoor town, approximately 27 kilometers northeast of Nizamabad district.
• Surrounding the temple are striking rock formations that span up to 2 kilometers. Legend has it that the hillock is known as Navanathapura.
• Several temples adorn the hillock, including Shivalayam, Ramalayam, Hanuman Temple, and Durga Devi Temple, all considered Swayambhu Temples.
• Inside the caves lies a Shiva Temple, housing a self-manifested Shiva Lingam.
• The entrance to this cave temple is a small door measuring barely three feet.
• Adjacent to the cave's exit lies Ramalayam and the temple tank, Jeeva Koneru.
• Fifteen years ago, a ghat road was constructed through the rock formations, providing direct access to Siddulagutta.
• There is also a pathway from Gol Bungalow for devotees who prefer to trek up to the temple on foot.

Bada Pahad

• Badapahad Dargah or Peddagutta serves as a significant Muslim Pilgrim Center. It was constructed in honor of the Saint Hazrat Syed Sadullah Hussain and is positioned on a hillock near Jakora in the Varni Mandal of Nizamabad district.
• Both Muslim and Hindu devotees ascend the hill to pay their respects to Saint Sadullah Hussain Baba.
• The annual Ursu festival at Badapahad takes place each September, attracting people from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. This celebration is attended by numerous devotees every year.
• The Dargah is nestled amidst the Chandur and Varni hills, with the Bada Pahad Dargah location earmarked for a substantial ropeway project. This ropeway will serve as a means of transportation for accessing the mosque. The summit of the hill where the Dargah is situated can be reached via approximately 1000 steps.
• Bada Pahad Dargah is positioned in Bada Pahad village, roughly 15 km from Varni and 43 km from Nizamabad. Situated on the vast hill (Bada Pahad), this prominent Dargah attracts numerous devotees annually from neighboring districts and states.

Ali Sagar

• Ali Sagar reservoir is situated in Jankampet village, Yedlapally Mandal, just 2 km off the Nizamabad – Basar road. It is a picturesque water body accompanied by a sprawling garden crafted by the Nizam of Hyderabad.
• The park spans across 33 acres and features charming fountains, a vibrant array of flowering plants, a captivating summer house, meticulously landscaped gardens, an island, and a hilltop guest house, all contributing to its popularity as a preferred retreat.
• Visitors can also explore a deer park, engage in trekking activities, and partake in water sports, which serve as additional alluring amenities at this destination.
• Ali Sagar stands out as a significant picnic destination in close proximity to Nizamabad, designed as a colorful and attractive garden aimed at drawing in picnickers from the region.

Ashok Sagar

• Ashok Sagar is situated in Janakampet village, Yedpally Mandal, approximately 7 km from Nizamabad and 26 km from Basara. It is located on the route to the famous Saraswathi Temple at Basar from Hyderabad. This reservoir features a stunning Rock Garden, an octagonal-shaped restaurant, a swinging bridge, boating facilities, and a children's park.
• Covering an area of 2 acres, the garden boasts a beautiful landscape with rock cuts and a 15 ft marble statue of Goddess Saraswathi positioned in the center of the water. The scenic lake is surrounded by hilly landscapes, offering boating facilities and captivating views. Visitors can enjoy a landscaped rock garden with winding paths amidst the rocks, providing a memorable experience.

Sri Ram Sagar (Pochampad Dam)

• Pochampad Dam, also known as the "Sri Ram Sagar project," spans the Godavari River and is vital for the North Telangana region. A beautiful garden has been developed at the dam site, offering boating opportunities on the picturesque reservoir. An island near the dam serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds year-round, while tourists can enjoy boating in the vast reservoir.
• Located 53 km north of Nizamabad, it is an ideal picnic spot for nearby residents. Mallaram Forest: Mallaram Forest, located 8 km southwest of Nizamabad town, is a dense wooded area attracting migratory birds and animals. The serene environment, fresh air, and bird songs make it a perfect destination for eco-tourism.

Mallaram Forest

• The Mallaram forest, situated about 8 kilometers southwest of Nizamabad town, is characterized by dense vegetation and serves as a habitat for migratory birds and animals. Its pristine environment, fresh air, and bird sounds make it an ideal destination for picnics, attracting tourists interested in eco-tourism.
• Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Mallaram forest offers forest treks, a pagoda, and a viewing tower providing panoramic views of the area. Along the Mallaram Cheruvu, seating arrangements have been set up by the forest department for tourists to enjoy the scenic beauty. One of the notable features of the forest is a rock estimated to be around 1.45 billion years old, which according to geologists, resembles the upper portion of a mushroom and dates back approximately 2000 million years.