Neglect threatens 1,000-year-old hero stone in Ranga Reddy

A historically significant hero stone (Veeragallu) dating back nearly 1,000 years to the Rashtrakuta period has been found in a state of neglect at Manchirevula village in Gandipet mandal of Ranga Reddy district, alarming historians and heritage conservationists.

The sculpture, located beside the Beerappa temple along a service road, was inspected by noted archaeologist Dr. E. Sivanagireddy, CEO of Pleach India Foundation. The visit followed inputs from Sriramoju Haragopal, convenor of Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam, who brought the neglected artifact to attention.

According to Dr. Sivanagireddy, the hero stone depicts a warrior richly adorned with ornaments and poised in alidhasana, a classical combat stance. The figure is shown holding a sword in his right hand and a shield in his left, signifying bravery and readiness for battle. A unique feature of the sculpture is the presence of a serpent with a raised hood over the warrior’s head, which suggests Saivite affiliation and adds symbolic depth to the depiction.

Based on its iconographic and stylistic characteristics, the sculpture has been dated to the 10th century CE, during the rule of the Rashtrakutas, a dynasty known for its patronage of art, culture, and temple architecture. Despite its historical and cultural importance, the sculpture remains exposed to the elements, with no protective structure in place. Continuous exposure to sun, rain, and environmental factors is accelerating its deterioration, raising fears of irreversible damage.

“These hero stones are invaluable cultural markers that reflect the martial traditions, beliefs, and social history of the period. Preserving them is crucial to understanding our past,” said Dr. Sivanagireddy. He further stressed that neglecting such artifacts could lead to the permanent loss of heritage.

Appealing for immediate action, he urged local temple authorities, including priests Parameswar and Siddheswar of the nearby Virabhadra temple, to take steps to safeguard the sculpture by providing shelter and ensuring its upkeep.

Heritage activists have also called for greater awareness and official intervention to protect such lesser-known but significant relics scattered across Hyderabad’s outskirts. Others present during the inspection included P. Srinath Reddy, Sivakrishna, and Sagar.