Rare Kakatiya Ganapatideva sculpture found in Siddipet

Metro India News | siddipet

A rare sculpture portraying Kakatiya Emperor Ganapatideva as a devoted Shaivite worshipper has been identified at Totapalli village in Bejjanki mandal of Siddipet district, marking a major breakthrough in Telangana’s medieval history.

The sculpture, believed to belong to the reign of Ganapatideva between 1199 CE and 1262 CE, was identified during a heritage survey conducted by archaeologist Dr. E. Sivanagireddy and historian Sriramoju Haragopal under the “Preserve Heritage for Posterity” programme.

Experts said the discovery is historically significant as it is the first known identification of Emperor Ganapatideva along with his wife Somaladevi in sculptural form from Telangana. Carved on a three-foot granite slab, the panel depicts the emperor wearing Rudraksha malas and a distinctive bun-shaped hairstyle associated with Shaivite devotion. Queen Somaladevi is shown beside him with a traditional Dhammilla hairstyle as both offer prayers to a miniature Shiva Linga under the guidance of royal guru Visveswara Sivacharya.

Historians said the royal parasols carved above the figures helped confirm their royal identity. The sculpture’s artistic features, along with the nearby Trikuta temple architecture, closely resemble the Kakatiya style seen during the 13th century.

Researchers believe Ganapatideva may have personally visited the temple after its construction to perform sacred rituals in the presence of his queen and spiritual preceptor. The discovery has created excitement among historians and heritage enthusiasts, who say it adds a crucial new chapter to Kakatiya history and Telangana’s cultural heritage.

Villagers, temple priests, and members of Kotha Telangana Charitra Brindam participated in the awareness programme at the site.