The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has launched an extensive epigraphical survey within the Nallamala forest region, a sprawling area spanning parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This initiative aims to identify and document ancient inscriptions and rock art, potentially revealing significant historical, social, and cultural insights into the region between the 11th and 16th centuries CE.
ASI Initiates In-depth Survey of Nallamala Forests
The survey, which commenced in early June 2026, is being conducted under tight security arrangements in coordination with forest officials. Teams from the ASI’s epigraphy wing are actively searching for stone inscriptions, copper plates, and other historical records believed to be scattered throughout the forest, particularly along ancient routes leading to the Srisailam temple. This marks the first major survey of its kind undertaken by the ASI in the Nallamala forest tiger reserve.
Information regarding the presence of numerous inscriptions in the Nallamala forest area was initially provided by local tribal communities, primarily the Chenchu people. These communities have been instrumental in assisting researchers by sharing photographs of inscriptions found in remote locations. Dr. K. Muniratnam Reddy, Director of the ASI’s Epigraphy Wing, stated that many of these discovered inscriptions belong to the Vijayanagara empire and mention donations made to the Srisailam temple. He emphasized that the findings could provide valuable information about rulers, temple activities, land grants, and developmental works undertaken centuries ago.
Historical Significance of Nallamala Discoveries
Previous surveys in similar forest regions, such as the Lankamala Reserve Forest in Kadapa district and Gundaram Reserve Forest in Telangana, have yielded significant results. These exercises uncovered approximately 30 inscriptions dating from the 1st century BCE to the 16th century CE, written in various scripts including Brahmi, Shell, Nagari, and Telugu. Additionally, prehistoric rock shelters with paintings estimated to be around 10,000 years old were found, offering glimpses into ancient pilgrimage routes, the Satavahana period, Buddhist and Shaivite traditions, and early human settlements.
The current survey in the Nallamala region is focusing on inscriptions written in Telugu and Nagari scripts. The ASI officials believe that a systematic investigation will uncover numerous unknown historical details. The inscriptions may also help establish connections between ancient rulers and the development of religious centers in the area. The dense forest terrain has naturally preserved these monuments, keeping the inscribed texts intact.
Broader Context and Future Implications
The Nallamala Hills, part of the Eastern Ghats, represent one of the largest stretches of continuous forest cover in peninsular India. The region is also home to the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, India’s largest, supporting a rich diversity of wildlife. The directive for this survey originated from Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Environment & Forests, K. Pawan Kalyan, who highlighted the importance of conserving not only biodiversity but also the historical and archaeological treasures hidden within the forests.
The ASI is working to scientifically document the inscriptions and preserve the historical information they contain for future generations. The findings are expected to deepen scholarly understanding of linguistic evolution, ancient kingdoms, and the cultural heritage of South India. Historians anticipate that the deciphered texts will shed light on the contributions of different dynasties, the evolution of temples and settlements, and the cultural practices prevalent in the area. Some discovered inscriptions date back to the 13th century, belonging to the early Vijayanagara period, and mention local deities and villages, offering direct links to historical socioeconomic contributions made by merchants and rulers who traversed these ancient routes.
The Chenab Times News Desk