Historic Kolanupaka Temple murals await preservation

Metro India News | YADADRI BHUVANAGIRI 

Rare centuries-old murals at the historic Kolanupaka Someswara Temple in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district have come under the spotlight, with heritage researchers calling for immediate conservation measures to protect the artwork. Located in Kolanupaka village, about 80 km from Hyderabad, the temple is renowned for its rich architectural and cultural heritage.

The colorful paintings are found on the left side of the ceiling above the entrance to the temple’s mantapa. They were first noticed by Siripuram Narendra, a member of the Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam. The murals were later examined and documented by team members Sriramoju Haragopal, Mullakkala Ravi Kumar, Kunde Ganesh and Panga Megharaj.

According to the researchers, surviving temple murals are relatively rare in Telangana. Similar paintings have been reported in temples at Pillalamarri, Kotagullu and Rachakonda, while historical accounts also mention murals in the Brahmanavada Shiva Temple at Bhuvanagiri. The team noted that many such artworks may have disappeared over time due to neglect and natural deterioration.

Haragopal, convener of the Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam, said the murals appear to depict scenes from a Yakshagana performance. One panel shows Vishvabrahma being carried in a procession, with the name inscribed in Telugu above the figure. Based on the style of the script, the paintings are believed to date back to the 16th or 17th century.

Several inscriptions, including the names “Eraya,” “Sharabha” and “Sangarolu,” remain visible. Researchers believe scientific conservation and chemical treatment could reveal more details and help preserve an important part of Telangana’s artistic heritage.