The dolmen at Gudipalli is unique because it features a massive boulder as a capstone instead of the usual rectangular slab

EKALAVYA MALLEPALLI I hyderabad

Rare Iron Age structures have been found in a neglected state on the outskirts of Gudipalli, a mandal headquarters in Nalgonda district, according to Dr. E Sivanagireddy, archaeologist and CEO of Pleach India Foundation. 

Based on information provided by B Srinivasa Reddy, a member of Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam, Dr Reddy explored the site on Sunday and discovered menhirs(huge stones planted vertically to commemorate the dead) and a unique dolmen (a memorial structure for depositing mortal remains).

Dr Reddy stated that these Iron Age monuments, dating between 2000 and 1000 BCE ,are endangered due to quarrying and active agricultural operations. While menhirs are common, the dolmen at Gudipalli is unique because it features a massive boulder as a capstone instead of the usual rectangular slab, indicating significant archaeological importance. The boulder, raised on a two-course rubble wall, was likely transported from nearby areas and placed with collective effort by Iron Age communities, he explained. 

Dr Reddy urged local villagers to protect these ancient remains for future generations. Meanwhile, Sriramoju Haragopal and Dr Bhadragirish, convenor and co-convenor of Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam, emphasized the need for further exploration to understand the cultural significance of the site and re commended that the government declare it a protected monument. 

The exploration was attended by Yunus Farhan and Padala Saidulu. Dr Reddy stressed the importance of immediate conservation measures to prevent the destruction of these rare archaeological remnants.