Warangal: In the village of Bejjora in Bheemgal Mandal in the Nizamabad region, members of Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam (KTCB) on Sunday identified rare 13th-century Bejjamaahadevi sculptures drawn from Basava Purana in Palkuriki Somana. This idol is displayed in the temples of the village, showing the goddess’ shaking child – explained by KTCB member K. Rajeshwar as her raising of the young Lord Shiva, a role that deepens her spiritually in the Veerashaiva tradition.
“This recognition brings rare dimensions to the study of Basava literature,” Rajeshwar told Deccan Chronicle.
The temple complex also contains several artifacts from the Shaiva and Chalukya era: a striking sculpture of Chamundi, devotees of Lord Shiva, two distinct Ganesha Idols, a rare Shanmukha (Kartikeya) figure and multiple Shiva Lingas (including one containing the Mace-Bigaining Figure), probably accompanied by the image of Mace-Bugearch, which may be representative of the pashau. The structural influence of an ancient stampede in the ritual design emphasizes Chalukya’s architectural influence.
KTCB convener Sriramoju Haragopal pointed out that the importance of Bejjamaahadevi – rather than the more common respected Akkamahadevi – added new insights into female pious figures among the early women in Telugu Shaiva. Historians believe the discovery is a milestone in rebuilding Telangana’s literary and dedication legacy. It is now being planned to fully document the site, seeking the status of heritage conservation and promoting Bejora as a cultural tourism destination.
