Warangal: According to the renowned archaeologist Dr. E. Sivanagi Reddy, this is a 1,100-year-old monolithic granite sculpture, believed to be the tallest Jane idol in Telangana, threatened by rampant quarry activities near the village of Nangunuru.
Dr. Sivanagi Reddy issued an alarm Wednesday after checking the site after checking the site, following information provided by Sriramoju Haragopal, convener of Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam. He found that the quarry took place dangerously close to historical sculptures, putting ancient relics at risk of irreparable damage.
The idol, with a height of 9 feet and a width of 3.5 feet, was carved in traditional kayotsarga poses and belongs to the Digambara sect of Jainism. It is believed to date back to the 9th century of the Rashtrakuta period. The sculpture has Ushnisha (a skull protrusion) and is rare in Tirthankara portraits. Over the years, idols sunk their knees due to environmental degradation and neglect.
Dr. Sivanagi Reddy also discovered two other Janaga artifacts nearby: a smaller Mahavira sculpture hidden in the bushes, while another idol currently housed in the local Anjaneya temple. These findings enhance the historical significance of Nangunuru as the center of Jana during the Rashtrakuta era.
Archaeological evidence from the former Jana monastery, including pottery fragments and bricks, further emphasizes the cultural value of the site.
Dr. Sivanagi Reddy called for immediate intervention, urging local communities and authorities to recognize and protect the rich heritage of the area from the quarry violations.
The advocacy program joins heritage activists Ahobilam Karunakar, Pawan and B. Sudhakar Singh, who joins Dr. Sivanagi Reddy to call for emergency protection measures to protect future generations.
