An archaeological discovery has come to light on the outskirts of Gudipalli, a mandal headquarters in Nalgonda district, where rare Iron Age structures have been found in a neglected state.
E. Sivanagireddy, archaeologist and CEO of Pleach India Foundation, made this revelation following an exploration based on information provided by B. Srinivasa Reddy, a member of Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam.
During his survey on Sunday (February 23, 2025), Mr. Sivanagireddy identified several menhirs, massive stones erected vertically in memory of the deceased, and a rare dolmen, a megalithic tomb used for depositing human remains. He highlighted that these Iron Age monuments, dating back to between 2000 and 1000 BCE, are on the brink of extinction due to quarrying activities and agricultural expansion in the region.
What sets the dolmen apart is its unusual capstone, a massive boulder placed atop the structure instead of the conventional rectangular slab. This deviation from typical burial practices lends the site considerable archaeological significance.
According to Mr. Sivanagireddy, the boulder, which serves as the capstone, was transported from nearby areas and positioned with the collective effort of Iron Age communities. The dolmen is supported by a two-course rubble wall on either side, further highlighting the engineering skills of ancient inhabitants.
Published – February 24, 2025 03:30 am IST
