 A historically rich area that has seen
the rise and fall of many dynasties, the
Deccan region of Karnataka is replete
with monuments. Near Bellary,
however, is a cluster of sites that take
one back even further in time. The
excavations at Sanganakallu-Kupgal
have been dated to the Neolithic
period, between 5,000 and 10,000
years ago and provide a glimpse into
the lives of people who lived then.
The Sanganakallu-Kupgal area is the
location of one of the oldest village
settlements to be discovered in Asia.
The excavations are centered around
four hills that have shown evidence of
inhabitation during the Neolithic period.
Archaeologists have discovered that the
area was a large centre for the production
of stone tools and implements as well as
etched stone seals and inscriptions. The
area also offers the opportunity to view
Rock Art, ancient Burial Mounds and
unique Ringing Stones. |
Just across the Tungabhadra River is
the fortress town of Anegundi, predating
Vijayanagara and the city’s 14th
century headquarters. More ancient than
Hampi, Anegundi lies in the mythical
kingdom of Kishkinda, ruled by the
monkey-king Sugriva of Ramayana
fame. Anjanadri Hill, near Anegundi,
is believed to be the birthplace of the
monkey-god Hanuman. Anegundi and
its tranquil environs are dotted with
forgotten temples and fortifications.
The dilapidated Huchappayana Matha
Temple, near the river, is worth a peek for
its black stone lathe-turned pillars and
fine panels of dancers. The other places
of tourist interest are the sacred Pampa
Sarovara, Aramane (a ruined palace)
and the Ranganatha Temple. Anegundi
has also been selected under the Rural
Tourism Project of the Ministry of
Tourism, India which aims for the socio-economic
and cultural enhancement
of the local people through heritage
conservation of the place. This scheme
is implemented by the Kishkinda Trust,
a non-governmental organisation. It will
help the local people earn their livelihood
by promoting tourism in the region.
