Context:
Several scholars have been working to restore prominence of Srikakulam’s forgotten heritage
Srikakulam:
- Located in – Andhra Pradesh
- Initially known as – Chicacole
- Historical significance – Once part of Kalinga Dynasty.
- Came under Gajapati Kingdom during the medieval period, followed by Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi.
- Also part of Kakatiya and Vijayanagara Empires.
- Nizams also held control over the region for a brief period, until the French took over the territory.
- The British captured the region from the French and held it until Indian Independence.
Cultural significance of Srikakulam:
- Arasavalli – Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple, dedicated to the sun god, is one of the 2 temples of its kind
- Other being the most popular and magnificent Konark Sun Temple in Odisha.
- Sri Kurmam Temple – Said to be the only temple of its kind, for it is rare to find temples dedicated to any of Vishnu’s non-human avatars
- Salihundam – An ancient Buddhist settlement, located on the banks of the Vamsadhara River
- Srimukhalingam Temple – This temple, built in the Kalinga architectural style, is located by the Vamsadhara River and is dedicated to Lord Srimukha Lingeswara
- Ravivalasa – An ancient temple dedicated to Sri Endala Mallikarjuna Swamy
Source: The Hindu
Previous Year Question
The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2012 Prelims]
(a) three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent
(b) three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of Indian can be classified
(c) three main styles of Indian temple architecture
(d) three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India
Answer: (c)
