A Historical fort in Kari Nagar – ” Rama Giri Fort “

-Ramachandra Bangari

Ramagiri Fort, also known as Ramagiri Khilla, is a historic hilltop fort located near Begumpet village in the Peddapalli district of Telangana, India. Constructed in the 12th century by the Kakatiya dynasty, the fort has a history spanning approximately 900 years.

After the decline of the Kakatiyas, the fort came under the control of various rulers:

14th Century: Occupied by Musunuri Kapayanayaka, who appointed Muppabhupala as the ruler of Sabbinadu, with Ramagiri as his capital.

1433 A.D.: Captured by Bahmani Sultan Ahmed Shah I during his invasion of the Telangana region.

1518–1687: Controlled by the Qutub Shahi Sultanate.

1656: Abdullah Qutb Shah, the ruler of Golconda, entrusted the fort to his son-in-law, one of Aurangzeb’s sons.

1791: Came under British control.

The fort is notable for its stone construction, featuring numerous octagonal bastions and walls reaching up to 12 meters in height. It was equipped with four forge-welded cannons and had structures covered with a unique mud plaster composed of mud, lime, reeds, and animal hair or blood.

In addition to its architectural significance, Ramagiri Fort holds mythological importance. Local legends suggest that the Pandavas spent time here during their exile, and it is believed that Lord Rama installed a Shiva Lingam within the fort. The site also includes a temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita, as well as a pond known as Sitamma Kolanu.

The surrounding forest is rich in biodiversity, particularly known for its medicinal plants, attracting botanists and students alike.

Today, the fort stands as a testament to the region’s historical and cultural heritage, offering insights into the architectural styles and strategic significance of the era in which it was built.