India's Ancient City Had a Stadium, Reservoir & Democracy. But It's Being Lost Again

TOI.in
/ Jun 18, 2025, 07:15PM IST
Welcome to Rakhigarhi, Haryana — one of the largest Indus Valley sites ever discovered. Once a thriving Bronze Age metropolis, this 2500 BCE settlement is now revealing secrets that could rewrite history.In November 2024, archaeologists uncovered a man-made reservoir and what may be the first-ever Bronze Age mud brick stadium. Add to that a granary possibly linked to an ancient taxation system — and Rakhigarhi becomes more than ruins. It's a window into an innovative, egalitarian past.

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Time of India

4 days ago

• Time of India

India's Ancient City Had a Stadium, Reservoir & Democracy. But It's Being Lost Again

/ Jun 18, 2025, 07:15PM IST Welcome to Rakhigarhi, Haryana — one of the largest Indus Valley sites ever discovered. Once a thriving Bronze Age metropolis, this 2500 BCE settlement is now revealing secrets that could rewrite November 2024, archaeologists uncovered a man-made reservoir and what may be the first-ever Bronze Age mud brick stadium. Add to that a granary possibly linked to an ancient taxation system — and Rakhigarhi becomes more than ruins. It's a window into an innovative, egalitarian past.

Hans India

14-06-2025

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Tourism Min elated over GSI recognition to Belum Caves

Amaravati: Minister for Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Kandula Durgesh expressed delight over the inclusion of Belum Caves, a symbol of ancient culture and heritage, in the geological heritage list. With the announcement from the Geological Survey of India (GSI), the Minister expects that the Belum Caves, located in Kolimigundla mandal of Nandyal district, with a history dating back 450 years BCE and spread over approximately 23 acres, will gain further tourist prominence. The Minister said in a statement here on Friday that this recognition as a geological heritage site opens up opportunities for further development. The Minister stated that Belum Caves are internationally renowned as the second-longest and the longest underground caves in India. He added that the unimaginable natural beauty hidden underground within Belum Caves not only greatly attracts tourists but also provides a refreshing experience. The Minister explained that millions of tourists visit these caves. He assured that efforts would be made to further attract both domestic and international tourists. He further stated that Rayalaseema boasts numerous spiritual sites and beautiful tourist destinations, including Tirumala, Ahobilam, Mahanandi, Yaganti, Srisailam, Brahmamgari Matham, Gandikota, Siddavatam, Gandi, and Horsley Hills, and all of them will be developed. Minister Durgesh expressed confidence that the tourism sector will further flourish under the leadership of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.

The Hindu

13-06-2025

• The Hindu

A.P. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh expresses delight over GSI recognition for Belum Caves

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Kandula Durgesh on Friday expressed happiness over the inclusion of Belum Caves in the Geological Heritage list by the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Located in Kolimigundla mandal of Nandyal district, Belum Caves represent ancient culture and heritage, with a history dating back to around 450 BCE and spanning an area of approximately 23 acres. In a statement, the Minister said the GSI's declaration was expected to further enhance the tourism potential of the caves, and that the recognition would pave the way for development of the region. The Belum Caves were known to be the second largest underground cave system in the world and the longest in India, the Minister said, adding that they had gained international acclaim. He highlighted the mesmerising natural underground formations within the caves, which not only captivate visitors but also provide a unique and pleasant experience. He said lakhs of tourists visit the site annually, and added that efforts would be made to promote the site more extensively to attract both domestic and international tourists. Mr. Durgesh said the Rayalaseema region was rich with spiritual destinations such as Tirumala, Ahobilam, Mahanandi, Yaganti, Srisailam, Brahmamgari Matham, Gandikota, Siddavatam, Gandi and Horsley Hills, among many other places, and all these places would be developed further. 'A matter of pride' Meanwhile, addressing the media in Nandyal, Minister for Roads and Buildings B.C. Janardhan Reddy hailed the decision of the GSI. 'It is a very proud moment for the people of the Banaganapalle Assembly constituency,' Mr. Reddy said, adding that the rare recognition would place the famous caves on the national tourism map. He reiterated that the government would initiate all measures to develop the caves so that it could transform into a global tourist destination, which in turn would galvanise employment and economic opportunities in the region. 'The Department of Tourism will soon come up with a comprehensive action plan to attract both domestic and international visitors,' Mr. Reddy said.