110-543: Guntur district is one of the twenty six districts in the Coastal Andhra region of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh . The administrative seat of the district is located at Guntur , the largest city of the district in terms of area and with a population of 670,073. It has a coastline of approximately 100 km (62 mi) on the right bank of Krishna River , that separates it from Krishna district and NTR district . It
220-420: A sex ratio of 1003 females per 1000 males. The total urban population is 16,52,738 (33.81%). There are 29,60,441 literates with a literacy rate of 67.40%. After bifurcation the district had a population of 20,91,075, of which 1,072,544 (51.29%) lived in urban areas. Guntur district had a sex ratio of 1007 females to 1000 males. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes make up 4,21,861 (20.17%) and 69,017 (3.30%) of
330-481: A "Nurruvar Kannar", who helped Chera king Senguttuvan during his Himalayan campaign. The direct translation of the term Nurruvar Kannar is "the hundred Karnas" or "Satakarni"; Nurruvar Kannar has therefore been identified with the Satavahana dynasty. The Kathasaritsagara ascribes a mythical etymology in which a widowed, childless king named Deepakarni was prophesied to find a lion-riding child as his heir. During
440-616: A jungle hunt, he found such a child riding a yaksha -turned-lion named Sāta. After adoption, the child became the king eventually and came to be known as Sātavāhana or Sāta-supported. The use of the names "Andhra" and "Andhra-Jatiya" in the Puranas has led some scholars, such as E. J. Rapson and R.G Bhandarkar , to believe that the dynasty originated in the eastern Deccan region (the historic Andhra region, present-day Andhra Pradesh and Telangana ). At Kotilingala in Telangana, coins bearing
550-485: A marriage alliance with the Western Satraps, marrying the daughter of Rudradaman I . The Junagadh inscription of Rudradaman I states that he defeated Satakarni, the lord of Dakshinapatha (Deccan), twice. It also states that he spared the life of the defeated ruler because of close relations: "Rudradaman (...) who obtained good report because he, in spite of having twice in fair fight completely defeated Satakarni,
660-772: A prominent political power during the Maurya Empire . Historical accounts by Greek ambassador Megasthenes ( c. 310 BCE ) reference Andhra as a flourishing region under the Satavahanas before the Common Era . The Satavahana dynasty dominated the Deccan Plateau from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. It had trade relations with the Roman Empire. The Satavahanas made Dhanyakataka - Amaravathi their capital. According to historian Stanley Wolpert , it might have been
770-533: A result of his victories, Rudradaman regained all the former territories previously held by Nahapana, except for the extreme south territories of Pune and Nasik . Satavahana dominions were limited to their original base in the Deccan and eastern central India around Amaravati . Sri Yajna Sātakarni , the last person belonging to the main Satavahana dynastic line, briefly revived the Satavahana rule. According to S. N. Sen, he ruled during 170–199 CE. Charles Higham dates
880-606: A significant natural freshwater lake situated in West Godavari district, functions as a flood-balancing reservoir for the Godavari and Krishna rivers and supports up to 50,000 resident and migratory birds. Recognized as a wildlife sanctuary in 1999 under India's Wildlife Protection Act, Kolleru Lake was designated a Ramsar wetland of international importance in 2002. Additionally, the Godavari River splits into distributaries such as
990-417: A significant role in the struggle for independence and the formation of Andhra Pradesh . The northern, Telugu- speaking districts of Madras State , including Guntur, advocated to become a separate state after independence. The new state of Andhra region named Andhra State , was created in 1953 from the eleven northern districts of Madras State. In 1970, part of Guntur district was split off to become part of
1100-588: A single inscription of the early Satavahanas is found in Bellary District and that the only Satavahana inscription in Bellary District was that of Pulumavi, who belongs to the later-phase of Satavahana history. A stupa in Kanaganahalli village of Karnataka, dated between the first century BCE and first century CE, features limestone panels depicting portraits of Chimuka (Simuka), Satakani (Satakarni) and other Satavahana rulers. As per historian Parmanand Gupta, in
1210-446: A slab of the upper drum (medhi) of the Kanaganahalli mahastupa mentions year 16 of Vasisthiputra Sri Chimuka Satavahana's reign, which can be dated from ca. 110 BCE. V. S. Sukthankar theorised that the territorial division Satavahani-Satahani (Satavahanihara or Satahani-rattha), in present-day Bellary district , was the homeland of the Satavahana family. However, Dr. Gopalchari challenged Sukthankar's theory by pointing out that not
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#17328524609191320-592: A tribute. According to Sudhakar Chattopadhyaya, Kharavela's army diverted its course after failing to advance against Satakarni. According to Alain Daniélou, Kharavela was friendly with Satakarni, and only crossed his kingdom without any clashes. Satakarni's successor Satakarni II ruled for 56 years, during which he captured eastern Malwa from the Shungas . This allowed him access to the Buddhist site of Sanchi , in which he
1430-606: Is a Prakrit form of the Sanskrit Sapta-Vahana ("driven by seven"; in Hindu mythology , the chariot of the sun god is drawn by seven horses). This would indicate that the Satavahanas originally claimed association with the legendary solar dynasty , as was common in ancient India. According to Inguva Kartikeya Sarma , the dynasty's name is derived from the words sata ("sharpened", "nimble" or "swift") and vahana ("vehicle");
1540-771: Is a state university which has fourteen autonomous colleges as per Universities Grant Commission. The KMC , GMC , AIIMS are some of the premier medical institutes in Guntur. There are also many private universities like Vignan University , KL University in the district. The Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University at Lam is a public agricultural university, equipped with a Regional Agricultural Research Station . The district has many festivals such as Rama Navami , Maha Sivaratri , Vinayaka Chavithi , Vijaya Dasami , Deepawali , Holi , Ugadi , Eid , Krishnastami , Christmas . There are hill temple festivals at Kotappakonda , Mangalagiri . Mangalagiri International Cricket Stadium
1650-444: Is assigned ten years, and the second, fifty years by other scholars, but the only dated inscription of this king is Candankheda seal from his reign's year 30, around 60 BCE, and he ruled ca. 88–42 BCE. The Satavahanas contributed greatly to the embellishment of the Buddhist stupa of Sanchi . It was heavily repaired under King Satakarni II. The gateways and the balustrade were built after 70 BCE, and appear to have been commissioned by
1760-530: Is being built in a 20-acre (8.1 ha) site in Navuluru , village of Mangalagiri town, Guntur district , about 15 km from the city of Vijayawada. The exclusive stadium of the Andhra Cricket Association will be the venue for international and Ranji matches. Places of historical importance in the district include Ponnur , Undavalli Caves , Gurazala , Mangalagiri , Tadepalle , Tenali and
1870-659: Is believed to have added the Bellary region to Satakarni's kingdom. His coins featuring ships with double mast have been found on the Coromandel Coast , indicating involvement in maritime trade and naval power. The old stupa at Amaravati was perhaps renovated during his reign. though recent scholarship tends to spread the dates of this wider. Pulumavi's successor was his brother Vashishtiputra Satakarni . According to S. N. Sen he ruled during 120–149 CE; according to Charles Higham, his regnal years spanned 138–145 CE. He entered into
1980-599: Is both a tribal and a territorial name, the latter territorial denotation of present Telugu lands came into usage only well after the Satavahana period had ended, which meant that the term Andhra represented only the Andhra tribe (who had originated in North India along the Yamuna river banks as per Rigveda) and not the present Andhra region or its Telugu people. The term Andhrabhrityas (Andhra servants) may imply two things, one being that
2090-541: Is bounded on the south by Bapatla district and on the west by Palnadu district . It has an area of 2,443 km (943 sq mi), with a population of 20,91,075, as per 2011 census of India . The district is often referred to as the Land of Chillies . It is also a major centre for agriculture, education and learning. It exports large quantities of chillies and tobacco . The district derives its name from its district headquarters, Guntur. There are several opinions on
2200-402: Is credited with the building of the decorated gateways around the original Mauryan Empire and Sunga stupas . Satakarni II is known from a dedicatory inscription at Sanchi . He was succeeded by Lambodara. The coins of Lambodara's son and successor Apilaka have been found in eastern Madhya Pradesh. However, Andrew Ollett argues that there is only one Satakarni, as the alleged first Satakarni
2310-612: Is currently under construction to enhance air travel access to the region. Coastal Andhra is also home to several major ports, vital for the region's trade and commerce. Kakinada Port is a significant seaport, while Visakhapatnam Port is one of the busiest cargo-handling ports in India. Krishnapatnam Port at Nellore is a major private port in the region, and smaller ports such as Machilipatnam Port and Nizampatnam Port in Bapatla district further contribute to maritime trade. Andhra Pradesh
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#17328524609192420-428: Is said to have discovered Mica in 200 BCE. Chinese traveller and Buddhist monk Hiuen Tsang ( Xuanzang ) visited Amaravati in 640 C.E., stayed for sometime and studied 'Abhidhammapitakam'. He observed that there were many Viharas and some of them were deserted, which points out that Hinduism was gaining ground at that time. Xuanzang wrote a glorious account of the place, Viharas and monasteries that existed. Guntur
2530-721: Is the classical dance form of the state, which was originated in the Kuchipudi village of Krishna district . Rice is the staple food in the coastal cuisine and is usually consumed with a variety of curries and lentil soups or broths. The cuisine of Coastal Andhra is influenced by various seafood varieties. The Coastal Andhra region of Andhra Pradesh comprises 18 districts: Srikakulam , Vizianagaram , Parvathipuram Manyam , Alluri Sitharama Raju , Visakhapatnam , Anakapalli , Kakinada , Konaseema , East Godavari , West Godavari , Eluru , Krishna , NTR , Guntur , Palnadu , Bapatla , Prakasam and Nellore . Many Chief Ministers from
2640-548: Is the most populous city in the region, while Amaravati , serving as the state capital, is also situated within Coastal Andhra. Coastal Andhra is a prominent hub for Buddhist heritage in India, second only to the Gangetic plains of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh . The region holds numerous ancient Buddhist sites, featuring remnants of large monasteries , stupas , and other significant artifacts that span from Srikakulam district in
2750-578: Is the second-busiest maritime state in India in terms of cargo handled, following Gujarat. National flag design Singers Telugu literature, arts and cinema Satavahana The Satavahanas ( / ˌ s ɑː t ə ˈ v ɑː h ə n ə / ; Sādavāhana or Sātavāhana , IAST : Sātavāhana ), also referred to as the Andhras (also Andhra-bhṛtyas or Andhra-jatiyas ) in the Puranas , were an ancient Indian dynasty . Most modern scholars believe that
2860-409: The 2011 Census of India , Coastal Andhra has a total population of 34,195,655 constituting 69.20% of the state’s population. The majority of the population in Coastal Andhra practices Hinduism , accounting for approximately 93% of the residents. The Christian community represents around 1.51% of the region's population. The primary language spoken across Coastal Andhra is Telugu . Kuchipudi
2970-460: The 2011 Census of India , hosts a population of over 3.4 crore , constituting 69.20% of the state’s population. Coastal Andhra was formerly part of the Madras State until 1953 and then became part of Andhra State from 1953 to 1956. Historically, Coastal Andhra has been a centre of trade and culture, featuring strong traditions in literature, music, and dance. The region contributed actively to
3080-647: The Abhiras captured the northern parts of the kingdom, around Nashik region. After Yajna Satakarni, the dynasty was soon extinguished following the rise of its feudatories, perhaps on account of a decline in central power. On the other hand, the Western Satraps would continue to prosper for the next two centuries, until their extinction by the Gupta Empire . Yajna Sri was succeeded by Madhariputra Swami Isvarasena. The next king Vijaya ruled for 6 years. His son Vasishthiputra Sri Chadha Satakarni ruled for 10 years. Pulumavi IV,
3190-621: The Indian independence movement and continues to impact the state’s economy through industries such as information technology, petroleum, and pharmaceuticals. It is also home to major ports in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada , enhancing its status as a critical industrial and trading hub. Proximity to the Bay of Bengal, however, makes the region susceptible to tropical cyclones and coastal erosion, prompting investments in disaster preparedness and coastal management initiatives. The region of Andhra emerged as
3300-749: The Kalahasti Temple in Tirupati district , and the Srisailam Temple in Nandyal district . In the mid-18th century, the Gajapati and Ganjam districts, which were part of Coastal Andhra, were granted to the French East India Company in 1752 but were later transferred to British control. Nellore, including areas reaching up to Ongole Taluk , came under British administration after being acquired from
3410-635: The Kalinga king Kharavela mentions a king named "Satakani" or "Satakamini", who some identify with Satakarni I. The inscription describes dispatching of an army and Kharavela's threat to a city. Since the inscription is only partially legible, different scholars interpret the events described in the inscription differently. According to R. D. Banerji and Sailendra Nath Sen, Kharavela sent out an army against Satakarni. According to Bhagwal Lal, Satakarni wanted to avoid an invasion of his kingdom by Kharavela. So, he sent horses, elephants, chariots and men to Kharavela as
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3520-505: The Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. As for the Puranas, these texts could have been compiled at a later date and it is not certain if the Satavahanas were referred to as Andhras during their time. Another section of scholars believe that the Satavahanas originated in western Deccan (present-day Maharashtra ). All four extant inscriptions from the early Satavahana period (c. 1st century BCE) have been found in and around this region. One of
3630-775: The Nawab of Arcot . Additionally, certain parts of present-day Nellore and Chittoor were managed by the Venkatagiri Rajas until 1802, when the British entered into an arrangement with the Raja of Venkatagiri, consolidating their control over these territories. The Andhra districts, historically known as the Northern Circars , along with the Rayalaseema region, were ceded by the Nizam of Hyderabad to
3740-541: The Prakasam district . The district suffers from Naxalite insurgency and is a part of the Red corridor . Guntur district occupies an area of approximately 2,443 square kilometres (943 sq mi), The Krishna River forms the northeastern and eastern boundary of the district, separating it from Krishna district . The district is bounded on the southeast by the Bay of Bengal , on
3850-544: The Rayalaseema region within Andhra Pradesh and shares boundaries with the state of Telangana . Fertile lands in Coastal Andhra are supported by the presence of three major rivers: the Godavari , Krishna , and Penna , which enhance agricultural productivity through extensive irrigation systems. The coastal length of this region spans approximately 974 km, making it the second-longest coastline in India. According to
3960-476: The Vengi Chalukyan King. Guntur also appears in two inscriptions dated 1147 and 1158 CE. Since the beginning of Buddhist time, Guntur stood in the forefront in matters of culture, education and civilisation. Gautama Buddha preached at Dharanikota /Dhanyakatakam near Guntur and conducted Kalachakra ceremony, which takes its antiquity to 500 BCE. Taranatha, a Buddhist monk writes: "On the full moon of
4070-541: The Western Kshatrapas – extended their influence into these regions. The Western Kshatrapa ruler Nahapana is known to have ruled the former Satavahana territory, as attested by the inscriptions of his governor and son-in-law, Rishabhadatta . The Satavahana power was revived by Gautamiputra Satakarni , who is considered the greatest of the Satavahana rulers. Charles Higham dates his reign c. 103 – c. 127 CE . S. Nagaraju dates it 106–130 CE,
4180-755: The 16th century Guntur became part of the Mughal empire . In 1579 Khasa Rayarao, a Deshastha Brahmin who was the Commander-in-Chief of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah captured Kondaveedu Fort . After that, Khasa Rayarao was made the Governor of the Kondaveedu Sima (present Guntur district) by changing its name to Murtazanagar Sircar and kept the financial administration of this region in his hands. Khasa Rayarao appointed many Deshastha Brahmins , Kammas and some Golconda Vyaparis as Deshmukhs and Chowdarys . In 1687 CE when
4290-408: The 18 mandals into their respective revenue divisions in the district: Formation Year Population Population Population Population Population Population Population Note - Population Guntur district has 1022 Gram Panchayats covering 58 mandals including seized mandals. Panchayat secretaries have been working for the cluster Headquarter Gram Panchayats. The main objective of
4400-552: The Andhras were originally servants of the Mauryas or the Sungas. The other one, as per some scholars is that the expression is taken to indicate the servants of some other Andhra rulers. These scholars also suggest Kannada origin for the Satavahanas meaning that the dynasty originated in present-day Karnataka , and initially owed allegiance to some Andhra rulers. A Satavahana inscription found on
4510-752: The British colonial administration, becoming part of the Madras Presidency under British rule. Coastal Andhra is situated in the eastern region of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh , along the Circar Coast. It covers an area of 91,915 square kilometres (35,489 sq mi). It comprises 18 districts: Srikakulam , Vizianagaram , Parvathipuram Manyam , Alluri Sitarama Raju , Visakhapatnam , Anakapalli , Kakinada , Konaseema , East Godavari , West Godavari , Eluru , Krishna , NTR , Guntur , Palnadu , Bapatla , Prakasam , and Nellore . The region borders
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4620-498: The Gouthami, Vasishta, Vainatheya, and Vruddha Gouthami before reaching the Bay of Bengal, creating an intricate riverine landscape across Coastal Andhra. Coastal Andhra is well-connected by various modes of transportation, including air, rail, and road networks, playing a crucial role in the region's connectivity and economy. The region's railway infrastructure includes several major stations such as Vijayawada railway station , one of
4730-587: The IAS cadre, runs the Revenue administration under various enactments in the district. He is also designated as Additional District Magistrate. He mainly deals with civil supplies,land matters, mines and minerals,village officers etc. The District Revenue Officer (DRO), in the cadre of Special Grade Deputy Collectors, assists the Collector and Joint Collector in discharging their duties. The District Revenue Officer looks after all
4840-651: The Krishna river flows through relatively flat terrain and carries substantial amounts of sediment, especially during the monsoon season. Suryalanka Beach near Bapatla , Bobbarrlanka in Repalle , Nizampatnam Beach in Nizampatnam are tourist beaches in Guntur coastline. As of 2011 census of India , the district had a population of 4,887,813 with a density of 193 inhabitants per square kilometre (500/sq mi). The total population constitute, 2,440,521 males and 2,447,292 females –
4950-604: The Panchayat Raj Department is to provide civic amenities to the rural public. in 1971 in 1978 in 1985 The Gross District Domestic Product (GDDP) of the district is ₹ 49,722 crore (US$ 6.0 billion) and it contributes 9.5% to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) . For the FY 2013–14, the per capita income at current prices was ₹ 82,026 (US$ 980). The primary , secondary and tertiary sectors of
5060-637: The Satavahana rule began in the late second century BCE and lasted until the early third century CE, although some assign the beginning of their rule to as early as the 3rd century BCE based on the Puranas , but uncorroborated by archaeological evidence. The Satavahana kingdom mainly comprised the present-day Andhra Pradesh , Telangana , and Maharashtra . At different times, their rule extended to parts of modern Gujarat , Madhya Pradesh , and Karnataka . The dynasty had different capital cities at different times, including Kotalingala (Telangana), Pratishthana (Paithan) and Amaravati ( Dharanikota ). The origin of
5170-479: The Satavahana rule by overthrowing the Kanvas; the compiler of the Puranas confused him with the founder of the dynasty. Most modern scholars believe that the Satavahana ruler began in the first century BCE and lasted until the second century CE. This theory is based on Puranic records as well as archaeological and numismatic evidence. The theory that dates their rule to an earlier period is now largely discredited because
5280-491: The Satavahanas as per another historian V. S. Sukthankar. The varna of the dynasty is debated by modern scholars, who have variously argued for Shudra , Kshatriya , and Brahmana origins of the dynasty. The Puranas call the founder of the Satavahana family a vṛṣala (Shudra or low-born). The Nashik inscription of Gautami Balashri describes her son Gautamiputra Satakarni as eka-bamhana (Sanskrit: eka-brahmana ). Some scholars, such as V.V. Mirashi , have interpreted
5390-429: The Satavahanas initially came to power in the area around their capital Pratishthana (modern Paithan, Maharashtra) and then expanded their territory to eastern Deccan. Carla Sinopoli cautions that the inference about the western Deccan origin of the Satavahanas is "tentative at best" given the small sample of early inscriptions. Kanha's Pandavleni mentions the term maha-matra (officer-in-charge), which indicates that
5500-419: The Satavahanas were originally non-Brahmanas who started claiming Brahmana status after establishing matrimonial relations with some Brahmana families. Information about the Satavahanas comes from the Puranas , some Buddhist and Jain texts, the dynasty's inscriptions and coins, and foreign (Greek and Roman) accounts that focus on trade. The information provided by these sources is not sufficient to reconstruct
5610-618: The Satavahanas. An inscription on the Southern Gateway records that it was the work of Satakarni II's royal architect Ananda. An inscription records the gift of one of the top architraves of the Southern Gateway by the artisans of the Satavahana Emperor Satakarni : Gift of Ananda, the son of Vasithi, the foreman of the artisans of rajan Siri Satakarni Little is known about Apilaka's successors, except cryptic references to one Kuntala Satakarni. The next well-known ruler of
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#17328524609195720-506: The Vasireddi family of Kamma community and the Manik Rao family of Velama community were prominent Zamindar families in the present day Guntur district. The Manur Rao family were rulers of Chilakaluripet Zamindari and Sattenapalle Zamindari , The Vasireddi family were rulers of Amaravathi Zamindari and The Manik Rao family were the rulers of Repalle Zamindari . The Guntur region played
5830-480: The Western Kshatrapa ruler Nahapana , as suggested by Nahapana's coins overstuck with names and titles of Gautamiputra. The Nashik prashasti inscription of Gautamiputra's mother Gautami Balashri, dated to the 20th year after his death, records his achievements. The most liberal interpretation of the inscription suggests that his kingdom extended from the present-day Rajasthan in the north to Krishna river in
5940-457: The administrative reforms taken up by the Government of Andhra Pradesh . The district is divided into Two Revenue divisions , namely, Guntur , Tenali . These are sub-divided into 18 mandals , which are in turn divided as 57 Panchayat Samiti (Block)s, 712 villages and 16 towns. These 16 towns includes, 2 municipal corporation , 2 municipalities and 1 census town . Gurazala revenue division
6050-469: The archaeological museum in Guntur. There are many places of interest like Undavalli Caves . Coastal Andhra Coastal Andhra , also known as Kosta Andhra ( IAST : Kōstā Āndhra), is a geographic region in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh , comprising the coastal districts of the state between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal , from the northern border with Orissa to Rayalaseema in
6160-466: The branches of the Collectorate. He deals mainly with general administration and is vested with supervision of day-to-day functions of the collectorate. The administrative officer in the rank of a Tahsildar is the general assistant to the collector. He directly supervises all the sections in the collectorate and most of the files are routed through him. The collectorate is divided into 8 sections as per
6270-510: The busiest railway junctions in India, along with other key stations in Rajahmundry , Kakinada Town , Narsapuram , Machilipatnam , Guntur , Tenali , Nellore , and Repalle . Vijayawada serves as a central hub for numerous trains originating from and passing through the region. In terms of road transport, Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS) in Vijayawada is one of the largest bus terminals in
6380-567: The context of regionalism , with the present-day Maharashtra , Andhra Pradesh , Karnataka and Telangana being variously claimed as the original homeland of the Satavahanas. Śātavāhana, Śālivāhana, Śātakarṇi seem to be Sanskritised versions of the indigenous name Sātakaṇi , which appear as Sālavāhaṇa in Prakrit vernacular. According to one theory, the word "Satavahana" ( Brahmi script : 𑀲𑀸𑀤𑀯𑀸𑀳𑀦 Sādavāhana or 𑀲𑀸𑀢𑀯𑀸𑀳𑀦 Sātavāhana , IAST : Sātavāhana )
6490-457: The control of the hunter-gatherers and other tribal communities. As per historian M. Govinda Pai , Ptolemy (100–170 CE) states that when Siro Polemaios ( Vasishthiputra Sri Pulumayi ) was ruling from his capital Paithan in the north (reign c. 85-125 CE), another Satavahana prince called Baleokouros or Baleokoura (Vilivayakura) was ruling from Hippokoura ( Huvina Hipparagi ) of Basavana Bagewadi taluk of Vijayapura district of present Karnataka in
6600-422: The country, handling a high volume of passengers. Buses operate from various towns and cities in the region, further connecting the area with major destinations across Andhra Pradesh and beyond. Air connectivity is provided by Visakhapatnam International Airport , Vijayawada International Airport and Rajahmundry Airport , which serve both domestic and limited international flights. Additionally, Nellore Airport
6710-620: The district are 637,031. The district being home to the capital city, it is experiencing a growth in private international schools as well. The Central Board of Secondary Education , Secondary School Certificate or the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education are the different types of syllabus followed by different schools. The medium of instruction followed by different schools are English, Telugu and Urdu. There are several junior colleges which are under government, residential, social welfare, disabled welfare, private aided and unaided for
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#17328524609196820-634: The district contribute ₹ 16,111 crore (US$ 1.9 billion), ₹ 8,770 crore (US$ 1.1 billion) and ₹ 24,841 crore (US$ 3.0 billion) respectively to the GDDP. The major products contributing to the GVA of the district from agriculture and allied services are paddy , cotton kapas, chillies , banana , milk , meat and fisheries . The GVA to the industrial and service sector is contributed from construction , electricity , manufacturing , transport and education . The total road length of state highways in
6930-649: The district is 1,258 km (782 mi). There exists 406 km (252 mi) of rail network in the district. The primary and secondary school education is imparted by government, aided and private schools, under the School Education Department of the state. As per the school information report for the academic year 2015–16, there are a total of 4,739 schools. They include, 32 government, 2,839 mandal and zilla parishads, 2 residential, 1329 private, 14 model, 24 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV), 296 municipal and 203 other types of schools. The total number of students enrolled in primary, upper primary and high schools of
7040-421: The districts along the Bay of Bengal, the Uttarandhra (Northern Andhra) area is sometimes regarded as distinct due to its unique cultural and historical background. Coastal Andhra shares borders with the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh and the state of Telangana . Covering an area of 91,915 square kilometres (35,489 sq mi), Coastal Andhra accounts for 58% of Andhra Pradesh's total area and, as per
7150-493: The dynasty is uncertain, but according to the Puranas , their first king overthrew the Kanva dynasty . In the post- Maurya era, the Satavahanas established peace in the Deccan region and resisted the onslaught of foreign invaders. In particular their struggles with the Saka ( Western Satraps ) went on for a long time. The dynasty reached its zenith under the rule of Gautamiputra Satakarni and his successor Vasisthiputra Pulamavi . The kingdom had fragmented into smaller states by
7260-468: The dynasty was Hāla , who composed Gaha Sattasai in Maharashtri Prakrit. Like Hala, his four successors also ruled for very short periods (a total of 12 years), indicating troubled times for the Satavahanas. Epigraphic and numismatic evidence suggests that the Satavahanas earlier controlled the northern Deccan Plateau , the northern Konkan coastal plains, and the mountain passes connecting these two regions. During 15–40 CE, their northern neighbours –
7370-415: The dynasty's founder Simuka has been contested by several scholars including P. L. Gupta and I. K. Sarma , who identified Chimuka as a later ruler. P. V. P. Sastry also later changed his view and stated that the two kings were different. In addition to the Kotilinga find, a coin of the Satavahana prince Saktikumara, who was in the fourth generation of the founder, has been reported as a stratified find from
7480-575: The dynasty's history with absolute certainty. As a result, there are multiple theories about the Satavahana chronology. Simuka is mentioned as the first king in a list of royals in a Satavahana inscription at Naneghat . The various Puranas state that the first king of the dynasty ruled for 23 years, and mention his name variously as Sishuka, Sindhuka, Chhismaka, Shipraka, etc. These are believed to be corrupted spellings of Simuka, resulting from copying and re-copying of manuscripts. Simuka cannot be dated with certainty based on available evidence. Based on
7590-415: The earliest known Satavahana inscriptions was that found at Cave No.19 of the Pandavleni Caves in Nashik district , which was issued during the reign of Kanha (100–70 BCE). An inscription found at Naneghat was issued by Nayanika (or Naganika), the widow of Satakarni I ; another inscription found at Naneghat has been dated to the same period on a paleographic basis. A slightly later inscription dated to
7700-472: The early 3rd century CE. The Satavahanas were early issuers of Indian state coinage struck with images of their rulers. They formed a cultural bridge and played a vital role in trade and the transfer of ideas and culture to and from the Indo-Gangetic Plain to the southern tip of India . The date and place of origin of the Satavahanas, as well as the meaning of the dynasty's name, are a matter of debate among historians. Some of these debates have happened in
7810-466: The early 3rd century, the beginning of their rule can be dated to the 3rd century BCE. The Indica of Megasthenes (350 – 290 BCE) mentions a powerful tribe named "Andarae", whose king maintained an army of 100,000 infantry, 2,000 cavalry and 1,000 elephants. If Andarae is identified with the Andhras, this can be considered additional evidence of Satavahana rule starting in the 3rd century BCE. The Brahmanda Purana states that "the four Kanvas will rule
7920-485: The early Satavahanas followed the Mauryan administrative model. C. Margabandhu theorised that the Satavahanas were called Andhras because they were natives of eastern Deccan (the Andhra region), although they first established their empire in western Deccan after having served as Mauryan subordinates. Himanshu Prabha Ray (1986) opposes this theory, stating that the Andhra was originally an ethnic term, and did not come to denote
8030-514: The earth for 45 years; then (it) will again go to the Andhras". Based on this statement, the proponents of this theory argue that the Satavahana rule began immediately after the Maurya rule, followed by a Kanva interregnum , and then, a revival of the Satavahana rule. According to one version of the theory Simuka succeeded the Mauryans. A variation of the theory is that Simuka was the person who restored
8140-566: The emperor Aurangzeb conquered the Qutb Shahi sultanate of Golconda , of which Guntur was then a part. In 1724 CE, Asaf Jah , viceroy of the empire's southern provinces, declared his independence as the Nizam of Hyderabad . The coastal districts of Hyderabad, known as the Northern Circars , were occupied by the French in 1750. During this time, the Manur Rao family of Deshastha Brahmin community,
8250-475: The end of his reign to 181 CE. His coins feature images of ships, which suggest naval and marine trade success. Wide distribution of his coins, and inscriptions at Nashik, Kanheri and Guntur indicate that his rule extended over both eastern and western parts of Deccan. He recovered much of the territory lost the Western Kshatrapas, and issued silver coinage, imitating them. During the last years of his reign,
8360-478: The expression thus means "one who rides a nimble horse". Another theory connects their name to the earlier Satiyaputa dynasty. Yet another theory derives their name from the Munda words Sadam ("horse") and Harpan ("son"), implying "son of the performer of a horse sacrifice ". Several rulers of the dynasty bear the name or title "Satakarni". Satavahana, Satakarni, Satakani and Shalivahana appear to be variations of
8470-472: The following theories, the beginning of the Satavahana rule is dated variously from 271 BCE to 30 BCE. According to the Puranas, the first Andhra king overthrew the Kanva rule. He is named as Balipuccha in some texts. D. C. Sircar dated this event to c. 30 BCE, a theory supported by many other scholars. The Matsya Purana mentions that the Andhra dynasty ruled for around 450 years. As the Satavahana rule ended in
8580-423: The geographical region of eastern Deccan until well after the Satavahana period. According to Vidya Dehejia , the writers of the Puranas (which could have been written after the Satavahana period) mistook the Satavahana presence in eastern Deccan as evidence for their origin in that region, and wrongly labelled them as "Andhra". Puranas called the Satavahana kings as Andhra, Andhra-bhṛtya, or Andhra-jatiya. Andhra
8690-474: The kingdom up to Nashik in the west. His successor Satakarni I conquered western Malwa , Anupa ( Narmada valley) and Vidarbha , taking advantage of the turmoil caused by Greek invasions of northern India. He performed Vedic sacrifices including Ashvamedha and Rajasuya . Instead of the Buddhists, he patronised Brahmins and donated a substantial amount of wealth to them. The Hathigumpha inscription of
8800-627: The last king of the main line, ruled until c. 225 CE . During his reign, several Buddhist monuments were constructed at sites including Nagarjunakonda and Amaravati . Madhya Pradesh was also part of his kingdom. After the death of Pulumavi IV, the Satavahana empire fragmented into five smaller kingdoms: The Satavahana territory included northern Deccan region, spanning the present-day Andhra Pradesh , Maharashtra and Telangana states. At times, their rule also extended to present-day Gujarat , Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh . The Nashik prashasti inscription issued by Gautami Balashri,
8910-406: The legend "Rano Siri Chimuka Satavahanasa" were found. Epigraphist and numismatist P. V. P. Sastry initially identified Chimuka with the dynasty's founder Simuka, Coins attributed to Simuka's successors Kanha and Satakarni I were also discovered at Kotilingala. Based on these discoveries, historians such as Ajay Mitra Shastri, D. R. Reddy, S. Reddy, and Shankar R. Goyal theorised that Kotlingala
9020-476: The lord of Dakshinapatha , on account of the nearness of their connection did not destroy him." According to D. R. Bhandarkar and Dineshchandra Sircar , the ruler defeated by Rudradaman was Gautamiputra Satakarni. However, E. J. Rapson believed that the defeated ruler was his son Vasishthiputra Pulumavi . Shailendra Nath Sen and Charles Higham believe that the defeated ruler was Vashishtiputra's successor Shivaskanda or Shiva Sri Pulumayi (or Pulumavi). As
9130-579: The meaning and origin of the word Guntur . The word owes its origin to words like gundu (a rock), gunta (a pond) and kunta (1/3 of an acre). In Sanskrit Guntur is called Garthapuri (Guntlapuri). The earliest reference to Guntur, a variant of Guntur, comes from the Idern plates of Ammaraja I (922-929 AD) of the Chalukyas of Vengi . Guntur also appears in another two inscriptions dated 1147 AD and 1158 AD. The original Sanskrit name (ancient Vedic culture) for Guntur
9240-682: The medieval times, Srisailam region or the Sriparvata area was known as Kannadu and Kannavisaya which is the contracted form of Satakarninadu and Satakarnivisaya , which seem to be identical with the territorial indicator Satavahanihara of the Myakadoni inscription of Pulumayi or the Satavahaniratta of the Hirahadagalli grant consisting of the Ballari region indicated to be the original homeland of
9350-477: The month Chaitra in the year following his enlightenment, at the great stupa of Dhanyakataka, the Buddha emanated the mandala of "The Glorious Lunar Mansions" (Kalachakra). Buddhists established universities in ancient times at Dhanyakataka and Amaravathi . Scores of Buddhist stupas were excavated in the villages of Guntur district. Acharya Nagarjuna , an influential Buddhist philosopher taught at Nagarjunakonda and
9460-615: The most prosperous city in India in 2nd century CE. Coastal Andhra was subsequently governed by the Eastern Chalukya dynasty between the 7th and 12th centuries CE, followed by successive rule under the Chola , Kakatiya , and Vijayanagara empires . According to 11th-century inscriptions, the geographical boundaries of Coastal Andhra extended from the Mahendragiri mountains in the northeastern border near Orissa ’s Gajapati district , to
9570-439: The mother of Gautamiputra Satakarni , claims that her son ruled an extensive territory that stretched from Gujarat in the north to northern Karnataka in the south. It is not clear if Gautamiputra had effective control over these claimed territories. In any case, historical evidence suggests that his control over these territories did not last long. Moreover, this realm was not continuous: many areas in this region remained under
9680-572: The new consensus is shared by Shailendra Bhandare, Akira Shimada, and Oskar von Hinuber, who regard Gautamiputra Satakarni 's reign was ca. 60–85 CE, as it is evident from history that "Gautamiputra Saatakarni" in the year 78 CE defeated Vikramaditya of Ujjain, which in turn was celebrated and named "Yug Aadi" means Beginning of New Era (New Year for Andhra, Karnataka, Maharashtra (Gudi padwa), Telangana states). Ever since these states people followed Saatavaahana calendar. Andrew Ollett considers it as 60–84 CE. The king defeated by him appears to have been
9790-429: The non-Brahmana Shakas , and the Satavahanas could not have been Brahmanas because the same inscription also describes Gautamiputra as the one who stopped admixture of varnas ( vinivatita chatu vana sankara ). Historian V. Sundara Rama Sastry argues that the interpretation of the term "eka-bamhana" as "the only Brahmana" does not make sense as the king was obviously not the only member of his varna: instead, he interprets
9900-650: The north to Nellore district in the south. Key sites include Amaravathi , Salihundam , Ramatheertham , Thotlakonda , Bavikonda , Bojjannakonda , Kummarilova, Kodavali, and Bhattiprolu . Excavations at Gudiwada village in Vizianagaram district for instance, uncovered an ancient stupa mound, reflecting the depth of Buddhist influence across the region. Coastal Andhra is also noted for its diverse landscapes of rivers, lakes, and wetlands. The region contains 259 coastal wetlands, covering approximately 18,552 square kilometers, including 88 man-made wetlands. Kolleru Lake ,
10010-631: The population respectively. Languages of Guntur district (2011) At the time of the 2011 census, 86.14% of the population spoke Telugu and 12.32% Urdu as their first language. The Collectorate play a pivotal role in the district administration. Collector in the cadre of IAS heads the district. He acts as the District Magistrate for maintaining Law and order in his jurisdiction. He deals mainly with planning and development. Law and Order, scheduled areas/ agency areas, general elections, arms licensing etc. The Joint Collector, who also belongs to
10120-413: The purpose of imparting (10+2) education and the students sit for the certificate of Board of Intermediate Education. AC college is the oldest private aided college of the district, established in 1885. The higher education colleges have various fields of study like medical, nursing, degree, post graduate, polytechnic, law, teaching, pharmacy, engineering, veterinary etc. The Acharya Nagarjuna University
10230-503: The region have held office in Andhra Pradesh and Andhra State . They are: Visakhapatnam , Vijayawada , Guntur , Nellore , Kakinada , Rajahmundry and Eluru are prominent cities in the Coastal Andhra region. Other major urban centers include Gudivada , Tenali , Narasaraopeta , Bhimavaram , Machilipatnam , Ongole , and Tadepalligudem . Important towns in the area include Chirala , Amalapuram , Palakollu , Narasapuram , Kavali , Chilakaluripet , and Kandukur . Visakhapatnam
10340-732: The reign of Satakarni II has been found at Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh , located to the north of Maharashtra. The majority of the other Satavahana inscriptions have also been found in western Deccan. On the other hand, the epigraphic evidence from eastern Deccan does not mention the Satavahanas before the 4th century CE. At Nevasa , a seal and coins attributed to Kanha have been discovered. Coins attributed to Satakarni I have also been discovered at Nashik, Nevasa, and Pauni in Maharashtra (besides places in eastern Deccan and present-day Madhya Pradesh). Based on this evidence, some historians argue that
10450-458: The same word. Damodar Dharmanand Kosambi theorised that the word "Satakarni" is derived from the Munda words sada ("horse") and kon ("son"). The Puranas use the name "Andhra" for the Satavahanas. The term "Andhra" may refer to the ethnicity or territory of the dynasty (see Original homeland below). It does not appear in the dynasty's own records. The Tamil epic Cilappatikaram mentions
10560-440: The south by Bapatla district , on the west by Palnadu district and on the northwest by NTR district and north east Krishna district . Guntur Coast is located on the south east coast of India (also known as the Coromandel Coast ) (quotes from NASA site). Krishna river merges into Bay of Bengal at the coastal area of Guntur district. The braided stream channels, broad floodplain, and extensive sandbars suggest that this part of
10670-414: The south who was none other than his own son. Pai identifies this prince Vilivaya-kura as another form of Vilivaya Kumara (meaning the son of Vilivaya), and he goes on to prove that Vilivaya is indeed merely another rendering of Pulumayi which was transformed as per Prakrit rules, the spoken form of this language during that period, and due to common parlance. Thus, Vilivayakura means a son of Pulumayi who
10780-528: The south, and from Saurashtra in the west to Kalinga in the east. He assumed the titles Raja-Raja (King of Kings) and Maharaja (Great King), and was described as the Lord of Vindhya . During the last years of his reign, his administration was apparently handled by his mother, which could have been a result of an illness or military preoccupation. According to the Nasik inscription made by his mother Gautami Balashri, he
10890-463: The south. It includes major cities such as Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada as well as the state capital Amaravati and is recognized for its fertile lands, rich cultural heritage, and economic importance. Coastal Andhra plays a significant role in the state's agricultural output, particularly in rice and tobacco production, supported by abundant water resources from the Godavari , Krishna , and Penna rivers. While Coastal Andhra generally includes
11000-443: The term as "sole Brahmana", and argued that Satavahanas were Brahmanas. Hem Chandra Raychaudhuri interprets the term as "unique Brahmana", and notes that the inscription also describes Gautamiputra as "the destroyer of the pride and conceit of Kshatriyas", which according to him strongly suggests that Gautamiputra claimed to be a Brahmana. The critics of this theory point out that Gautamiputra's family had matrimonial relations with
11110-570: The term as an epithet indicating that the king "excelled even the Brahmans". Historian R. G. Bhandarkar interprets the term "the only protector" of the Brahmanas. Some Jain works and the Dvātriṃśat-Puttalikā represent Shalivahana (whom some modern scholars identify as a Satavahana king) as of mixed Brahmana and Naga origin. Based on this, some scholars, such as D.C. Sircar , theorize that
11220-421: The throne around 110 CE, according to Shailendra Bhandare, Akira Shimada, and Oskar von Hinuber Vasisthiputra Sri Pulamavi ruled ca. 85–125 CE, and Andrew Ollett considers it to be ca. 84–119 CE. Pulumavi features in a large number of Satavahana inscriptions and his coins have been found distributed over a wide area. This indicates that he maintained Gautamiputra's territory, and ruled a prosperous kingdom. He
11330-413: The traditional timescale Treta Yuga and Dvapara Yuga . Guntur District is home to the second oldest evidence of human habitation in India, in the form of Palaeolithic (old Stone Age) implements. Ancient history can be traced from the time of Sala kings who ruled during the 5th century BCE. The earliest reference to Guntur, a variant of Guntur , comes from the Idern plates of Ammaraja I (922–929 CE),
11440-571: The various Puranas contradict each other, and are not fully supported by epigraphic or numismatic evidence. The oldest Satavahana inscription is the one found on a slab of the upper drum (medhi) of the Kanaganahalli Great Stupa mentioning year 16 of Vasisthiputra Sri Chimuka Satavahana's reign, which can be dated from ca. 110 BCE. 𑀭𑀸𑀜𑁄 𑀲𑀺𑀭𑀺 𑀙𑀺𑀫𑀼𑀓 𑀲𑀸𑀢𑀯𑀸𑀳𑀦𑀲 𑀲𑁄𑀟𑁂 𑀯𑀙𑀭𑁂 𑁛𑁗 𑀫𑀸𑀢𑀺𑀲𑁂𑀓 Rano siri chimu(ka) sātavāhanasa soḍe vachare 10 6 mātiseka "In
11550-448: The year sixteen 16 of King Siri Chimuka Sātavāhana" On another stone slab at Kanaganahalli, the king is possibly shown together with a Nagaraja , and the inscription reads: 𑀭𑀸𑀚𑀸 𑀲𑀺𑀭𑀺 𑀙𑀺𑀫𑀼𑀓𑁄 𑀲𑀸𑀤𑀯𑀸𑀳𑀦𑁄 𑀦𑀸𑀕𑀭𑀸𑀬 𑀲𑀔𑀥𑀸𑀪𑁄 Rājā Siri Chimuko Sādavāhano nāgarāya Sakhadhābho "Lord King Simuka the Satavahana, Nagaraja Sakhadhābho" Simuka was succeeded by his brother Kanha (also known as Krishna), who extended
11660-554: Was Garthapuri. The 'Agasthyeswara Sivalayam' in the old city of Guntur is an ancient temple for Siva . It has inscriptions on two stones in 'Naga Lipi' (ancient script). It is said that Agastya built the temple in the last Treta Yuga around the Swayambhu Linga and hence the name. The 'Nagas' were said to have ruled the region. The place of Sitanagaram and the Guthikonda Caves can be traced (through Vedic Puranas ) back to
11770-470: Was newly formed in the year 2013. Guntur city is the one municipal corporation and district headquarter Mangalagiri Tadepalli Municipal Corporation is the second municipal corporation in Guntur district. Vaddeswaram is categorised as a census town. The 2 municipalities in the district are Tenali , Ponnur . Guntur Lok Sabha constituency Guntur constituency presently comprises the following legislative assembly segments: The below table categorises
11880-427: Was successively ruled by famous dynasties such as the Satavahanas , Andhra Ikshvakus , Pallavas , Ananda Gotrikas , Vishnukundina , Kota Vamsa , Chalukyas , Cholas , Kakatiyas , Musunuris , Reddys , Vijayanagara and Qutb Shahis during ancient and medieval times. The famous battle of Palnadu which is enshrined in legend and literature as Palnati Yuddham was fought in Guntur district in 1180 CE. During
11990-711: Was the one ... … who crushed down the pride and conceit of the Kshatriyas ; who destroyed the Sakas ( Western Satraps ), Yavanas ( Indo-Greeks ) and Pahlavas ( Indo-Parthians ),... who rooted out the Khakharata family (the Kshaharata family of Nahapana ); who restored the glory of the Satavahana race. Gautamiputra was succeeded by his son Vasisthiputra Sri Pulamavi (or Pulumayi). According to Sailendra Nath Sen, Pulumavi ruled from 96 to 119 CE. According to Charles Higham, he ascended
12100-442: Was the original home of the Satavahanas. Ajay Mitra Shastri stated that the finding of the coins at Kotilingala give "a clear pointer to the region where we have to locate the original center of the Satavahana political authority." However, the coin samples from Kotlingala are small, and it is not certain if these coins were minted there or reached there from somewhere else. Moreover, the identification of Chimuka of Kotilingala with
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