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Bhagavan Mahavir Government Museum located
in Cuddapah is of historical and
archaeological significance. It was established in 1982 with the donations
of given by Jain businessmen and hence was named after their deity
'Mahavir'.
It is houses ancient stone sculptures, idols made of granite, dolomite,
limestone, sandstone, bronze icons and inscriptions dating back to several
centuries. These antiques were discovered during excavations carried out
at various places in Cuddapah,
Hyderabad and
Kurnool districts. These
sculptures, which date back to the period from the 5th to 18th century,
have been unearthed from Nandalur, Mantapampally, Gundluru, Attirala,
Thimmayapalem, Kolathur, Poli and other villages.
The Exhibits
There are some unusual forms of deities, a statue of Lord Ganapathi with
his feet resembling that of an elephant and a statue of Hanuman dating
back to Vijayanagar period with long hair tied up in a braid. The idols of
Dakshapathi belonging to the Chalukya period with a goat's head and Lord
Shiva dating back to 9th and 10th century with Ganga not over the head but
on one side of it are unique. The image of Vishnu is shown holding a
'sankhu' (conch) in the right hand and a club in the left but usually
Vishnu forms have a 'chakram' in the right hand and a conch in the left.
Some other exhibits include coins dating back to the Satavahana period,
Ikshawakus, Bahmanis, Vishnukundins, Mughals and Qutub Shahi's and also
have miniature paintings including swords and knives of the Mughal age.
Other antique pieces at the museum include 'Veerashila' idols showing
tribal warlords. Ancient stone tools and weapons of varying sizes and
shapes also adorn the hall.
Timings: 10.30am To 5pm
Closed: Fridays And Public Holidays
Entry: Free
Photography: Not allowed
Rail: This museum is located on the
busy road of the railway station in Cuddapah.
Taxis auto rickshawas and city buses are available.
Raod: Cuddapah is well connected by road with all the major places
in the state.
Accommodation is available in the hotels at
Cuddapah.