Delhi: Koh-i-Noor, or the “Mountain of Light”, is the largest cut diamond in the world that now reigns among the British Crown Jewels. There are many legends and lore that swirl in association with this one in a million gem. Of the many stories there, one is rooted in the state of Telangana. It is believed that King Pulaksheshin II of the Chalukya dynasty built a magnificent Bhadrakali temple around AD 625 at Warangal.Read also – Telangana: left without money for the last rites, the man keeps the body of his grandfather in the refrigerator
After the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Koh-i-noor began to make headlines again. Also Read – 5 people celebrating Telugu actor Pawan Kalyan die in road accident in Warangal of Telangana
KOH-I-NOOR AND ITS WARANGAL CONNECTION
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According to legends, the Kakatiya dynasty ruled the Warangal region. They considered the goddess Bhadrakali, as their Kul devatha and the diamond were mounted on the deity’s left eye. If these traditions are to pass, the diamond appeared after being mined from the mines of Kollur when Kakatiya ruled.
Around 1310 AD, Sultan of Delhi Alauddin Khalji acquired the diamond with the help of his general Malik Kafur. According to sources, it was also one of the stones of the Mughal Peacock Throne. It passed through several hands and dynasties until the British took control of the Punjab in 1849, captured the Kohinoor Diamond and presented it to Queen Victoria.
BHADRAKALI TEMPLE
The Southern Golden Temple (Image: Instagram – telugu_factsworld)
Also revered as the Golden Temple of the South, the Bhadrakali Temple is one of the oldest shrines dedicated to the goddess. According to the writings engraved on the walls of the temple. King Pulakeshin II had established the shrine to celebrate his victory over the Vengi region. The temple sits on the shore of Lake Bhadrakali, surrounded by echoing greenery. The picturesque lake sits amid the charming hills. Many looting activities had reduced the temple to ruins until Sri Ganesh Rao Sastri renovated it in the 1950s with some wealthy natives.
Goddess Bhadrakali or Bhadrakali Ammavaru is considered the embodiment of strength for women. The ancient Chalukya architecture of the temple with the natural splendor as a backdrop will take your breath away. The entrance to the temple also has touches of Kakatiya architecture. Bhadrakali Temple is a very tranquil place where historic charm meets the calm of nature. The golden-hued temple wears a celestial glow during sunrises and sunsets. The unique stone sculpture of Goddess Bhadrakali at the temple has mighty eyes and eight arms with different weapons.
