Kadapa

Andra Pradesh > Kadapa

Building Under Government of Kadapa Town

Kadapa, formerly spelt as Cuddapah, is a city of historical significance in Andhra Pradesh. It has derived its name from Telugu word 'Gadapa', which means 'threshold'. Since the city acts like a gateway from the north to the blessed hill of Shri Venkateshwara, it was named as Kadapa. Cuddapah forms a major part of the state's tourism. Bordered on three sides by the Nallamala and Palakonda hills, the lovely city is located about 8 km to the south of Penna River.

The chronological events affirm that Kadapa had been ruled by the Cholas and the Kakatiyas from the 11th to 14th century. Later, it was swayed by the kings of Vijayanagar Empire and subsequently, by the Muslims of Golkonda. In 1800, the British had power over Cuddapah. Though it is an ancient town, it was essentially extended by the Nawabs. The city still houses the ruins and remnants of the erstwhile royalty.

Travel to Kadapa and see for yourself, the grounds that justify the existence of sovereigns. The ancient city has many primordial temples and mosques to boast of. Exotic variety of flora and fauna revitalizes the lackluster monuments. Cuddapah also has the distinction of embracing Maghdoom-e-Ilahi, which is one amongst the biggest shrines in the Rayalaseema region. To put succinctly, Kadapa is one of the place to explore the relics of the times of yore.

History of Kadapa

Kadapa city was a part of the Renati Chola Empire empire from the 11th to 14th century. It became part of Vijayanagar empire in the latter part of 14th century. The region was under the control of Gandikota Nayaks, governors of Vijayanagar for two centuries. The most illustrious ruler was Pemmasani Thimma Nayudu (1422 CE) (Pemmasani Nayaks) who developed the region and constructed many tanks and temples. Muslims of Golkonda conquered the region in 1565 CE when Mir Jumla raided Gandikota fort and defeated Chinna Thimma Nayudu by treachery. Later the British took control of Kadapa in 1800 CE. Although the town is an ancient one, it was probably extended by Neknam Khan, the Qutb Shahi commander, who called the extension "Neknamabad". The name "Neknamabad" was used for the town for some time but slowly fell into disuse and the records of the 18th century refer to the rulers not as Nawabs of Nekanamabad but nawabs of Kadapa. Except for some years in the beginning, Kadapa was the seat of the Mayana Nawabs in the 18th century. With the British occupation of the tract in 1800 CE it became the headquarters of one of the four subordinate collectors under the principal collector by name Major Munro. Relics of the rule of the Kadapa Nawabs are found in the town. Most prominent among these are two towers and the dargahs. The city has plenty of temples in and around the city and also has three churches.

Rainfall and Climate of Kadapa

Kadapa district receives rainfall from both the monsoon periods. The normal rainfall is 696mm against the state average of 925mm. Out of the total rain fall , 77 percent is received during July-November period. Generally Rly.Kodur Taluk receives the highest rainfall and pulivendula the lowest. The monsoon is generally erratic such as late start, long gaps in between causing extensive damage to crops, most of which are grown on rainfall in the district. Kadapa district generally experiences hot climate. At times, it reaches to 45 degrees Centigrade during summer.

Industries and Minerals

Kadapa district is the repository of mineral wealth. The important minerals that are available in the district are barytes, asbestos and lime stone.Besides its historical importance, the district has occupied an important place in the industrial map of Andhra Pradesh with its highly valued rich mineral resources.

Kadapa district is the repository of mineral wealth. The important minerals that are available in the district are barytes, asbestos and lime stone. As per the 1983 survey of geological survey of India 30lakh tons of lead, 74,000,000 tons of barytes, 27000tons asbestos deposits are there. It is estimated that 700lakh tons of barytes deposits might be there in Mangampet. There are clay deposits in Rajampet. This is used to make stone implements. Limestone is available in Yerraguntla, M/s. Coramandal Fertilizers established a cement factory with an annual yield of 10lakh tons. Bharat cement corporation increases its capacity to 10lakh tons. National mineral development corporation is extracting asbestos in Brahman palli and barieties in Mangampet. Kadapa is also famous for its stone called as "Kadapa stone" used in building construction and for slabs especially in the south India.

Fauna And Flora

Kadapa district is blessed with a series of beautiful valleys through which holy rivers like Pinakini (Pennar), Papaghni, Chitravathi, Mandavya, Cheyyeru cut across the district giving the land a sanctity of their own.

The river Penna is the most important river flowing right through the District whose legend is incorporated in a sasanam (inscription) at Gandikota.