Hasmathpet cairns is a historic cairn circle or megalithic burial site located about 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) from Secunderabad.[1] The site is among 12 other such sites that are state protected.[2] The cairns discovered at Hasmathpet dates back to 2nd century BC. These cairns are made up of large stones arranged in specific patterns and used as burial chambers. The cairns served as sacred spaces for burial rituals and symbolised the beliefs and reverence for the deceased[3] There are also megalithic burial sites at Moulali, Kothaguda, Hyderabad Central University campus near Lingampalli. Later in 2008 a new site was also discovered at Kethepalli near Ramoji Film City.[4]
As of today the site spread occupying an area of approximately 30 acres which was handed over to Department of Archaeology and Museums in 1953 is reportedly being encroached by various builders aided with official apathy.[5]Various construction activities have been allowed and the place is being used to dump debris and construction material.[6]
History
editThe site was reportedly first discovered by Dr. Walker in 19th century and dates back to second century B.C. Another excavation was done in excavation was taken up in 1934-35 during the reign of Nizam, under the supervision of D. G. Mackenzie. Next round of excavations took place in 1971 with Birla Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute. The last round of excavations was done in 2001.
Hasmathpet village is located near Secunderabad in Ranga Reddy District. These burials were first discovered and protected by the Department of Archaeology, Nizam Government.[7]
References
edit- ^ "The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh / Hyderabad News : When culture comes to naught". www.hindu.com. Archived from the original on 11 June 2009. Retrieved 17 January 2022.
- ^ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 28 May 2018. Retrieved 21 July 2013.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) - ^ "Megalithic Age Secrets Unveiled in India". The Geopolitical Observer. 28 January 2024. Retrieved 25 July 2024.
- ^ "When culture comes to naught". The Hindu. 24 May 2009.
- ^ "Encroachments at megalithic burial site to be cleared". The Hindu. 2 February 2010.
- ^ "Burial site in danger due to encroachment near Bon Cheruvu lake". Deccan Chronicle. 6 July 2015. Retrieved 12 November 2024.
- ^ "Hasmathpet cairns".
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