Walking past the dusty streets of a small village called Bhattiprolu in the Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh, India, one does not anticipate a revelation of rich history, magnificent heritage, or captivating archaeological sites. This village gives the feeling of a storybook village that seems to tell stories when people ponder its existence. It is home to a rich history that calls for lovers of history, religion, and even linguistics to look into it. So, try to picture yourself in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, India, encompassed by lush green fields. It is not just another spot for architectural marvel; it is an opportunity to get a taste of what Andhra Pradesh has been like for centuries.
A Beacon Of Buddhism: The Bhattiprolu Stupa
The pride of Bhattiprolu are the monumental structures of the Buddhist stupa belonging to the 3rd century BCE. The construction of this vast cavern-like-shaped monument, which is a highly revered Buddhist shrine, dates back to around the 2nd century BCE, making it one of the oldest stupas found in the entire region of South India. In early archaeological digs in the 19th century, an array of relics were found, and those thought to be linked to the Buddha himself were some of them.
The stupa’s architectural design suggests a Mauryan influence, with the predominance of bricks and ornaments. When moving clockwise around the stupa, which is called pradakshina, you can appreciate the atmosphere of the place. What is more, it is worth thinking about all the history behind this monument.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee for visiting the Bhattiprolu Stupa. However, donations for the monument’s upkeep are gratefully accepted.
Location: The Bhattiprolu Stupa is situated within the village of Bhattiprolu, Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh.
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Cracking The Code: The Bhattiprolu Script
Image Credit: Adityamadhav83 for Wikimedia Commons
Thus, the Bhattiprolu script, which is one of the major contributions in the knowledge field by Bhattiprolu, holds an essential part in our learning process. These were written inscriptions carved on the outer surface of a relic casket, which were unearthed from the excavated stupas; these inscriptions were instrumental in analysing the development of the Telugu and Kannada script and language. The Bhattiprolu script is the earliest derivation of Brahmi script, and the well-known script regarding Telugu evolved out of this script.
For linguists and historians, these inscriptions were a treasure trove as they helped them understand the early traces of the Dravidian languages in the South India region. It is quite interesting to note that the script presented here is an innovative development in which existing characters have been modified to denote the exclusive phonemes characteristic of the Dravidian languages only. By analysing the Bhattiprolu script, we can track the development of these languages from prehistoric times to contemporary languages spoken by hundreds of millions of people worldwide.
Exploring Beyond Bhattiprolu: Unveiling Nearby Gems
While Bhattiprolu itself holds immense significance, venturing further unlocks a treasure chest of cultural experiences: While Bhattiprolu itself holds immense significance, venturing further unlocks a treasure chest of cultural experiences:
1. Amaravati (35 km)
Image Credit: iMahesh for Wikipedia Commons
Marvel at the architectural framework of the Amaravati Mahavihara, a flourishing Buddhist centre established in the 3rd century BC. Experience awe at the remains of stupas, monasteries, and sculptures, testimony to a once-great civilization.
Entry Fee: ₹30 for Adults, ₹15 for Children
Location: Guntur district at the heart of Andhra Pradesh
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2. Undavalli Caves (22 km)
Image Credit: Ramireddy.y for Wikipedia Commons
Let me guide you through the exploration of the Undavalli Caves, which are architectural marvels created by cutting the actual rocks, with a lot of historical importance and beautiful Buddhist carvings. This pity has been discovered to have existed since as early as the 3rd century BCE and has been initially associated with Buddhist civilization in the region.
Entry Fee: ₹15 for Adults, ₹10 for Children
Location: FHWJ+VV4, Penumaka – Vijayawada Road Near Prakasam, Barrage, Undavalli, Andhra Pradesh 522501
3. Guntur Fort (8 km)
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Experience some historical appreciation by visiting the Guntur Fort, which was erected during the Qutb Shahi kingdom in the 17th century. Visit the walls and barriers that enclose the fort, gates leading to the palace, and other structures that tell the story of the place.
Entry Fee: ₹5 for Adults, Free for Children
Location: Edlapadu Mandal, Kondaveedu, Andhra Pradesh 522549
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Best Time To Visit
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The best season to visit this wonderful place is from the end of October to the start of March. The summer season, which prevails from April to June, may witness high temperatures, and the monsoon, which extends from July to September, may include occasional rainfall.
How To Reach
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Bhattiprolu is well connected with Guntur, a key city in Andhra Pradesh state, for those planning to visit the place. Bhattiprolu village is 92 km from Guntur. You can hire a taxi, auto, or bus from Guntur to reach Bhattiprolu village.
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Despite its appearance as a simple village, Bhattiprolu is the perfect destination for a confluence of history, culture and even archaeological sites. People visiting this place are in for a surprise since they can learn so much history within the village and even see it in the old forms. Plan your trip to Andhra Pradesh today and know more about the destination!
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Cover Image Credit: Adityamadhav83 for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Bhattiprolu
What is Bhattiprolu famous for?
The place is of archaeological importance as it has an ancient Buddhist stupa and the Bhattiprolu script, which helped decode the development of the Telugu and Kannada languages.
Where is Bhattiprolu located?
Bhattiprolu is a village in the Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh, India. One can plan their visit to this village and add it to their bucket list.
Is there an entry fee for visiting Bhattiprolu?
No, entry to Bhattiprolu is free, meaning you can explore the place without any restrictions. However, it may be free of charge for various other destinations, including the Amaravati Mahavihara and the Undavalli Caves.
What is the best time to visit Bhattiprolu?
The best time to visit is during the autumn and winter seasons, from October to March, respectively. It gets very hot in summer and monsoons may sometimes accompany rains but not very frequently.
How to reach Bhattiprolu?
The village of Bhattiprolu is located near Guntur, and therefore, it is easy to get there by car, by auto rickshaw, or even by bus.
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