Why Telangana Should Embrace Its Own Architectural Heritage Instead of Copying Others

Recently, a tweet by @RavenStark17 landed on my timeline and crystallised a concern I've long carried. The post noted that Telangana's historic Bhadrakali Temple is being "developed" with design cues taken straight from Tamil Nadu's Meenakshi Temple, while also highlighting how the Yadagiri Temple drew inspiration from Srirangam and future Vemulawada plans involve inputs from Kanchi. The result, the tweet warned, is that "Telangana architecture is getting replaced by Tamil architecture." (Source: Raven Stark on X)

Bhadrakali Temple
Source: Sid-Thewanderer

A quick look at local coverage confirms those fears: state officials have indeed commissioned sculptors and architects connected to the Meenakshi shrine for the Bhadrakali makeover, complete with grand Raja Gopurams and circumambulatory paths modelled on Madurai's template. What makes this particularly troubling is that the Bhadrakali Temple already possesses "exceptional features" including a distinctive 2.7 x 2.7 meter stone image of Goddess Bhadrakali with fierce looking eyes and eight arms that reflect centuries of local artistic tradition. (Source: Wikipedia - Bhadrakali Temple, Warangal) By imposing Tamil architectural elements, we're essentially erasing these indigenous characteristics that have defined the temple's identity for generations.

The irony runs deeper when we consider that Kakatiya architecture was a notable Vesara Architecture Style that developed during the rule of the Kakatiya dynasty (1163–1323 CE) in present-day Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. (Source: Wikipedia - Kakatiya Architecture) This sophisticated synthesis produced UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Ramappa Temple, which features "distinctive and pyramidal Vimana made of lightweight porous bricks, also known as 'floating bricks'" that remain unmatched in their technical brilliance. (Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre - Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple)

If our own government won't prioritise Telangana's stylistic identity, who will? Reducing every southern temple to a single pan-Dravidian formula erodes centuries of regional ingenuity. More than aesthetics are at stake here—cultural memory, local pride and historical continuity all ride on the way we build (or rebuild) sacred spaces.

Are we really saying Telangana has no masterpieces worth emulating? Are our nakashis (sculptors) and vastu purohits somehow less capable than their counterparts elsewhere? Calling borrowed splendour "development" sidelines a vibrant legacy that belongs to us alone.

In the sections that follow, I'll unpack why Telangana must look inward—toward its own artistic wellspring—rather than outward for architectural inspiration.

---

Our Own Architectural Heritage Is a Treasure We Must Protect and Celebrate

Whenever I think of the Kakatiya dynasty (12th–14th centuries), pride wells up. Their monuments—most famously the Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda and the Ramappa Temple near Warangal—display technical daring, intricate stonework and a flair unmistakably rooted in local soil. Scholars describe Ramappa’s light-weight “floating” bricks and bracket-figures as innovations far ahead of their time. whc.unesco.orgen.wikipedia.org

Ramappa Temple
Source: UNESCO

UNESCO validated that uniqueness by inscribing Ramappa on the World Heritage List in 2021, praising its elaborate carvings and engineering ingenuity. whc.unesco.org

What strikes me most is how these temples speak the language of Telangana itself. Every frieze, cornice and pillar echoes our myths, our climate, our stone. They aren’t mere landmarks; they’re storytellers in granite, preserving the worldview of generations.

Against this backdrop, the decision to recast Bhadrakali in a Tamil mould feels baffling. Heritage reporters and conservation architects argue that lifting stylistic DNA from another region dilutes the very symbolism that makes Telangana temples distinctive—and ultimately weakens cultural continuity. newindianexpress.com

If we genuinely value our identity, weaving home-grown motifs into present-day projects isn’t optional—it’s essential. By championing indigenous styles, we honour our ancestors’ genius and hand future generations an architectural narrative that is unmistakably, unapologetically Telangana.

The Telangana Secretariat: A Missed Opportunity to Showcase Our Identity

The newly inaugurated Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat in Hyderabad has sparked significant discussions among citizens, architects, and historians. While the government asserts that the design draws inspiration from local temples like the Neelakanteshwara Temple and the Thousand Pillar Temple, many observers feel that the final structure leans more towards Mughal or Indo-Saracenic influences, lacking a distinct Telangana identity (Telangana Today).

Secretariat of Telangana
Source: Telangana Today

Architects Oscar and Ponni Concessao, responsible for the design, have stated that the building's architecture is a fusion of various cultural elements, aiming to reflect the dynamic history of Telangana. They mention influences from the Neelakanteshwara Temple in Nizamabad and the Wanaparthy Palace. However, critics argue that the overall aesthetic does not adequately represent the unique architectural heritage of the region (Telangana Today).

This is particularly disheartening because the Secretariat could have served as a monumental tribute to Telangana’s rich heritage, much like how Kerala's Niyamasabha Mandiram (State Assembly) celebrates local architectural idioms. The Niyamasabha Mandiram incorporates traditional Kerala architectural elements, such as the Koothambalam-style dome, reflecting the state's cultural heritage (Wikipedia).

When public buildings don't reflect local heritage, it sends a subtle message about what is valued and what is overlooked. Architecture plays a crucial role in shaping collective identity and pride. Urban studies experts argue that integrating heritage into urban development fosters a sense of belonging and cultural continuity among citizens (Taylor & Francis Online).

The question arises: Is this inclination towards external architectural styles due to a lack of local expertise or political choices? Regardless of the reason, it risks disconnecting citizens from their own history and cultural roots.

Moving forward, it's imperative that future projects prioritize Telangana’s distinct Kakatiya style, integrating traditional crafts and motifs to create buildings that resonate with the state's unique identity. Embracing our architectural heritage is not just about preserving the past; it's about building a future that honors and reflects our cultural legacy.

The Public’s Disappointment: It’s More Than Just Aesthetic Differences

Recent plans to renovate the historic Bhadrakali temple in Warangal have sparked discussions among locals. The proposed ₹54 crore makeover aims to remodel the temple inspired by Madurai's Meenakshi Temple, including the construction of four towering gopurams and expansive 'Madaveedhulu' (processional streets) (The New Indian Express).

While the intention is to enhance the temple's grandeur, many residents express concern over the potential dilution of Telangana's unique architectural identity (OneIndia Telugu).

Similarly, the Telangana government has sanctioned ₹127.65 crore for the development of the Sri Raja Rajeshwara Swamy temple in Vemulawada. The funds are allocated for expanding the temple complex and improving infrastructure, aiming to accommodate more pilgrims and enhance their experience (The New Indian Express).

Vemulawada Temple
Source: telangana.gov.in

However, some locals feel that these developments might overshadow the temple's traditional design elements intrinsic to Telangana's heritage (Deccan Chronicle).

Experts in cultural heritage management emphasize the importance of preserving regional architectural styles. They argue that while modernization is essential, it should not come at the cost of erasing local identities.

From my perspective, while development and modernization are necessary, they should be balanced with efforts to preserve and celebrate the unique cultural and architectural heritage of Telangana. Engaging local communities in the planning and execution of such projects can ensure that modernization efforts are inclusive and respectful of traditional values.

This Is Not Just Telangana's Problem: A Wider Issue Across India

Telangana's experience mirrors a nationwide challenge. From the north to the south, local architectural styles are increasingly being overshadowed by homogenized designs that often lean on pan-Indian or North Indian temple styles.

In Goa, for example, there have been reports of temples remodeled to resemble North Indian Nagara-style temples, diluting the unique Konkani style. By one estimate, around half of Goa's village temples have undergone a transformation, with traditional domed structures being replaced by North Indian shikhara styles (Scroll.in). This issue is highlighted by heritage conservationists warning about the loss of regional diversity in temple architecture across India, with experts noting that India's temple architecture represents a rich tapestry of regional traditions that evolved over millennia (Drishti IAS).

Shree Shantadurga Temple
Source: Scroll.in

The Indian government's push for cultural integration sometimes unintentionally promotes a one-size-fits-all approach to temple design, but experts argue that celebrating diversity is essential for India's cultural richness. Conservation architects emphasize that "You have to have a pride in your heritage... The moment you feel this monument style is inferior and this style is superior, then you are going to make a value judgement" (ArchDaily).

From my viewpoint, we need a national policy that supports and funds regional architectural traditions in temple construction and renovation.

Why Preserving Our Architectural Identity Matters Deeply

Architecture is not merely construction — it is a repository of memory, spirituality, and community identity. When local governments sideline traditional styles in favor of more popular or 'safe' designs, they risk undermining centuries of heritage.

The Archaeological Survey of India's efforts to preserve and restore monuments like the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam and the Kanaka Durga Temple in Vijayawada have shown how sensitive restoration can safeguard identity. However, recent parliamentary reports have noted that "indigenous systems and traditional practices are not being emphasised as much as they deserve" in many restoration projects (Deccan Herald). These restorations should use traditional materials and craftsmanship, ensuring the temples retain their original character, as ASI maintains over 3,679 centrally protected monuments across the country (ASI).

Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Source: Srisaila Devasthanam

This model of respect should extend to new construction too. Imagine if the Telangana government mandated that all new public buildings and temples incorporate Kakatiya-style motifs and construction techniques. This could spur local craftsmanship, boost tourism, and deepen citizens' connection to their roots.

Preserving architectural identity is also about sustainability — traditional construction often uses local materials and climate-adapted designs that modern styles overlook. Climate-responsive architecture necessitates a return to local architectural traditions and materials, which have often evolved in response to local environmental conditions, reducing the carbon footprint through decreased need for transporting construction materials (Illustrarch). By incorporating indigenous materials and traditional construction techniques alongside modern technology, designs built with contextual knowledge ensure both sustainability and comfort (RIBA).

For me, respecting our heritage in architecture is a way to honor the past and build a stronger, culturally grounded future.

My Hope for a More Authentic Telangana Architecture

The tweet by @RavenStark17 wasn't just criticism — it was a call to reclaim our voice in how Telangana looks and feels. It reflects a desire shared by many to see our architecture celebrate who we truly are.

I sincerely hope policymakers, architects, and citizens unite to ensure Telangana's future constructions reflect our heritage rather than mimic others. The new Telangana Secretariat building demonstrates that this is possible - its design harmoniously blends traditional Telangana architectural style with contemporary design principles, showing how heritage can merge with modern functionality (News Meter). Architecture is a powerful storyteller, and I want Telangana's story told authentically — through the stones and carvings that have defined us for centuries.

Research shows that regional architecture plays a crucial role in building authentic pride and strengthening residents' connection to their cultural identity (MDPI). Architecture serves as a silent storyteller, narrating the values, beliefs, and aspirations of the societies that create it, and has the power to express and reinforce cultural identity through its connection to local traditions (RTF).

Because in the end, architecture is not just buildings — it's identity, pride, and belonging.