My career at Pleach India Foundation, an NGO dedicated to preserving and promoting Indian heritage has unexpectedly transformed my perception of historical sites. A staff heritage tour to Bhuvanagiri Fort and Kolanupaka Someswaraswamy Temple proved to be a profound experience.

The sheer scale and ancient ingenuity of Bhuvanagiri Fort, a 10th-century Western Chalukya stronghold, left me awestruck. Climbing to its summit, I marveled at the architectural brilliance— the massive boulders, the intricate fortifications, and an ingenious water storage system that had survived the test of time. I found the fortitude of its builders inspiring, feeling a deep connection to our ancestors’ craftsmanship. 

Subsequently, the serene Kolanupaka Someswaraswamy Temple, an ancient Shiva temple with a remarkable sculpture museum, further deepened my appreciation. The intricate artistry of each piece spoke volumes about the skill and devotion of past artisans. It was as if the hands of the past had left behind whispers of their dedication to their craft.