CEO Diary

Dr. E. Sivanagi Reddy-Sthapathi
Chief Executive Officer

The Hidden: Chatra of Siddantam

During a Preserve Heritage for Posterity (PHP) awareness program in Krishna district, I heard an intriguing tale at a local tea stall near Gudivada. A retired teacher in Siddantam village was said to have a peculiar circular limestone slab resembling an umbrella. Intrigued, I set out to meet him.

The teacher warmly welcomed our team and unveiled the slab. To our amazement, it was a chatra (canopy) of a Buddhist stupa, adorned with a 2nd Century CE Brahmi inscription! This artifact, steeped in history, spoke of the area’s rich Buddhist heritage.

After explaining its significance and role in early Buddhist architecture, the teacher graciously entrusted it to us. The chatra now rests in the Site Museum at Ghantasala, preserved under the care of the ASI, continuing its silent narrative of a bygone era.

Buddhist Pillar From the Foundations of Gopura at Tripurantakam
The Remarkable Journey of a 1,500-Year-Old Pillar
Krishnadevaraya’s Hidden Inscription
The Miraculous Menhir of Padurivarigudem
The Hidden Chatra of Siddantam
 Saptamatrikas Unearthed and an Inscription Awaits Protection
Ant Hills to Ancient Glory
The Hidden Temple of Kalva
CEO DAIRY
Share this Story