Hyderabad: A cool breeze gently brushes past as you run, jog, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Tank Bund—whether in the tranquil early morning or the calm of late evening. Dominating the serene waters of Hussain Sagar Lake is the majestic statue of Buddha, welcoming every visitor to the enchanting land of Telangana.
Situated in the south-central part of the Indian subcontinent on the elevated Deccan Plateau, Telangana is India’s eleventh largest state by area and the twelfth most populous, according to the 2011 census. Born as a separate state on 2 June 2014, Telangana was carved out from the northwestern part of the erstwhile United Andhra Pradesh, with the vibrant city of Hyderabad as its capital.
Under the leadership of Shri A Revanth Reddy of the Indian National Congress, who took office as Chief Minister in 2023, Telangana continues to flourish after the transformative governance of Shri K Chandrashekar Rao of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi, who served two terms from 2014 to 2023.
Telugu, one of India’s classical languages, serves as the primary official language of the state, with Urdu recognised as the second official language. The state’s rich cultural fabric is further woven by tribal languages like Gondi, Kolami, Koya, and Lambadi, spoken across various regions.
Telangana boasts the eighth largest economy in India, with a gross state domestic product (GSDP) of ₹18 trillion and a per capita GSDP of ₹390,564 for the financial year 2024–25—an impressive indicator of its dynamic growth.
History lovers will find Telangana fascinating. The Kakatiya dynasty, a notable South Indian dynasty, had Orugallu (modern-day Warangal) as its capital. Among the dynasty’s legendary rulers was Rani Rudrama Devi (1259–1289 AD), who, alongside Rani Chennama and Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi, earned a revered place in Indian history as brave and able women rulers.
Over centuries, Telangana has been under the rule of powerful dynasties and empires including the Cholas, Mauryas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Delhi Sultanate, Bahamani Sultanate, Golconda Sultanate, and the Mughals. In the 18th century, it was ruled by the Nizam of Hyderabad, a princely state that became part of the Indian Union in 1948 after integration efforts post-independence.
The region’s geography is equally captivating, featuring hills, mountain ranges, and dense forests spread over 27,292 square kilometers. Telangana’s location is bordered by Maharashtra to the north, Chhattisgarh and Karnataka to the west, and Andhra Pradesh to the east and south.
Telangana exemplifies unity in diversity, where people from varied faiths, castes, and cultures coexist harmoniously. Today, this vibrant state is an emerging IT hub, a thriving services sector center, and a sought-after tourist destination.
For those fascinated by defense and research, Telangana is home to several key Indian defense and aerospace laboratories, including Bharat Dynamics Limited and the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory.
Architectural marvels abound here, with ancient sites such as the 7th-century Navabrahma Temple at Alampur, the imposing Warangal Fort, Ramappa Temple, Kotta Gullu, and the Thousand Pillar Temple offering breathtaking glimpses into the past. The state also showcases exquisite Indo-Islamic architecture with the iconic Golconda Fort, the towering Charminar, and the Qutub Shahi tombs and mosques.
Telangana’s handicrafts are a testimony to the artistic skills and cultural richness of its people. From delicate needlework to intricate bronze castings and stone crafts, these traditional handicrafts add beauty and history to any home and serve as cherished souvenirs.
No visit to Telangana is complete without savoring its legendary cuisine. The world-famous Hyderabad Dum Biryani, especially from renowned eateries like Paradise, continues to captivate tourists and locals alike with its rich aroma and flavor.
Though Telangana is India’s newest state, it is deeply rooted in history, culture, and tradition—making it a unique destination that blends the charm of the past with the promise of the future.
By Ravi Valluri
(Shri Ravi Valluri, a former 1987-batch Indian Railway Traffic Service officer, has held top operational and commercial roles across Indian Railways and served as CEO of major railway projects. A recipient of the Chief of Army Staff Commendation, he is also a prolific author of over 10 books spanning fiction, non-fiction, and inspirational writing. An Art of Living faculty member for over a decade, he teaches yoga, meditation, and Sudarshan Kriya, helping people overcome stress and addiction. Passionate about theatre and literature, he continues to inspire through his writings, lectures, and social initiatives.)