Monumental neglect of 1496 AD inscription in Prakasam district

Vijayawada: An inscription dated 1496 AD was found in utter neglect in front of the Chennakesava Temple at Santaravuru village of Inkollu mandal in Prakasam district, said Dr E Sivanagi Reddy, CEO, Cultural Centre of Vijayawada and Amaravati. 

Reddy visited the village on Tuesday under Preserve Heritage for Posterity, a scheme launched by the centre.

He said the inscription records installation of the idols of Goddess Laxmi and Bhudevi, the consorts of the presiding deity Chennakesava of the temple by one Ande Potayya for the merit of his parents Setti and Pinnasani. 

The 522-years-old historical inscription buried up to brim level was crying for care as it was used as litter dumping yard. 

Close to it lies another inscription of the same date issued by Timmareddy, a subordinate of Purushottama Ganapati.

Dr Reddy sensitised the villagers and appealed the Endowments and Archaeology Departments to shift these inscriptions inside the temple premises and erect on proper pedestal for safety and security.