Unveiling the Wonders of Amaravati, the New Capital of Andhra Pradesh
After a long wait, Andhra Pradesh is finally ready to welcome its new capital city, Amaravati. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the state’s new capital city, marking the beginning of a new era for this culturally rich and economically promising destination.
Historical and Heritage Significance
Amaravati, the capital of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the oldest cities in India with a history and heritage spanning more than 2000 years. It has been the capital of the powerful Satavahanas during the 2nd and 3rd centuries BCE, and later it was captured by Britishers during the colonial period. Here are some interesting facts about the city that make it truly unique.
1. History and Heritage Spanning 2000 Years
Amaravati is a city rich in history and culture. It was the capital of the Satavahanas during the 2nd and 3rd centuries BCE, indicating its significance during that period. The city has seen various rulers come and go, including the Pallavas, before finally falling under British rule during the colonial era. This makes Amaravati a city that has witnessed centuries of transformation and growth.
2. Seat of Gautam Buddha’s Kalachakra
A significant religious and historical fact about Amaravati is that it was the seat of Gautam Buddha's Kalachakra. Gautam Buddha revealed the first sermons of Kalachakra in this city, making it a place of great spiritual and religious importance. Amaravati is also associated with many Buddhist monasteries and centers, highlighting its role as a center of knowledge and spirituality.
3. India’s Biggest and Asia’s 2nd Largest Railway Station
The Vijayawada railway station, constructed in 1888, is one of the busiest stations in India, handling more than 50 million passengers annually. It has ten platforms and five entrance gates with booking counters. This makes it a bustling hub of transportation within the region, connecting many cities and towns in Andhra Pradesh and beyond.
4. Home of the Fabled Kohinoor Diamond
Another fascinating fact about Amaravati is that it was the site where the famous Kohinoor diamond, also known as the Koh-i-Noor diamond, was first discovered. The diamond was found at the Kollur mines located on the banks of the Krishna River, which is now under Amaravati's jurisdiction. This discovery adds an element of opulence and wealth to the city's history and lore.
5. Asia’s Largest Chilli Market
Amaravati is also home to one of the largest chilli markets in Asia. This vast market not only highlights the city's agricultural significance but also draws a large number of traders, tourists, and locals alike. The scale of operations is impressive, and witnessing the bustling market is an experience in itself.
6. City of the Future by McKinsey
In a nod to the city’s potential, McKinsey, a global management consulting firm, has recognized Amaravati as the “Global City of the Future” in the Quarterly. The city is expected to have a GDP of up to $17 billion by 2025, with the Vijayawada-Amaravati and Guntur region together shaping up to be a new metro city of South India. This recognition underscores the city's potential for economic growth and development.
7. The Origin of the City’s Name
The name Amaravati comes from the famous Amarlingeshwara Temple located in the city. This temple is a heritage site under the HRIDAY scheme of the Government of India, making it a culturally significant landmark. The temple is named after the Hindu deity Shiva, and its presence adds to the city's spiritual and historical ambiance.
With all these fascinating aspects, it is clear why Amaravati is poised to become a significant city in India. From its rich history and heritage to its modern aspirations and economic potential, Amaravati stands out as a city that has much to offer both to its residents and visitors.