Source: ITV
Subject: Art and Culture/Miscellaneous
Context: President of India has given her assent to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, officially declaring Amaravati as the sole and permanent capital of the state.
About Amaravati:
What It Is?
- Amaravati is a planned city situated on the banks of the Krishna River. It serves as the administrative, legislative, and judicial capital of Andhra Pradesh. The city is designed as a People’s Capital, blending modern urban planning with deep-rooted historical and spiritual heritage.
Location:
- District: Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh.
- Geographic Feature: Located on the southern bank of the Krishna River, positioned between the major urban hubs of Vijayawada and Guntur.
Origin of the Modern City:
- Post-Bifurcation: Following the creation of Telangana in 2014, Andhra Pradesh required a new capital.
- Foundation: The foundation stone for the modern city was laid on October 22, 2015, at Uddandarayunipalem.
- Naming: It was named after the ancient capital of the Satavahana dynasty, symbolizing a rebirth of Telugu pride.
Historical Importance:
Amaravati holds a prestigious place in Indian history, spanning over 2,000 years:
- Satavahana Dynasty: It served as the capital of the Satavahanas (2nd Century BCE to 3rd Century CE), who were among the first great rulers of Central and Southern India.
- Buddhist Learning Center: The city was a world-renowned centre for Buddhism. The Amaravati Stupa (Mahachaitya) was one of the largest in India, famously adorned with intricate limestone carvings known as the Amaravati School of Art.
- Ancient Global Trade: Historical records and Roman coins found in the region indicate that Amaravati was a major hub for trade with the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia.
- Religious Pluralism: It is known as Aramavati (City of Gardens) and is home to the Amareswara Temple, one of the five sacred Pancharama Kshetrams dedicated to Lord Shiva, making it a City of Five Religions including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
- Xuanzang’s Visit: The famous Chinese traveller Xuanzang visited the region in 639 CE, writing extensively about the magnificent monasteries and the vibrant Buddhist culture of the area.
Significance:
- The 2026 Act provides legal finality to the capital issue, ensuring that all three branches of government—Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary—function from a single point.
- As a Greenfield capital, it is intended to become a hub for IT, pharmaceuticals, and blue-economy industries due to its proximity to the Krishna River.
- The restoration of Amaravati as the capital is seen as a revival of the historical glory of the Telugu people.
