New Delhi

The Ramalingeswara Temple in the Warangal district of Telangna that has made it to the UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites is the only monument in the world named after its maker.

Its popular name Ramappa temple is after its sculptor, Ramappa, who held the position of chief sculptor in the Kaketiya rule.

The medieval Deccan Ramappa Temple which dates back to 1213 AD, was built by the patronage of the Kakatiya ruler Kakati Ganapathi Deva under the authority of his Chief Commander Rudra Samani at the place known as Ranakude in the Atukuru province.

According to its description given by the State Tourism depaetment, the Ramappa temple is the right destination for people who admire architectural brilliance and have a panoramic view of true scenic beauty.

The temple is situated in Palampet village of the Venkatapur Mandal, in Mulug Taluq of Warangal.

The Ramappa temple has been referred as the brightest star in the network of medieval temples in the Deccan region. It has a royal garden that has since been reduced to a lawn with a path paved by trees.

Another striking feature of this temple is that it is built with bricks that are so light that they can easily float on water. The temple which is situated in a valley took nearly 40 years to be completed.

Elaborate carvings line the walls and also cover the pillars and ceilings of the temple.

The Ramappa temple finds its hold on a 6 feet high platform on a cruciform plan. The temple's chamber is crowned with a shikharam and is surrounded by Pradakshinapatha. At the entrance of the temple, is a Nandi mandapam. An imposing Nandi vigraham stands on it.

Ramappa temple is located at a distance of nearly 70 km from Warangal city and is accessible by road.

The decision to add it to the list of World heritage sites was announced by UNESCO on Sunday:

🔴 BREAKING!

Just inscribed as @UNESCO #WorldHeritage site: Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana, in #India🇮🇳. Bravo! 👏

ℹ️ https://t.co/X7SWIos7D9 #44WHC pic.twitter.com/cq3ngcsGy9

— UNESCO 🏛️ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳😷 (@UNESCO) July 25, 2021

A wave of excitement swept across Telengana after this announcement. Prime Minister Narenadra Modi also expressed his happiness about it: 

Excellent! Congratulations to everyone, specially the people of Telangana.

The iconic Ramappa Temple showcases the outstanding craftsmanship of great Kakatiya dynasty. I would urge you all to visit this majestic Temple complex and get a first-hand experience of it’s grandness. https://t.co/muNhX49l9J pic.twitter.com/XMrAWJJao2

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 25, 2021

The decision is a morale booster for Tourism industry in the time of Covid.