Rajahmundry

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Portrait of Nannayya

Chalukya vaibhavam

Dowleswaram Barrage

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Cotton museum-dhavalesvaram

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Godavari Bridge

Rajahmundry Railway Station

Rajahmundry, officially known as Rajamahendravaram, is a city located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Godavari River, it is one of the oldest cities in India and is often referred to as the Cultural Capital of Andhra Pradesh due to its rich historical and cultural heritage. The city plays a significant role in the state's education, economy, and tourism sectors.

History

Rajahmundry's history dates back to the 4th century AD, and it was originally known as Rajamahendravaram, named after the Chalukya king Rajaraja Narendra who ruled around the 11th century. The city has been a hub for Telugu culture and literature, hosting many poets and scholars over centuries. It was during the British era that the city got its anglicized name, Rajahmundry.

Geography

Located in the eastern part of Andhra Pradesh, Rajahmundry is nestled on the eastern banks of the Godavari River. The city's geography is characterized by fertile lands and a tropical climate, making it an ideal location for agriculture, especially rice cultivation.

Economy

The economy of Rajahmundry is diverse, with agriculture, aquaculture, and tourism being the major sectors. The city is also known for its textile and paper industries. The Godavari River provides ample resources for irrigation, supporting the cultivation of crops such as paddy, sugarcane, and cotton.

Culture

Rajahmundry is renowned for its cultural contributions, especially in the fields of literature, art, and music. The city is home to the famous Kambala Park and Rallabandi Subbarao Government Museum, which showcase the region's rich history and cultural artifacts. The Pushkaram, a major Hindu festival celebrated once every 12 years, attracts millions of pilgrims from across the country.

Education

The city is an important educational hub in Andhra Pradesh, hosting several colleges and universities, including the Adikavi Nannaya University. It offers a wide range of courses in arts, science, engineering, and technology.

Transport

Rajahmundry is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Rajahmundry Airport, situated near Madhurapudi, provides connectivity to major cities in India. The city's railway station is an important junction on the Howrah-Chennai main line. Additionally, the Godavari Bridge, one of Asia's longest road-cum-rail bridges, plays a crucial role in connecting the city with the rest of the state.

Tourism

The city is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and religious sites. Key attractions include the Godavari Bridge, ISKCON Temple, and Dowleswaram Barrage. The serene beauty of the Godavari River and the surrounding areas also make it a preferred location for film shootings.

Notable People

Rajahmundry has been the birthplace of many prominent figures in various fields such as literature, politics, and cinema. Some notable personalities include poet Nannayya, often considered the first poet of Telugu literature, and Durga Bai, a freedom fighter and woman leader.