This is an appeal to all those Indians who take pride in their ancient history, culture and heritage. It is addressed particularly to the natives and the heritage lovers of Srikakulam and North Coastal Andhra.

From Times immemorial, the region around the district of Srikakulam has been home to man. Its fertile plains washed by many rivers, salubrious climate and the coastline have given it a tremendous geographical advantage. As a result, man has made the region his home right from prehistoric times to the modern day.

This long association of man with the region left behind a rich collection of heritage sites in the hills, river banks, and the coastal plains of the district. Fortunately for us most such ancient vestiges and historical sites have survived in good shape till recently. However, what survived over a few thousand years is being erased within a short period, in our times, in the last few decades. If we do not take urgent measures to protect our heritage immediately, we may lose it altogether. So, friends, this is the time to act.

Listed below are the most valuable sites that are in urgent need of protection:

Dannanapeta Megalithic site near Amadalavalasa town, in the district of Srikakulam is a large megalithic complex, which includes a large dolmen, many small cists and innumerable post holes. The dolmen is one of the biggest in size and weight. The single capstone on the dolmen weighs up to 50 tonnes and the entire complex makes an extremely interesting and valuable heritage site. The megalithic site has been notified by State Archaeology department in 2011.Inspite of that, the Government polytechnic college of Amadalavalasa was allowed to come up right next to the site, in violation of the principles of archaeological conservation.   There is also a lot of building activity nearby, which is adversely impacting the megalithic complex. Further, the site is being vandalized by the villagers for its stones. If urgent measures are not taken to protect the site, it is in the danger of disappearing altogether.

At Sailada Hills there are four 3.8 meter high rocks, leaning inwards and forming a polygonal chamber. The place is popularly called Pandiri Rallu, a shelter made of rocks. This very beautiful but manmade rock shelter has enough places to accommodate 10 to 15 people inside. A petro glyph, (a common feature on prehistoric dolmens in Europe) of a serpent may be found on the western side of the shelter. Archaeologists believe that these strange rock arrangements were perhaps places of worship of the prehistoric man.  It is rare to find such rock arrangements in such a well preserved form.  In that sense, Srikakulam is very fortunate.

Many ancient religions like Buddhism and Jainism flourished in the region. The hills of Srikakulam are sprinkled with the remains of the ancient habitation, and the places of worship. The Jains sought solitude, so they lived in remote hills and distant caves. Interestingly, the Jains preferred to live on the same hills where the prehistoric men took shelter. They often marked their beds and even carved their “pillows” on the bedrock, where they slept. Most of which may be seen even in this modern day Thus, Sangamayyakonda reveals both prehistoric caves with post holes and druidical rocks along with Jain tirthankara reliefs. The fact that the same place/hill  was held sacred for over several thousand years, till the modern  times may be gleaned from the fact that prehistoric remains, Jain  cave temples and also a Hindu temple built in modern times for Lord Sangameshwara are located on the same hill and remain popular  to date.

Dantapuram or Dantavarapukota is a village near Amudalavalasa in the district of Srikakulam This site has been identified with the famous Dantapura, of Buddhist times.  The city takes its name from the tooth relic of Buddha that was enshrined there. Ancient Dantapura was one of the six celebrated, prosperous and populous cities of India of the 6th century BC. It was a trade and religious center and lay on the highway that connected the north with the south of India. The Department of Archaeology excavated the site and brought to light a mud fortification, brickbats, pot shards, including knobbed ware, terracotta articles, bangles, beads, stone and iron articles.

We request the concerned authorities to take immediate action on preservation of these Historical sites.

• Such is archaeological wealth of the District of Srikakulam that if the ancient remains are carefully conserved and showcased, they might not only give the locals a sense of belonging and pride but also benefit economically. Increased levels of tourism, both national and international will benefit the people and bring enormous prosperity to the region.  Unfortunately all such fabulous sites are slowly being erased, due to the state government’s neglect, and the lack of awareness of their immense cultural value. We are losing our valuable heritage to urbanization and urbanization.
• It is time we wake up to our heritage and exert pressure on our authorities. We must urge the government
• Revive the moribund Department of archaeology to make a scientific study of  all such sites

• All the sites should be conserved as per the international heritage conservation norms.
• All sites should be cleared of encroachments and must be cordoned off.
• They should be provided with immediate security.
• No construction/developmental activity must be permitted within 300 meters of the site.
• Trained guides should be posted to show tourists around.
• Education/awareness should be imparted to the locals about the history, significance and importance of the sites. A short film could be made for each of the sites, highlighting all such aspects.
• There should be interpretation centers in each of the sites  
• The public should be involved in conserving, protecting and the upkeep of the sites.