Every place has a story. But few places in India have seen as many name changes — and layers of identity — as Telangana.
Long before we called it Adilabad, Nizamabad, or Mahabubnagar, these lands carried names that spoke of trade, devotion, and everyday life.
Let’s travel back in time — to a Telangana where bull markets, milk traders, and ancient rulers shaped what we now call home.
Adilabad – The Bull Market That Became a District
In the 10th century, today’s Adilabad was known as Edulapuram — a name born from the word Eddula, meaning bulls.
The region had a famous bull market that made it a thriving trade hub.
Later, during the Nizam era, Ali Adil Shah of Bijapur renamed it Adilabad, blending commerce with royal memory.
Mahabubnagar – Once Palamuru, The Land of Milk
Before it became Mahabubnagar, this district was known as Palamuru, meaning land of milk.
Farmers here were known for their dairy production and trade.
The Nizams renamed it Mahabubnagar in honor of Nawab Mahbub Ali Khan, the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad.
Nizamabad – From Induru to the Nizam’s Pride
The ancient town of Induru gained importance when Nizam Ali Khan laid a railway line through it.
In recognition of his modernization efforts, the area was renamed Nizamabad, symbolizing the Nizam’s vision for progress.
Karimnagar – The Officer’s Legacy
Long before it was Karimnagar, this region was called Elagandula.
During the Nizam’s rule, it was renamed Karimnagar in honor of Karimuddin, a loyal officer who served the state.
A reminder that not only kings — but administrators too — shaped Telangana’s map
Hyderabad – From Bhagyanagaram to City of Pearls
The city we call Hyderabad was once Bhagyanagaram, named after Bhagmati, the beloved of Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah.
As Persian culture influenced the court, the name evolved into Hyderabad — merging love, legend, and language.
Vikarabad – From Gangavaram to the Noble’s Name
Originally known as Gangavaram, this region was renamed Vikarabad during the Nizam’s period,
in honor of Vikar-ul-Umra, a noble and close confidant of the ruler.
Even small towns carried stories of loyalty and legacy.
A Legacy Etched in Names
Every name change tells us how Telangana’s history is layered — from local pride to royal remembrance.
Behind every district lies a forgotten story, waiting to be rediscovered by those who still whisper the old names.
Question for You
Which of these original Telangana names do you find most beautiful — and why?
Would you like to see these historical names revived in memory or culture?
