VISAKHAPATNAM: The Thotlakonda Buddhist site with its stupas, calmness, and hilly greens is a monumental beauty to the naked eye. But for the 58-year-old man, it holds a glorious past and historical value. Konda Apparao has seen it all, from its discovery by the Indian Navy to its major excavation by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1988, to becoming a guide and now employed as a security guard at the site.
Thotlakonda is a Buddhist site that flourished from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD. It came to light during an aerial survey by the Indian Navy to set up a base camp. Today, as tourists visit the Buddhist site, they hear Apparao telling the story of it with an emotional connection and pride that sets his narration apart.
“I am a resident of Mangamaripeta. My mother used to offer prayers to deities at Thotlakonda site until the Navy discovered it. I had taken part in the excavations held by ASI from 1988 to 1993. Just like how tourists are clueless about this site, I was once the same. But after I learned about this site from historians and ASI officials, it struck my mind to let the world know the great importance it holds,” says Apparao.
Thotlakonda is a treasure trove of history, and Apparao’s narration brings the site to life. His passion for the place is evident in every word he speaks. Explaining how the excavations revealed the remains of the complex, including Buddhist stupas, cisterns, storage areas, rooms for bhikkus, and dining halls, he says, “The excavations established the existence of a Hinayana Buddhist complex that flourished 2000 years ago. People from various countries would anchor their ships at the shore and visit the site to learn about Buddhism. They would spend sometime learning before returning to their home countries to teach others.”
Apparao adds, “I work here from 9 am until the evening, depending on the number of tourists. Usually, more tourists come on weekends. I started working here in 1994, earning `50 per day. Today, I earn `400 per day, which is still low. But what motivates me is the tourists’ reaction before and after I narrate the site’s history. Even though I tell the same story multiple times a day, I see different expressions from each visitor. Some are surprised and many young people show little interest and only want good pictures. It is understandable since that’s the age we live in. However, what worries me is their irresponsibility when it comes to keeping the site clean.”
