An inscription written in Sanskrit on a pillar has been discovered at the Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple in Mereddipalli of Gorantla mandal in Sri Sathya Sai district, according to historian MyNaa Swamy.

Speaking to reporters at Gorantla on Sunday (August 17, 2025), he said that the inscription, reading “Sri Gopalakrishnaya Namaha Sri,” was unearthed on a pillar in the “Mukha Mandapam” of the shrine. The single-line inscription highlights the importance of the temple, which dates back to the early Vijayanagara period of 14th Century, the historian added.

“Four pillars adorned with sculptures are located in the “Mukha Mandapam”, which stands in front of the sanctum sanctorum built for the revered Venugopala Swamy. The first pillar on the left features a sculpture of Narasimha Swamy, and below it, Sri Mahavishnu is depicted holding a conch and wheel, offering protection to devotees. The inscription is located between the sculptures of Narasimha and Vishnu and is written in the Nandi Nagari script. This inscription may belong to either Devaraya I or Devaraya II of the Sangama dynasty,” MyNaa Swamy said.

The historian also pointed out that an inscription of Bukka Raya II, dating back to 1388 CE, records the construction of the Mereddipalli tank and the excavation of a water supply canal. This Telugu inscription is presently lying neglected in the fields of Karavulapalli Subhash and deteriorating due to exposure to sun and rain.

Mr. Swamy urged the authorities to preserve the Bukka Raya II inscription by shifting it to the State Archaeological Museum.