Adilabad District
The Land of Waterfalls and Tribal Heritage.
History
Adilabad derives its name from the erstwhile ruler of Bijapur, **Ali Adil Shah**. Historically, the district has been a melting pot of cultures, influenced by the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas, and later the Qutub Shahis and Asaf Jahis.
It is famously known as the gateway to South India from Central India, nestled in the Sahayadri hills. The district is renowned for its dense forests, which cover nearly 40% of its land, and its rich deposits of minerals and cotton.
Culture
Adilabad is the heartland of tribal culture in Telangana. It is home to diverse indigenous communities including the **Gonds, Pardhans, Kolams, and Thotis**.
The culture is characterized by vibrant festivals like Nagoba Jatra and Dandari-Gusadi dances. The local lifestyle is deeply connected to nature, with traditions revolving around forest produce and agriculture.
Tourist Attractions
Kuntala Waterfalls
The highest waterfall in Telangana, cascading from a height of 45 meters in the Sahayadri mountain range.
Pochera Waterfalls
A beautiful waterfall where the Godavari river flows through a rocky bed, creating a scenic drop.
Jainath Temple
An ancient Sun Temple known for its Prakrit inscriptions and beautiful architecture from the Pallava period.
Kawal Tiger Reserve
A vast sanctuary home to tigers, leopards, and diverse flora and fauna. (Located in nearby Mancherial/Nirmal region).
Major Events & Festivals
Nagoba Jatra
The second-largest tribal carnival in India, celebrated by the Mesram clan Gonds. A 10-day event featuring the Maha Puja, Bheting ceremony, and Praja Darbar.
Jan-Feb (Pushya Masam)Dandari-Gusadi
A vibrant post-Diwali festival where Gonds wear traditional peacock feather headgear (Maljal) and perform the rhythmic Gusadi dance.
October-NovemberLaxmi Narayana Brahmotsavam
Held at the ancient Jainath Temple, this major festival attracts devotees from far and wide to witness the sun rays touching the deity's feet.
Oct-Nov (Karthika Masam)Achievements & Development
Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Award (2024)
Adilabad district received this national award for its exceptional water conservation efforts, securing a ₹2 crore grant.
PM Award for Excellence (2024-25)
District Collector Rajarshi Shah honored for development in Narnoor mandal, recognized as a top aspirational block.
Narnoor Block Gold Medal (2025)
Awarded by Governor Jishnu Dev Varma for securing the top position among 500 Aspirational Blocks nationwide.
National Innovation Winner (2025)
Winner in Education theme for 'Improving soft skills among students' under NITI for States 'Use case challenge'.
Best Electoral Practice Award (2024)
Recognized for exceptional efforts in voter enrollment and grievance redressal during recent elections.
Key Officials of Adilabad
District Collector
District Magistrate
Sri Sabyasachi Ghosh Garu I.A.S
Superintendent of Police
Adilabad District
Sri Dr. S. Harish Garu I.A.S
Project Officer
ITDA Utnoor
Rajarshi Shah, I.A.S.