Introduction
The Gadis or Samsthanams of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana once stood as proud seats of local rulers who combined authority with patronage of arts, culture, and architecture. These palaces, durbars, and forts, which symbolized prestige and governance in their time, have today found new lives through adaptive reuse. Rather than being lost to ruin, they have been repurposed into colleges, museums, cultural spaces, and administrative buildings, keeping their heritage alive for future generations. Each reused Gadi tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and continuity of legacy, making them ideal features for your heritage tourism platform.
Vizianagaram Samsthanam – Moti Mahal & Alakananda Palace
The Moti Mahal, built in the 19th century as the royal durbar, today functions as a women’s college on its upper floor and a museum on the ground floor, managed by the MANSAS Trust. The nearby Alakananda Palace has been converted into the headquarters of the Armed Reserve Police battalion. Both buildings preserve royal grandeur while serving civic and educational needs.
Bobbili Samsthanam – Durbar Mahal
The Bobbili Durbar Mahal, famous for its history of valor, is now partly a museum showcasing royal artifacts and heritage, while the lower levels house government offices. The Bobbili royal family continues to reside in parts of the estate, creating a balance between living tradition and public access.
Wanaparthy Samsthanam – Mustafa Mahal (Wanaparthy Palace)
Once the majestic palace of the Wanaparthy rulers, Mustafa Mahal has been transformed into a government polytechnic college. Students now walk the same halls that once echoed with royal authority, giving the structure a vibrant second life.
Gadwal Samsthanam – Gadwal Fort
The imposing Gadwal Fort, with its temple and palatial courtyards, is now maintained as a heritage tourism complex. It attracts visitors who wish to experience the architectural richness of the Gadwal rulers while serving as a cultural landmark for the region.
Domakonda Samsthanam – Domakonda Fort and Addala Meda
The Domakonda Fort, with its unique glass palace known as Addala Meda, has been carefully conserved and adapted as a cultural venue for events and gatherings. This sensitive reuse has won recognition at the international level, demonstrating how heritage can be preserved while staying relevant.
Kollapur Samsthanam – Kollapur Palace
The Kollapur Palace, built by the rulers of the samsthanam in Telangana, is partly reused for government and administrative purposes. The ensemble stands as a reminder of past grandeur while serving practical community functions today.
Venkatagiri Estate – Palaces of Venkatagiri
The Venkatagiri palaces, once sprawling residences of the estate, have seen portions adapted for practical uses such as colleges and retail spaces. While some sections await conservation, others continue to serve the community, reflecting gradual and organic reuse over time.
Why These Gadis Matter Today
These examples highlight the many pathways of adaptive reuse: education, museums, administrative offices, cultural spaces, and heritage tourism. They demonstrate how history and heritage can be integrated into modern community life rather than left behind. For heritage travelers, they offer a unique chance to step into living palaces that continue to serve society while retaining their aura of grandeur.