Archaeologists discovered hero stones, called Veeragal stones, in the vicinity of Kolanupaka Temple, a 2,000 year old Jain temple at the village of Kolanupaka in Nalgonda district, southern India. The stones are believed to date between 8th and 14th centuries.

Over 40 of sculptured stones were discovered in a radius of 8 kilometres from the village, hosting famous temples, 80 km from Hyderabad. Some of the stones were made of granite and are said to measure over 3 metres in hight and one metre in width, weighting nearly one tonne. The sculptures are said to be in good condition. They date to the period of 8th-14th centuries AD, the times of ancient ruling dynasties such as  Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas and Kondu Cholas. Among the sculptured stones several Nag (snake) and Naga Devata (snake god) sculptures were found, as well as some Shiva Lingams made of black basalt, nearly one metre in height. The artefacts will be moved to the Kolanpak Museum.

(after Deccan Chronicle)