Ongoing conservation work at a Kakatiya-era Trikuta temple in Telangana has led to the discovery of a sealed granite vault beneath the Nandi mandapa. Inside, archaeologists found a 'library' of over sixty copper plate charters preserved in a moisture-proof sandalwood chest. These plates detail the administrative laws and land grants issued by Queen Rudrama Devi during her reign in the 13th century.
The vault itself is an engineering marvel, constructed with interlocking granite slabs that prevented water seepage for over seven centuries. The Old Telugu and Sanskrit inscriptions on the plates provide an unprecedented look into the taxation systems and social structure of the Kakatiya Empire. The temple complex is now being prepared for UNESCO world heritage nomination following this major find.