Forgotten by History, Remembered by the Land: The Story of Fashikhunta, Anantapalli.
Located in the remote fringes of the state, Anantapalli village in Malkangiri district has long remained neglected. However, with gradual development now reaching the region, it is slowly beginning to transform. Known for its natural beauty and the habitation of rare tribal communities, this area silently preserves fragments of history that remain largely undocumented.
While these accounts may not find mention in formal historical records, they continue to live on in the collective memory of the people and in the very soil of the land. Anantapalli stands as a silent witness to the brutalities of British rule and the resistance of indigenous communities during India’s freedom struggle.
During the colonial period, the region witnessed severe oppression under British administration. Oral narratives suggest that violent confrontations took place between local inhabitants and British forces, with visible traces of gunfire still evident in certain areas. One such historically significant site is Fashikhunta in Anantapalli village, located in the Kalimela block of Malkangiri district.
Historically part of the Dandakaranya region, the origins of Anantapalli are difficult to trace. The village was initially inhabited by families such as Hantal, Madiri, Wadengi, and Beti, with people from various regions settling here over time. Today, the village has a population of approximately 1,218. It is believed that the village derives its name from a woman named Anantamma, one of its earliest known inhabitants.
Surrounded by dense forests, rivers, and hills, the village reflects a unique geographical setting. To the east lies a major MIP dam, while the Saberi River flows about 25 kilometers to the west. The Sileru River and thick hills lie to the south, with MV-81 village situated to the north.
Before Odisha became a separate state in 1936, this region was part of the Madras Presidency, with administrative links to Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam. As a result, Telugu-speaking communities have historically inhabited the area. Until 1963, education in local schools, including those in Anantapalli, was imparted in the Telugu language.
In the absence of local educational facilities, children once traveled long distances—nearly 150 kilometers—to attend missionary schools in Kotagudem, now in Telangana. Despite such challenges, the village produced several educators during the British era, including Hantal Sundarayya, Madiri Irimiya, B.T. Ratnayya, Kora Ishaq, Kameshwar Edla, and Nagula Andrayya.
After independence, the first ashram school in the present-day Malkangiri district was established in Anantapalli. However, for higher education, students still had to travel to places like Motu, Padia, and Jeypore. The village has long upheld a strong culture of learning, with a notable presence of intellectuals.
Transportation in earlier times was extremely limited. People carried British officials and local administrators using traditional means known as "Kawad." About 50 years ago, a government bus service connected Anantapalli to Jeypore, but today, despite improved roads, such services have ceased.
One of the most striking remnants of colonial brutality is the site known as Fashikhunta. Two massive silk cotton (Simili) trees still stand tall here. According to local accounts, these trees were used by the British to publicly execute freedom fighters and those who opposed their rule. The site continues to evoke memories of oppression and sacrifice.
Nearby lies a large rock formation known locally as "Akulubanda," stretching approximately 500 meters. It is believed that a gathering was once organized here to protest British rule. Acting on intelligence, British forces allegedly opened indiscriminate fire on unarmed civilians. Hundreds reportedly lost their lives, and marks believed to be from gunfire can still be seen on the rocks.
At the center of this rocky terrain lies a perennial well, locally called "Bawe Banda," which has historically served as a source of water for both locals and, reportedly, British officials.
Anantapalli was once a hub for revenue collection, with nearly 25 surrounding villages paying taxes to the Mustadar Hantal family. The region was also known for its handwoven textiles, widely used by tribal communities.
Despite its rich cultural and historical legacy, the village remains underdeveloped even today. Basic infrastructure such as transportation, communication, and internet facilities are inadequate. Over the years, neglect has forced many residents to migrate to neighboring states.
Given its historical significance and potential for research, Anantapalli deserves urgent attention from the administration. Preserving and documenting these sites can bring them into public awareness and support academic research.
It is hoped that this report will draw the attention of the Malkangiri administration and the state government, ensuring recognition and preservation of this forgotten chapter of history.