KAKATIYAS OF WARANGAL(1000AD-1323AD)

• After Satavahanas, Kakatiyas ruled whole of Andhra Country. For the first time they united
whole of the Telugu speaking people.
• They were feudatories of Rastrakutas and later to western Kalyani Chalukyas.
• They ruled Andhra pradesh , Tamilnadu, parts of Orissa.
• Moola Purushudu :As per Magallu inscription – Kakartya Gundaya
As per Bayyaram cheruvu inscription – Vennama Raju Bhupathi(This
inscription mentions Kakatiyas served as Army chiefs of Rashtrakutas).
-Founder:BethaRaju 1 ; Independent Kingdom Founder:Rudra Deva 1
• Capital – Earlier Hanumakonda ; later Orugallu
• Official Language:Sanskrit
• They were devotees of Kakatamma . Hence called Kakatiyas.
• Kakati means Kushmandini (Kakatiyas devoted Kushmandini when they followed Jainism
and later they along with Kushmandini shifted to Shaivism).
• They were also called as Andhra Deshiswaras.
• As per Vardhamanapura Inscription issued by Malyala Gundaya senani says that Kakatiyas
were Shudras and their reign was Golden age of Shudras.
• Symbol:Garuda(when they were subordinates to Rashtrakutas)
Varaha(when they are subordinates to Kalyani Chalukyas)

SOURCES

LITERARY

• Pratapa Rudra Yashoboshanam by Vidyanatha(Court poet of Prathapa Rudra 2). Mentions

Kakatiyas are called by that name because they worship Kakati goddess. Also describes
about the Administration and military system of Kakatiyas.Tells about victories over
Kalinga,Pandya,Yadava Kings. Tells that Yadava King Mahadeva lost war in hands of
Rudramadevi and paid One Crore Suvarnas as settlement.Rudramadevi distributed this
amount to his soldiers and planted a victory pillar in Orugallu Fort.
• Kridabhiramam (1st telugu Veedi Natakam) by Vinukonda Vallabharayudu.Speaks about
existence of goddess Kakati statues in Warangal fort.This book talks about the
Social,Economic structure,Religious conditions of Kakatiyas during their times.
Kridabhiramam also talks about contemporary society and prevalence of
Prostitution,Gambling and Custom of Sati.This book also talks about streets of Ekasila
Nagaram(Orugallu).
• Purushartha Saaram by Sivadevayya. Mentioned that there were 72 Niyogas(departments)
and whole administrative system was looked over by Niyogadipathis.
• Sivayogasaram by Kolanu Ganapathideva. Only book that describes about the Induluri rulers
in the court of Kakatiyas.
 • Neethi saaram by Rudradeva/Prathaparudra 1 in Sanskrit .Describes about the qualities and
responsibilities of the rulers or leaders,mentions about Nayankara policy features.
• Prathapa Charitra by Ekamranatha in Telugu. Told that there is Ashtadasha praja which
include 18 caste communities of their time. This book mentions that Swayambhu Temple in
Orugallu Fort to have been built by Prola Raja 2.This book also mentions that Turks invaded
Orugallu 8 times.
• Nritya Ratnavali by Jayaapasenani. Describes about the dance styles of this period.
Jayapasenani is Prince of Ayyavamsa.
• Niti Sastra Muktavali by Baddena in Telugu.This is a treatise on Political Science.
• Palanati Veera Charitra by Srinathudu.This book talks about Socio-Political conditions during
times of Rudradeva.
• Panditaradhya charitra by Palkuriki Somanathudu. Explained about the Shaivism and other
religious conditions of Kakatiya period.This book also talks about Development of
Agriculture,Industry and Textiles during this time.
• Siddeshwara charitra by Sarvappa. Told that the birthplace of Kakatiyas is Kandapuram. Also
mentioned that the Early Kakatiyas followed Jainism.
• Ranganatha Ramayana by GonaBuddha reddy in Telugu. Describes about importance
Vaishnavism.
• Andhra Mahabharatha by Tikkana in Telugu. Explained the relations between Nellore ruler
Manumasiddhi and Ganapathideva of Kakatiyas.
• Phatus-Us-Kajhuyini by Amir Khusro(court poet of Alauddin Khalji). Mentioned that
Prathaparudra lost a war with Aladdin Khilji and made a treaty with him.
• Phutu-Us-Salatin by Isami.Talks about Pratapa Rudra lost in hands of Muslim Army.
• The Travels by Marcopolo. He visited Kakatiya kingdom during the reign of Rudramadevi.
Explained about the Economic conditions of this period. Also said that there were 100
elephants, 20000 Horses and 9 lakh soilders in the Army.

INSCRIPTIONS
• Magallu inscription by Danarnavudu. 1st inscription to speak about Kakatiyas, says kakatiyas
are Saamanthas of Rashtrakutas.
• Bayyaram cheruvu inscription by Mailamba(sister of Ganapati Deva). Explained Lineage of
Kakatiyas .
• Shanigaram inscription by Betha Raju 1. Mentioned that Betharaju 1 donated for the
construction of Jaina temple by Yudhamallu.
• Hanumakonda 1000 pillar temple inscription by Kakatiya Rudradeva.Talks about victories of
Prola Raju 2 and Rudra Deva.Mentioned Rudradeva declared himself independent in
1163AD.
• Motupalli Abhaya inscription by Ganapathideva. About trade in this period.
• Chandupatla inscription by Mallikharjuna(Rudramadevi’s Senapati).In the Revolt by
Ambadeva, Rudradeva died while suppressing it.
• Bidaru kota Inscription by Recharla Prasaditya.Mentions Rudramadevi as RayaGajaKesari
EARLY OR SAAMANTHA KAKATIYAS
• Kakatiyas first ruled Hanumakonda as Vassals of Rashtrakutas (Symbol - Garuda) and later as
vassals to Kalyani Chalukyas/Western Chalukyas (Symbol - Varaha)

KAKARTYA GUNDANA – Also known as Pidigundadu,he is Senapati of Krishna 3 of

Rashtrakutas.

BETHARAJU 1 (1000AD-1052AD)
– Ruled Hanumakonda as vassal of Kalyani Chalukyas. Title : Kakati Puradhinadha(as per Sanigaram
Inscription);Chola Chamoovardhi Pramadhana.

PROLARAJU 1 (1052AD-1076AD)
• Kalyani Chalukya king Someswara gave Hanumakonda Vishaya to him as he helped
Someswara in winning Wars.
• Made Hanumakonda capital of Kakatiyas. Minted Varaha symbol on his coins.
• Titles : Arigajakesari, Kakatiya Vallabha, Samadhigatha Panchamahashabda.

BETHARAJU 2 (1076AD-1108AD)
• Vikramaditya 6 gave him Sabbi mandal (1000 villages).
• Built a city called Sivapuri and dedicated it to his guru Rameswara deeksitulu.
• Titles : Vikramachakri, Tribhuvanamalla, Mahamandaleswara.

DURGARAJU
• His guru is also Rameswara deekshitulu. Gifted Betheswara to him which was constructed by
his father Betharaju 2 – described in Khajipet inscription.
-Titles:Tribhuvanamalla,Chalamartiganda.

PROLARAJU 2 (1116AD-1157AD)
• Hanumakonda inscription and Karimnagar Inscription of Rudra deva/Pratapa Rudra 1 gives
information of his rule.
• Titles : Mahamandaleswara, Arigajakesari,Daridrya Vidravana.
• He defeated Jaggadeva of Kolanupaka,defeated Medaraju and Gundaraju of Polavalasa and
also defeated Western Chalukyas and expanded his kingdom till Srisailam.
• He constructed Swayambhu Temple,Siddeswaralayam,Padmakshi Temple.
• His Minister(Betana)’s wife Mailama constructed a jain temple known as Kodalalaya Basadi.
• Draksharamam Inscription reveals that he died in the hands of Bodharaju.
IMPERIAL KAKATIYAS

RUDRA DEVA/PRATAPA RUDRA 1

• Son of Prola Raju 2,he was 1st king to overthrow the subordinate position of the Kakatiyas as
the feudatories as per Hanumakonda Inscription(by Achitendra).
• He inaugurated Kakatiya imperialism which led to the expulsion of non-telugu rulers from
Andhra and its political unification – Hanumakonda 1000 pillar temple inscription.
• 1st independent Andhra kingdom after evolution of telugu language was established.
• Upparapalli Inscription of Ganapati Deva and Malkapur inscription of Rudramadevi
mentions about his rule in detail.
• His inscriptions: Hanumakonda Inscription, Ganapavaram Inscription.
• Draksha Ramam Inscription was written by his wife AnnalaDevi.
• He built Orugallu fort and partially shifted his capital to Orugallu.
• Panuganti Vaada was established for people who settled in Orugallu coming from Nalgonda.
• Rudradeva built a tank named Rudra Tataka in Panagallu.
VARDHAMANAPURAM WAR :
• Bijjala of Kalachuri dynasty overthrew Kalyani chalukyas and during this time Rudradeva
declared himself independent. This led to War : Bijjala + Medaraja (Polavasa chief) +
Dommaraju (Nagunuru chief) vs Rudra deva. Rudra deva won and occupied Nagunuru and
Polavasa.
• Main reason for victory : His minister Gangadhara (was made chief of Sabbi mandalam).
• CONQUEST OF KANDURU - He defeated Choda Bhima and Udaya Choda (Chief of Kanduru)
and made Udaya Choda as his vassal by marrying his daughter and built Rudra Samudram
tank in Panagallu (Nalgonda) as symbol of this victory and named it Udaya Samudra.
• Later he crossed Krishna river and annexed Dharanikota by defeating Bhima,and also
annexed Srisailam , Tripurantakam(Rayalaseema).
• He supported Nalagama during Palnadu war (1176 – 1182) and Nalagama won.
• Occupied some parts of Velnadu.
• Titles: Trilingadi Pati, Kavibasha Poshakudu, Vidhya bhusanudu,Vinaya Vibhishanudu.
• He buit 1000 pillar temple/Rudreswaralayam/Trikuteswaralayam,and his minister
Gangadhara built famous Prasanna Keshava temple.
• Died in hands of Yadava king Jaitrapala .
• The Veeravaishnava movement started by Brahmanaidu attempted to bring a change in
social structure finally leading to conflict between Reformism and Revivalism in the form of
Palnadu Battle.In the end,it was Revivalism which emerged victorious defeating the
Reformism of Brahmanaidu. The folloers of Brahmanaidu who driven away from Palnadu
called themselves Velamas.
Palnadu Battle though a conflict between two brothers for power,in reality a clash between
Saivism and Vaishnavism.
MAHADEVA
• Like his brother(Rudra Deva) he also died in hands of Jaitrapala while trying to capture
Yadava capital and his son Ganapati Deva was imprisoned.
• During this chaotic period, many Kakatiyas feudatories rose in revolt and was suppressed by
loyal General Racharla Rudra.
• Ganapati deva was released in 1202 AD by Singanudu (son of Jaitrapala).
• Details of Mahadeva are revealed through Pakala Inscription,Kandavaram
Inscription,Malkapuram inscription(by RudramaDevi) and Prataparudra Charitra.

GANAPATI DEVA
• Son of Mahadeva ; ruled for 63 years ; Greatest of all Kakatiyas ; Capital : Warangal
• ANNEXATION OF VELNADU - Occupied Velanadu by defeating Rajendra chola 2.
• Occupied Diviseema by defeating Pinachodi of Ayyana family and Pinachoda gave his
daughters to Ganapati deva and became his feudatory.
• CONQUEST OF NELLORE - The ruler of Nellore was Manumasiddi 1 and he was overthrown
by his brother Nallasiddi with the help of Cholas.
• As Tikkabhupala (son of Manumasiddi 1) assisted Ganapati deva in his previous wars,he
kept Tikkabhupala as king of Nellore by expelling Nallasiddi.
• Tikkabhupala gave Paakanadu to Ganapati deva and Ganapati deva appointed Ganagaya
Sahni as governor of the region.
• After Tikkabhupala death, his son Manumasiddi 2 ascended the throne.However
Vijayagonda gopala challenged his position and with help from Cholas and Hoyasalas ,
Ganagaya sahni expelled from Paakanadu.
- Manumasiddi 2 sent Tikkana to Ganapati deva to get his support and Ganapati Deva
defeated combined armies of Cholas and Hoysalas and conquered cholas.
• Reinstalled manumasiddi 2 as ruler of Nellore.
• Reconquered Kadapa , Anantapur and Chintamani.
• MOTUPALLI ABHAYA SASANAM : By Siddadevudu
• It guaranteed all ships security and abolished many duties.
• Many foreign vessels used to come to this port .
• Lost war with Pandyas in Muthukuru war.
Titles : Andhradeesudu, Pruthviveeswara , Chola Kataka choorakara, Raya Gajakesari, Kreeda
Vinoda,SakaladeshaPrathistapanachary.
RUDRAMBA OR RUDRAMA DEVI
• Ruled in name of Rudradeva Maha Raju. Capital : Orugallu
• First women ruler of South India. As she is a woman there were constant revolts from
feudatories. She suppressed her step brothers Harihara deva and Murarideva with the help
of commander Prasadityudu.
• BIDAR - Mahadeva of Yadavas attacked her and she occupied Bidar fort and installed
Bhairava as it’s ruler. Took title Raya Gajakesari.
• As a symbol of this victory Rudramadevi issued coins with varaham on it.
• KALINGA - Feudatory of Kakatiyas Veerabanudu declared independence and she suppressed
him with help of Gona Ganna Reddy (ruler of Vardhamanapuram).
• KADAPA AND NELLORE - Kadapa ruler Ambadeva declared independence and also occupied
Nellore and Gurajala . And war broke out between Ambadeva (Kayastha kingdom) and
Rudramadevi. She died in this war at Tripurantakam.
• Rudramdevi Senapati,Mahapradani named Annala Devudu.
• Titles : Rayagaja Kesari , Andhra Maha Ragni .
• Her inscriptions : Malkapuram shasanam ,Bidar fort shasanam,
Attirala Inscription,Chandupatla Inscription.
• Morcopolo visited Kakatiyas during her period .He wrote ‘The Travels’ book and mentions
about Trade during this time.
• Her Guru – Visweswara Shivacharyulu. She donated Mandharam village to him.
• As she does not have male heir, her grandson Pratapa Rudra 2 became the king.

PRATAPA RUDRA 2
• Fought war with Ambadeva and defeated him. Made Kayastha kingdom part of Kakatiyas
and kept Somanayaka as his representative.
• Delhi sultans revolted against Kakatiyas during his reign multiple times.Sultans revolted 8
times as per Ekamranadha’s Prathaparudra charitra book and also Prolaya’s Vilasa
inscription. But only 5 times as per Amir Khusrau’s writings.
• 2 Revolts happened under Aladdin khilji ; 3rd under Mubarak khilji ; Another 2 under
Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. Except 1st one , Prathapa Rudra lost all.
• Prathaparudra was captured after 5th revolt and while taking him to Delhi, he jumped into
Narmada river and died as per Vilasa Tamra inscription.
• Amir Khusrau’s name to Prathapa Rudra – Raav Laddar Dev
• Maachaladevi , a painter , existed during his reign.
Prathapa Rudra ’s court poets – Vidhyanadha (Prathapa Rudra Yashobhushanam); Agastya
(Baala Bharatam, Nalakeerthi kaumudi, Krishna charitra); Maarana (Markandeya puranam)
• Sammakka, Sarakka fought against the ruling of Prathapa Rudra.
ADMINISTRATION
• Sources – Neetisaram (Rudra Devudu), Purusharta Saaram (Shiva Devayya),
Sakalaneeti sammatam (Madiki Singana), Vignyaneswareeyam (Ketana), Neetisastra
muktavali (Baddena).
• 2 new traditions in transferring the crown – First Hindu rulers in India to give crown to
Woman ; giving crown to adopted children
• Their motto : Rajyanga saptanga Samanvitam
• Followed Decentralised system of administration and there is traditional Monarchy system
during this time period.
• Division of Kingdom :
1. KINGDOM : head – King
2. NADU OR STATE : head – Amatya/Preggada/Niyogas
3. STALAM (group of 24 villages) : head – Stala Sunkarudu or Paarupatyam
4. VILLAGE : head – Ayamgars; ayam = land/field.
• Villages during Kakatiyas are self sufficient villages.
• For the services provided by Ayamgars king give them lands instead of salaries and these
Ayamgars give that land to agricultarists and collects tax called ‘Mera’.
 Ashtadasha teerthulu or Ministers – Imp. Ones :
o Teerparulu = Minister who decides amount of tax on produce
o Sunkadi kaari = Tax collector
o Nagara sreekavali = City administrator
o Mandaleswara = State administrator
o Rajadkshyudu = Pratinidi of king
o Sandi vikrahaka = Foreign affairs
o Sree bandaru = Pradhana Kosadikaari
Imp Maha pradanis –
• During Ganapati deva : Hemadri Reddy ;
• During Rudramadevi: Indutaru Annala devudu ;
• During Prataparudra : Muppidi Nayudu
• Administration was divided in to 72 departments or Niyogas ; Head of each Niyoga =
Niyogadi Pati ; head of all 72 Niyogas = Bahhattarra Niyogadipati or Niyogadi krutudu
• Imp Bahhattara Niyogadipatis – During Ganapati deva : Gangaya sahni ; During
Rudramadevi : Tripurari,Mallaya ; During Prataparudra 2 : Amba deva maharaja
• Land in hands of Ayyangars are called Miyasi or Batavrutti manyam. There are 12 types of
Ayangars 1.Karanam(surveys lands) 2.Reddy(collects tax & Nyayadikari) 3.Talari(law & order)
4.Priest 5.Carpenter 6.Washer man 7.Potter 8.Barber 9.Shetty
10.Black Smith 11.Goldsmith 12.Charma Kaarulu
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION
• Courts : Dharmaasthanam. People’s opinion is taken to decide on judgements.
• Praadhvivakulu = judicial officers ( During Ganapati deva – Sripatakudu )
Mahajanulu = local judicial officers ;
Jaya patramlu = judgments of judge be given in this
Veera batulu = officers who implements punishments issued by judges.
• Type of punishments were described in Markapuram inscription.
 Acc to Rajaneeti Ratna Karam, there are 4 types of courts :
1. Pratistatha : Temporary court in Capital
2. Apratistatha : Temporary court in Villages
3. Saamudritha : Ministers or Praadhvakulu as judges
4. Saasvata : Court in which King himself acts as Judge
• Duggirala inscription and Karimnagar inscription of Ganapati deva mentions about different
types of disputes and their solutions.
ARMY : 2 Types of Army : Army of king & Army of Nayankara : introduced by Rudramadevi
• Gajadalam headed by Gajasahini and Aswadalam headed by Ashwasahini.
• Ashwasahini during Ganapati Deva:Gangayasahini
Gajasahini during Ganapati Deva:Jayapasenani
Gajasahini during Prataparudra times:Bendapudi Annaya.
• ¼ of land is allocated to Nayankaras and they pay tax to King and also maintain some army
for the king (Mentioned in Neeti Sastra Muktavali of Baddena and Pratapacharitra of
Ekamranadha).
• Anga Rakshakas in their time are called ‘Lenkalu’. They were to protect the king.

SOCIAL CONDITIONS
• Chaturvarna system prevalance . 2 type Bramhins - Vaidikas (scholars);
Niyogas (Amatyas,Dandanayaka) .
--Reddy,Kamma,Velama,Balija,Naidus emerged as ruling aristrocats.
--Golden age of Shudras.
• Prathapacharitra mentioned about the Ashtadasha praja (18 caste associations). They were
called as ‘Samayas’.[Brahmins – Mahajanas ; Vaishyas – Nakara]
• The process of Sanskratization continued.As a result,sub-caste like
Viswabrahmins,Veerapanchalas formed in the society.
• Occupations – Kumbakara : Potter ; Ayaskara : Iron smith ; Suvarna Kaara : Gold smith ;
Takshaka : Carpenter ; Nayaka : Barber ; Rajaka : Washer man .
• The social conflict called Idangai(Right hand caste Agriculturalists) and Vedangai(Left hand
caste Professionals) started.
• Castes formed due to Brahmanaidu’s Veeravaishnavism – Velamas & Maladasaralu.
• Title of Rudra deva and Ganapati deva – Chaturvarna Samuddarana .
 • Women had high status in the society. They had right to donate. At the same time there is
prevalence of Sati and other social evils too.
• Devadasi , Veshyas given good respect and they can marry as well.
• Vesyas became a caste. Tax paid by them is called ‘Ganachari Tax’.
• Child marriage, Dowry , Kanyasulkam were prelavent.
• Important festivals of the time – Sankranthi, Eruvaka, Gobbillu.

ECONOMIC CONDITIONS : ‘The Wonders of the East’ book by Prayer Jonardhanan describes
Economic conditions of the times.
• Ganapeswara Shasanam mentions Sapta Santanas (7 great deeds during Kakatiyas)
1.Digging of wells ; 2.Hoarding of treasure ; 3.Founding of Agraharas ; 4.Erection of temples
5.Creation of flower gardens ; 6.Establishment of Choultries ; 7.Literary works by poets

▪ Imp.Lakes –
Kesari samudram lake by Prola 1; Hanumakonda lake by Rudradeva;
Ramappa lake by Recharla Rudrudu; Bayyaram lake by Mailamba;
Kundasamudram by Kundamamba; Lakkavaran & Ghanapur lakes by Ganapati deva;
Pakala lake: Mummidi Nayaka; Chouda samudram: Malyala Chouda senani;
Settikerayya lake: Betharaju 2

• Dasha bandamu : the lands given to those people who develops tanks.
Wet(Magani) : paddy growing area , garden lands .Maagaani Tax known as ‘Koru’
Dry(Metta) : millets , sesame , mustard, maize
Primary occupation – Agriculture; Primary crop – paddy
TAXATION :
• Land tax is called as Ari.Land Tax is 1/6th. Farmers those who pay it are called
Arigapus.
• Tax collectors – Ayagandru ; Land measuring instrument – Kesari
paatigada/Kesarimanika/Kesariputti .
• King’s own land – Raachapolam; Arthayam (Granting Raachapolam for kaulu ie.,
Lease) ; New Land:Podu
• Tax collected twice a year – Karthika masam ; Vaishaka masam

Industries :
Kaarampoodi : lead ; Palnadu , Vinukonda : Copper ; Golconda : Diamonds ;
Pembarthi (warangal) : Handicrafts ; Machilipatnam : Textiles ; Nirmal : Knives

TRADE – Described in Panditaradhya charitra of Palkuriki Somanatha and ‘The Travels’ Book.
 LOCAL : village level ; places of local trade is called Angadi or Santa
• Maila Santa = Non veg , Madi = Veg
 DOMESTIC : Imp places for domestic trade – Orugallu, Penugonda, China ganjam, Gantasala ,
Macherla , Tripurantakam
 • Guilds that involve in domestic trade is called Nakaram (guild of Vaishyas).
 INTERNATIONAL :Vaishyas , Balijas are important traders
• Pekkanduru = Guilds that involve in international trade.
• Imp. Ports : Motupalli(Desiya Konda Pattanam), Krishnapattanam, Hamsaladeevi, Nellore,
Machilipatnam.
• Acc to Motupalli Inscription - trade with China, Arabia , Persia , Srilanka.
• Exports: Perfumes, Diamonds, Ivory , Textiles, Camphor, Chandanam .
• Imports: Silk , China camphor, Iron , Silver , Arabia horses .

Important taxes during Kakatiyas period :

1.Ari – Land tax 2.Ontela tax – Tax on Nayakara village farmer

3.Illari – House tax 4.Pangam – Tax paid in form of cash
5.Kanika – Gift tax by farmer to king 6.Pullari – Tax levied on meadows
7.Pannasa – Tax exemption on donated lands 8.Pangam – Tax paid in form of Cash
9.Darisanam – Tax to visit the king 10.Madhyakam – Tax on Joint villagers
11. Puttuperu – Tax at naming of child 12.Ganachari – Tax on veshyas
13.Para – Tax on wet lands 14.Gaandi – Tax on wells
15.Antharayam – Tax on plantations 16.Neeruvidi – Water tax
17.Kiralam – Tax on cows and sheep 18.Alimu – Tax on vegetables
19.Vennutax – Tax levied during harvest

• 1/30th as tax on imports and Exports known as Revu Sunkam. ‘Kara Pattanamalu’ are the
towns that engage in collecting Export and Import Tax.
• Items in Trade are classified into 3 types - Bhusi bandamulu : Food grains
Kola bandamulu : Oils , Spices ; Mani bandamulu: Gems , Pearls

COINS - Gold coins ( Gadyanam ) , Silver coins ( Rooka , Maada )

• Coins with Arigaja kesari title on it : Prola 1, Prola 2 .
• Daya Gajakesari title on coins : Rudradeva , Prathaparudra .
Raya gaja kesari title on coins : Rudramadevi, Ganapati.
Rudramadevi gold coins with varaham symbol on it .
Guru ginja is used to weigh Gold, Diamond.
RELIGION

 BUDDHISM : Almost extinct by the start of Kakatiyas period . Buddha was believed to be
Vishnu avatar so they were absorbed into Bramhanical religion.
• Buddha ~ Mahavishnu avatar (Bekkallu inscription) .

 JAINISM : Early Kakatiyas adopted Jainism while later Kakatiyas followed Shaivism (As per
Siddeswara charitra of Tikkana Somayaji).Under the influence of Tikkana,Ganapati Deva
destroyed Jain settlements.Jainism almost disappeared in Andhra during this time.
Note:Tikkana propagated Hari Hara Tatvam to establish cordial relations between Vaishnavites
and Shaivites.
 SHAIVISM : Most followed religion during Kakatiyas .Sripati , Sivalanka Manchana and
Mallikarjuna Panditaradhya were responsible for making Siva cult popular.
• Vira shaivam became very virulent in Karnataka and led to many religious clashes and
bloodshed , this had many repercussions in Andhra also.
• Many jain temples including famous Padmakshi temple at Hanumakonda were converted in
to shaiva temples.
• Imp Shaivite sects during Kakatiyas period : Kalamukha , Kapalika, Pashupata , Aradhya ,
Veera shaivam.
• Visweswara Siva an ardent follower of Agamatha sect founded ‘Golaki’ mathas to promote
Shaivism.

VAISHNAVISM - All their inscriptions starts with Varaha prayer ; Trikuta temples
• 1000 pillar temple at Hanumakonda ; Palanati Bramha built Chennakesava temple .
• Hariharanatha thatvam promoted by Tikkana to establish good relationships between
Shaivites and Vaishnavites.Tikkana also revived ‘Smartha system’ which permitted
worshipping any Legendary God.
• Due to impact of Brahmanaidu’s Veera Vaishnavism.a new community called Padmanayakas
was founded.
LITERATURE

• Both Sanskrit and Telugu was given equal importance ;

# Court language: Sanskrit
 SANSKRIT : Books –1) Pratapa Rudra Deva’s Neethi saaram in Telugu(Translation to
Kamandaka’s Neetisara)
2) Vidhyanadhudu’s(Court poet of PRD) Prataparudra yasho Bushanam(a text on Alankara
Sastra)
3) Viddana charyudu’s Prameya charchomrutam ;
4) Jayapa senani’s Vadya ratnavali , Nrutya ratnavali , Geeta ratnavali ;
5)Raavipaati Tripurantaka’s Premabi ramam , Madhana vijayam , Ambika taaravali
6)Malla’s Nirdosta Ramayanam ; 7)Appana’s Charu charya ; 8)Annamayya’s Sarveswara .
9)Agastya wrote Balabharatam and Nalakeerthi Kaumudi and Krishna Charitra.
• Inscriptions:1) Hanumakonda Inscription in 1163AD(By RudraDeva.Mentioned about
victories of ProlaRaja 2).
2) Ganapavaram Inscription by Ganapamba.
3) Kandavaram Inscription (Mentions Kakatiya ruler Mahadeva married his daughter
Kundamika to Rudradeva son of Buddha).
4) Boodapura inscription.
5) Bayyaram Tank Inscription(by Mylamba the Younger sister of GanapatiDeva.This
inscription mentions that Kakartya Gundyana and others were ancestors of Kakatiyas).
6) Motupalli Inscription(by Ganapati Deva)
7) Palampet Inscription in 1213AD (by Racherla Rudra Reddy).
• TELUGU : Books –1) Tikkana’s Andhra Mahabharatam ; (Viswanatha Satyanarayana called
Tikkana as ‘Telugu Shilpapu Thota’.
2)Marana wrote Markandeya puranam (1st translated puranam into Telugu) ;
3)Manchana’s Keyuru Bahu Charita (Translation to Rajasekhara’s ViddasalaBhanjika).
4) Ketana : translated Dashakumara Charitam of Dandi into telugu, translated Bana’s
Kadambari into Telugu;Andhra Basha Bhoosanam(1st Telugu Grammer
Book);Vignyaneswareeyam (translation of Mitaksara – 1 st telugu dharmasthaanam);
5) Gona Buddha Reddy : Ranganatha Ramayanam ;
6) Bhaskarudu : Bhaskara Ramayanam ;
7) Baddena : Neetisastra Muktavali , Sumati Setakam ;
8) Siva devayya : Purushartha Saaram
9) Palkuri
Somantha’s Panditarajya Charitra and Basavapuranam.His first book-
Anubhavasaram.
10) Jayapasenani’s Vadya Ratnavali,Nrutya Ratnavali,Geetha Ratnavali(on Music,Dance).
• Inscriptions: Chebrolu, Gudur, konidela , tralla podduturi, uppar palli, karimnagar .
• Upparpalli Inscription of KatakaNayaka describes Mahadeva’s son Ganapati as son of Rudra.
ART AND ARCHITECTURE

• Kakatiyas followed Kalyani Chalukyas and built Trikuta & Panchakuta temples.
• Trikuta temples (3 Shiva temples or Shiva, Vishnu , Sun temple with mandapam in middle of
them) ; Panchakuta (+Vinayaka , Durgamata) .
• Imp trikutas of Kakatiyas a) Pillala marri temple b) 1000 pillar temple
c)Paana gallu temple d) Paalam peta temple .
-Technical perfection reached it’s highest stage with usage of Floating Bricks in construction
of Ramappa Temple.
• Kakatiyas temple style : High gopurams ,Richly carved Designs, Welcome arches(Nagara
Toranam) , Vimanas, Naagini shilpalu , Nandi in Shiva temple .
• Imp temples – Swayambu temple (by Ganapati deva in Warangal) ; Padmakshi &
Siddeswara temple (by prola 2 in H.K); 1000 pillar temple (by Rudradeva in H.K) ;
Ramappa temple (by Recharla Rudrudu in Palampet) ; Yeka shila temple ; Srisailam
temple (by Mailamba) ; Prasanna Keshava Alayam (by Vellanki in H.K) .
Note:Ramappa temple is named after it’s Sculptor Ramappa.The sculptures carved are
Nagini,Madinika,Salabanjhikas.
 Orugallu fort : Started by prola 2 , Most part by Rudradeva and completed by
Ganapati deva ; Burujus in Fort by Prataparudra 2 ; Kush mahal by Shitab khan .
-In the field of Painting,Machaladevi(Painter in court of Prataparudra) founded a school for
promoting Painting called ‘Chitrasala’ at Warangal.
-TholuBommalata also developed during this time.

After Satavahana Dynasity, GanapatiDeva was the only ruler who bought whole of Andhradesa
under single dynasity control in the history of Telugu regions.
 AFTER KAKATIYAS PERIOD(Nayakas,Velamas,Reddy)
• In 1323AD Kakatiyas empire collapsed and was occupied by Juna khan or Ulugh khan or
Mohammad Bin Tughlaq (son of Ghiasuddin Tughlaq). He named Warangal as ‘Sultanapur’
and made Maqbool as Malik (Jagannath who converted to Islam) .
• He captured other South Indian towns including Rajahmundry , Madurai .
• Vilasa copper inscription (by Prola 2) , Madura vijayam (by Ganga devi) gives account of
tyrant muslim rule in Andhra.
• Out of 77 Nayankaras of Prataparudra 2, many lost their lives during war with Muslims and
only a few Nayankaras survived and most imp of them are
a) Prolaya Nayakudu b) Prolaya Vema reddy c) Recharla singama naidu

VIMOCHANA UDYAMAM
• Started by Musunuri Prolaya nayakudu and started from Rekapalle (Bhadrachalam) .
• Aims : To liberate Andhra from Muslim rule , To revive Hindu culture .
• He was supported by Recharla Singama Naidu, Prolaya Vemareddy, Kolani Rudradeva,
Musunuri Kapaya Nayaka, Vengi Bhupala, Manchikonda Ganapati Nayakudu.
• In 1325AD due to anti-people rule of MBT , there was unrest in Delhi and during this period
o Prolaya Nayaka : occupied Warangal with help of Bhallala 3 (Hoysalas king) .
o Prolaya Vemareddy: occupied Kammanadu , Pakanadu .
o Recharla Singama Naayaka : occupied Nalgonda , Mehaboob Nagar .
• And thus liberated Andhra from Muslim rulers but there was no political unification and
many kingdoms emerged and most imp of them are - o Musunuri naayakas
o Racherla velamas o Reddi kingdoms

MUSUNURI NAAYAKAS (1325AD-1368AD)

• Origin : Musunuru in Krishna ; These are Kamma people and called as Chaturdhanvayulu.
• Sources : Ganapeswara Inscription, Pillala marri Inscription, Polavaram inscriptions
of Kapaya Nayakudu .
• Kaluvacheru inscription by Anitalli ( wife of Veerabhadra Reddy) .
• Vilasa copper inscription by Prolaya nayaka .
• Penta paadu inscription by Choda bhakti Raju .

1) PROLAYA NAAYAKUDU
• Founder of Munusuri Nayakas.
• Capital: Rekhapalli (Bhadrachalam). Titles : Andhra Boomandaladyakshudu .
• Prolaya Nayakudu expelled the Muslims from Rajahmundry and occupied the region
between rivers Godavari and Krishna . Launched guerrilla attacks on the Muslim army.Thus
liberated whole of Coastal Andhra from Muslim rule.
• Donated ‘Vilasa’ village as Agraharam to ‘Vennama’ and inscribed Vilasa copper inscription.
• Died in a war with Kalinga – as per ‘Kakatiya Nayakulu’ book by Ranga.
2) KAAPAYA NAAYAKUDU (1336AD-1365AD)
• Cousin of Prolaya Nayakudu. Ruled whole of Kakatiya kingdom. Capital : Warangal
• Titles : Andhra Deshadeswara , Andhra Suratrana , Kataka Churakaara.
• Polavaram inscription inscribed by him.
• Fought with MBT representative Malik Makbul and won against him.
• In 1347 AD, the Bahamani kingdom was established by Allaudin Bahaman Shah and
occupied fort of Kaulas and fort of Bhuvanagiri from Kapaya Nayaka.
• Kapaya nayaka and Bukka 1 (vijayanagaram king) under Vinayaka deva (son of Kapaya
Naayaka) tried to recapture fort of Kaulas but they failed. Bahmani army occupied Golconda.
• Meanwhile, Velama Singamanaidu also revolted against Kapaya Nayaka and resulted in
Bhimavaram war. Kapaya died in Bhimavaram war.
• With his death, Musunuri Nayaka family rule came to an end.

RECHARLA VELAMAS OR RECHARLA PADMA NAAYAKULU

• Gotram : Recharla ; Capitals : Rachakonda and Devarakonda ; Origin : Pillala marri
• IMP PERSONS OF RECHARLA VELAMAS o Bethaala nayaka : Moola Purushudu .
o Recharla Rudra : Suppressed revolt when Ganapati Deva was imprisoned.
o Recharla Prasadityudu : helped Rudramadevi in war of succession.
o Daacha nedu : Commander of Prataparudra 2 .

1) SINGAMA NAAYAKUDU
• General of prataparudra 2 ; Chief of Nalgonda ; Participated in Vimochana Udyamam .
• Saamanthas of Musunuri Nayakas .
• He tried to occupy Jallipalli (which was under Somavamsa kshatriyas) and died in this war .

2) ANAVOTA 1
• Rachakonda rajya nirmaata ; Titles : Hindu raaya , Kadga naayaka, Andhra deshadeswara.
• His conquests - Recovered Jallipalli ; Killed Musunuri Kapaya nayaka and occupied Warangal .
• Occupied Bhuvanagiri fort , Sanigaram fort .
• To protect Southern part of his kingdom, he placed his brother Mada 1 as ruler of South part
with Devarakonda as capital.
• Anavota 1 & Mada 1 combinedly defeated Anavema Reddi at Dharanikota and occupied
parts of Kurnool and Guntur districts.
• Anavota 1 built reservoir named Anavota samudra .
• Mada 1 built steps to Sri Parvateeya temple .

3) SINGAMA NAYAKA 2
• Also known as Savanna Singha Bhupala .
• He is a poet ; Wrote Rasarnava Sudhakaram/Sangeeta Sudhakaram(a commentary on
Sangeetaratnakaram of Sarangadhara) and Ratna Panchalika in Telugu.
• War between Recharla Velamas(supported by Bahamanis) and Reddis (supported by
Vijayanagaram kings). Recharlas won .
• When Recharla chiefs were engaged in Coastal Andhra with Reddis of Rajamahendravaram,
Bukka 2 of Vijayanagaram occupied Warangal fort.
4) ANAVOTA 2
• Bahamanis led by Feroz shah attacked Panugal fort and Feroz shah was defeated by the
combined armies of Anavota 2 and Vijayanagara.
• He killed Macha reddi, Pedakomati Vemareddy and with this Reddi kingdom of Kondaveedu
virtually disappeared from political scenario of Andhra.
• he was succeeded by his son Singama nayaka 3 and he lost almost all forts to Bahamanis .
5) LINGAMA NAAYAKA
• Lingama naayaka unable to resist Bahamani attacks, he sought help of Orissa Ganapati
rulers.
• Kapileswara Ganapati helped Lingama nayaka in occupying lost territories of Orugallu and
Bhuvanagiri and made Lingama nayaka as his vassal.
• After Kapileswara Ganapati death, Bahamani sultan Md.Shah 2 defeated Linga nayaka and
occupied Rachakonda and Devarakonda.
• The successors of Lingama nayaka became subordinates of Bahamanis and later on came
under the yoke of Vijayanagara .
 Imp poets during Rachakonda Velamas
o Potana : he refused to dedicate his Bhagavatam to rulers.
#Pothana wrote Veerabhadra Vijayam,Bhogini Dandakam.
o Koravi Boparaju : wrote Simhasana Dwatransika ; Gourana : Nava naadha charitha .

REDDI KINGDOMS
KONDAVEETI REDDI KINGDOM (1325AD-1425AD)
• During Kakatiyas period, Reddi was a status title and broadly represented the category of
village headman. Kakatiya prince Prola 1 was referred to as Prola Reddi .
• Reddy chiefs are Generals , Soldiers , Feudatories under Kakatiyas ; Gotra – Vellacheri
• Symbol – Vrishabham(Ox) ; Caste – Deseti ; Guru – Kuntu Mallareddy ; Clan – Panta Vamsam
• Capital:Kondaveedu and Addanki and Rajahmundry
• Official Language:Sanskrit
• ReddyRajas protected Andhradesa for nearly 120 years from Muslim invasion.
• Kaifiyatu=Local History

1) PROLAYA VEMA REDDY (1325 AD-1354AD)

• General of prataparudra 2 ; Belongs to Pantakapu caste ; Capital : Addanki near Ongole .
• After Vimochana Udyamam, he occupied Guntur, Prakasam, Nellore and parts of Kurnool .
• His kingdom has 74 forts including Vinukonda , Kondaveedu , Dharanikota, Kondapalli .
• He restored Agraharas taken by Muslims to Bramhins ; built steps to Paathaala Ganga at
Srisailam.
• His brother Malla reddy fought with Bahamani sultans and occupied Motupalli port.
• Title – Mlecchabdhi Kumbodbhava (Mallavaram inscription) .Got this title as he overthrown
tyrannical Muslim rule.
 • His court poets – Errapragada & Srigiri (Navanatha charitra, Sriranga mahatyam, Srigiri satak)
o Errapragada : Errana. Titles – Prabhanda Parameswara, Shambudasudu
He completed the Aranya parva in Andhra Mahabharatam and dedicated it to Raja Raja Narendra.
Harivamsam to Prolaya Vemareddy. Also Narasimha puranam and Neelakanteswara Shatakam.

2) ANAVOTA REDDI (1354AD-1364AD)

• Shifted capital from Addanki to Kondaveedu as per Manyapuram Inscription.
• Title – Veeranna pothu, Vasantharayulu. Occupied Talagada Deevi and took title Dveepa
Vijetha . Court poet:Bala Saraswati
• Abolished tax on Gold which was started by Muslims .
• Improved facilities at Motupalli port – took measures to protect traders from thieves .

3) ANAVEMA REDDI (1364AD-1368AD)

- Most popular among Reddy Rajas.Known as Rajasri Ramani Swayam Parapati.
- Defeated Kalinga Gajapatis,Padma Nayakas,Vijayanagara Kings and occupied
Nidadavolu,Rajahmundry,Pithapuran ; Titles:Vasantha Raya,Chaturvidhopaya.
- Defeated Haya Hayas and occupied Konaseema(Jaladurga).
- Famously known as VasanthaRaya(as per Nadupuru Inscription) as he used to conduct
Vasantothsavam(Holi) every year.
- A famous Shaivite who constructed Virashiro Mandapam in Srisailam and Anavemagiri
Mandapam in Simhachalam.

4) KUMARA GIRI REDDI

• He popularized Vasanthostavam (spring festival) and got the title Karpura Vasantha Raya.
• Wrote treatise on a Dance and Music called Vasanata Rajiyam.
• Lakuma Devi,the popular singer and dancer belonged to court of KumaragiriReddi.
• He left Administration in hands of his brother-in-law Kataya Vema Reddi .
• Kataya Vema Reddi defeated Harihara 2 and married his daughter .
• In the east he conquered Bendapudi , Vajrakutam and Kimmuru and named these into Purva
Rajya and Kataya Vema Reddi was made ruler of Purva Rajya with its capital at Rajamundry
by Kumara Giri Reddy . So new Reddi kings in name of Rajahmundry Reddis started.
• In Kondaveedu, Kumara Giri Reddy was over thrown by Pedakomati Vema Reddi .

5)PEDAKOMATI VEMA REDDI

• Patron of Srinathudu ;PVR Wrote Sangita chintamani , Sahitya chintamani ,Srungara Deepika.
• Attili war between Devaraya 1 + Kataya Vema Reddi + Kumara Giri Reddy Vs
Recharla Velamas + Bahamanis under Feroz + Peda Komati Reddi .
• Kataya Vema Reddy died in this war. Later Pedakomati Vema Reddi died in hands of Velamas.
• Title : Sarvagna Chakravarthy ; Court poets – Vamana Bhattu, Srinathudu .
• Srinathudu Books: Srungara Naishadam(one of Panchama Kavyas), Haravilasam,
Bheemeswara Puranam, Kasikandam, Palanati Veera Charitra.
• Vamana Bhattu Books: Sabda Ratnakaram; Nalabhudayam.
• PVR wife Surambhika dug a canal known as ‘Santhana Payonidhi’.
6)RACHA VEMA REDDI
• Last Kondaveedu Reddy ruler. He was a tyrant so he was overthrown in popular uprising .
• Imposed ‘Puriti Sunkam’(On Pregnant women) tax on people.Rayasam Venkanna killed
Vema Reddi for this.
• Later Kondaveedu Reddi kingdom was absorbed in to Vijayanagara empire .

THE REDDIES OF RAJAHMUNDRY

• Kataya vema reddi - Died in Attili war . He was a great writer ; wrote Kumara Rajeeyam(A
commentary on Kalidasa’s Triology Abhignana Shakuntalam,Malavikagnimitra and
Vikramorvashiyam).
• After the death of Kataya vema reddi, his son Kumara reddy became king .
• He was followed by his sister Anitalli and she married Virabhadhra reddy .
• Virabhadra Reddi ruled till 1448 AD.
• In 1448 AD Kapileswara Gajapati occupied Rajahmundry and Reddi rule came to an end .

REDDIS OF KANDUKURU
• Ruled Kandukuru as their Capital. It was given to Malla reddy by his brother Prolaya vema .
• Malla reddy (occupied Motupalli ) – Srigiri reddi and Maacha reddy (defeated feroz).
• Last ruler was Komati reddi 3 and after this they became feudatories of Vijayanagaram.

ADMINISTRATION

• As Mansuri nayakas , Reddy rajus and Recharla chiefs once worked under Kakatiyas, they
followed Kakatiyas system .
• Bhoomulu — Seemalu — Naadulu — Stalalu — Gramalu
JUDICIARY: Followed Yagna Valkya Smirithi , Mitakshara .
• Very severe punishments, even Srinathudu (court poet of Peda Komati Vema Reddy) was
also severely punished when he does not pay tax .

ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
• Imp. Crops : Paddy , Jonna, Sajja , Cotton, Sugarcane
• Tax:1/6th
• Land – unit of measurement : Kesarapati gada
• Vinukonda is famous for textiles.
• Acc to ‘Haravilasam’ book by Srinathudu, International trade was done through Motupalli
port .Srinatha dedicated Haravilasam to Avachitippayya Shetty.
• Farmers loan method is called as ‘Jetti’ method.
• Stone throwing machine in wars is called-Paashana yantra.
SOCIAL CONDITIONS
• Worship of goddesses by giving animal sacrifices ; Worship of Shakti, Perantalu.
• Process of Sanskritisation continued leading to formation of new sub-castes like Vishwa
Brahmins and Nayi Brahmins.
• Caste associations called ‘Samayas’ formed.These are legal bodies.
• Veerapanchala=Goldsmiths+Carpenters+Blacksmiths+Bronzesmiths+Sculptors.
• Magic , Avadanalu , Dramas are entertainments .
• Cash : Dinaralu , Tankalu , Maadalu ; Tradition of aranam : type of dowry
• International dance : Parasika Mattalli ; Local dances : Perini, Jakkini

RELIGION
• Kula devata of Reddi Rajus : Moola guramma ; Brugu Patham=Falling off from Srisailam Hill
• SHAIVISM - followed by Reddy Rajus
• Most imp branches Veera shaivam , Paasupata shaivam
• Worship of Bhairava , Veera musti jangama forms of Shiva
-Within Brahmanism,both Vaishnavism and Shaivism experienced drastic changes:
a) Within Shaivism,violent tendency developed with worshipping of Veerabhadra and
Mailara.The uncivilised practice of cooking food with human flesh and blood called ‘Ranamu
kudupu’ started.This was offered to Veerabhadra.The practices like offering human organs to
Gods started.For this ‘Champudugullu’ were constructed at places like Tripurantakam in
Prakasam district.
• Gode Rayallu : for promoting Shaivam
b) Vaishnavism divided into two sub-sects called Srivaishnavas and Vykanasas.The
Srivaishnavas followed the philosophy of Visishtadvaita of Ramanujacharya whereas
Vykasanas formed as priestly class.This sect was formed by Saint Vikanasa.
Note:Bapatla was famous centre for SriVaishnavism.
Both Conservatism and Liberalism entered in Vaishnavism dividing it into ‘Thengala’ and
‘Vadagala’.The Thengalas were Liberals(considers Prabandham written by Alwars are sacred)
whereas Vadagalas were Conservatives(consider Vedas are sacred).The Vadagalas sect founded
by Siddarthadesika.Ahobilam and Tirupati are famous Vadagalai centres.
• VAISHNAVISM - Recharla chiefs followed this religion
• Vadagalaii , Tengalaii branches of Vaishnavism
The sectarian conflict between Saivism and Vaishnavism continued uninterrupted.

LITERATURE:
Already mentioned in Detail under respective rulers.
Some contemporary Poets of Reddi rajus:1)Duggapalli Dugganna wrote Nachiketho Pakhyanam.
2)Gaurana wrote Harischandro Pakhyanam
 VIJAYANAGARA EMPIRE (1336AD-1675AD)
THE ORIGIN:
• Originally from Warangal where they worked as Ministers and Treasures and feudatories
under Prataparudra 2. In 1323AD, Following the Muslims invasions,they fled to Kampili in
Karnataka. In 1327AD, Kampili was occupied by Muslims , Harihara and Bukka was taken as
prisoners to Delhi and they converted to Islam.
• Malik Muhammad was appointed as governor of Kamipili and Hindu rulers under Hoysala
ruler Ballala 3 revolted against him (vimochana udyamam) and Aaraveti Somaveeraraju
started Hindu matha udyamam .Md Bin Tughlaq sent Harihara and Bukka to suppress the
revolt. They met sage Vidyaranya and came back to Hindu path .
• During Vimochana udyamam, lead for Rayalaseema was taken by Harihara and Bukka .
• In 1336AD, Harihara and Bukka founded Vijayanagaram empire. Vijaynagar states – 29. Their
first capital : Anegondi. Later shifted to Vijaynagaram in 1344 AD.
• Sangama and Araveedu rulers are from Andhra Region wheras Saluva and Tuluva rulers are
from Karnataka region. Symbol:Varaha

SOURCES

Inscriptions
• Nellore inscription by Harihara 1.
• Bitragunta inscription by Bukkaraya 1(About Sangam dynasty lineage).
• Motupalli inscription by Devaraya 1. Describes about the trade during this period.
• TTD inscription – all dynasties of Vijayanagara empire. About Venkateswara swamy temple.
• Hampi inscription of Sri Krishna Devaraya – about him coming to power .
• Kondaveedu Inscription,Mangalagiri inscriptions of S.K.D – about Kalinga Gajapati’s revolts.
• Udayagiri inscription,Potnuru inscriptions of S.K.D – about victories against Gatapathis .
• Vilapakam inscription of Venkatapati rayulu 2 – about Tuluva and Araveeti dynasties .

Books
• Vidyaranya Kalagnanam – explains about Vijayanagara Rule .
• Veerappayya Kalagnanam – About Sangam kings and their rule .
• Gangadasa Prathapa vilasam , Ramabhyudayam , Saaluvabhyudayam – by Rajanatha . Court
poet of Saluva Narasimha Rayulu . Describes SNR rule .
• Jaimini Bharatham of Pinaveerabhadra – dedicated to Saluva Narasimha Rayulu .
• Kreedabhiramam of Vallabharayudu – about Devaraya 2.
• Varaha puranam – by Nandi mallayya & Ganta singana (First Telugu twin poets) – about
Tuluva kings and particularly Tuluva Narasimha Rayulu.
• Amuktamalyada or Vishnuchittiyam of S.K.D – explains about the Society , Religion,
Economic conditions during S.K.D’s reign .
• Vasucharitra of Ramaraja Bhusana – about Sadasivarayulu reign .
 • Krishnaraya Vijayam of Kumara Durjati – Describes about S.K.D’s minister Saluva Timmara.
• Rayavachakam of Stanapati – About Vijayanagara empire’s society, army etc..
• Harivamsam of Naachana Somudu – About sangama dynasty .
• Rajasekharagari charitra of Mallana – About people’s religious beliefs
• Manu charitram of Allasani Peddana – Religious and societal issues .
• Hamsa vimshati – by Ayyala Raju – mentioned about the 175 towns of Vijayanagara empire
• Kumara ramana charitra – about Kampili history

SANGAMA DYNASTY (1336AD-1485AD)

• After declaring independence, Harihara and Bukka started their rule from Anegodi (capital).
• They belongs to Kuraba tribe , Yadu vamsha kshatriya .
• They founded new city on southern Bank of Tungabhadra called Vijayanagara(city of victory).
• Vidhyanagara = city of learning in honour of sage vidyaranya .
• Moola Purusha:Sangamudu Founders:Hari hara and Bukka Raya.

HARIHARA 1 (1336AD-1356AD)
• The four regions of the kingdom were put in the charge of his four brothers.
Dwarasamudra (Bukka), Maale (Marappa), Mulabaga (Muddappa), Udayagiri (Kampana) .
• 1344AD : Hoysala kingdom merged into Vijayanagaram .
• Bogepalli Inscription describes about his Victories ; Constructed Virupaksha temple.
• He was titled Purva Paschima Adipati as his kingdom extended from Arabian Sea in the west
to Bay of Bengal in the East. (Atakalagundu inscription)
• Ibn Batuta visited Vijayanagara empire during his reign. MBT is contemporary of Hari Hara 1.

BUKKARAYA 1 (1356AD-1377AD)
• Titles:He was called ‘Vaidika Marga Pravartaka’ as he upheld the Vedic dharma and
encouraged compilations of commentaries on Vedas. Also called ‘Adhunika Manuvu’ .
• Won against Anapota reddy and occupied Ahobilam and Vinukonda .
• Chennaraya Pattanam inscription describes his reign ; Annexed Udayagiri fort.
• Annexed Madhura by killing Saambavarayudu as described in ‘Madhura vijayam’ book by his
daughter-in-law Gangadevi (Wife of Kumara kampana) .
• Sent an ambassador to the Chinese emperor of Ming dynasty .
• Mudgal war(1358AD) – Bukka 1 vs Mohd.Shah of Bahamanas. Bukka won the war. For the
first time in India , Firangis were used in this war.
• As per Sravana Belagola inscription, he protected Jains and Jain religion.

HARIHARA 2
• Ruled most number of years in Sangam Dynasty ; Guru – Devanachari .
• Titles:Raja Valmiki,Raja Vyasa.
• His minister Irugappa constructed a Jain temple ‘Ganigattu’ and wrote Navaratnamala.
 • Attacked Srilanka and extracted tribute from it .
• He was defeated by Kondaveedu general Kataya Vemana .
• Feroz shah Bahmani Attacked Vijayanagara and Harihara2 promised annual payment to him.
• 12 yrs of drought during his period – known as Durgadevi drought .
• War of succession started after his death.

DEVARAYA 1
• War of sucession started between Harihara 2’s sons ; Out of them Virupaksha (ruled for few
days); Bukka 2 (ruled for 2yrs); finally Devaraya 1 secured the throne and ruled for 16yrs.
• Devaraya 1 – also called as Pratapa Devaraya and Frouda Devaraya .
• Italian traveller ‘Niccolo Conti’ visited Vijayanagara during his reign.
• Sculptor Jakkanna was in his court. Jakkana wrote Vikramacharitra.
• Lost Bankapur fort to Feroz shah Bahmani and gave his daughter to Feroz .
--At Kondaveedu, Pedakomati vema usurped the throne from Kumara Giri reddi. He allied
himself with Bahmani sultan feroz and captured Udayagiri from the Vijayanagara ruler.
There up on Devaraya 1 took up the cause of Kumaragiri reddi and entered the Godavari
region. War took place between Feroz shah + Peda komatireddi of kondaveedu + velama
chiefs vs Devaraya 1 and Kataya Vemareddi .In the war, Feroz shah killed Kataya Vemareddi
and occupied Rajahmundry.
• Feroz had to withdraw from Rajahmundry when Devaraya 1 laid seige to Panagal
• Devaraya 1 succeeded in breaking of Velamas ties with Bahamanis and got them to his side .
• He annexed greater part of Reddi kingdom of kondaveedu into Vijayanagara empire and
small part of reddi kingdom was given to Recharla velamas.
• The war that took place between Firoz shah and Deva Raya 1 for a woman named Nehal is
known as ‘The war of gold smith’s daughter’.

DEVARAYA 2
• Greatest of Sangama dynasty ; Title : Gaja Veta kara (hunter of elephants), Frouda Devaraya.
• He felt Vijayanagara army’s artillery was weak and developed it.
• He recruited Muslims in to his army and built a mosque for them and placed a copy of
Quran infront of the throne. Respected all religions though he is a Shaivaite.
• Devaraya 2 was successful in his naval expedition against Ceylon, under the leadership of his
naval chief Lakkanna(Dakshina Samudreeswara) .
• Abdur razzak , the Persian ambassador to the court of zamorin visited Vijayanagara ; Also
Niccola Conti visisted his court.
• He performed Kanakabisekham on Srinatha(Court poet of Peda Komati Vema Reddy) and
gave him title – Kavi Saarva Bhauma.
• His court poet – Gouda Dindama Bhattu. Meetings took place with regard to literature in a
room called ‘Mutyala Saala’. His works – Mahanataka Sudhanidhi ; Ratnadeepika.
• During his reign, there was ‘Pan supaari bazar’ for Jains. In Pan Supari Bazar , he constructed
a Jain temple for Parsvanatha.
• Temples constructed by him:Vithalaswami Temple and Hazara Ramalayam.
MALLIKARJUNA
• Title : Immadi Devaraya .Weakening of Sangama dynasty started from his period.

VIRUPAKSHA
• He is a drunkard and womanizer.
• Bahmani ruler Muhammad 3 occupied Goa , Chaul , Dabhal during his period.
• Virupaksha besieged Malik hasan ( Bahmani governor of Rajahmundry) with the help of
purushothama gajapati .
• During his reign, Saluva Narasimha Rayulu was a vassal of Chadragiri region.

PRAUDA RAYA
• He is a very weak king and was not able to defend the kingdom .
• Saluva Narasimha Rayulu felt that only way to save Vijayanagara was by overthrowing old
dynasty. So he sent Tuluva Narasa Nayaka against Prabudeva Raya and he fled the city. This
is called ‘1st illegal Occupation’ (1st Duraakrama) .
• Thus Sangama dynasty ended and Narasimha Raya founded Saluva dynasty.
SALUVA DYNASTY (1485AD-1505AD)
o Origin : Kalyani puram (karnataka), Yadu vamsham clan , Chandravamsha kshatriyas
--Moola Purushudu:Saluva Mangu/Mangu raju Founder:Saluva Narasimha

SALUVA NARASIMHA (1485AD-1491AD)

• His inscription – Devulapalli Inscription. Describes about the Kings of Saluva dynasty.
• Shifted his capital from Kalyanapuram to Chandragiri.
He introduced ‘Saamu gaaradis’ for the first time in Vijayanagara empire.
• He was taken as prisoner by Kalinga Purushothama Gajapati and he secured his release by
surrendering Udayagiri fort to Gajapati.
• He conquered Honavar, Bhatkal, Mangalore ports to import Arabian horses from Aden,
Ormuz. Also he befriended Arabs and included Arab cavalry in his Army.
• His court poets -1) Rajanatha Dindima Bhattu : wrote Saluvabhyudayamu (history of saluvas)
2)Pina veerabadra: Jaimini Bharatham, Srungaara Shakuntalam
• Narasimha Rayulu himself wrote Rama bhudayamu in sanskrit ;
• Titles – Raya Mahaarasu
• Taallapaaka Annamacharya is a contemporary of him.

IMMADI NARASIMHA (1491AD-1505AD)

o Vascodagama came to India during his period (1498AD) .
o The real power was in hands of his Senapati Tuluva Narasanayaka. When Immadi rebelled
against him, he was kept prisoner in Penugonda .
o Narasanayaka compelled Chola , Chera rulers to accept Vijayanagara sovereignty, repulsed
the attack of purushothama gajapati and defeated Prathaparudra Gajapati. He brought
greater part of South India under effective control of vijayanagara empire.
o In 1505, Immadi was killed by Vira Narasimha Rayulu (Son of Tuluva Narasanayaka).
Thus Saluva dynasty rule came to an end. (2nd Illegal occupation)
o During his period, Bijapur become first State to got separated from Bahamani
kingdom. (Yousuf Adil Khan)

TULUVA DYNASTY (1505AD-1570AD)

o Origin : Tamil Nadu ; Chandravamsa kshatriyas ; Mother tongue : Kannada
o Moola Purushudu:Timma Raju Founder:Tuluva Narasanayakudu
o Tuluva Narasanayaka had 3 sons - Vira Narasimha, Sri Krishnadeva Raya, Achuta Raya

VIRA NARASIMHA (1505AD-1509AD)

• Kudiya Stamba Inscription by him – Describes about the victories of his father
Narasanayaka.
• Friendly relations with Portuguese governor Francisco-de-Almeda and agreement with them
to get army training as well as importing of Horses.
• Donated Kandanavolu and Adoni to Araveeti Ramaraju as he defeated Yousuf Adil Khan of
Bijapur who revolted against Vijayanagara empire.
 • He patronised and developed ‘Kuchipudi’ dance.
• He was 1st Vijayanagara king to abolish Marriage Tax.
• Died in 1509AD while revolting against Ummatturu and Sriranga pattanam.

SRI KRISHNADEVA RAYA (1509AD – 1529AD)

• Greatest emperor of South India ; Guru – Vyasacharyulu
• Hampi inscription – Describes about his crowning and his greatness. Saluva Thimmarasu
helped him to come to rule of Vijayanagara kingdom.
• Even Babur in his autobiography ’Tuzuk-I-Babari’ mentioned about the greatness of S.K.D .
• Built Naagulapuram town and lake in memory of his mother Naagamamba.
• Built Victory pillars at Simhachalam and Potnuru.
• Duarte Barbosa and Domingo paes of Portugal visited during his reign – Paes mentioned
that Vijayanagaram town during S.K.D’s period was on par with Rome city of Europe.
• The one who researched on relics of SKD is Longharts.
• He has ‘Ashtadiggaja kavulu’ in his court. S.K.D donated ‘Thippaluru’ village to them.
• Thimmarusu was called as ‘Appaji’ by S.K.D (Thimmarusu Title – Dharma prathipalika)
His court musician – Bandaru Lakshminarayana (Sangeeta suryodayam book) .
• The place where S.K.D lived is called as ‘Malayakutam’ .
• Wrote Jambavati Parinayam , Madaalasa charita, Satyavadhu Prinam,Rasa Manjhari,Jnana
Chintamani in Sanskrit and Amuktha malyada in Telugu. That’s why his period is called as
‘Prabandha Yugam’ and his Literature building is known as ‘Bhuvana Vijayam’.
• Amuktha Malyada is one of the 5 panchakavyas of Telugu. “Desha Basha Landu Telugu
Lessa” is quoted in this book. Amukta Malyada was written by Tirumalamba(daughter of
SKD).Amukta Malyada is also known as Vishnu Chittiyam. SKD dedicated Amukta Malyada
to Venkateswara swamy.
• His titles – Andhra Bhojudu ; Kavitha praavenya phaneesa (given by Nandi Thimmana) ;
Nistandra prathiba (By Allasani peddana) ; Sahiti samarangana Saarvabhauma ;
Dakshinapathaswamy ; Gajapati Gajakuta Pakavena ; Yavana Rajya Stapanacharya
S.K.D – Portuguese :
• Alfonso Albuquerque sent ‘Louis Prior’ as ambassador to attend crowing ceremony of S.K.D.
• Portuguese commander Christosiri Pogarido came to train S.K.D’s army .
• Goa treaty - S.K.D helped Alfonso to defeat Bijapur sultans (1510AD – Alfonso Occupied
Goa).
In return , Portuguese agreed to export Horses to S.K.D.
• Portuguese engineers were engaged to improve water supply in Vijayanagara .
S.K.D – Bahamanis :
• By the time of S.K.D’s reign, Bahamani was divided into 5 independent kingdoms – Bijapur,
Bidar, Ahmad nagar, Birar, Golconda. All the combined armies of them revolted against the
Vijayanagara empire but they couldn’t win the war. Adil shah and Quli Kutubshah were also
in the war but they got defeated by S.K.D .
• Occupied Raichur (1510AD) and Doab region of Krishna-Tungabhadra from Bahamanis.
• Restored Bahamani kingdom to its legal ruler Md.Shah, by displacing Barid Malik.
Other annexations :
• Occupied Udayagiri by defeating Prataparudra and visited Tirumala after this war.
• Occupied Kandukuru fort , Vinukonda fort , Bellamkonda fort and Kondaveedu fort.
• Occupied Rajahmundry and paid homage to Simhachalam Narasimha swamy .At Potnuru,he
erected a pillar to commemorate his victories.
• Revolted against Ummatturu ruler Gangaraju. He died by jumping into Cauvery river. Kept
Saluva Govinda Raju as his representative at Ummatturu.
• Annexed Raichur in Gobburu war with Adil shah (1520AD) which he again lost in 1529AD.

ACHUTA DEVARAYA (1529AD-1542AD)

• Crowned at Tirupati. On death of Adil Shah, he recovered Raichur.
• Portuguese traveller Nuniz visited Vijayanagara during his reign.
• Achuta Raya was imprisoned by Rama Raya (son in law of Sri Krishnadeva Raya) and he
regained his freedom during Rama Raya absence.

VENKATAPATHI RAYULU 1
• As he was a minor , his uncle Salakaraju Tirumala became regent.
• Salakaraju killed Venkatapathy 1 and his family .
• Later Rama Rayulu killed Salakaraju and made Sadasiva as ruler.

SADASIVA RAYULU (1543AD-1570AD)

• He was only de facto king , the real power in hands of Rama Raya and his brothers Tirumala
(this is not Salakaraju Tirumala) and Venkatadri.
• Rama raya house arrested Sadasiva. Rama raya dismissed Bramhin officials and appointed
his supporters. Defeated Portuguese governor Martin D’Souza.
• Vasucharitra mentions about Political conditions during this time in detail.

 Battle of Tallikota (1565 Jan 26) : Main reason – Aliya Rama Raya’s policy of divide and rule with
Bahamani kings and his involvement in their domestic affairs.
• This war is also called Rakshasa-Tangadi(two villages near Krishna) war, Bannihatti war,
Bhogapuram war.
• This war was between Vijayanagara kings (Sadasiva, Rama Raya, Tirumala and Venkatadri)
and 4 groups of Bahmani kingdom (Golconda – Ibrahim kutubshah ; Ahammad nagar –
Hussain Nijamshah ; Bidar – Ali Barid shah ; Bijapur – Ali Adil shah) . Birar – not participated.
• This war was described by Robert suyal’s ‘The forgotten Empire of Vijayanagaram’ book.
• Bahamanis won the war. Rama raya inducted large number of Muslims into his army and
administration and this is one of the main reasons for his loss in Battle of Talikota as two
Muslim Generals of Rama Raya defected towards Muslim rulers during the war.
With this Tuluva dynasty got demolished.
ARAVEETI DYNASTY (1570AD-1680AD)
o The dynasty formed by Tirumala Rayulu came to be known as Aravidu since Rama Raya and
his brother Tirumala and Venkatadri were the grandsons of Araviti Bukka.
o Capital – Penugonda ; changed to Chandragiri during reign of Venkatapathy Rayulu.
o Moola Purushudu:Araveeti Somaraju Founder:Tirumala Raya

TIRUMALA RAYULU (1570AD-1572AD)

• Ascended to throne at age 90. Capital : Penugonda
• Renovated temples at Tirupati, Kanchi and Srirangam .
• His court poet Ramaraja Bhushana dedicated his work ‘Vasucharitham’ to king Tirumala .

SRIRANGA 1
• In 1576, Ali shah of Bijapur laid seige to Penugonda and he was defeated by his general
Chennappa . Golconda sultan attacked Narasimha temple at Ahobilam and Kondaveedu .

VENKATAPATHY RAYULU 2
• He was also called Sri Krishnadeva Raya 2 and Andhra Bhoja 2 .
• Ruled most no. of years in whole of Vijayanagara kings.
• Shifted capital from Penugonda to Chandragiri and later to Vellore.
• In 1610, he allowed Dutch to open factory at Pulicat .
• His Vilapaka inscription gives history about Tuluva and Arivedu dynasty .
• His Venkata Vilasam is used for cultural meetings.
• His court poets – Ayyappa : Shaivarka Manideepika ; Virupaksha : Chenna Basavapuranam ;
Battalanka devudu : Jaina vyakaranam.

THE CIVIL WAR

• Sriranga 2 nominated Venkata 2 as his successor. Venkata 2 was murdered in 4 months by
Jagga raya. Taking advantage of this, Yachama nayaka proclaimed Rama deva as emperor
and the civil war broke. Jagga Raya was killed in Topur war And Ramadeva became king .
• Ramadeva appointed Venkata 3 (grandson of Rama Raya) as his successor.
• Venkata 3 permitted EIC to do business in Madras.

RAMADEVA RAYA 2(1616AD-1630AD)

Killed Jaggaraya in what is known as Battle of Thallikota 2.

SRIRANGA 3 (1643AD-1680AD)
• Last ruler of Vijayanagara empire. With his death, Vijayanagar empire demolished
ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEM
 Kingdom -> State -> Seema -> Stalam -> Village
 KINGDOM : Head – King or Chakravarthi
• Mantri parishad to assist King and Sarva Sirapradani as its head .
• Imp govt departments include –
o Atta vana = Revenue departments
o Kanda chara = Military departments
o Pradhvi bhaga = Judges
 STATE : Head – Durgadipati or Durganayaka
• There were 17 states in Vijayanagara empire. Each state has a Durgadipati.
• They also followed policy of transferring Durgadipatis from one state to another.
 SEEMA : Head – Paaru Pathyam gaarlu
• This is most important administrative unit. Seema is Kannada word of Nadu.
• Paaru Pathyam’s main role is to collect taxes and submit them to the government.
 STHALAM : Officers – Reddy/Gouda/Sthala karanam
• Those who protect law and order in Stalam are called Kavali daaru.
--Vanitha is a group of Villages.
 VILLAGE : Each village had 12 Ayangars – Talari(‘Meralu’ is their salary), Purohita,
Kamsali, Kummari etc…
• There was officer to look after prohibition of Slavery – ‘Begary’ .
--Mirasi Manyas or Bhattu Manyas allocated to Ayyangars by government.Ayyangars
pay a tax known as ‘Jodi’ on this type of Land.
• There were 5 different types of Villages :
1. Amara gramalu – For Commanders. Collected Durga dannayam tax in these villages.
2. Bramhadeva gramalu – For Bramhins. Also called Agraharas. Tax free.
3. Devadaaya Matapura gramalu – For Matadipathis
4. Ubbili gramalu – For Artists
5. Bandaravada gramalu – Those villages which are under King.
ARMY
• 2 Type of Armies – Siddha army/Kaijita army under king ; Amara Nayankara army (Similar to
Nayankara army of Kakatiya times. All castes, tribes including Chenchus, Muslims are
included in army.
• Chaturvida Durgas – Giri, Sthala, Jala, Vana.
• Navy chief during SKD is Timmoju.
• Historian Nilakanta Sastri called Vijayanagara rule as Army’s Rule.
JUDICIARY
• Court = Sabha ; Shastrita (C.J – King), Mudrita (C.J – Any other person appointed by King)
• Two type of courts – Pratistha (permanent) , Apratistha (temporary)
• Two type of crimes – Himsodbana (Criminal) , Dhanodbana (Civil)
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
AGRICULTURE :
• Athuvana tantram : Agreement between agricultarist and govt on tax payments. Land of all
villagers combinedly called as ‘Veesabadi’.
• In Narambika lands (wet/maagani lands) tax was taken in grain form.
• In Kaadambara lands (dry/metta lands) tax was collected in cash form .
• Normal land tax is ½ or 1/3 and 1/6 on land given to bramhins.
• Crops : grapes, leafy vegetables, mango, coconut, paddy (luxury food)
• Teega mallelu, Sampengelu, Kusumalu, Rajanalu are paddy varieties .
• Land tax during this period – Sangoru (1/2nd) , Mungoru (1/3rd) .
• 1/6th land tax on Brahmin Inami lands.
• Kondoju tax – on Barbers . Abolished by Sadasivarayulu.
• Marriage tax was abolished in some places first by Tuluva Narasimha Rayulu and later S.K.D
abolished it completely.
• Their Financial year starated from Maharnavami (July)
• Land given for construction of lakes is called – Dashabandha maanyam or Kattukodaga.
• IMP. LAKES :
a) Siruveru lake (Penugonda) : Bukkaraya 1
b) Narasa Nayaka lake (Anantapur) : Saluva Narasimha Rayalu
c) Nagulapuram lake,Kambam Cheruvu Lake : Sri Krishnadeva Raya with help of Portuguese
engineers .
d) Timma samudram and Konda samudram : Konda Marasu
e) Ananthasagaram lake : Bhaskara
DEPARTMENTS :
• Mentioned in Rayavachakam. Head of the department – Samprathi. 9 samprathis during this
period. Each department’s office is called as ‘Rayasam’
1.Attavana – Revenue department 2.Praadvi Vaakkulu - Judges
3.Kandachara – Military department 4.Dharmasana – Justice department
5.Patel – Village chief 6.Begara – Superintendent of Slavery
7.Talari – Village Kaapaladarudu 8.Peta Kavalidaru – Town Kaapaladarudu
9.Sunka – Customs & Excise 10.Madanarkudu – Stable officer (Horses)
IMP. TAXES :
Parasara Madhaveeyam , Sriranga patnam inscription give account of taxes in Vijayanagar empire .
1. Kondoju tax – on Barber. 7.Gunachari tax – on beggars
2. Ganachari tax – on Prostitutes 8.Jaati siddayam tax – on various caste workers
3. Pinje siddayam tax – on Weavers 9.Maggari – on
4. Eedipi siddayam tax – on Toddy workers 10.Gaanugaari – on Blacksmith
5. Chakra kaanika tax – on Potters 11.Addagada Sunkam – on selling of sheeps
6. Kalyani kanuka tax – on Marriage 12.Putrodaya tax – to be paid if son is born
INDUSTRIES :
• 4 types of industries:
o Metal industries: maintained by Panchanam caste
o Textiles industry : maintained by Maala, Saale,Padmasali,
Kuruba, Jandra, Doodekula caste
o Diamonds industry : Vajrakarur (Anantapur)
o Stone industry

TRADE :
• Imp trade centers: Penugonda, Vinugonda, Mangalagiri, Adoni, Udayagiri, Macherla
• Imp ports : Calicut (most imp), Pulicat, Motupalli, Machilipatnam, Mailapur
• Abdul Razzak said diamonds are sold on streets.
• Most imp. Export – Kalamkari sarees ; Import – Horses
o International trade mostly with Arabs, Portuguese. International coins include
Pesado(Portuguese),Dinaram(Egypt),Kruzudo(Portuguese).
COINS :
• Golden coins : Gadhyanam, Pratapa, Chinnam, Kaata, Panama
• Silver coins : Thar, Gatti, Haan, Yen
• Copper coins : Kaasu , Jittalu
• On one side of coin, king will be there and on other face animals, goddesses.

SOCIETY
• Two type of Brahmins – Vaidikas (Poojas,vedas etc..) ; Niyogas (working under King) .
• Two type of Kshatriyas – Suryavamsa (Cholas,Gajapathis) ; Chandravamsa (Pandyas,Vijayas) .
• 2 type of Vaishyas – Arya Vaishyas (Vegetarians) ; Kalinga Vaishyas (Non-vegetarians) .
• There was a 5th type of caste called ‘Panchanam’. They include
Kamsali,Kammari,Swarnakaras,Vadrangi,Kase.
• Those who engaged in Handicraft work is called ‘Kaikkolu’.
• Peaceful coexistence of Hinduism,Jainism.A large number of jain temples built at
Penukonda.
• Sati sahagamanam was followed widely( Even in King family).There is prevalence of
Polygamy,Dowry,Prostitution too.
• Women were given high status in the society.At the same time contrast to it Women were
coded as ‘Astha bhog’(looking women as object of pleasure).
• Slavery system was called ‘Benabaaga’.
• Main time pass things – Malla yuddhalu, Chess, Horse riding, Hunting, Dance, Singing
• Vijayanagara Kula Daivam – Virupaksha ; Kula Guru – Kriya Shakti
• Sangama dynasty followed Shaivism ; Saluva,Tuluva and Arimedus followed Vaishnavism.
LITERATURE
• Telugu , Sanskrit , Kannada literature flourished
ASHTADIGGAJAS
1.Allasani peddana – Titles : Prabandha paramesti, Andhra Kavita Pitamaha
Works : Manucharitra, Markandeya Puranam, Harikathaasaram
SKD gave ‘Kokati’ Agraharam in Kadapa for him.
2.Nandi Thimmana – Works : Paarijatha paharanam, Vaani Vilasam
3.Dhoorjati – Title : Saahitya Srivara
o Works : Sri Kalahasti Mahatyam, Sri Kaalahasteeswara Shatakam
o Only Shaivaite poet in S.K.D’s court. Also only one who dedicated his works to God.
4.Pingali Surana – Works : Garuda Puranam, Raghava paandaveeyam, Kalapurnodayam, Prabhavati
5.Tenali Ramakrishna – Titles : Vikatakavi, Kumara Bharati, Harihaasa priyudu, Narasa Kavita Sanata
o Works : Udbataaradhya charitra, Panduranga Mahatyam, Ghatikachala Mahatyam
6.Ramaraju Bhushanudu/Bhattu Murthy – Titles : Chaturvida Kavita Nirmata, Sangeeta
Rahasya Kalanidhi ,Ramaraja Bhusana
o Works : Kavyalankara sangraham, Vasu Charitra, Harishchandra Lopakyanam
7.Ayyalaraju Ramabhadrudu – Titles : Prathivadi Madagaja Panchaananudu, Sahitya Chakravarthy
o Works : Ramabhyudayam, Sakala Kathasara Sangraham
8.Mallana – Work : Rajasekhara Charitra Others:
a. Nachana Soma’s Uttara Harivamsam.Bukkaraya 1 has given ‘Penchikal Dinne’ Agrahara to him
b. Pillalamari Pinaveerabhadra’s Jainini Bharatam.’Vani na Rani’ is mentioned in this.
c. Tallapaka Annamacharya(1424AD-1528AD) and Tallapaka Thimmakka’s Subhadra Kalyanam.
d. Molla’s Molla Ramayanam.
---Endaro Mahanubhavulu andariki Vandanalu:by Tyaga Raju.

RELIGION
- Sangama:Shaivism Saluva,Tuluva,Araveedu:Vaishnavism God:Virupaksha.
- Shaivism famous sects include Smarthas,Pasupathas,Kalamukhi,Vira Shaivam.Vidyaranya
popularised Shaivism during this time.Srisailam,tripurantakam,Srikalahasti famous for
Shaivism.
- Vaishnavism made popular by Tallapaka Annamacharya and Tatacharya
families.Tirupati,Mangalagiri famous places during this time.
- There is presence of Jainism too during this period.

ART AND ARCHITECTURE

• Virupaksha temple : built by Hari Hara in Hampi .
• Hazara Rama swamy temple : Ramayanam stories were painted in this temple (Devaraya 2)
• Vitalalayam or Saptaswara temple – Devaraya 2
• Chitrangana mahal or Lotus mahal or Padma mahal built by Sri Krishnadeva Raya.
• Lepakshi temple : Nandi built here is the biggest in Andhra pradesh .
 DEVELOPMENT OF TELUGU LANGUAGE
HISTORY OF TELUGU LANGUAGE

• Telugu has its origins as early as 1st century AD or even before as one of later vedas (700 bc)
mentioned Andhras. Early inscriptions of the Telugu date from around 6 th century .
• The script almost similar to Kannada evolved in 10th century .
• Translations into telugu started in 10th century .Original works started in 14th century.
• Literary activities flourished especially during Vijyanagara emperors.
• The 16th century was the Golden age in the history of Telugu Literature.
• Krishna deva Raya himself introduced Prabandha (a kind of love poetry) in telugu literature
in his work Amuktya Malyada.
• First telugu Inscription – Kallamalla inscription (Renati Chola Dhanunjaya)
• Vipparla inscription – First inscription related to Telugu grammar (Jayasimha Vallabha)
• Addanki inscription – First poetic inscription in Telugu (Pandarangadu)
• Thippaluru inscription – Mentioned about Ashtadiggajas of S.K.D (S.K.D) .

IMPORTANT TELUGU POETS AND THEIR WORKS

NANNAYA (11th CENTURY)

• Court poet of Raja Raja Narendra .
• Titles : Adi kavi (first poet) , Vagama sasana, Vipula Shabda sasana
• Nannaya translated Adi parva , Sabha parva and part of Aranya parva of Mahabharatham
and he rendered these according to Vedic thought .
• His other works : Chamundika vilasam, Andhra Shabda Chintamani, Indra vijayam
• His inscriptions : Nandapudi inscription, Manda inscription

PAAVULURI MALLANA
• His work : Saarasamgraha / Paavuluri Ganitam – First book related to Maths in Telugu.
• Titles : Lakshmana Chakravarthy, Sarasa Sahitya Vicchaka

MALLIYA RECHANA
• His work : Kavi Janasrayam/Bheemana Chandamu (First book with Chandassu)
• Titles : Kavi Janasrayudu, Sravakaa Bharana

NANNECHODA (AROUND 1120 AD)

• He belongs to Kandukuri chola dynasty (vassal of Western Chalukyas).
• Title : Tenkananditya, Kaviraja Shikamani, Viveka Brahma, Prabhanda Prajapathi
• Wrote Kumara Sambavam
• He eugolised Valmiki and Bharavi (who wrote Kiratarjuniya) as his guiding spirits.
MALLIKHARJUNA PANDITARADHYA
• Titles : Somana Sivakavi, Kavi maaludu
• His biography is written by Palkuriki Somanatha with name ‘Panditaradhya charitra’.
• His work : Siva tattvasaram (one of the earliest works in Sataka Literature)

PALKURIKI SOMANATHA
• Introduced Veera shaivam in to telugu literature and he is 1st Veera shaivam poet in Andhra.
• His works : Anubhavasara, Basava puranam, Vrushadipa satakam (1st satakam in telugu with
all parameters of a satakam), Chaturveda saaram, Panditaradhya charitam (1st encyclopedia
of telugu people)

TIKKANA (13th CENTURY)

• Court poet of Manumasiddi
• Titles : Kavibramha (for his Harihara tatvam), Ubhaya kavimitra (great poet of both telugu
and sanskrit) , Somayaji .
• Translated 15 puranas of Mahabharata.
• His other works : Nirvachanotthara Ramayanam (poetry without single sentence in prose),
Krishna satakam, Vijayasenam, Andhra Mahabharatam.

MULAGATIKA KETANA (1200 – 1280)

• He wrote Dasakumara charita (translated from Dandi’s Dasakumara Charita and dedicated it
to his guru Tikkana), Andhra Basha Bhusanam (1st telugu grammar in telugu),
Vignyaneswareeyam: vignaneswara , a legal expert wrote a commentary on the dharma
sastras titled Mitalishara , where woman’s issues are interpreted .
• Titles : Abhinava Dandi, Kavijanamitra

MAARANA
• His Guru : Tikkana ; His work : Markandeya Puranam
• This is 7th purana in Ashtadasha puranas and 1st in Telugu language. The book is dedicated to
Nagaya Gannadu (Commander of Prataparudra 2).

GONA BUDDHA REDDY ( AROUND 1210 AD)

• Ranganatha ramayanam was written by him (1st Dvipada kavyam in Telugu
• Titles : Kavi Kalpataruvu, Kavi loka Bhujudu

BADDENA – Work : Neetishastra Muktavali ; Title : Kamalaasana

ERRANA (1280AD – 1364AD)

• Court poet of Prolaya Vemareddy. Titles : Prabhanda Parameswara, Shambhu Dasa
• Works – Harivamsa (dedicated to Prolaya Vemareddy), Nrusimha Puranam (dedicated to
Ahobila Narasimha swamy), Bharatharanya Paryavesham .
• First to write Prabhanda Kavyas. Kavitrayas – Nannaya, Tikkana, Errana
MANCHANA (1300AD) – His work : Keyara Bahu Charitra

NACHANA SOMANA (1356 AD– 1377AD)

• Contemporary of Errana , Somana is court poet of Bukkaraya .
• Acc to Penchukala dinner inscription he has great knowledge of Aagama sastram , 18
puranas , scholar of 8 languages .
• Somana wrote Vasanta Vilasam , Hara Vilasam , Uttara Harivamsa

ANANTAMATYA – Bhoja rajiyam : first story work in telugu

POTHANA (1420 AD– 1480 AD)

• Titles : Sahaja Pandita, Nigarva Chudamani
• Works – Veerabadhra vijayam, Maha Bhagavatam, Bhogini dandakam

SRINATHA (1360 – 1445 AD) OR SINGAMA BHUPALA

• Titles : Kavi Saarvabhauma, Du mu vu la Kavi, Aagarbha Kavi
• His works : Parahitasamhita(on Ayurveda),
Srungara Naishadam, Kasikhandam, Haravilasam(talks about International Trade),
Palnati Veera charita(refers to musical instruments such as Flute,Chirugantalu,Sannayi a
testimony for the development of Sangeethasastra), Sri Marruttara charita, Bheemeswara
Puranam.

THE TELUGU POETS OF TANJAORE

RAGUNATHA NAIKA
• Ruler of Tanjore and was called Abhinava Bhoja (bcoz he patronised many poets).
• Wrote Paarijata paharanam, Ramayana, Valmiki charitra, Atchuta bhyudayam, Rajendra
moksham, Rukmini Krishna Vilasam .

THYAGARAJA
• His famous composition : “Endaro mahanubavulu andariki naa vandanalu”
• Pancharatna Keertanas on Ammavaru, Subramanya swamy , Ghanaraga Pancharatna kirtana.
• 3 Yakshaganas : Nauka Vijayamu , Bhakta Prahlada Vijayamu, Seeta Rama Vijayamu
 THE QUTUB SHAHIS OF GOLCONDA(1512AD-1687AD)
 The disintegration of Bahamani kingdom in 1526AD resulted in formation of five new
sultanates . They were
1. Berar ruled by Imad Shahi dynasty (1490 – 1574)
2. Ahmadnagar ruled by Nizam Shahi dynasty (1490 – 1637)
3. Bijapur ruled by Adil Shahi dynasty (1490 – 1686)
4. Bidar ruled by Barid Shahi dynasty (1526 – 1629)
5. Golconda ruled by Qutub Shahi dynasty (1512 – 1687)
• Qutub Shah hailed from Turkmen of Kaaraku neel (black goat) tribe. He migrated to Deccan
and took service under the Bahmanis. Very soon he became Tarfadar or governor of
Telangana with Golconda (mangala varam) as capital.
• He was totally loyal to Bahmani kings and only after the death of last Bahamani ruler, Qutub
Shah asserted his independence under the title Sultan Quli-Qutub-Ul-Mulk.
• These Qutub Shahis are 7 kings who ruled Telangana, Coastal Andhra for 175 years .
• These people are called Andhra Sultans as these kings were tolerant towards Hindus.
• They are the 3rd ones after Satavahanas & Kakatiyas to unify and rule all Telugu people.
Sources:
1) Tarikh-i-Farishta by Mohammad Qasim
2)Kazainul-Futu-Nuhaphir by Amir Kushro
3)Tarikh-i-Jafra by Giridharilal

POLITICAL HISTORY

1) SULTAN QULI QUTUB UL MULK( AD 1512 – 1543AD )

• He was a contemporary of Sri Krishnadeva Raya, Achyuta Raya .
• Strengthened Golconda fort and constructed new city ‘Muhammad Nagar’ around it.
• Started Building Jama Masjid in Golconda (Later finished by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah) .
• He lost to S.K.D in Goni war. After S.K.D’s death,he conquered Vijayanagara empire.
• Titles : Bade Maalik , Amar-ul-umra , Qutub-ul-mulk, Khawas khan .
• He belongs to Kurukunel(black goat) Tribe.

2) JAMSID QULI QUTUB SHAH (1543AD – 1550AD )

• Son of Quli Qutub-ul-mulk. Killed his father. Tyrant. Died of a disease .

3) IBRAHIM QULI QUTUB SHAH ( 1550AD – 1580AD )

• In the Battle of Talikota, he defeated Rama Raya.
• During his period, Golconda was called Bhagiradhi nagaram (on his wife’s name) and also
hailed as 2nd Egypt (bcoz of high trade with Egypt).
• Introduced a new religion called ‘Charasiya’.
• Completed construction of Jama Masjid.
 • Built Ibrahim patnam, Ibrahim bagh, fence around Golconda, Langaur house (For Beggars),
Purana pul (1st Bridge on Musi river), Hussain Sagar lake, Ibrahimpatnam lake .
• Deccani dialect of Urdu started during his time. He was called Chauser of Urdu (Urdu Baasha
Pitamahudu). Wabi and Nishati urdu styles developed during his times.
• Also gave so much importance to Telugu.
• Called as ‘Malkabhi Ramudu’ by telugu poets in their works to describe him.
• His court poets – 1)Addanki Gangadarudu wrote Tapati Samvarano Pakyanam and dedicated
to Ibrahim (1st telugu poet to dedicate to a Muslim king) ;
2) Kandukuri Rudra Kavi wrote Sugriva Vijayam(1st yeksha ganam), Nirankuso Pakyanam,
Janardhanaastakam ;
3) Ponnaganti Telaganaryudu wrote Yayaathi Charithra (1st pure telugu kavyam) ;
4) Shiva Dharmodattam and Padma puranam by Mallareddy ;
5)Tariq-I-Qutubshahi by Kursha.
6)Shankara Kavi’s Harischandro Pakhyanam.
• His reign is described as “The kingdom at its height” by Harun Khan Sherwani in his ‘History
of Qutub Shahi dynasty book’.

4) MD QULI QUTB SHAH ( 1580AD – 1612AD )

• Greatest of all Qutub Shahis ; Became king at the age of 14 ; Built Hyderabad city.
• Akbar sent Masood Begh to his court as an ambassador.
• Built Charminar for successfully eradicating Plague in Golconda (from some tradition) .
• Charminar has Turkey , Indian, Iran, Arabic architecture styles .
• Built Dadhmahal (Court), Darulshifa (hospital), Chand mahal, Buland Darwaja,Goda mahal,
Kudhamahal and laid foundation for Bhagyanagar.
• Shifted Capital from Golconda to Hyderabad (Bhagyanagaram).
• ‘Maani’ is his pen name; Wrote poems like Khaned, Gajal Mersia etc..
• Hakim Taki-ud-din wrote a book on Medicine in Persian called Maznat-Ul-Taiba in his court.
• Meer Mohammad,the finance minister of Qutb Shah wrote a book called Risala Mikdarya on
Weights and Measures.
• Gulam Ali,the court poet translated Padmaavat book into Urdu.
• Wazihi wrote Laila-Maznu,a famous Love story in Urdu.

5) SULTAN MD QUTB SHAH (1612 AD– 1626AD)

• Constructed a new city called Sultan Nagar near Hyderabad.
• Persian literature developed well during his reign. His pen name – ‘Jillula’.
o Risala Mikardya by Mir Md Momin about Weights and Measurements .
o Mijanutho Tabayi Qutb Shahi by Hakim about Medicine .
• His wife was called Ma Saheba (bcoz of her contribution towards education) and Masab tank
was constructed in her name.
• Jahangir sent Mir Makki as his ambassador to his court .
• He also started construction of Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad in 1614, which was later
completed by the Mughal emperor Aurangazeb in 1692-93.
6) ABDULLA HUSSAIN QUTUB SHAH (1626 AD– 1672)
• He was only 12 when he ascended the throne.His mother Hayath Bakshi helped him rule.
• 1635AD – He was forced to accept sovereignty of Shah Jahan (Signed Inkiad Nama-
Vassalship) .
• 1636 AD – Abdulla issued Golden farman to British (Trade concessions) .
• 1655AD – Aurangazeb plundered city of Hyderabad and Abdulla made peace with him.
• His court minister Mir Md Sayyed gifted Kohinoor diamond to Shah Jahan. Kohinoor
diamond was found in Guntur district Kolluru mines (as per Travernier) .
• Dutch occupied San thome and Abdulla recovered it later.
• Gawasi a poet in his court wrote Totenama.
• Abdullah himself wrote number of Gazals.

7) ABUL HASAN TANISHAH ( 1672 - 1687)

• Tanishah = Good King. Title given to him by his Guru Sharaju.
• Akkanna, Madanna, Kancharla Gopanna worked under him.
• Abul Hasan entered in an alliance with Shivaji against Aurangazeb. Aurangazeb attacked
Golconda and killed Akkanna (PM), Maddanna (Commander) . Abul Hasan was captured in
1687AD. This marks end of Qutub Shahi dynasty ; Golconda was annexed into Mughal
empire.

 Kancharla Gopanna (Bhakta Ramadasu) : Guru – Raghunatha Bhattacharyudu. He worked as

Husnabad Tahshildar. He hasn’t submitted the Tax money to government. Using it, he built
Bhadrachalam temple. As he has done this without Sultan Tanishah’s permission , he was
captured and put in jail for 12 years. His works include – Daasarathi keerthanalu, Daasarathi
sathakam. Tanisha donated Bhadrachalam,Shankargiri and Palvancha villages to
Bhadrachalam temple. Ramadasu’s autobiography was written by Singari Das.

-People’s Poet Yogi Vemana too Composed Vemana Sathakam during this time.Vemana poems
were first printed by CP Brown.
-Gulam Ali court poet of Abul Hasan translated Padmavat into Urdu during this time.

ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEM
• Regarding Administrative system,details were given in the book Basatin-Us-Salaabat by
Mirza-Ibramim-Zuberi .
• Kingdom ——— States(Taraphs)——— Sarkars(Districts) ——— Paraganas(Taluks)
[Sultan] [Taraphdar – Governor] [Fauzdar] [Tahshildar]
• Kings considered themselves as ‘Jillullu’ (Form of God).
Paalaka mandali/ Mantri parishad/ Privi council/ Majlis-i-Diwan-Dari/ Majlis-Kingaash :
1. Peshwa – Prime minister.Also called Diwan(during Tanisha rule). Most powerful after Sultan.
Madanna worked as Diwan under Abul Hasan Taanisha.
2. Mir Jumla – Finance minister. Also called as Jumla-Tul-Mulk.
3. Ain-Ul-Mulk – Military affairs Minister. Appointed army and Durgadipatis. Trained them .
4. Majumdar – Auditor General. Only Hindus were appointed to this post .
5. Nazir – Official who inspects administrative matters and reports to the Sultan .
6. Dabir – Also called Diwani-Insha. Secretary. Disseminates the official information to other
departments. Shurahnavis (Record keeper) is the main post under his office.
7. Kotwal – Police commissioner. Oversees law and order enforcement.
8. Mushrif – look after matters relating to constitutional decency are properly administered.
9. Sarkhel – Main Revenue officer. Look after the issues related to Trade groups .
10. Hawaldar – Oversees the govt.’s stores, horses, elephants .
11. Shabandar – Port town official. Oversees the cargos and international trade etc.. Post will be
based on Auction and those quoted with highest price will be given the post.
• Village head – Mukhuddum ; Village accountant – Kulakarni ;
Paragana head – Deshpande
• Rasool – Temporary Ambassadors ; Hajibe Mukim – Permanent Ambassadors
• Vakeel – Permanent Ambassadors sent to Foreign states
• People Sabhas during Qutub Shahis – Gotsabha (Village);Majlis (Paragana level)
JUDICIARY :
• Judiciary superintendent : Shariat Panch (Like chief justice of today)
• Special officer to examine Muslim jurisprudence – Mahat sib
• 2 courts established by Qutub Shahis –
1. Dad mahal : Md. Kuli Qutubshah 2.Aman Mahal : Abdulla Qutubshah
ARMY :
• 2 types of Army – Sidda sainyam : under Sultan ; Jagirdar sainyam : under Wazirs
• Commander in Army – Salaar

ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
• Land used by government for themselves – Haveli lands .
• Pullari Tax was abolished as per Mangalagiri inscription. Land tax – 1/10th .
• Most imp. Port and Industrial centre – Machilipatnam ; 2% tax on both imports and
exports.Foreigner ‘Devnatt’ mentioned about this.
• Moti Darwaja:place where Diamond,Pearl business took place.
• Famous place for making ships – Narsapuram ; Cloth industry—Nellore.
• They minted only Copper coins. Gold coins of Vijayanagaras (Honnu) and Silver coins of
Mughals were also in use. Dutch obtained permission to mint coins from Qutubs and they
started a minting factory at Nagapattinam.
SOCIETY
• Court language – Persian ; but most of the people speak Telugu .
• Started celebration of Muharram festival in South India.
• Foreign travellers like Traverneir,Methvolt,Thomas Bary mentioned about Prostitution,Sati.
• Muslim Primary schools – Maktab ; Secondary – Madarasas ; Higher – Kaambhas
• Foreign Muslims who came to Golconda are called as Apaakis .
• Sunni population >>> Shia population.Qutub Sahis are Shias. Namaz 5 times a day.
• Sufism popularised during this time.
• Pothuluru veera brahmendra swamy belong to this period. His philosophy – Achala
siddantam (Similar to Adi Shankaracharya’s Advaitha). His works ‘Kaalagnanam’(written
by Annajayya), Govinda Vakyalu, Siddhabodham.
• Dutch(1605),Britishers(1611),French(1669),Portuguese(1670) arrived in India during
this time.All of their important centre is Machilipatnam.

LITERATURE
- Official Language:Persian(paarasikam)
- Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah become popular as Founding father of Urdu and was called
as Chauser of Urdu Poetry.’Wabi’ and ‘Nishati’ styles developed during his time.
- Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah also introduced ‘Ghazals’ in persian language for
first time.’Shayaris’ also came into use during his time.

ART AND ARCHITECTURE

- In field of Music,Carnatic music tradition further enriched.
- Mahakavi Kshetraya perfected Pada Kavitvam.Kshetraya belonged to the village Muvva
in Krishna district started composing his padas on Gopalaswamy as such they become
popular as Muvva Gopala Padas.
- With regarding Painting,the earliest miniature paintings in history of South India
were drawn during age of Qutub Shahis.Shafad-Shahi-Deccan, a text where 15
miniature paintings belonged to this period.
- In terms of Architecture,Qutub Shahi style derived from Bahmani School of
Architecture with Huge Domes,Wide Entrances,Tall and Elevated Minars etc.Tombs
are worth mentioning.The tombs were constructed with angular and octagonal
architectural elements.The Tomb of MD Quli Qutb Shah is most beautiful.
- The unique aspect of the tomb is that it is the only complex in the world where all
the members of Royal family were buried.