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{{Short description|Clan in Andhra Pradesh, India}} | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}} | {{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}} | ||
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2019}} | {{Use Indian English|date=August 2019}} | ||
{{Infobox country | {{Infobox former country | ||
|conventional_long_name = | | conventional_long_name = Pemmasani Nayaks | ||
|common_name = Gandikota | | common_name = Musunuri dynasty | ||
| | | capital = [[Gandikota]] | ||
| | | official_languages = | ||
|common_languages = [[Telugu language|Telugu]] | | languages = | ||
| | | religion = [[Hinduism]] | ||
| | | government_type = {{ubli|Governors under the [[Vijayanagara Empire]]|(Monarchy)}} | ||
| | | status = Dynasty | ||
| | | year_end = 1652 | ||
| | | year_start = 1368 | ||
| | | common_languages = [[Telugu language|Telugu]] | ||
| | | p1 = Kakatiya dynasty | ||
| s1 = Golconda Sultanate | |||
| p2 = Musunuri Nayakas | |||
| s2 = | |||
| era = [[Medieval India]] | |||
}} | |||
{{APhistory}}The '''Pemmasani Nayaks''' were a prominent [[Telugu people|Telugu]] [[Hindus|Hindu]] dynasty who rose to power in the 14th century, primarily controlling [[Rayalaseema]] in [[Andhra Pradesh]]. They belonged to the [[Kamma (caste)|Kamma]] community.<ref name=":1">{{citation |last=Ramaswamy |first=Vijaya |title=Globalising Migration History: The Eurasian Experience (16th-21st Centuries) |page=99 |year=2014 |editor-last1=Lucassen |editor-first1=Jan |editor-last2=Lucassen |editor-first2=Leo |chapter=Mapping migrations of South Indian weavers before, during and after the Vijayanagara Period: Thirteenth and Eighteenth Centuries |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=CCqiAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA99 |publisher=BRILL |isbn=978-90-04-27136-4 |quote=Kamma clans like the Pemmasani, migrated as mercenary peasant-warrior}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite book |last=Satyanarayana |first=A. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_PHZAAAAMAAJ&q=kamma |title=Society, Economy, and Polity in Modern Andhra |date=2007 |publisher=Kanishka Publishers Distributors |isbn=978-81-7391-971-8 |pages=7 |language=en}}</ref> They initially served the [[Kakatiya dynasty]] and later aligned with the [[Vijayanagara Empire]] around 1370 CE, following the decline of the [[Musunuri Nayakas|Musunuri Nayaks]] in [[Warangal]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Jehoiakim |first=Ethan Sören |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uqprlwEACAAJ |title=Pemmasani Nayaks |date=2011 |publisher=International Book Market Service Limited |isbn=978-613-7-94708-1 |language=en}}</ref> | |||
They were instrumental in the defense and expansion of the [[Vijayanagara Empire]]. They commanded large [[mercenary]] armies that formed the vanguard of Vijayanagara’s forces during the 16th century.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Stein |first=Burton |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=OpxeaYQbGDMC&pg=PA1 |title=The New Cambridge History of India: Vijayanagara |date=1990 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-26693-2 |language=en}}</ref> Their stronghold was [[Gandikota]], on the [[Penna River|Pennar River]], significantly fortified by [[Pemmasani Timmanayudu I|Pemmasani Thimma Nayudu]], who transformed it into a key military bastion. [[Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu]] was a leading commander under [[Krishnadevaraya]]. The Pemmasanis played a critical role in the civil war following Krishnadevaraya’s death. [[Rama Raya]] and the [[Aravidu dynasty]] rose to power following a civil war, largely because of the support of [[Pemmasani Erra Timmanayudu]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Murthy |first=N. S. Ramachandra |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BYDfAAAAMAAJ |title=Forts of Āndhra Pradesh: From the Earliest Times Upto 16th C. A.D. |date=1996 |publisher=Bharatiya Kala Prakashan |isbn=978-81-86050-03-3 |pages=202 |language=en}}</ref> Pemmasani Pedda Timmaraja served as the minister for [[Sriranga Deva Raya|Sriranga I]] and later for [[Venkatapati Raya|Venkata II]], the latter overseeing a revival of the Vijayanagara empire.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Henry Heras |url=https://archive.org/details/bub_man_bc99fd0d7ddf7f556b285a125658560b/page/265/mode/2up |title=The Aravidu Dynasty Of Vijayanagara Vol. 1 |publisher=B. G. Paul And Co., Madras |pages=266, 307 |language=English}}</ref> | |||
== | The Pemmasanis built and patronized significant Hindu temple construction, such as the [[Bugga Ramalingeswara temple|Bugga Ramalingeshwara Swamy Temple]] and the [[Chintalarayaswami Temple]], reinforcing their influence in religious and cultural spheres.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Ramaswami |first=N. S. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Pw9uAAAAMAAJ |title=Temples of Tadpatri |date=1976 |publisher=Government of Andhra Pradesh |pages=10–11 |language=en}}</ref> Following the [[Battle of Talikota]] (1565) and the decline of Vijayanagara, a section of the Pemmasani family migrated south and established the [[Kuruvikulam]] Zamindari in [[Tamil Nadu]], which thrived until 1949. Those who remained in Andhra were referred to as the "Gandikota Kammas," they ruled Gandikota and surrounding estates until the mid-17th century. Along with other influential clans the [[Ravella Nayaks]] and [[Sayapaneni Nayaks]], they supported the Aravidu Dynasty in resisting [[Islam in India|Muslim]] advances. This resistance lasted nearly 90 years, ending with the capture of Gandikota in 1652 and the defeat of [[Pemmasani Timmanayudu II|Pemmasani Timmanayudu]] by [[Mir Jumla II|Mir Jumla]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite book |last=New_delhi |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.170000 |title=Proceedings Of The Indian History Congress |date=1922 |pages=}}</ref> | ||
== | == History == | ||
{{Primary sources|section|date=June 2023}} | |||
== | === Origin === | ||
The Pemmasani Nayaks | The Pemmasani Nayaks belonged to the [[Kamma (caste)|Kamma]] social group, a prominent [[Telugu people|Telugu]] community in [[South India]].<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite book |last=Vadjuela |first=A. |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.119723/page/n173/mode/2up?q=Pemmasani+kammavars |title=The Aristocracy Of Southern India |date=1984}}</ref><ref name=":3" /> Traditionally associated with agrarian and administrative roles, the Pemmasani clan, in particular, rose to prominence through their military leadership and governance of key territories.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Andhra Pradesh: Exploring Gandikota, India's Grand Canyon |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/andhra-pradesh-exploring-gandikota-indias-grand-canyon/articleshow/111384321.cms |access-date=2025-05-09 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> | ||
According to Yadiki Kaifiat, Vijayanagara Emperor Phrauda Deva Raya granted Nayankarship of Yadiki to Pemmasani Timma Nayaka in 1424–1444 AD period marking the beginning of the rule of Pemmasani Nayaks. According to Tadipatri Kaifiat, Vijayanagara Emperor Sri Krishna Deva Raya granted Nayankarship of Tadipatri to Pemmasani Timma Nayaka between 1509 and 1529 AD period marking the beginning of the rule of Pemmasani Nayaks. After the collapse of Vijayanagara Empire in 1565 at the battle of Tallikota, Pemmasani Nayaks ruled Gandikota, Yadiki, Gutti and Tadipatri estates for over 100 years from 1565 to 1685.{{citation needed|date=June 2023}} | |||
== Rule== | === Geography === | ||
The first ruler of Pemmasani clan was [[Pemmasani Timmanayudu]] who fought many a battle and won the trust of [[Bukka Raya]]. | [[File:Indian Grand Canyon Sudhakar Bichali.jpg|thumb|[[Gandikota]] on the banks of the [[Penna River|Pennar River]]]] | ||
Their stronghold was the [[Gandikota|Gandikota Fort]], located on the banks of the [[Penna River|Pennar River]] in Andhra Pradesh. Originally founded in 1123, the fort was significantly fortified and expanded under the Pemmasani Nayaks, particularly by [[Pemmasani Timmanayudu I|Pemmasani Thimma Nayudu]], enhancing its defenses and transforming it into a critical military bastion. | |||
=== Extent === | |||
The Pemmasani Nayaks ruled [[Yadiki]], [[Gooty]], [[Tadipatri]], and [[Gandikota]]. The maximum extent of Pemmasanis feudatorial influence ranged from [[Gandikota]] to [[Kondapalli]] during the reign of [[Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayaka]] which includes areas like Gooty, Kondaveedu, Bellamkonda, Kanchi, Tadipatri, Yadaki.<ref>"Aristocracy of South India" by Vadivelu</ref> Pemmasanis helped [[Aravidu dynasty|Araveeti kings]] to ascend the throne of great [[Vijayanagar Empire]] when there was power shift between Tuluva and [[Araveedu]] dynasties after the [[Battle of Tallikota]] in 1565 A. D. where the Vijayanagar empire under Tuluva dynasty rule faced huge defeat against combined forces of Deccan Sultanates.{{Citation needed|date=January 2018}} Pemmasanis played a crucial role in protecting the Vijayanagar empire. This is evident from the prime location of land that Vijayanagar kings have provided to Pemmasanis in [[Hampi]] as camp when they visited the city.{{Citation needed|date=January 2018}} | |||
=== Rule and Military Contributions === | |||
The first ruler of Pemmasani clan was [[Pemmasani Timmanayudu]] who fought many a battle and won the trust of [[Bukka Raya]].{{Citation needed|date=June 2023}} | |||
Veera Thimma had a son by name Chennappa who had two sons Ramalinga Naidu and Peda Thimma Naidu. Ramalinga ruled Gandikota (1509-1530 CE) during the time of [[Krishna Deva Raya]]. Ramalinga had 80,000 soldiers under him and he played a crucial role in the victory of Krishna Deva Raya over the combined armies of [[Gulbarga|Kalaburagi]], [[Golkonda]] and [[Ahmednagar]].<ref>Krishnadeva Raya, M. Rama Rao, 1971, National Book Trust, New Delhi, p. 17</ref> His exploits in the battle were extolled by many [[Telugu language|Telugu]] poets. He was the most feared by the Generals of [[Bijapur Sultanate|Bijapur]], [[Ahmednagar]] and [[Golconda]].{{sfn|Wagoner, Tidings of the king|1993|pp=138-139}} | Veera Thimma had a son by name Chennappa who had two sons Ramalinga Naidu and Peda Thimma Naidu. Ramalinga ruled Gandikota (1509-1530 CE) during the time of [[Krishna Deva Raya]]. Ramalinga had 80,000 soldiers under him and he played a crucial role in the victory of Krishna Deva Raya over the combined armies of [[Gulbarga|Kalaburagi]], [[Golkonda]] and [[Ahmednagar]].<ref>Krishnadeva Raya, M. Rama Rao, 1971, National Book Trust, New Delhi, p. 17</ref> His exploits in the battle were extolled by many [[Telugu language|Telugu]] poets. He was the most feared by the Generals of [[Bijapur Sultanate|Bijapur]], [[Ahmednagar]] and [[Golconda]].{{sfn|Wagoner, Tidings of the king|1993|pp=138-139}} | ||
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Thimma Naidu II participated in the expeditions of [[Krishna Deva Raya]] and captured [[Udayagiri Fort|Udayagiri]], [[Addanki]], [[Kondapalli]], [[Rajahmundry]] and Katakam ([[Cuttack]]). He also played a crucial role in the conquest of Ummattur.<ref name=":0" /> | Thimma Naidu II participated in the expeditions of [[Krishna Deva Raya]] and captured [[Udayagiri Fort|Udayagiri]], [[Addanki]], [[Kondapalli]], [[Rajahmundry]] and Katakam ([[Cuttack]]). He also played a crucial role in the conquest of Ummattur.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
After the death of Krishna Deva Raya in 1529, his son-in-law [[Rama Raya]] took control of the kingdom. The Bahamani sultan colluded with Salakam Timmaraja and raided Vijayanagar. Ramaraya took refuge in Gandikota. Bangaru Thimma Naidu vanquished Bahamanis in a fierce battle at Komali, killed Salakam Timmaraja and restored the throne to Ramaraya.<ref name=":0">Further Sources of Vijayanagar History by K. A. Nilakanta Sastry, 1946, https://archive.org/details/FurtherSourcesOfVijayanagaraHistory</ref> | After the death of Krishna Deva Raya in 1529, his son-in-law [[Rama Raya (statesman)|Rama Raya]] took control of the kingdom. The Bahamani sultan colluded with Salakam Timmaraja and raided Vijayanagar. Ramaraya took refuge in Gandikota. Bangaru Thimma Naidu vanquished Bahamanis in a fierce battle at Komali, killed Salakam Timmaraja and restored the throne to Ramaraya.<ref name=":0">Further Sources of Vijayanagar History by K. A. Nilakanta Sastry, 1946, https://archive.org/details/FurtherSourcesOfVijayanagaraHistory</ref> | ||
=== Religious and Cultural Patronage === | |||
The Pemmasanis were significant patrons of [[Hindus|Hindu]] temples. Notable constructions under their patronage include the [[Bugga Ramalingeswara temple|Bugga Ramalingeshwara Swamy Temple]] and the [[Chintalarayaswami Temple]]. | |||
[[File:06a_-_Musical_Pillars_and_Main_Unfinished_Gopuram.JPG|thumb|243x243px|Musical pillars at Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple]] | |||
'''Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple''' | |||
Constructed between 1490 and 1509 CE by [[Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu I]], this [[Shiva]] temple is situated on the southern bank of the Penna River in [[Tadipatri]], [[Anantapur district|Anantapur]] district, Andhra Pradesh. The temple is renowned for its unique architectural features, including seven musical pillars in front of the [[Vishnu]] shrine that produce the 'saptaswara' (seven musical notes) when struck. The temple's [[gopuram]]s (gateway towers) remain unfinished and have been described by [[Architecture|architectural]] [[historian]] James Anderson as "wonders".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple anantapur |url=https://www.incredibleindia.gov.in/en/andhra-pradesh/anantapur/bugga-ramalingeswara-swamy-temple#:~:text=The%20temple's%20unfinished%20gopurams,%20described,ambition%20of%20the%20Vijayanagara%20Empire. |access-date=2025-05-09 |website=Incredible India |language=en}}</ref> | |||
'''Chintala Venkataramana Swamy Temple''' | |||
Built in the mid-16th century by [[Pemmasani Timmanayudu II]], a subordinate of Krishnadevaraya, this [[Vaishnavism|Vaishnavite]] temple is dedicated to Lord [[Venkateswara]] and is located in Tadipatri, Anantapur district. The temple is notable for its [[Dravidian architecture|Dravidian architectural]] style, featuring intricate granite sculptures and a Garuda Mandapa designed as a chariot with rotating [[granite]] wheels. The temple's main deity, a 10-foot-high idol of Venkateswara, is uniquely illuminated by sun rays directly touching its feet during the [[Mukkoti Ekadasi]] festival.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Visit the Chintala Venkataramana Swamy Temple near Anantapur |url=https://www.incredibleindia.gov.in/en/andhra-pradesh/anantapur/chintala-venkataramana-swamy-temple |access-date=2025-05-09 |website=Incredible India |language=en}}</ref> | |||
=== Decline === | |||
The Pemmasani Nayaks, along with Ravella and Sayapaneni Nayaks, played a pivotal role in supporting the Aravidu dynasty during a period of sustained resistance against the advancing [[Deccan sultanates|Muslim sultanates]] in the [[Deccan Plateau|Deccan]]. Their combined military efforts were instrumental in preserving the integrity of the [[Vijayanagara Empire|Vijayanagara]] territories in Andhra for several decades following the Battle of Talikota in 1565. However, by the mid-17th century, the balance of power had shifted. The growing dominance of the [[Golconda Sultanate]] in the region led to a concerted campaign to subdue remaining Hindu strongholds. This culminated in the capture of [[Gandikota]] in 1652 and the decisive defeat of [[Pemmasani Timmanayudu II|Pemmasani Timmanayudu]] by the Golconda general [[Mir Jumla II|Mir Jumla]]. The fall of Gandikota marked the end of Pemmasani military and political influence in the [[Rayalaseema]] region and signified the final consolidation of Muslim power across much of coastal and interior Andhra.<ref name=":2" /> | |||
== Kuruvikulam Zamindari == | |||
Following the [[Battle of Talikota]], a branch of the Gandikota Pemmasani family migrated to [[Tamil Nadu]] and established the [[Kuruvikulam]] Zamindari. This estate, which included Kuruvikulam and Ilaiyarasanendal, became the most prominent Zamindari in Tamil Nadu and persisted from 1565 to 1949.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oFwDWt2N29cC |title=The Aristocracy of Southern India |author2= |publisher=Mittal Publications |year=2016 |editor1-last=A. Vadivelu |volume= |page=168 |quote=}}</ref> | |||
== | == Sources == | ||
Pemmasani Nayaks are known to be the feudatory rulers of Gandikota in the sixteenth century, serving under [[Aravidu dynasty]] (1542–1652), especially [[Rama Raya (statesman)|Rama Raya]].<ref name="Stein">Vijayanagara, [[Burton Stein]], Cambridge University Press, 1989, p.88, {{ISBN|0-521-26693-9}}</ref> The late sixteenth century [[Telugu language|Telugu]] text ''Rayavachakamu'' mentions [[Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu]] as a Kamma chief serving [[Krishnadeva Raya]] ({{reign|1509|1529}}). It is not known whether he served Krishnadeva Raya or some later ruler.<ref>{{harvnb|Wagoner|1993|p=240|year=1993}}: Pemmasani Ramalingama Nayadu [mentioned in the text] belonged to the influential Pemmasani family that ruled the Gandikota-''sima'' during the second half of the sixteenth century and provided several prominent ministers, including Pemmasani Timma, who served Vijayanagara under the Aravidu dynasty... It is not clear whether he served Krishnadevaraya or a later ruler.</ref> Ramalinga Nayudu, the military commender of Gandikota Fort was in the court of Krishnadeva Raya as clearly mentioned in Rayavachakamu (Telugu).<ref>Kumar, P.A. 2025. Pemmasani Nayaks: Vanguard of Vijayanagara. Ananda Publications, Hyderabad, India</ref> | |||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
*[[Gandikota]] | *[[Gandikota]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Musunuri Nayakas]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Sayapaneni Nayaks]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Ravella Nayaks]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Nayaka dynasties]] | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
| Line 61: | Line 81: | ||
==Bibliography== | ==Bibliography== | ||
* {{citation |last=Wagoner |first=Phillip B. |title=Tidings of the king: a translation and ethnohistorical analysis of the Rāyavācakamu |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_A1uAAAAMAAJ |year=1993 |publisher=University of Hawaii Press |isbn=978-0-8248-1495-3 |ref={{sfnref|Wagoner, Tidings of the king|1993}}}} | * {{citation |last=Wagoner |first=Phillip B. |title=Tidings of the king: a translation and ethnohistorical analysis of the Rāyavācakamu |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_A1uAAAAMAAJ |year=1993 |publisher=University of Hawaii Press |isbn=978-0-8248-1495-3 |ref={{sfnref|Wagoner, Tidings of the king|1993}}}} | ||
* Ananda Kumar, P. 2025. Pemmasani Nayaks: Vanguard of Vijayanagara. Ananda Publications, Hyderabad, India. | |||
{{Andhra Pradesh}} | |||
{{Telangana}} | |||
[[Category:Dynasties of | [[Category:Nayak dynasties]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Dynasties of medieval Andhra]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:States and territories disestablished in 1368]] | ||
[[Category:States and territories established in the 13th century]] | |||
Latest revision as of 04:08, 12 March 2026
Pemmasani Nayaks | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1368–1652 | |||||||||||
| Status | Dynasty | ||||||||||
| Capital | Gandikota | ||||||||||
| Common languages | Telugu | ||||||||||
| Religion | Hinduism | ||||||||||
| Government |
| ||||||||||
| Historical era | Medieval India | ||||||||||
• Established | 1368 | ||||||||||
• Disestablished | 1652 | ||||||||||
| |||||||||||
| Part of a series on |
| Andhra Pradesh and Telangana |
|---|
 |
| History and Kingdoms |
The Pemmasani Nayaks were a prominent Telugu Hindu dynasty who rose to power in the 14th century, primarily controlling Rayalaseema in Andhra Pradesh. They belonged to the Kamma community.[1][2] They initially served the Kakatiya dynasty and later aligned with the Vijayanagara Empire around 1370 CE, following the decline of the Musunuri Nayaks in Warangal.[3]
They were instrumental in the defense and expansion of the Vijayanagara Empire. They commanded large mercenary armies that formed the vanguard of Vijayanagara’s forces during the 16th century.[4] Their stronghold was Gandikota, on the Pennar River, significantly fortified by Pemmasani Thimma Nayudu, who transformed it into a key military bastion. Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu was a leading commander under Krishnadevaraya. The Pemmasanis played a critical role in the civil war following Krishnadevaraya’s death. Rama Raya and the Aravidu dynasty rose to power following a civil war, largely because of the support of Pemmasani Erra Timmanayudu.[5] Pemmasani Pedda Timmaraja served as the minister for Sriranga I and later for Venkata II, the latter overseeing a revival of the Vijayanagara empire.[6]
The Pemmasanis built and patronized significant Hindu temple construction, such as the Bugga Ramalingeshwara Swamy Temple and the Chintalarayaswami Temple, reinforcing their influence in religious and cultural spheres.[7] Following the Battle of Talikota (1565) and the decline of Vijayanagara, a section of the Pemmasani family migrated south and established the Kuruvikulam Zamindari in Tamil Nadu, which thrived until 1949. Those who remained in Andhra were referred to as the "Gandikota Kammas," they ruled Gandikota and surrounding estates until the mid-17th century. Along with other influential clans the Ravella Nayaks and Sayapaneni Nayaks, they supported the Aravidu Dynasty in resisting Muslim advances. This resistance lasted nearly 90 years, ending with the capture of Gandikota in 1652 and the defeat of Pemmasani Timmanayudu by Mir Jumla.[8]
History[edit | edit source]
 | This section relies too much on references to primary sources. |
Origin[edit | edit source]
The Pemmasani Nayaks belonged to the Kamma social group, a prominent Telugu community in South India.[1][9][2] Traditionally associated with agrarian and administrative roles, the Pemmasani clan, in particular, rose to prominence through their military leadership and governance of key territories.[10]
According to Yadiki Kaifiat, Vijayanagara Emperor Phrauda Deva Raya granted Nayankarship of Yadiki to Pemmasani Timma Nayaka in 1424–1444 AD period marking the beginning of the rule of Pemmasani Nayaks. According to Tadipatri Kaifiat, Vijayanagara Emperor Sri Krishna Deva Raya granted Nayankarship of Tadipatri to Pemmasani Timma Nayaka between 1509 and 1529 AD period marking the beginning of the rule of Pemmasani Nayaks. After the collapse of Vijayanagara Empire in 1565 at the battle of Tallikota, Pemmasani Nayaks ruled Gandikota, Yadiki, Gutti and Tadipatri estates for over 100 years from 1565 to 1685.[citation needed]
Geography[edit | edit source]
Their stronghold was the Gandikota Fort, located on the banks of the Pennar River in Andhra Pradesh. Originally founded in 1123, the fort was significantly fortified and expanded under the Pemmasani Nayaks, particularly by Pemmasani Thimma Nayudu, enhancing its defenses and transforming it into a critical military bastion.
Extent[edit | edit source]
The Pemmasani Nayaks ruled Yadiki, Gooty, Tadipatri, and Gandikota. The maximum extent of Pemmasanis feudatorial influence ranged from Gandikota to Kondapalli during the reign of Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayaka which includes areas like Gooty, Kondaveedu, Bellamkonda, Kanchi, Tadipatri, Yadaki.[11] Pemmasanis helped Araveeti kings to ascend the throne of great Vijayanagar Empire when there was power shift between Tuluva and Araveedu dynasties after the Battle of Tallikota in 1565 A. D. where the Vijayanagar empire under Tuluva dynasty rule faced huge defeat against combined forces of Deccan Sultanates.[citation needed] Pemmasanis played a crucial role in protecting the Vijayanagar empire. This is evident from the prime location of land that Vijayanagar kings have provided to Pemmasanis in Hampi as camp when they visited the city.[citation needed]
Rule and Military Contributions[edit | edit source]
The first ruler of Pemmasani clan was Pemmasani Timmanayudu who fought many a battle and won the trust of Bukka Raya.[citation needed]
Veera Thimma had a son by name Chennappa who had two sons Ramalinga Naidu and Peda Thimma Naidu. Ramalinga ruled Gandikota (1509-1530 CE) during the time of Krishna Deva Raya. Ramalinga had 80,000 soldiers under him and he played a crucial role in the victory of Krishna Deva Raya over the combined armies of Kalaburagi, Golkonda and Ahmednagar.[12] His exploits in the battle were extolled by many Telugu poets. He was the most feared by the Generals of Bijapur, Ahmednagar and Golconda.[13]
Thimma Naidu II participated in the expeditions of Krishna Deva Raya and captured Udayagiri, Addanki, Kondapalli, Rajahmundry and Katakam (Cuttack). He also played a crucial role in the conquest of Ummattur.[14]
After the death of Krishna Deva Raya in 1529, his son-in-law Rama Raya took control of the kingdom. The Bahamani sultan colluded with Salakam Timmaraja and raided Vijayanagar. Ramaraya took refuge in Gandikota. Bangaru Thimma Naidu vanquished Bahamanis in a fierce battle at Komali, killed Salakam Timmaraja and restored the throne to Ramaraya.[14]
Religious and Cultural Patronage[edit | edit source]
The Pemmasanis were significant patrons of Hindu temples. Notable constructions under their patronage include the Bugga Ramalingeshwara Swamy Temple and the Chintalarayaswami Temple.
Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple
Constructed between 1490 and 1509 CE by Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu I, this Shiva temple is situated on the southern bank of the Penna River in Tadipatri, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh. The temple is renowned for its unique architectural features, including seven musical pillars in front of the Vishnu shrine that produce the 'saptaswara' (seven musical notes) when struck. The temple's gopurams (gateway towers) remain unfinished and have been described by architectural historian James Anderson as "wonders".[15]
Chintala Venkataramana Swamy Temple
Built in the mid-16th century by Pemmasani Timmanayudu II, a subordinate of Krishnadevaraya, this Vaishnavite temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and is located in Tadipatri, Anantapur district. The temple is notable for its Dravidian architectural style, featuring intricate granite sculptures and a Garuda Mandapa designed as a chariot with rotating granite wheels. The temple's main deity, a 10-foot-high idol of Venkateswara, is uniquely illuminated by sun rays directly touching its feet during the Mukkoti Ekadasi festival.[16]
Decline[edit | edit source]
The Pemmasani Nayaks, along with Ravella and Sayapaneni Nayaks, played a pivotal role in supporting the Aravidu dynasty during a period of sustained resistance against the advancing Muslim sultanates in the Deccan. Their combined military efforts were instrumental in preserving the integrity of the Vijayanagara territories in Andhra for several decades following the Battle of Talikota in 1565. However, by the mid-17th century, the balance of power had shifted. The growing dominance of the Golconda Sultanate in the region led to a concerted campaign to subdue remaining Hindu strongholds. This culminated in the capture of Gandikota in 1652 and the decisive defeat of Pemmasani Timmanayudu by the Golconda general Mir Jumla. The fall of Gandikota marked the end of Pemmasani military and political influence in the Rayalaseema region and signified the final consolidation of Muslim power across much of coastal and interior Andhra.[8]
Kuruvikulam Zamindari[edit | edit source]
Following the Battle of Talikota, a branch of the Gandikota Pemmasani family migrated to Tamil Nadu and established the Kuruvikulam Zamindari. This estate, which included Kuruvikulam and Ilaiyarasanendal, became the most prominent Zamindari in Tamil Nadu and persisted from 1565 to 1949.[17]
Sources[edit | edit source]
Pemmasani Nayaks are known to be the feudatory rulers of Gandikota in the sixteenth century, serving under Aravidu dynasty (1542–1652), especially Rama Raya.[18] The late sixteenth century Telugu text Rayavachakamu mentions Pemmasani Ramalinga Nayudu as a Kamma chief serving Krishnadeva Raya (r. 1509–1529). It is not known whether he served Krishnadeva Raya or some later ruler.[19] Ramalinga Nayudu, the military commender of Gandikota Fort was in the court of Krishnadeva Raya as clearly mentioned in Rayavachakamu (Telugu).[20]
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Ramaswamy, Vijaya (2014), "Mapping migrations of South Indian weavers before, during and after the Vijayanagara Period: Thirteenth and Eighteenth Centuries", in Lucassen, Jan; Lucassen, Leo (eds.), Globalising Migration History: The Eurasian Experience (16th-21st Centuries), BRILL, p. 99, ISBN 978-90-04-27136-4,
Kamma clans like the Pemmasani, migrated as mercenary peasant-warrior
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Satyanarayana, A. (2007). Society, Economy, and Polity in Modern Andhra. Kanishka Publishers Distributors. p. 7. ISBN 978-81-7391-971-8.
- ↑ Jehoiakim, Ethan Sören (2011). Pemmasani Nayaks. International Book Market Service Limited. ISBN 978-613-7-94708-1.
- ↑ Stein, Burton (1990). The New Cambridge History of India: Vijayanagara. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-0-521-26693-2.
- ↑ Murthy, N. S. Ramachandra (1996). Forts of Āndhra Pradesh: From the Earliest Times Upto 16th C. A.D. Bharatiya Kala Prakashan. p. 202. ISBN 978-81-86050-03-3.
- ↑ Henry Heras. The Aravidu Dynasty Of Vijayanagara Vol. 1. B. G. Paul And Co., Madras. pp. 266, 307.
- ↑ Ramaswami, N. S. (1976). Temples of Tadpatri. Government of Andhra Pradesh. pp. 10–11.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 New_delhi (1922). Proceedings Of The Indian History Congress.
- ↑ Vadjuela, A. (1984). The Aristocracy Of Southern India.
- ↑ "Andhra Pradesh: Exploring Gandikota, India's Grand Canyon". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 9 May 2025.
- ↑ "Aristocracy of South India" by Vadivelu
- ↑ Krishnadeva Raya, M. Rama Rao, 1971, National Book Trust, New Delhi, p. 17
- ↑ Wagoner, Tidings of the king 1993, pp. 138-139.
- ↑ 14.0 14.1 Further Sources of Vijayanagar History by K. A. Nilakanta Sastry, 1946, https://archive.org/details/FurtherSourcesOfVijayanagaraHistory
- ↑ "Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple anantapur". Incredible India. Retrieved 9 May 2025.
- ↑ "Visit the Chintala Venkataramana Swamy Temple near Anantapur". Incredible India. Retrieved 9 May 2025.
- ↑ A. Vadivelu, ed. (2016). The Aristocracy of Southern India. Mittal Publications. p. 168.
- ↑ Vijayanagara, Burton Stein, Cambridge University Press, 1989, p.88, ISBN 0-521-26693-9
- ↑ Wagoner 1993, p. 240: Pemmasani Ramalingama Nayadu [mentioned in the text] belonged to the influential Pemmasani family that ruled the Gandikota-sima during the second half of the sixteenth century and provided several prominent ministers, including Pemmasani Timma, who served Vijayanagara under the Aravidu dynasty... It is not clear whether he served Krishnadevaraya or a later ruler.
- ↑ Kumar, P.A. 2025. Pemmasani Nayaks: Vanguard of Vijayanagara. Ananda Publications, Hyderabad, India
Bibliography[edit | edit source]
- Wagoner, Phillip B. (1993), Tidings of the king: a translation and ethnohistorical analysis of the Rāyavācakamu, University of Hawaii Press, ISBN 978-0-8248-1495-3
- Ananda Kumar, P. 2025. Pemmasani Nayaks: Vanguard of Vijayanagara. Ananda Publications, Hyderabad, India.
