The Mudigonda Chalukyas (c. 845 CE - 1200 CE), also known as the Bottu Chiefs in their later phase, were a minor but significant Chalukya dynasty that ruled a strategic region in modern-day Khammam district and eastern Warangal, Telangana, between the 8th and 12th centuries. They hailed from the village of Mudigonda, which served as their initial capital.
The Mudigonda Chalukyas are distinguished in history for their exceptional political endurance, serving as feudatories across five centuries to nearly every major Deccan empire. Their period of subordinate rule began when they accepted the suzerainty of the Badami Chalukyas after Pulakeshin II's conquest of the eastern Deccan in 611 CE. Demonstrating remarkable political adaptability, they subsequently transferred their allegiance seamlessly through the rise and fall of empires: first to the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi, then to the Rashtrakutas, later to the Western Chalukyas of Kalyani, and ultimately to the Kakatiyas.
This ability to endure as a constant regional power makes their history a unique thread woven into the larger narrative of Deccan politics. Their legacy is preserved primarily through detailed inscriptions—such as the Mogilicheruvu grant, Kukunuru plates, and the Bezawada copper plate. These records provide invaluable details not only about their own rule but also about the dynasties they served. Their story ultimately concluded when they were fully absorbed into the expanding Kakatiya empire, becoming part of the very foundation upon which that powerful Telugu kingdom was built.
Founder: Ranamarda . He established the family as independent rulers and founded their first capital.
Dynastic Name: They are referred to in inscriptions as belonging to the 'Ranamarda' family or lineage (Ranamardd-anvaya), named after their formidable founder.
Most of modern-day Khammam district.
The eastern parts of Warangal district.
Key Locations: Their influence extended over areas like Manchikonda, Kondapalli, and Koravi(modern Koravi in Karimnagar), which were developed into important cities and administrative centers.
This territory placed them east of the early Kakatiya lands and directly on the frontier between two constantly warring major powers:
West: The Rashtrakuta Empire (and later the Western Chalukyas of Kalyani).
East: The Eastern Chalukya kingdom of Vengi.
This position as a buffer state defined their history, making them both a coveted prize and a crucial first line of defense for their overlords in Vengi.
c. 845 AD: The dynasty is founded by Ranamarda, establishing Mudigonda as the capital.
c. 865-890 AD: Rule of Ranamarda, who developed cities like Manchikonda and Kondapalli and established the family's martial reputation by wearing a victory necklace called the 'Ranamarda Kantiya'.
c. 895 AD: Kusumayudha I performs a legendary feat by aiding the escape of the Vengi Chalukya king, Bhima I, from a Rashtrakuta vassal. He then defeats the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II to restore both the Vengi kingdom and his own ancestral lands, for which he is rewarded handsomely by his overlord.
933 AD: Vijayaditya Gonaga is overthrown by the Rashtrakuta king Govinda IV and is forced to seek refuge at the court of Arikesari II of the Vemulawada Chalukyas.
936 AD: Arikesari II defeats the Rashtrakutas and installs Kusumayudha II (son of Vijayaditya Gonaga) as the ruler of Koravi, bringing the dynasty under the influence of Vemulawada.
c. 995 AD: A major shift occurs as the dynasty moves its capital to a place called Bottu and adopts "Bottu" as their family name.
c. 1200 AD: The last prominent ruler, Nagatiraja, attacks the Kakatiya kingdom during a period of weakness but is decisively defeated by the Kakatiya general Recherla Rudra.
Post-1200 AD: The kingdom is fully annexed into the Kakatiya Empire, ending the rule of the Mudigonda Chalukya dynasty.
Achievements: Described as a valorous king.
Ruled the kingdom with the help of his brother, Ranamarda, consolidating their power.
Achievements:Continued the expansion and consolidation started by his father.
His reign is well-attested in the Mogilicherla inscription.
Achievements:
Took advantage of the Rashtrakuta invasion to seize the throne, likely siding with the enemy.
Built the Bhimesvaram temple and irrigation tanks, indicating a focus on construction and public works.
Confirmed the grants made by his brother to the village of Koravi.
Achievements: Details of his reign are unclear from the available sources.
Achievements: Known to have had four sons: Gonaga, Nijjayaraja, Mallapa, and Lobhachalaka.
Achievements: They succeeded their father to the throne in succession, but specific details of their rule are not well-recorded.Kakatiay Gunda IV (c.950 - 995 CE) was killed by Viriyala Erra (with the backing of Tailapa II) around 995 AD and he installed Bottu Beta (Betaraja I) of the Mudigonda Chalukya family as the new ruler of Koravi. The installation of Betaraja I (Bottu Beta) in c. 995 AD by the Western Chalukyas began a new chapter for the dynasty, marked by the move to Bottu and the adoption of a new name.
This ability to endure as a constant regional power makes their history a unique thread woven into the larger narrative of Deccan politics. Their legacy is preserved primarily through detailed inscriptions—such as the Mogilicheruvu grant, Kukunuru plates, and the Bezawada copper plate. These records provide invaluable details not only about their own rule but also about the dynasties they served. Their story ultimately concluded when they were fully absorbed into the expanding Kakatiya empire, becoming part of the very foundation upon which that powerful Telugu kingdom was built.
Founder: Ranamarda . He established the family as independent rulers and founded their first capital.
Dynastic Name: They are referred to in inscriptions as belonging to the 'Ranamarda' family or lineage (Ranamardd-anvaya), named after their formidable founder.
Primary Capital: Mudigonda. This fortified town served as their political and administrative center for the early centuries of their rule.
Later Capital: Around 1000 AD, the dynasty moved its capital to a place named Bottu (exact location uncertain, but south of Mudigonda). This shift was significant enough that the family also adopted "Bottu" as their surname in their later phase.
Later Capital: Around 1000 AD, the dynasty moved its capital to a place named Bottu (exact location uncertain, but south of Mudigonda). This shift was significant enough that the family also adopted "Bottu" as their surname in their later phase.
Important Rulers : Ranamarda (c. 865 - 890 AD), Kusumayudha I (c. 890 - 915 AD), Vijayaditya Gonaga (Gonagudu II) (c. 915 - 933 AD), Niravadya (c. 933 - 936 AD):
Geographical Area
Their core territory, known as the Ranamarda region or Ranamarda Vishaya, was a compact but strategically vital kingdom. It encompassed:Most of modern-day Khammam district.
The eastern parts of Warangal district.
Key Locations: Their influence extended over areas like Manchikonda, Kondapalli, and Koravi(modern Koravi in Karimnagar), which were developed into important cities and administrative centers.
This territory placed them east of the early Kakatiya lands and directly on the frontier between two constantly warring major powers:
West: The Rashtrakuta Empire (and later the Western Chalukyas of Kalyani).
East: The Eastern Chalukya kingdom of Vengi.
This position as a buffer state defined their history, making them both a coveted prize and a crucial first line of defense for their overlords in Vengi.
Key Historical Significance and Chronology
Their history is marked by several pivotal events:c. 845 AD: The dynasty is founded by Ranamarda, establishing Mudigonda as the capital.
c. 865-890 AD: Rule of Ranamarda, who developed cities like Manchikonda and Kondapalli and established the family's martial reputation by wearing a victory necklace called the 'Ranamarda Kantiya'.
c. 895 AD: Kusumayudha I performs a legendary feat by aiding the escape of the Vengi Chalukya king, Bhima I, from a Rashtrakuta vassal. He then defeats the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II to restore both the Vengi kingdom and his own ancestral lands, for which he is rewarded handsomely by his overlord.
933 AD: Vijayaditya Gonaga is overthrown by the Rashtrakuta king Govinda IV and is forced to seek refuge at the court of Arikesari II of the Vemulawada Chalukyas.
936 AD: Arikesari II defeats the Rashtrakutas and installs Kusumayudha II (son of Vijayaditya Gonaga) as the ruler of Koravi, bringing the dynasty under the influence of Vemulawada.
c. 995 AD: A major shift occurs as the dynasty moves its capital to a place called Bottu and adopts "Bottu" as their family name.
c. 1200 AD: The last prominent ruler, Nagatiraja, attacks the Kakatiya kingdom during a period of weakness but is decisively defeated by the Kakatiya general Recherla Rudra.
Post-1200 AD: The kingdom is fully annexed into the Kakatiya Empire, ending the rule of the Mudigonda Chalukya dynasty.
1. Origins and Rise
The Mudigonda Chalukyas hailed from the village of Mudigonda near modern Khammam. They claimed descent from the Chalukya lineage but established their own distinct identity as the "Ranamarda" family. Their strategic location east of the Kakatiya territories and west of Vengi made them a crucial buffer state.Vassals for 5 dynasties starting around 611 CE.
1. Badami Chalukyas
2. Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi
3. Rashtrakutas
4. Western Chalukyas of Kalyani
5. Kakatiyas
2. Rulers
The dynasty was defined by a series of rulers who were often warriors and shrewd politicians.1. Ranamarda (c. 845-865 AD)
The foundational ruler who established the dynasty's power.
He is credited with developing Manchikonda and Kondapalli into significant cities.
His military successes were symbolized by a special victory necklace he wore, called the 'Ranamarda Kantiya'.
He is credited with developing Manchikonda and Kondapalli into significant cities.
His military successes were symbolized by a special victory necklace he wore, called the 'Ranamarda Kantiya'.
2. Kokkiraja (c. 865 AD - c. 890 AD
Status: Son of Ranamarda.Achievements: Described as a valorous king.
Ruled the kingdom with the help of his brother, Ranamarda, consolidating their power.
3. Ranamarda (c. 865 AD - c. 890 AD)
Status: Brother of Kokkiraja, co-ruler or regent.Achievements:Continued the expansion and consolidation started by his father.
His reign is well-attested in the Mogilicherla inscription.
4. Kusumayudha I (c. 890-915 AD)
Hailed as the "Ornament of the Ranamarda family".
Performed the dynasty's most legendary feat: aiding the escape of Chalukya Bhima I of Vengi from Rashtrakuta captivity.
Defeated the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II (Kannara Ballaha) and wrested back the lost Ranamarda territory.
Restored the 'Ranamarda-kanthi' necklace to Chalukya Bhima I as a symbol of victory.
In recognition, he was granted rule over half of the Vengi kingdom, including the Manchikonda province.
Performed the dynasty's most legendary feat: aiding the escape of Chalukya Bhima I of Vengi from Rashtrakuta captivity.
Defeated the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II (Kannara Ballaha) and wrested back the lost Ranamarda territory.
Restored the 'Ranamarda-kanthi' necklace to Chalukya Bhima I as a symbol of victory.
In recognition, he was granted rule over half of the Vengi kingdom, including the Manchikonda province.
5. Vijayaditya Gonaga (c. 915-933 AD)
Status: Son of Kusumayudha I.
Achievements:
A powerful warrior-king, described as ruling the earth "solely with the help of his sword."
His reign ended in a catastrophic invasion by the Rashtrakuta king Govinda IV.
He was forced to flee and seek refuge at the court of Arikesari II of the Vemulawada Chalukyas.
6. Niravadya (c. 933-936 AD)
Status: Brother of Vijayaditya Gonaga; usurper.Achievements:
Took advantage of the Rashtrakuta invasion to seize the throne, likely siding with the enemy.
Built the Bhimesvaram temple and irrigation tanks, indicating a focus on construction and public works.
Confirmed the grants made by his brother to the village of Koravi.
7. Kusumayudha II (c. 936-965 AD)
Status: Son of Vijayaditya Gonaga.
Achievements:
His reign was restored with the help of Arikesari II of Vemulawada, who defeated the Rashtrakutas.
Was installed as the ruler of the Koravi region by Arikesari II, bringing the dynasty under the influence of the Vemulawada Chalukyas.
Achievements:
His reign was restored with the help of Arikesari II of Vemulawada, who defeated the Rashtrakutas.
Was installed as the ruler of the Koravi region by Arikesari II, bringing the dynasty under the influence of the Vemulawada Chalukyas.
8. Vijayaditya II (c. 965 AD - 980)
Status: Successor of Kusumayudha II.Achievements: Details of his reign are unclear from the available sources.
9. Kusumayudha III (c. 985 -990)
Status: Ruler in the late 10th century.Achievements: Known to have had four sons: Gonaga, Nijjayaraja, Mallapa, and Lobhachalaka.
10. Gonaga & Nijjayaraja (c. 990 - 992)
Status: Sons of Kusumayudha III.Achievements: They succeeded their father to the throne in succession, but specific details of their rule are not well-recorded.
11. Kusumayudha IV (c. 992 - c. 1004 CE )
A key ruler from the later period
Achievements:
Issued the important Mogilicheruvu grant and Krivvaka inscription.
Donated the village of Kukiparru to a Brahmin, as recorded in the Bezawada copper plate and Narayani Copper Plate12th regnal year of King Kusumayudha IV Saka 926 (1004 AD)
Issued the important Mogilicheruvu grant and Krivvaka inscription.
Donated the village of Kukiparru to a Brahmin, as recorded in the Bezawada copper plate and Narayani Copper Plate12th regnal year of King Kusumayudha IV Saka 926 (1004 AD)
12. Betaraja I (Bottu Beta) (c.995 CE )
This established the "Bottu" line. For the next decade, both lines likely ruled concurrently, with the Bottu line becoming the sole ruling branch after the main line ended with Kusumayudha IV around 1004 AD.
Achievements: Ruled as a Kakatiya vassal; details are sparse.
Achievements: Continued the line of Bottu chiefs under Kakatiya suzerainty.
Achievements:
Attempted to assert independence but was defeated by the Kakatiya general Recherla Rudra.
Forced to retreat into the forests for 12 years before reportedly recapturing his kingdom temporarily.The last prominent ruler of the dynasty.
In a final attempt at independence, he attacked the Kakatiya kingdom during a succession crisis following the death of Mahadeva.
He was decisively defeated by the legendary Kakatiya general Recherla Rudra, leading to the final annexation of the Mudigonda kingdom into the Kakatiya Empire.
Architecture: They built temples, the most notable being the Bhimesvaram temple commissioned by Niravadya.
Inscriptions: Their greatest legacy is epigraphic. Inscriptions in Sanskrit and Telugu, such as the Mogilicheruvula Grant, Kukunuru Plates, and the Bezawada Copper Plate, are invaluable historical sources. The Palampeta inscription of their Kakatiya conquerors also provides crucial information about their end.
Political Legacy: Their primary achievement was political survival for 350 years by adeptly managing relations with more powerful neighbors. By the time of their annexation, they had provided the Kakatiyas with a stable and well-administered territory to absorb, contributing to the consolidation of the Kakatiya empire.
Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi: Their initial patrons and allies.
Rashtrakutas: Their primary adversaries and the source of their greatest crises and triumphs.
Vemulawada Chalukyas: Provided critical sanctuary and military support to restore their rule.
Western Chalukyas of Kalyani: Became their overlords after the decline of the Rashtrakutas.
Kakatiyas: Started as their subordinates and ended as their conquerors.
13. Kusumayudha V (Early 12th Century)
Status: Successor of Betaraja I.Achievements: Ruled as a Kakatiya vassal; details are sparse.
14. Betaraja II (Mid-12th Century)
Status: Successor of Kusumayudha V.Achievements: Continued the line of Bottu chiefs under Kakatiya suzerainty.
15. Kusumayudha VI (Late-12th Century)
Status: Ruler during the peak of Kakatiya power under Rudradeva (1158-1195 AD).Achievements:
Attempted to assert independence but was defeated by the Kakatiya general Recherla Rudra.
Forced to retreat into the forests for 12 years before reportedly recapturing his kingdom temporarily.
16. Nagatiraja (c. 1200 AD)
In a final attempt at independence, he attacked the Kakatiya kingdom during a succession crisis following the death of Mahadeva.
He was decisively defeated by the legendary Kakatiya general Recherla Rudra, leading to the final annexation of the Mudigonda kingdom into the Kakatiya Empire.
3. Administration
The administration was typical of a medieval feudal state. They ruled their local territory with autonomy but owed military service and allegiance to their current overlord (Vengi, Kalyani, or Kakatiya). The move of their capital from Mudigonda to Bottu in the 11th century signifies a strategic realignment of their administrative center closer to their new Kakatiya overlords.4. Economy and Society
The economy was primarily agrarian, supported by the construction of irrigation tanks. Their location between major kingdoms suggests they benefited from trade routes passing through their territory. Society was structured around Brahmanical Hinduism, as evidenced by their numerous land grants (Agraharas) to Brahmins, which were used to integrate the priestly class into the state's structure and promote settlement and agriculture in new areas.5. Art, Culture, and Legacy
Their cultural patronage, though not as extensive as major empires, was significant.Architecture: They built temples, the most notable being the Bhimesvaram temple commissioned by Niravadya.
Inscriptions: Their greatest legacy is epigraphic. Inscriptions in Sanskrit and Telugu, such as the Mogilicheruvula Grant, Kukunuru Plates, and the Bezawada Copper Plate, are invaluable historical sources. The Palampeta inscription of their Kakatiya conquerors also provides crucial information about their end.
Political Legacy: Their primary achievement was political survival for 350 years by adeptly managing relations with more powerful neighbors. By the time of their annexation, they had provided the Kakatiyas with a stable and well-administered territory to absorb, contributing to the consolidation of the Kakatiya empire.
6. Foreign Relations
The dynasty's history was shaped by its relationships with contemporary powers:Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi: Their initial patrons and allies.
Rashtrakutas: Their primary adversaries and the source of their greatest crises and triumphs.
Vemulawada Chalukyas: Provided critical sanctuary and military support to restore their rule.
Western Chalukyas of Kalyani: Became their overlords after the decline of the Rashtrakutas.
Kakatiyas: Started as their subordinates and ended as their conquerors.
7. Conclusion: The End of the Dynasty
The Mudigonda Chalukyas did not have successor states. Their story concludes with their full integration into the Kakatiya Empire around 1200 AD. The last king, Nagatiraja, attempted to capitalize on the death of Kakatiya Mahadeva but was defeated by the masterful Kakatiya general Recherla Rudra. After his defeat, recorded in the 1213 AD Palampeta inscription, the kingdom was annexed, and the dynasty faded into history, leaving behind a rich epigraphic record of a resilient feudal power. Bottu Sriramabhadra : Issued inscription in Gopalaswamy temple at Srikakulam.
https://mcrhrdi.gov.in/images/epigraphia/Vol-I.pdf
http://www.sarkarinaukriseva.com/2015/12/vemulawada-mudigonda-chalukyas-telangana-history-notes-వేములవాడ-ముదిగొండ.html
Inscriptions of the Minor Chalukya Dynasties of Andhra Pradesh By Kolluru Suryanarayana
http://www.namasthetelangaana.com/Nipuna-Education/వేములవాడ-ముదిగొండ-చాళుక్యులు-15-2-477398.aspx
https://mcrhrdi.gov.in/images/epigraphia/Vol-I.pdf
http://www.sarkarinaukriseva.com/2015/12/vemulawada-mudigonda-chalukyas-telangana-history-notes-వేములవాడ-ముదిగొండ.html
Inscriptions of the Minor Chalukya Dynasties of Andhra Pradesh By Kolluru Suryanarayana
http://www.namasthetelangaana.com/Nipuna-Education/వేములవాడ-ముదిగొండ-చాళుక్యులు-15-2-477398.aspx
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