The Kanduri Chodas (c. 1040 CE - c.1290 CE) were a significant Telugu-speaking dynasty. While founded in the mid-11th century, their period of rule over the expansive realm of Kandurunadu (1100 villages) lasted from 1076 CE to 1224 CE.
They presented themselves as descendants of the legendary Chola king Karikala. Their strategically located kingdom straddled south banks of the Krishna River, south of the Kakatiya territory.
They presented themselves as descendants of the legendary Chola king Karikala. Their strategically located kingdom straddled south banks of the Krishna River, south of the Kakatiya territory.
Eruvanadu was part of the southern bank of the Krishna River, in the region historically known as Eruva.
They served as feudatories to larger empires, primarily the Western Chalukyas of Kalyana and later the Kakatiyas, while often asserting their autonomy. Their period of sovereign rule over Kandurunadu effectively ended in 1224 CE when the Kakatiya emperor Ganapatideva formally transferred its governance to his loyal general, Gona Ganapayya.
While the last Kanduri Choda kings continued to issue inscriptions as local figureheads from their residual lands until around 1243 CE, the dynasty's political power was eclipsed after 1224 CE, marking the end of their era as major rulers.
They served as feudatories to larger empires, primarily the Western Chalukyas of Kalyana and later the Kakatiyas, while often asserting their autonomy. Their period of sovereign rule over Kandurunadu effectively ended in 1224 CE when the Kakatiya emperor Ganapatideva formally transferred its governance to his loyal general, Gona Ganapayya.
While the last Kanduri Choda kings continued to issue inscriptions as local figureheads from their residual lands until around 1243 CE, the dynasty's political power was eclipsed after 1224 CE, marking the end of their era as major rulers.
"Kandurunadu (1100 villages)" that Bhimachoda II received around 1076 CE was created by amalgamating the Haihaya-ruled Kandurnadu with the pre-existing Panugallu-rajya and other surrounding areas, forming the large, 1100-village province that became the heartland of the Kanduri Choda dynasty.
They ruled modern Nalgonda (Pangal, Kandur), Mahabubnagar (Koduru - Palamuru region) and Nagar Kurnool (Vardhamanapuram) districts in Telangana.
Founder : Eruva Bhima I (c. 1040 AD)
Capitals : Panugallu (Modern Nalgonda district), Kodurpura (modern Mahabubnagar district)
Geographic Area: Kandurnadu (Modern Nalgonda, Suryapeta, Mahabubnagar and Nagar Kurnool, Wanaparthy districts)
Key Historical Significance
'The dynasty is historically significant for:
Bridge between Chalukyas and Kakatiyas: They were key players in the Deccan's political landscape during the transition of power from the Western Chalukyas to the Kakatiyas.
Genealogical Claims: Their claim of descent from the ancient Chola king Karikala represents a common practice of medieval dynasties seeking legitimacy and prestige.
Epigraphic Records: Their extensive inscriptions provide crucial details on the political, social, and economic conditions of 11th-13th century Andhra.
Role in Regional Conflicts: Their internal family conflicts, intertwined with the rebellion of Chalukya prince Tailapa, drew in major powers like the Kakatiyas, shaping the region's history.
c. 1076 AD: Bhimachoda II receives Kandurunadu as a fief from Vikramaditya VI, expanding their territory.
The Foundation: Eruva Bhima I (c. 1040 - 1060 AD)
Geographical Roots: The dynasty's very name points to its origin. They hailed from Eruvanādu(Telugu: Eruva + nādu), meaning "the country of the river." This specifically refers to the fertile and strategically vital lands on both banks of the Krishna River in modern Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Controlling this area meant controlling a major trade and military route.
The First Power Base: Bhima I established himself as the Lord of Panugallu (Panugallupuradhipa). Panugallu (modern Panagal) was a formidable fortified city. His power was real but local, and he operated firmly as a subordinate (mahasamanta) to the mighty Western Chalukya Emperor Somesvara I in Kalyana.
Early Governance: His inscriptions show him engaging in classic feudal kingly duties: granting villages to loyal subordinates (like the 12 villages to Cheraku Chief Kata I). This cemented local alliances and established an administrative structure.
The Catalyst for Rise: The Chalukya Civil War
The true opportunity for expansion came from a crisis within the Chalukya empire itself—a bloody war of succession.
The Players:
Somesvara II: The legitimate heir and reigning emperor after Somesvara I.
Vikramaditya VI: His ambitious younger brother, who sought the throne.
The Kanduri Choda Gambit: Bhimachoda II (1077-1091 AD), the grandson of the founder, made a calculated political bet. He threw his military support and resources behind the rebel claimant, Vikramaditya VI.
The Reward for Loyalty: Vikramaditya VI's rebellion was successful. After usurping the throne in 1076 AD, he rewarded his most crucial supporters. For Bhimachoda II, the reward was immense: he was granted the lucrative and extensive territory of Kandurunadu—a region comprising 1,100 villages—as an additional fief (rajya).
The Result: Transformation of Power
This grant was a transformative moment for the dynasty:
Massive Territorial Expansion: Overnight, their realm expanded from a single city and its surroundings (Panugallu) to a vast province (Kandurunadu).
Economic Boom: Controlling 1,100 villages meant a massive increase in revenue from taxes, agriculture, and trade tolls.
Strategic Elevation: They were no longer just local lords; they were now the primary governors of a key Chalukya province, making them one of the most important feudatory families in the empire.
Symbolic Legitimization: To mark this new status, Bhimachoda II adopted grand new titles that reflected his enhanced power:
Kanduri-Choda: Staking a claim to the newly acquired land.
Kodurpuravaresvara: "Lord of the Excellent City of Kodur," declaring a new, secondary capital at Kodur (Suryapet).
In essence, the dynasty's origin was in the Krishna river valley under Eruva Bhima I, but its rise to prominence was directly engineered by Bhimachoda II's successful bet on Vikramaditya VI during the Chalukyan civil war. They leveraged loyalty into land and transformed from local chieftains into regional maharajas.
Malleswaram, Kollapur Taluka, Mahabubnagar District.
Dynasty : Western Chalukya.
Reign of : Trailokyamalladeva (Somesvara I, 1044(6)-68 A.D)
Inscription date : 27th October A.D. 1051Pinmanam or Banmanam and Pittugam or Battugam villages under Ettapi-90 which was a kampana or division of Vaddavani-500 in the Kandur nadu or province.
Bridge between Chalukyas and Kakatiyas: They were key players in the Deccan's political landscape during the transition of power from the Western Chalukyas to the Kakatiyas.
Genealogical Claims: Their claim of descent from the ancient Chola king Karikala represents a common practice of medieval dynasties seeking legitimacy and prestige.
Epigraphic Records: Their extensive inscriptions provide crucial details on the political, social, and economic conditions of 11th-13th century Andhra.
Role in Regional Conflicts: Their internal family conflicts, intertwined with the rebellion of Chalukya prince Tailapa, drew in major powers like the Kakatiyas, shaping the region's history.
Chronology of Key Events
c. 1040 AD: Eruva Bhima I founds the dynasty as a subordinate of the Western Chalukyas.c. 1076 AD: Bhimachoda II receives Kandurunadu as a fief from Vikramaditya VI, expanding their territory.
1077 AD: Tonda I issues an inscription without mentioning an overlord, suggesting early assertions of independence.
1120s AD: The dynasty splits loyalties during the rebellion of Chalukya prince Kumara Tailapa, leading to fratricide.
c. 1136 AD: Kakatiya Prola II invades, defeats the rebel faction, and restores Udayachoda II (loyal to the Chalukyas).
1158 AD: Udayachoda II is defeated by Kakatiya Rudradeva and makes peace by giving his daughter in marriage.
1282 AD: The last known ruler, Ramanathadevachoda, rules as a subordinate of Kakatiya Rudramadevi.
By 1300 AD: The dynasty ceases to be a political power.
1120s AD: The dynasty splits loyalties during the rebellion of Chalukya prince Kumara Tailapa, leading to fratricide.
c. 1136 AD: Kakatiya Prola II invades, defeats the rebel faction, and restores Udayachoda II (loyal to the Chalukyas).
1158 AD: Udayachoda II is defeated by Kakatiya Rudradeva and makes peace by giving his daughter in marriage.
1282 AD: The last known ruler, Ramanathadevachoda, rules as a subordinate of Kakatiya Rudramadevi.
By 1300 AD: The dynasty ceases to be a political power.
1. Origins and Rise
The dynasty originated from Eruvanādu (the "river country" on both sides of the Krishna River). The The ascent of the Kanduri Chodas was not a sudden event but a calculated climb over two generations, fueled by the internal politics of their Chalukya overlords.The Foundation: Eruva Bhima I (c. 1040 - 1060 AD)
Geographical Roots: The dynasty's very name points to its origin. They hailed from Eruvanādu(Telugu: Eruva + nādu), meaning "the country of the river." This specifically refers to the fertile and strategically vital lands on both banks of the Krishna River in modern Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Controlling this area meant controlling a major trade and military route.
The First Power Base: Bhima I established himself as the Lord of Panugallu (Panugallupuradhipa). Panugallu (modern Panagal) was a formidable fortified city. His power was real but local, and he operated firmly as a subordinate (mahasamanta) to the mighty Western Chalukya Emperor Somesvara I in Kalyana.
Early Governance: His inscriptions show him engaging in classic feudal kingly duties: granting villages to loyal subordinates (like the 12 villages to Cheraku Chief Kata I). This cemented local alliances and established an administrative structure.
The Catalyst for Rise: The Chalukya Civil War
The true opportunity for expansion came from a crisis within the Chalukya empire itself—a bloody war of succession.
The Players:
Somesvara II: The legitimate heir and reigning emperor after Somesvara I.
Vikramaditya VI: His ambitious younger brother, who sought the throne.
The Kanduri Choda Gambit: Bhimachoda II (1077-1091 AD), the grandson of the founder, made a calculated political bet. He threw his military support and resources behind the rebel claimant, Vikramaditya VI.
The Reward for Loyalty: Vikramaditya VI's rebellion was successful. After usurping the throne in 1076 AD, he rewarded his most crucial supporters. For Bhimachoda II, the reward was immense: he was granted the lucrative and extensive territory of Kandurunadu—a region comprising 1,100 villages—as an additional fief (rajya).
The Result: Transformation of Power
This grant was a transformative moment for the dynasty:
Massive Territorial Expansion: Overnight, their realm expanded from a single city and its surroundings (Panugallu) to a vast province (Kandurunadu).
Economic Boom: Controlling 1,100 villages meant a massive increase in revenue from taxes, agriculture, and trade tolls.
Strategic Elevation: They were no longer just local lords; they were now the primary governors of a key Chalukya province, making them one of the most important feudatory families in the empire.
Symbolic Legitimization: To mark this new status, Bhimachoda II adopted grand new titles that reflected his enhanced power:
Kanduri-Choda: Staking a claim to the newly acquired land.
Kodurpuravaresvara: "Lord of the Excellent City of Kodur," declaring a new, secondary capital at Kodur (Suryapet).
In essence, the dynasty's origin was in the Krishna river valley under Eruva Bhima I, but its rise to prominence was directly engineered by Bhimachoda II's successful bet on Vikramaditya VI during the Chalukyan civil war. They leveraged loyalty into land and transformed from local chieftains into regional maharajas.
2. Rulers
The history of the Kanduri Choda dynasty is a fascinating tale of ambition, family strife, and navigating the complex feudal politics of the Deccan. Their story is pieced together almost entirely from the numerous inscriptions they left behind.Eruva Bhima I (c. 1040 CE - c. 1060 CE)
Ruled Panugallu
The dynasty begins with Eruva Bhima I, who hailed from Eruvanādu, the "river country" on both sides of the Krishna River. He established himself as the Lord of Panugallu (Panugallupuradhipa), a key fort city. From the very start, the Kanduri Chodas were subordinates, owing allegiance to the powerful Western Chalukya king Somesvara I in Kalyana. Dynasty : Western Chalukya.
Reign of : Trailokyamalladeva (Somesvara I, 1044(6)-68 A.D)
Inscription date : 27th October A.D. 1051Pinmanam or Banmanam and Pittugam or Battugam villages under Ettapi-90 which was a kampana or division of Vaddavani-500 in the Kandur nadu or province.
Bhima I's early grants, such as bestowing twelve villages upon a Cheraku chief, show the feudal structure being put in place.
Consolidation and Early Assertion: Tonda I and Bhimachoda II
Tonda I (c. 1065 CE - 1077 CE)
Bhima I was succeeded by his son Tonda I ruled Panugallu
who served as a military commander in the Chalukya army. A significant moment occurred in 1077 AD when Tonda I set up an inscription at Kollipaka recording a gift to a temple. Crucially, this record makes no mention of a Chalukya overlord, a subtle but clear early assertion of his independent authority.
Bhimachoda II (1077 CE - 1091 CE)
the son of Tonda I. Ruled Kandurnadu 1100 from Panugallu (Nalgonda), Kodur (Mahabubnagar)
The major expansion of the dynasty came under Bhimachoda II
His reign coincided with a major civil war in the Chalukya empire. Bhimachoda II shrewdly backed Vikramaditya VI in his successful coup against his brother, King Somesvara II. As a reward for his crucial support, Vikramaditya VI granted Bhimachoda II the immensely wealthy and vast territory of Kandurunadu, comprising eleven hundred villages, as an additional fief. This transformed the Kanduri Chodas from local lords into major regional players. To mark this new status, Bhimachoda II adopted the proud titles "Kodurpuravaresvara" (Lord of the excellent city of Kodur) and "Kanduri-Choda".
Tonda II (1091 CE - 1097 CE)
Son of Bhimachoda II. Began ruling from Kolanupaka before his father's death.
He assumed full power at Panugallu in 1091 CE and oversaw the immersion of his father's ashes in the Ganga.
Mallikarjunachoda (1097 CE - 1104 CE)
Ruled from Kodur
Brother of Tonda II. His reign is documented through grants made by his minister, Gunda.
the gift of his part (palu) of the village Nalladamapalli for the amgaramga bhogas and offerings
to the god Mahesvara by Mahamandalesvara Kanduri Udayaditya Choda Maharaja of Kasyapa
gotra, Karikalanvaya and solar race, the lord of Kodurupura for the merit of his father
Inscription date : 22nd March A.D. 1243
Language : Telugu
This inscription is now in the state Museum, Hyderabad. The inscription dated in the Chalukya Vikrama era refers to one mahamandaleshwara Kanduri Gokarna Chola maharaja nd his gifts to Gavari..... Bhimana Perggada, son-in-law of Gamana perggada namely, the enjoyment of 10 madas of Gukkadamu 30, and to the latter's son Doddayyabhatta to whom, after washing his feet, he gave the enjoyment of Badiye of Naminekalla-70 on the occasion of Uttarayana sankranti.
Sub-Vassals: They commanded their own network of subordinate chiefs, who held hereditary rights over smaller territories. Key among them were:
The Cheraku Chiefs
The Kaystha Sahinis
Various Reddy Chiefs
2. Administrative Geography:
The kingdom, Kandur-nadu (1100 villages), was divided into a nested hierarchy for efficient governance and revenue collection:
Kanduru-1100: The entire kingdom.
Provinces (Mandalas): Large sub-regions like Irrama-300 (300 villages).
Districts (Nadus): Smaller administrative units within provinces, such as Cheraku-70, Amanikallu-70, and Vinuribada-nadu.
Villages: The smallest revenue units, often granted as gifts (e.g., Addaluru, Bhaditippaparti).
3. Key Officials & Titles:
The state was managed by a cadre of professional officials with specific roles:
Dandanayaka: The military general, often commanding armies and governing forts.
Mahapradhani: The prime minister or chief advisor to the king.
Peggada: A high-ranking officer or commissioner, often entrusted with grants and governance.
Sarva-adhyaksha: The superintendent of all departments (a central administrative head).
Sunkadhikari: The collector of tolls and taxes (sunkamu).
Religion: The society was predominantly Hindu, with active patronage of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Saura (Sun worship).
Brahmins: Held the highest social status. They were recipients of numerous agrahara (tax-free land grants) for their role in priestly duties, education, and legitimizing royal authority.
Royal Patronage: The construction and endowment of temples were primary social and religious activities for the kings and queens, serving as public displays of piety, power, and legitimacy.
Social Mobility: Loyal service to the king was a path to upward mobility. Officials like Peggadas and Dandanayakas were often granted lands and titles, integrating them into the landed aristocracy.
Agriculture: The core of the economy. It was supported by sophisticated irrigation works including large tanks (e.g., the tank at Kondapalli with its sluice), lakes, and canals, highlighting state investment in agriculture.
Revenue Sources:
Land Taxes: The primary source of income from the agrarian sector.
Sunkamu: Tolls and customs duties levied on goods and merchandise transported through the kingdom and sold in its markets (santhe). This was a significant source of wealth.
Trade: Inscriptions mentioning taxes on merchandise indicate active local and regional trade. The kingdom's location straddling the Krishna River would have made it a participant in broader Deccan trade networks.
Currency: The economy was monetized, as evidenced by grants of cash (rukalu) for perpetual lamps and the mention of taxes paid in currency.
Early Period:
1060 AD, Nagarkurnool: Incomplete inscription of Irugana Choda Maharaja.
May 8, 1077 AD, Kollipaka: Tonda I records a gift of perpetual lamps without mentioning an overlord.
Dec 24, 1088 & Dec 25, 1091 AD, Kolanupaka: Inscriptions of Tonda II during the reign of Vikramaditya VI.
1092-93 AD, Koppole (Nalgonda): Tonda II grants land for a lake and a satra (hospice).
May 18, 1097 AD, Ollala (Nalgonda): Records a grant by Mallikarjunachoda's minister, Gunda.
1098 AD, Pamulapadu (Nalgonda): Records a gift of land during the rule of Mallikarjunachoda.
1098 AD, Vellala: Sanskrit inscription tracing the genealogy of the family to Karikala and Eruva Bhima under Mallikarjuna.
Period of Fratricide:
Dec 31, 1104 AD, Kolanupaka: Bhimachoda III grants an agrahara.
May 15, 1116 AD, Panugallu: Bhimarasa (Bhimachoda III) installs deities and gets grants confirmed by the Chalukya emperor.
June 18, 1116 AD, Gattuthimmam (Achampet): Nalla Bhimadeva Choda's chief queen, Vennamahadevi, makes gifts to a temple.
1120 AD, Udimilla (Achampet): Somanatha Chola makes grants to temples.
March 26, 1120 AD, Uppununthala: Somanathadeva Choda grants land to God Kedaresvara.
Dec 29, 1122 AD, Upparapalli: Queen Vennamahadevi makes grants from her native village.
June 28, 1121 AD, Yeleswaram (Nalgonda): Gokarnachoda I gifts the village of Koduru to a god.
March 10, 1122 AD, Panugallu (2 inscriptions): Gokarnachoda I confers lordship of villages to his officers.
Aug 11, 1124 AD, Panugallu: Mailambika, wife of Tondanripa (likely a royal figure), grants an agrahara.
July 29, 1128 AD, Pedda Kadumuru: A gift made while Gokarnadeva was ruling.
1128 AD, Anamala (Miryalaguda): Sridevi Tondaya issues an independent-style inscription.
1131 AD, Adavi-Devulapalli (Miryalaguda): Sridevi Tondaya installs a deity on the banks of the Krishna.
Kakatiya Period:
Dec 25, 1136 AD, Peruru (Miryalaguda): A gift of land during the rule of Udayachoda II.
1149 AD, Sirikonda: Records that Udayana Choda granted Kondapallinadu to a Pallava chief.
1158 AD, Vavikollu (Nalgonda): Udayana Choda gifts a tax-free village to his priest.
March 23, 1157 AD, Marrikallu: A grant made with the permission of Udayana Choda.
Oct 24, 1159 & 1160 AD, Rachur: Record the installation of perpetual lamps in a temple at Panagallu.
Dec 25, 1162 AD, Jadcherla: Udayana Choda's officers make a grant for temple lamps.
April 30, 1167 AD, Lingala (Nagarkurnool): A grant made on the bank of the Krishna.
Sept 12, 1172 AD, Indrakallu: An officer makes a grant for daily offerings while Udayana Choda was ruling.
March 10, 1174 AD, Markal (Rangareddy): Records gifts to temples.
1176 AD, Nelakondapalli (Khammam): Records the construction of a sluice for a large tank.
April 12, 1178 AD, Jupally: Udayaditya's subordinate, Poti Reddi, makes a grant.
Oct 25, 1178 AD, Mamillapally: Inscription of Bhimachoda IV and Gokarnachoda II.
1184 AD, Lingala (Nagarkurnool): A grant made at a shrine on the Krishna.
May 30, 1191 AD, Paddur (Nagarkurnool): Inscription of Gokarna Deva Choda Maharaju II.
1207 AD, Cherlapally (Nalgonda): A grant for the merit of Kanduri Odayanachoda.
Nov 17, 1234 AD, Mallepally (Devarakonda): Bhimadeva Choda Maharaja grants a village to the god of Srisailam.
Oct 27, 1235 AD, Indrakallu: A mahapradhani of Bhimachoda deva makes a gift of lamps.
1235 AD, Mallepally: Another inscription of Bhimadeva Choda.
Sept 9, 1235 AD, Edampalli (Devarakonda): Udayaditya Chola III makes a grant for his father's merit.
March 22, 1243 AD, Patancheru (Medak): Gokarnachoda Maharaju makes gifts to his officers.
April 16, 1282 AD, Agamotukuru (Miryalaguda): Kanduri Ramanathadeva Choda, subordinate of Rudramadevi, installs a god and makes extensive endowments.
Panugallu (Present-day Panagal, Nalgonda Dist.)
Kanduru
Vardhamanapura/Kodur
Ghanapuram, Gangapuram, Amrabad, Rachur, Kodur, Maghatala (Makthal), Vangur, Munnanur.
Administrative Divisions: The inscriptions mention these ancient districts (nadu):
Kandur-nadu itself (1100 villages)
Irrama-300
Cheraku-70 (Bhaditippaparti Village)
Vinuribada-nadu
Kondapalli-nadu
Modern Districts
Mahabubnagar (Jadcharla and Achampet taluks)
Nalgonda (Nalgonda, Suryapeta, Devarakonda, Miryalguda taluks)
Nagarkurnool
Khammam
Krishna (in AP)
Summary of the Region:
Heartland: The Krishna River basin, from Jadcharla in the west to Miryalaguda in the east.
Southern Boundary: The Achampet taluk and the Nallamala Hills.
Northern Boundary: Extending into the Devarakonda and suryapeta region.
Western Boundary: The forts of Makthal and Munnanur.
Eastern Boundary: Stretching into the Miryalaguda taluk and the edges of Khammam district.
This region was strategically crucial because it controlled the middle reaches of the Krishna River, a major artery for trade and military movement between the Telangana plateau and the coastal Andhra
Specific Centers: Their rule was centered on the Cheraku region, which included 12 initial villages granted by Eruva Bhima I. Later, they were also associated with Nandikotkur (Kurnool Dt.) and Achampet Taluk (Mahabubnagar Dt.).modern-day Nagarkurnool district of Telangana, and it also likely extended into parts of the Nalgonda district.
Specific Grants:
Kavaliya Bhimana Peggada was granted the lordship of Addaluru (in Amanikallu-70).
Ajjala Erayana-peggada was granted the lordship of Alamula (in Cheraku-70).
These were not large territories but lucrative grants of land and the right to collect revenue from specific villages.
Specific Center: Poti Reddi is explicitly called the "lord of Jammulurupura."
Example: Dandanayakas of Kibatte and Melvatte (likely referring to the upper and lower parts of a region) who collected revenue (sunka) in Gangapuram for King Udayana Choda.
Capitals: They ruled from Vardhamanapura (Kodur) and Budapuram (Bhoothpur).
Territorial Scope: Their inscriptions show they ruled a vast tract from Panugallu (Nalgonda) in the east to Raichur in the west and down to Valluru (Cuddapah Dt.) in the south. This encompassed the entire former Kanduri Choda realm and beyond.
https://www.jstor.org/stable/44141667
The History of Andhra Country, 1000 A.D.-1500 A.D.By Yashoda Devi
Telugu Chodas of Kandur by G. Satyanarayana rao
http://www.allresearchjournal.com/archives/2015/vol1issue12/PartO/1-11-150.pdf
Division and Fratricide: The Sons of Tonda II
The dynasty reached a critical juncture a generation later under the sons of Tonda II: Bhimachoda II and Gokarnachoda I, who ruled jointly from 1104 AD. Their reign became entangled in another Chalukya succession crisis. The Chalukya king's younger brother, Kumara Tailapa, held Kandurunadu as his appanage (yuvaraja-vritti) and sought to rebel against his elder brother, King Somesvara III.
Sridevi Tondaya (1128 AD - 1136 CE)
Ruled from Kodur (modern Mahabubnagar)
Bhima Choda III (1104 CE - 1128 CE)
Ruled from Kodur (modern Mahabubnagar)During his reign, the Kakatiyas under Prola II (1110–1158 CE) were rapidly rising, and Bhima Choda III would have had to balance relations with both.
Several inscriptions in Nalgonda–Suryapet–Kodur belt mention land grants to Brahmins and temples during his reign.
These records confirm that Kandur Bhima Choda III controlled Eruvanadu and Vaddeman-500 (Vaddavani-500) divisions.Gokarna Choda I (1104 CE - 1128 CE)
Ruled from Panugallu (modern Nalgonda)
Panugallu fort and surrounding mandal – a crucial military base for controlling the highway linking Warangal and Kalyani.These records confirm that Kandur Bhima Choda III controlled Eruvanadu and Vaddeman-500 (Vaddavani-500) divisions.
Gokarna Choda I (1104 CE - 1128 CE)
Ruled from Panugallu (modern Nalgonda)Prince Tailapa Rebellion and Kakatiya Intervention (1128 CE - 1136 CE)
Sridevi Tondaya (1128 AD - 1136 CE)
Ruled from Kodur (modern Mahabubnagar)After the fratricide, Sridevi Tondaya (possibly another son or close relative) took power and ruled from 1128 to 1136 AD. His inscriptions notably omit any mention of a Chalukya overlord, declaring an independent status for the first time.
Govinda-damdesa (1128 AD - 1136 CE)
Ruled from Panugallu (modern Nalgonda), who had been given Panugallu by Tailapa
The loyalist faction, however, was not extinct. The murdered Gokarnachoda I had a son, Udayachoda II. The Chalukya emperor, Somesvara III, called upon his most powerful feudatory, Kakatiya Prola II, to crush the rebellion. Prola II invaded Kandurunadu, defeated and killed the rebel general Govinda-damdesa (who had been given Panugallu by Tailapa), and restored Panugallu to Udayachoda II, the rightful heir from the loyalist branch of the family. This event, occurring between 1128 and 1136 AD, marks the pivotal entry of the Kakatiyas into the region's politics.
Ruled the entire Kanduri Choda realm, which encompassed the territories of Panugallu, Kodur and VardhamanapuramThe Kakatiya Supremacy: Later Rulers
Udayachoda II (1136 - 1178 CE)
ruled a vast kingdom for over four decades but under the shadow of rising Kakatiya power. Initially a subordinate of the Chalukyas, he eventually clashed directly with Kakatiya Rudradeva. After being defeated, Udayachoda II was forced to make peace by giving his daughter Padma in marriage to Rudradeva, formally accepting Kakatiya suzerainty.
Place : Jadcherla
Inscription date : 25th December, A.D.1162
This inscription is on a slab erected in the compound of Venkateswara temple. Records that the revenue officers dandanayaka Nalla Sidhamaya and Erra Sidhamaya of Udayana Choda maharaja granted two perpetual lamps to Svayambhu Somanadhadeva of Koduru. They also granted five gokarna singa rukas from the collective revenue of Gangapuram towards daily offerings. It is also mentioned that all future revenue officers should pay five rukis every month without failing them.
Gokarnachoda II (1178 CE to 1224 CE)
Ruled from Panugallu(Nalgonda)
Thereafter, the Kanduri Chodas were firmly under Kakatiya dominance. Udayachoda II's sons, Bhimachoda IV and Gokarnachoda II, ruled Kandur jointly from 1178 to 1224 CE as loyal vassals of the Kakatiya monarchs Rudradeva and Ganapatideva. Their inscriptions primarily record grants to temples and are issued firmly under the Kakatiya umbrella.
The Significance of the 1224 CE Grant
The act of Kakatiya Emperor Ganapatideva granting Kandur-nadu to Gona Ganapayya in 1224 CE was not a simple appointment of a new minister. It was a formal transfer of sovereignty. This action:
Legally severed the Kanduri Chodas' rights to collect revenue and govern the land.
Made Gona Ganapayya the direct vassal of the Kakatiya emperor for that territory, effectively reducing the Kanduri Choda kings to local landlords residing in their old capitals.
The act of Kakatiya Emperor Ganapatideva granting Kandur-nadu to Gona Ganapayya in 1224 CE was not a simple appointment of a new minister. It was a formal transfer of sovereignty. This action:
Legally severed the Kanduri Chodas' rights to collect revenue and govern the land.
Made Gona Ganapayya the direct vassal of the Kakatiya emperor for that territory, effectively reducing the Kanduri Choda kings to local landlords residing in their old capitals.
1239 CE: Kyastha Chief Ganagaya Sahini (1239 CE - 1258 CE) was granted the title Gandapendara. His domain stretched from Panagal (Wanaparthy) to Valluru (Cuddapah). King Ganapatideva (1199-1262) brought them to the Kakatiya kingdom specifically to train and command the cavalry, a critical branch of the army. He stationed them at the strategic fort of Panugallu (in modern Nalgonda District) as governors, granting them control over a large and important region. Their rise was built on military service and royal favor.
Bhimachoda IV (1178 CE to c.1235 CE)
1234 CE: Ruled from Kodur (Mahabubnagar)17th November, 1234 AD inscription at Mallepally, Devarakonda
1235 CE : This Telugu inscription is on a stone lying in a field by the roadside, dated S. 1157, Jaya. records the gift of Mallepally village to Mahesvara Deva which is on the north gate of Sri Parvata by Kanduri Bhimadeva Choda Maharaju of Karikalanvaya and Kasyapa gotra. The last portion of the inscription contains a description of a Sthanapati named Omkararasideva whose seat is said to be at SriSailam.
The inscriptions of Bhimachoda IV (1235 CE) and Gokarnachoda II (1224 CE) after this date represent a twilight period. They continued to use their grand titles ("Mahamandalesvara Kanduri X Choda Maharaja"). They made small-scale grants, but only of the local lands they still physically controlled, not from the position of the sovereign ruler of Kandur-nadu.
Udayaditya Chola III (son of Somanathadeva) 1235 CE
Ruled briefly from Kodur
Inscription date : 9th September A.D. 1235
Language : Telugu and Kannada
the gift of his part (palu) of the village Nalladamapalli for the amgaramga bhogas and offerings
to the god Mahesvara by Mahamandalesvara Kanduri Udayaditya Choda Maharaja of Kasyapa
gotra, Karikalanvaya and solar race, the lord of Kodurupura for the merit of his father
Gokarana Choda III (1243 CE)
Patancheru, Sangareddy Taluk, Medak.Inscription date : 22nd March A.D. 1243
Language : Telugu
This inscription is now in the state Museum, Hyderabad. The inscription dated in the Chalukya Vikrama era refers to one mahamandaleshwara Kanduri Gokarna Chola maharaja nd his gifts to Gavari..... Bhimana Perggada, son-in-law of Gamana perggada namely, the enjoyment of 10 madas of Gukkadamu 30, and to the latter's son Doddayyabhatta to whom, after washing his feet, he gave the enjoyment of Badiye of Naminekalla-70 on the occasion of Uttarayana sankranti.
Somanathadeva.
Kanduri Ramanathadeva Choda in 1282 AD.
Miryalaguda
His inscription is explicitly issued during the "happy reign of Kakatiya Rudra Mahadevulu" (Queen Rudramadevi). Within a few decades, the dynasty faded from history, its territories and legacy fully absorbed into the Kakatiya Empire
1. Feudal Hierarchy:
Position: They held the title of Mahamandalesvaras (Great Feudatories) under their overlords (Chalukyas/Kakatiyas).
3. Administration
The Kanduri Chodas established a sophisticated and hierarchical feudal administration system, first as subordinates to the Western Chalukyas and later the Kakatiyas, and ultimately as sovereign rulers over their own domain.1. Feudal Hierarchy:
Position: They held the title of Mahamandalesvaras (Great Feudatories) under their overlords (Chalukyas/Kakatiyas).
Sub-Vassals: They commanded their own network of subordinate chiefs, who held hereditary rights over smaller territories. Key among them were:
The Cheraku Chiefs
The Kaystha Sahinis
Various Reddy Chiefs
2. Administrative Geography:
The kingdom, Kandur-nadu (1100 villages), was divided into a nested hierarchy for efficient governance and revenue collection:
Kanduru-1100: The entire kingdom.
Provinces (Mandalas): Large sub-regions like Irrama-300 (300 villages).
Districts (Nadus): Smaller administrative units within provinces, such as Cheraku-70, Amanikallu-70, and Vinuribada-nadu.
Villages: The smallest revenue units, often granted as gifts (e.g., Addaluru, Bhaditippaparti).
3. Key Officials & Titles:
The state was managed by a cadre of professional officials with specific roles:
Dandanayaka: The military general, often commanding armies and governing forts.
Mahapradhani: The prime minister or chief advisor to the king.
Peggada: A high-ranking officer or commissioner, often entrusted with grants and governance.
Sarva-adhyaksha: The superintendent of all departments (a central administrative head).
Sunkadhikari: The collector of tolls and taxes (sunkamu).
4. Society
Kanduri Choda society was typical of medieval Deccan, structured around caste, profession, and religion.Religion: The society was predominantly Hindu, with active patronage of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Saura (Sun worship).
Brahmins: Held the highest social status. They were recipients of numerous agrahara (tax-free land grants) for their role in priestly duties, education, and legitimizing royal authority.
Royal Patronage: The construction and endowment of temples were primary social and religious activities for the kings and queens, serving as public displays of piety, power, and legitimacy.
Social Mobility: Loyal service to the king was a path to upward mobility. Officials like Peggadas and Dandanayakas were often granted lands and titles, integrating them into the landed aristocracy.
5. Economy
The economy was primarily agrarian but supported by robust trade, all managed through a sophisticated system of taxation and investment in public works.Agriculture: The core of the economy. It was supported by sophisticated irrigation works including large tanks (e.g., the tank at Kondapalli with its sluice), lakes, and canals, highlighting state investment in agriculture.
Revenue Sources:
Land Taxes: The primary source of income from the agrarian sector.
Sunkamu: Tolls and customs duties levied on goods and merchandise transported through the kingdom and sold in its markets (santhe). This was a significant source of wealth.
Trade: Inscriptions mentioning taxes on merchandise indicate active local and regional trade. The kingdom's location straddling the Krishna River would have made it a participant in broader Deccan trade networks.
Currency: The economy was monetized, as evidenced by grants of cash (rukalu) for perpetual lamps and the mention of taxes paid in currency.
6. Comprehensive List of Inscriptions
This dynasty is known almost exclusively from its prolific epigraphic records. Here is a chronological list of all mentioned inscriptions:Early Period:
1060 AD, Nagarkurnool: Incomplete inscription of Irugana Choda Maharaja.
May 8, 1077 AD, Kollipaka: Tonda I records a gift of perpetual lamps without mentioning an overlord.
Dec 24, 1088 & Dec 25, 1091 AD, Kolanupaka: Inscriptions of Tonda II during the reign of Vikramaditya VI.
1092-93 AD, Koppole (Nalgonda): Tonda II grants land for a lake and a satra (hospice).
May 18, 1097 AD, Ollala (Nalgonda): Records a grant by Mallikarjunachoda's minister, Gunda.
1098 AD, Pamulapadu (Nalgonda): Records a gift of land during the rule of Mallikarjunachoda.
1098 AD, Vellala: Sanskrit inscription tracing the genealogy of the family to Karikala and Eruva Bhima under Mallikarjuna.
Period of Fratricide:
Dec 31, 1104 AD, Kolanupaka: Bhimachoda III grants an agrahara.
May 15, 1116 AD, Panugallu: Bhimarasa (Bhimachoda III) installs deities and gets grants confirmed by the Chalukya emperor.
June 18, 1116 AD, Gattuthimmam (Achampet): Nalla Bhimadeva Choda's chief queen, Vennamahadevi, makes gifts to a temple.
1120 AD, Udimilla (Achampet): Somanatha Chola makes grants to temples.
March 26, 1120 AD, Uppununthala: Somanathadeva Choda grants land to God Kedaresvara.
Dec 29, 1122 AD, Upparapalli: Queen Vennamahadevi makes grants from her native village.
June 28, 1121 AD, Yeleswaram (Nalgonda): Gokarnachoda I gifts the village of Koduru to a god.
March 10, 1122 AD, Panugallu (2 inscriptions): Gokarnachoda I confers lordship of villages to his officers.
Aug 11, 1124 AD, Panugallu: Mailambika, wife of Tondanripa (likely a royal figure), grants an agrahara.
July 29, 1128 AD, Pedda Kadumuru: A gift made while Gokarnadeva was ruling.
1128 AD, Anamala (Miryalaguda): Sridevi Tondaya issues an independent-style inscription.
1131 AD, Adavi-Devulapalli (Miryalaguda): Sridevi Tondaya installs a deity on the banks of the Krishna.
Kakatiya Period:
Dec 25, 1136 AD, Peruru (Miryalaguda): A gift of land during the rule of Udayachoda II.
1149 AD, Sirikonda: Records that Udayana Choda granted Kondapallinadu to a Pallava chief.
1158 AD, Vavikollu (Nalgonda): Udayana Choda gifts a tax-free village to his priest.
March 23, 1157 AD, Marrikallu: A grant made with the permission of Udayana Choda.
Oct 24, 1159 & 1160 AD, Rachur: Record the installation of perpetual lamps in a temple at Panagallu.
Dec 25, 1162 AD, Jadcherla: Udayana Choda's officers make a grant for temple lamps.
April 30, 1167 AD, Lingala (Nagarkurnool): A grant made on the bank of the Krishna.
Sept 12, 1172 AD, Indrakallu: An officer makes a grant for daily offerings while Udayana Choda was ruling.
March 10, 1174 AD, Markal (Rangareddy): Records gifts to temples.
1176 AD, Nelakondapalli (Khammam): Records the construction of a sluice for a large tank.
April 12, 1178 AD, Jupally: Udayaditya's subordinate, Poti Reddi, makes a grant.
Oct 25, 1178 AD, Mamillapally: Inscription of Bhimachoda IV and Gokarnachoda II.
1184 AD, Lingala (Nagarkurnool): A grant made at a shrine on the Krishna.
May 30, 1191 AD, Paddur (Nagarkurnool): Inscription of Gokarna Deva Choda Maharaju II.
1207 AD, Cherlapally (Nalgonda): A grant for the merit of Kanduri Odayanachoda.
Nov 17, 1234 AD, Mallepally (Devarakonda): Bhimadeva Choda Maharaja grants a village to the god of Srisailam.
Oct 27, 1235 AD, Indrakallu: A mahapradhani of Bhimachoda deva makes a gift of lamps.
1235 AD, Mallepally: Another inscription of Bhimadeva Choda.
Sept 9, 1235 AD, Edampalli (Devarakonda): Udayaditya Chola III makes a grant for his father's merit.
March 22, 1243 AD, Patancheru (Medak): Gokarnachoda Maharaju makes gifts to his officers.
April 16, 1282 AD, Agamotukuru (Miryalaguda): Kanduri Ramanathadeva Choda, subordinate of Rudramadevi, installs a god and makes extensive endowments.
7. Legacy
The Kanduri Choda dynasty served as a crucial stabilizing force in the Telangana region for over 200 years. Their extensive patronage of Telugu language and Hindu temple culture left a lasting impact. While they were eventually eclipsed and absorbed by the Kakatiya Empire, their detailed inscriptions remain their greatest legacy, providing an indispensable historical record of their era.8. Key Geographical Markers from the Inscriptions
Capitals & Forts: The kingdom was protected by forts at:Panugallu (Present-day Panagal, Nalgonda Dist.)
Kanduru
Vardhamanapura/Kodur
Ghanapuram, Gangapuram, Amrabad, Rachur, Kodur, Maghatala (Makthal), Vangur, Munnanur.
Administrative Divisions: The inscriptions mention these ancient districts (nadu):
Kandur-nadu itself (1100 villages)
Irrama-300
Cheraku-70 (Bhaditippaparti Village)
Amanikallu-70
Vinuribada-nadu
Kondapalli-nadu
Modern Districts
Mahabubnagar (Jadcharla and Achampet taluks)
Nalgonda (Nalgonda, Suryapeta, Devarakonda, Miryalguda taluks)
Nagarkurnool
Khammam
Krishna (in AP)
Summary of the Region:
Heartland: The Krishna River basin, from Jadcharla in the west to Miryalaguda in the east.
Southern Boundary: The Achampet taluk and the Nallamala Hills.
Northern Boundary: Extending into the Devarakonda and suryapeta region.
Western Boundary: The forts of Makthal and Munnanur.
Eastern Boundary: Stretching into the Miryalaguda taluk and the edges of Khammam district.
This region was strategically crucial because it controlled the middle reaches of the Krishna River, a major artery for trade and military movement between the Telangana plateau and the coastal Andhra
9. Vassals and Subordinate Chiefs
1. The Cheraku Chiefs
Area Ruled: Cheraku-70 (A designated district of 70 villages within Kandur-nadu).Specific Centers: Their rule was centered on the Cheraku region, which included 12 initial villages granted by Eruva Bhima I. Later, they were also associated with Nandikotkur (Kurnool Dt.) and Achampet Taluk (Mahabubnagar Dt.).
2. The Peggada Officers
Area Ruled: Individual villages and specific tax rights.Specific Grants:
Kavaliya Bhimana Peggada was granted the lordship of Addaluru (in Amanikallu-70).
Ajjala Erayana-peggada was granted the lordship of Alamula (in Cheraku-70).
These were not large territories but lucrative grants of land and the right to collect revenue from specific villages.
3. The Reddy Chiefs
Area Ruled: Localized lordships, often centered on a single fortified town.Specific Center: Poti Reddi is explicitly called the "lord of Jammulurupura."
4. Military Governors (Dandanayakas)
Area Ruled: Strategic forts and border regions. Their control was military rather than hereditary.Example: Dandanayakas of Kibatte and Melvatte (likely referring to the upper and lower parts of a region) who collected revenue (sunka) in Gangapuram for King Udayana Choda.
5. The Successor Chiefs: Kayastha / Gona Dynasty
Area Ruled: 1224 AD : The entire Kandur-nadu (1100 villages) after they replaced the Kanduri Chodas.Capitals: They ruled from Vardhamanapura (Kodur) and Budapuram (Bhoothpur).
Territorial Scope: Their inscriptions show they ruled a vast tract from Panugallu (Nalgonda) in the east to Raichur in the west and down to Valluru (Cuddapah Dt.) in the south. This encompassed the entire former Kanduri Choda realm and beyond.
https://www.jstor.org/stable/44141667
The History of Andhra Country, 1000 A.D.-1500 A.D.By Yashoda Devi
Telugu Chodas of Kandur by G. Satyanarayana rao
http://www.allresearchjournal.com/archives/2015/vol1issue12/PartO/1-11-150.pdf
Comments
Post a Comment