Pemmasani Nayaks

The Pemmasani Nayaks were a prominent Telugu Hindu warrior clan who rose to power in the 14th century, primarily controlling Rayalaseema in Andhra Pradesh. They belonged to the Kamma community. 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.

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. 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. Pemmasani Pedda Timmaraja served as the minister for Sriranga I and later for Venkata II, the latter overseeing a revival of the Vijayanagara empire.

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. 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 Kamma 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.