Draft:Ravella Nayakas

Ravella Nayaks
The Ravella Nayaks were a prominent clan under the Vijayanagara Empire, known for their significant contributions to its military and administrative functions

Early History
The earliest mention of a Ravella chief is found in the inscription of Rajaraja III dated 1257 CE. The Ravella chiefs ruled regions such as Srisailam and Dupatiseema from 1364 CE as vassals of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Military Commanders
The Ravella clan's notable history begins with Malla Nayaka, who served as a commander in Saluva Narasimha Raya’s army around 1495 CE. Malla Nayaka was celebrated for defeating the Bahmani general Qutb Shah at Gudipadu, earning the title "Rajahridayabhalla Pratapaprabhava." His exploits are detailed in the Telugu poetic treatise "Sougandhikaprasavapaharanamu" by Ratnakaram Gopalakavi. Malla Nayaka maintained a significant military force and contributed to the defense of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Later Contributions
Malla Nayaka’s descendants continued to serve the Vijayanagara Empire with distinction. His son Tippa participated in Krishnadevaraya's campaigns against the Gajapatis (1513-1515 CE) and was honored with numerous accolades. Tippa’s son Papa captured the Kurnool fort in 1506 CE, and his descendants, including Linga I and Konda, continued their military endeavors, capturing strategic forts like Adoni.

Ravella Nayakas and the Vijayanagara Empire
The Ravella Nayakas were unique among the Nayakas under the Vijayanagara Empire for claiming a legendary Kshatriya lineage, specifically the Chandra and Kuru Vamsha lineages.

Legacy
Inscriptions from the Nellore district reveal that the Ravella/Ravilla clan controlled various regions under the Araviti kings, including Podili, Udayagiri, and Kocherlakota. Today, families of the Ravella/Ravilla clan are found in the Krishna, Guntur, Chittoor, and Khammam districts of Andhra Pradesh, as well as in a Zamindari in Tamil Nadu.