Context:
Ancient inscriptions, hero stones, and idols of Shiva Linga and Nandi have been unearthed during recent research about the history of Nolamba Pallavas.
Relevance:
GS I: History
The Nolamba Dynasty:
Historical Significance:
- A significant political power in South India, the Nolambas held sway from the 8th to the 12th centuries C.E.
Territorial Dominance:
- Ruled over Nolambavadi, covering southeast Karnataka, parts of Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
- Initially, served as feudatories to various powers, including Pallavas, Chalukyas of Badami, Gangas, Rashtrakutas, and later, Chalukyas of Kalyani.
Capital Shifts:
- Capital was initially Chitradurga, later shifted to Hemavati in modern Andhra Pradesh during the 8th to 10th centuries AD.
Self-Identification:
- Referred to themselves as Nolamba Pallava in inscriptions, suggesting a connection with the Pallava family.
Founder and Origin:
- Mangala Nomabathi Raja (735–785 A.D.) is considered the founder.
- Originated as governors during the supremacy of Pallavas and Chalukyas.
Political Changes:
- Initially, feudatories of Pallavas due to territorial changes after Pallava ruler Mamalla Narasimhavarman I seized Badami.
- Later, aligned with Chalukyas under Vikramaditya I after Chalukyas regained lost territories.
Decline:
- Overrun by Ganga king Marasimha, marked by his title Nolambakulantaka.
Temple Complexes:
- Three notable temple complexes attributed to the dynasty: Kalleshwara Temple in Aralaguppe, Bhoganandishwara Temple in Nandi, and Ramalingeshwara Temple in Avani.
-Source: Indian Express
