Unearthing Ancient Relics: The Nolamba Pallavas Dynasty

Discovery at Cholemarri Village

• In a remarkable discovery, ancient relics belonging to the Nolamba Pallavas dynasty have been unearthed in Cholemarri village, located 22 km from Penukonda in Sri Sathya Sai district.

Unveiling the Past: Significant Findings

• Battlefield Clues: Evidence suggests a fierce 9th-century battle between the Nolamba Pallavas and the Bhana-Vaidambas.

Inscriptions and Artifacts:

• An intriguing discovery was an inscription of Mahendra Nolambadhi Raja (875-897 AD), the ruler of Henjeru (now Hemavati), found amidst the fields.
• Hero stones adorned with Telugu inscriptions, scripted in ancient Kannada, hailing from the Nolamba and Vijayanagara periods were found near the Anjaneyaswamy temple.

Insights into the Nolamba Dynasty

• Timeline: Ruled from the 8th to the 12th centuries C.E.
• Geographical Reach: The Nolambavadi region encompassed parts of southeast Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Political Tapestry: Initially vassals to Pallavas, Chalukyas of Badami, Gangas, and Rashtrakutas, they later aligned with the Chalukyas of Kalyani. Often referred to as Nolamba Pallava in inscriptions.
• Capital Shifts: Commencing from Chitradurga, their capital later transitioned to Hemavati.

Origins and Evolution:

• Founded by Mangala Nomabathi Raja (735–785 A.D.).
• Emerged as governors under Pallavas and Chalukyas, witnessing shifts in alliances between various dynasties.
• The term “Nolambas” gained prominence post the resurgence of the Chalukyas under Vikramaditya I.
• Decline and Transformation: The dynasty faced downfall with Ganga king Marasimha claiming the title Nolambakulantaka.
• Cultural Legacy: Renowned for constructing majestic temple complexes like the Kalleshwara Temple in Aralaguppe, Bhoganandishwara Temple in Nandi, and Ramalingeshwara Temple in Avani.
• Religious Inclination: Predominantly Shaivites, their temples were dedicated to Lord Shiva.

This remarkable discovery at Cholemarri village offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and cultural tapestry of the Nolamba Pallavas dynasty, shedding light on their political affiliations, cultural contributions, and religious inclinations.