2021-01-02 Sat

The Nayakas of Madurai came into existence during the rule of the Kakatiyas dynasty and the Vijaynagar Empire. The Nayakas were originally the military governors under the Vijaynagar Empire. After the battle of Talikota, several of them declared themselves independent the Nayakas of Madurai emerge out from one such branch.

The dynasty of Nayakas of Madurai was the Tamil ruler of Telugu origin. The Nayakas of Madurai, established by Vishwanatha, one of the devoted soldiers of King Krishnadeva Rai. Viswanathan's father, Nagama revolted against the Vijaynagar Kingdom; but was defeated by his son Vishwanatha. Krishnadeva Rai made Vishwanatha, the lord of the Sothern throne and made him the Viceroy of Madurai. After the fall of the Vijayanagar Kingdom, Madurai became an independent Kingdom.

This copper coin that weighs around 2.16g was issued by Queen Rani Mangamma during her rule in Nayakas of Madurai. The obverse of this depicts the Standing figure of King. The reverse of this coin depicts Lord Hanuman standing facing right and Telugu letter “Ma”.

Image Courtesy: Oswal Antiques