The Eastern Calukyas

Summary

This article continues a chronological account of the Eastern Calukyas, a dynasty that ruled the Vengi region of Andhra Pradesh between the seventh and eleventh centuries. Beginning with the reign of Vishnuvardhana I, the founder, the author discusses subsequent rulers and their epithets. The focus of this instalment is Vishnuvardhana’s son, sometimes identified as Jayasimha‑Vallabha, and his grandson, Vishnuvardhana II (also known by the regal names Viśamasiddhi, Makaradhvaja and Pralayaditya). Drawing on inscriptions, the article corrects genealogical errors and addresses the confusion arising from variations in the records. It argues that some inscriptions that refer to Vishnuvardhana as the son of Jayasimha are actually calling him a “putra” in the sense of grandson rather than direct son, implying that he succeeded his grandfather rather than his father. The author also examines the succession disputes and interactions with contemporaneous powers, particularly the Cholas and the Rashtrakutas. He notes that despite being nominally independent, the Eastern Calukyas often acknowledged overlordship or formed marital alliances with stronger neighbours. The article discusses the titles assumed by the kings, the iconographic motifs on their coins, and their patronage of temples. It references sources such as the Kaladi plates and the Pulivendla grants to reconstruct dates and events. By systematically analysing epigraphical data, the author seeks to present a coherent genealogy and timeline for the Eastern Calukya rulers. The narrative underscores the fluid political environment of early medieval South India, where dynasties rose and fell, intermarried and fought for regional supremacy. The Eastern Calukyas, though smaller than their Western Chalukya counterparts, played a significant role in shaping the culture and politics of Andhra through temple construction, land grants and the promotion of Telugu literature.