Feudal past

The history of Velamas is as old as Telugu bravery. Their military exploits form an important part of Telugu tradition, history and folklore. The battle of Palnadu, Balanagamma Charitra, Confilct at Bobbili etc speak volumes about their chivalry. They are known to be fearless and battle hardy warriors. However, their role in protection of the unity of Telugu land and Hindu dharma at crucial times was suspect. Killing of Kaapaya Nayaka who valiantly opposed marauding Muslims; waging incessant battles with Reddy Nayaks at a time when Telugu people were craving for saviors and later aligning with Bahmanis in their battles with fledgling Vijayanagar empire did not behoove well of them. Their heroic traditions such as 'Sati' prove that they are of Aryan descent with extensive inter mingling with other martial races of India. Velamas are well known for their liberal outlook which is obvious from the war of Palnadu. Velama kings regularly clashed with the Reddys but had friendly dealings with the Orissa Gajapatis and the Bahmanis. Because of their proximity to the Bahmanis, they had to wage battles with Vijayanagar empire and eventually suffered a setback. Residual influence of Velamas is noticeable in Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Warangal, Adilabad, Nalgonda, Khammam, Mahbubnagar,Pithapuram and Prakasam Dist also.