Gandikota, a village and historical fort on the right bank of the Penna river, transformed into major fort after the emergence of Pemmasani Nayakas. Gandikota fort history goes back to the early 1120s when the picturesque gorge was brought to the forefront by a subordinate of the Chalukya king.
Kapa Raja was the first to build a sand fort. The fort was annexed by the Muslim invaders of Tughlaq dynasty. Later, in 1336 – the famous Vijayanagara kingdom headquartered in Hampi, drove the Khilji clan out and took over the region. Gandikota was given to its commanders who came to be known as the Kamma Kings or the Pemmasani Nayaks. The Kamma Kings ruled for over 200 years and expanded the small Gandikota fort.
In the fort are two ancient temples, dedicated to Madhava and Ranganatha. They are in ruins and the fort area is full of the debris of ages and many ancient structures in varying stages of decay. However, whatever remains of the temples provides us a glimpse of beautiful Vijaynagra architecture and art.
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