History: Vizianagaram District | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

Brief History Of Vizianagaram

• The history of Vizianagaram district is intertwined with the ancient political divisions of Kalinga, a region in India. Over time, Kalinga became part of Orissa State and Andhra Region.
• A significant historical event in the district is the Bobbili Yuddham, a war fought between the Rajas of Vizianagaram and Bobbili in 1757, with the support of the French General Bussy.
• The valor and bravery displayed by the soldiers of Bobbili during this war are still commemorated by the local populace.
• Another notable event is the battle between the French and the English at Chandurthi in 1758, resulting in the defeat of the French and the transfer of the Northern Circars to the British under a firmana from the Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam.
• In 1794, the administrative structure of Vizagapatam was reorganized into three divisions, with most of the present-day Vizianagaram district falling under the second division.
• The history of resistance against foreign rule in the district dates back to the 1830s when the local population, especially the tribals, rebelled against oppression, leading to the establishment of the "Agency Administration" under the India Act XXIV of 1839.

Rebellion of Korra Malliah and Freedom Struggle in Visakhapatnam District

• The rebellion led by Korra Malliah, a tribal chief from the Salur area, against the British rule was a significant event in the fight against foreign dominance.
• When the District Magistrate sent Reserve Police to suppress the uprising, the local people fiercely resisted the authorities.
• In the ensuing conflict, there were casualties, and Korra Malliah, along with his son, was arrested. He later passed away in jail.

Participation in Freedom Struggle

• The residents of the area actively engaged in various phases of the freedom movement, including the non-cooperation movement, civil disobedience movement, and Quit India Movement.
• They showed great enthusiasm and dedication in fighting for independence.

Administrative Changes

• Following the abolition of Zamindaris in 1948, Visakhapatnam district was considered too large for effective administration.
• As a result, Srikakulam district was separated from Visakhapatnam district in 1950 to facilitate better governance.
• The establishment of Vizianagaram district in 1979 involved the transfer of certain taluks from Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam, marking a recent development in the district's history.

Brief History Of Bobbili

• Bobbili, a town located 55 kilometers from Vizianagaram, faced near destruction during a war with Vizianagaram, culminating in a tragic massacre. The residents' bravery during the conflict has immortalized Bobbili as a symbol of courage and sacrifice in Telugu culture.
• The town, known as "Veera Bobbili" in railway and telegraph terminology, is accessible by both rail and road. It serves as an essential railway junction on the Raipur-Vizianagaram line.
• The bridge over river Vegavati, constructed in 1934 by Gannon Drunkerly & Co. Ltd., facilitated trade in the region. While the original Bobbili fort no longer exists, several places still stand as residences of the royal family.
• The Durbar Mahal, built in 1893, served as a meeting hall for the Raja's court and royal emissaries. It now houses a museum on the first floor, showcasing artifacts from Bobbili's history, while the lower floor functions as a political office.
• The Rajas of Bobbili prioritized mass education and the upliftment of the underprivileged. The Venugopala Swamy temple, rebuilt by Chinna Ranga Rao, is a significant religious site in Bobbili, featuring a unique Gopuram (entrance) taller than the main temple.
• The Vasant Mandapam, located in a serene lake, is a place where legend says the deity enjoys solitude with his consort. Constructed by Maharaja Krishna Das Ranaga Rao in 1825, the temple's rituals include the Dola Yatra Mandapam on the lake's banks.
• Within the Bobbili Fort stands the Pooja Mahal, a palace constructed by the former Rani of Bobbili, still utilized by the royalty today.

Prangmahal Heritage Buildings

• Prangmahal is a well-preserved heritage structure located within the fort compound, opposite Pooja Mahal.
• This magnificent residence belonged to the Raja of Bobbili and is adorned with exquisite tapestries, paintings, and porcelain gathered from various parts of the world.

Raj Mahal and Other Guest Houses

• The Raj Mahal, also known as Chikkavram Guest house and Bobbili guest house, were constructed by the Bobbili Rajas.
• Not only the Rajas of Bobbili but also their relatives were notable figures who constructed luxurious residences that still stand today.

Manohar Vilas Palace

• Built in 1925 by the Raja's brother, the Zamindar of Kirlampudi, the Manohar Vilas Palace served as a guest house and summer retreat.
• This two-storied structure is surrounded by a splendid garden featuring a fountain with a marble statue of a beautiful maiden.