History

Overview:
The history of Raichur district, known in Karnataka’s past by various names such as Rajanuru, Irdore Nadu, Perdore Nadu, Ededorenadu, Do-Ab, Rayar’s Ooru (Rayachuru), Perman’s Rachuru, Rachavuru, and Rachuru Seeme, is highly distinctive.

The history of Raichur district holds immense significance in Karnataka’s past. Its historical roots trace back to the Paleolithic Age. Archaeological excavations in the region have uncovered stone carvings, hand axes, and cleavers, providing evidence of the Paleolithic hand-axe culture. Traces of the Neolithic and Megalithic cultures have also been discovered in Raichur.

Interestingly, gold found in the archaeological excavations of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro was reportedly imported from the mines of Raichur (Karnataka). This leads historians to date Raichur’s history as far back as 3000 BCE. Additionally, before 300 BCE, much of this region, including Raichur, was part of Emperor Ashoka’s Mauryan Empire.

Following the Mauryas, the Satavahanas ruled Raichur for four centuries. The decline of the Satavahanas paved the way for the rise of the Kadamba Empire, Karnataka’s first native kingdom.

The history of Raichur district holds great significance in India’s historical narrative. Enriched with numerous important records and documents, its past is both fascinating and intriguing, offering historians captivating stories that spark deep interest.

The first circular fort of Raichur, built by Kakatiya Queen Rudramadevi, stands as the most formidable among all the forts of the kingdom. Constructed with massive stones, moats, bastions, and artistic towers, it showcases remarkable engineering. According to a monolithic inscription, this fort was built on November 23, 1294 CE. The inscription, carved on a 42-foot-long single stone slab (3 feet high), is exceptionally unique. Though written in Kannada script, the language used is Telugu. The inscription states that the fort was built “for the protection of all nations and all people” (Sarvarashtra Samasta Praja Rakshanartha). What makes it extraordinary is that it was commissioned by a warrior queen for her people. Even today, this grand inscription can be seen on the fort wall near Raichur’s bus stand, standing as a testament to its glorious past.

Raichur district holds immense historical significance, and Emperor Ashoka’s Maski Rock Edict is a key contributor to this legacy. Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, this inscription was commissioned by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka during his travels through Dakshinapatha (the southern region).

Key Highlights of the Maski Edict:

One of Karnataka’s 10 Ashokan Edicts– Maski has one, while Koppal (then part of Raichur district) has three.
First Mention of Ashoka’s Name– Unlike his other edicts, where he refers to himself only as “Devanampriya” (Beloved of the Gods) or “Priyadarshi” (He Who Looks with Affection), the Maski inscription is the first to explicitly state his full name:
- “Devanampiyasa Asoka”(I, Ashoka, Beloved of the Gods) appears in the opening line.
Brahmi Script– The edict is inscribed in Brahmi, the ancient script of Ashoka’s time.
Global Historical Importance– Before this discovery, scholars knew that “Devanampriya” referred to Ashoka, but the Maski edict confirmed it definitively, making it one of India’s most significant archaeological finds.

This edict not only proves Ashoka’s influence in South India but also highlights Raichur’s role as a crucial region in ancient Indian history.

One of the most significant aspects of this edict is its declaration of Buddhism’s principle of universal equality. Ashoka states:

“Until now, in Jambudvipa (ancient India), only a few could approach the gods. But since I embraced Buddhism two-and-a-half years ago, even an ordinary person can attain high virtue and dignity.”

With these words, Ashoka proclaims that in Buddhism, all are equal—a revolutionary idea for its time. The edict reinforces his title “Devanampiya” (Beloved of the Gods), symbolizing his divine favor and commitment to righteous governance and social justice.

This inscription stands as one of the earliest records of Buddhist egalitarian ideals in Indian history, highlighting Ashoka’s transformation from a conqueror to a compassionate ruler dedicated to his people’s welfare.

The Battle of Raichur holds immense significance in the life of Sri Krishnadevaraya and the history of Karnataka. The eyewitness account of this epic battle comes from Nuniz, a Portuguese traveler who described it in vivid detail.

Key Details of the Battle:

Massive Military Mobilization: According to Nuniz, the combined forces numbered approximately 736,000 soldiersand 550 war elephants.
Strategic Deployment: The Vijayanagara army advanced in seven divisions, with reinforcements arriving before reaching Raichur. They camped for several days on the eastern, southeastern, and northwestern sidesof Raichur Fort.
The Fierce Clash: On May 19, 1520, the battle began. The fighting was so intense that “dust rose to the skies”, and the battlefield turned into a scene of bloodshed and chaos.
Adil Shah’s Retreat: Despite commanding 100,000 troops, Adil Shah of the Bijapur Sultanate fledbefore Krishnadevaraya’s overwhelming forces.
Vijayanagara’s Victory: Krishnadevaraya successfully captured Raichur Fort, marking a decisive triumph.

Unique Aspects of the Battle:

Though counted among Raichur’s 13 historic battles, this clash actually took place on the banks of the Krishna River, northeast of Raichur, not directly at the fort.
Krishnadevaraya intercepted Adil Shah’s advancing armynear the river and forced them into retreat—a tactical masterstroke documented by Nuniz.

This battle remains one of the most brutal and strategically significant conflicts in Deccan history, showcasing Krishnadevaraya’s military genius and Vijayanagara’s dominance.

Thus, from 1520 CE—following Krishnadevaraya’s historic victory—until 1565 CE, Raichur remained under the administration of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Hatti Gold Mines: A 4,000-Year-Old Legacy

The Hatti Gold Mines stand as one of the oldest gold mines in the world, with a history spanning 4,000 years. Today, it remains India’s only active gold-producing mine.

Historical Timeline:

Ancient Era: Gold has been mined here since antiquity, with evidence linking its production to the Indus Valley Civilization(gold from Hatti may have supplied ancient trade networks).
Nizam’s Rule (1887): Under Hyderabad’s administration, it was named “Hyderabad-Deccan Mines.”
World War I Impact (1920s): Operations were briefly suspended due to the war’s economic fallout.
Modern Revival (1928): Mining resumed with advanced techniquesunder Captain Leonard Munn’s supervision, boosting gold ore extraction.

Significance:

The name “Hatti”(meaning “gold reef”) reflects its legendary wealth.
It has put India on the global gold map, contributing significantly to the nation’s mineral economy.
Recognized as a historical marvel, its legacy is etched in Karnataka’s (and India’s) industrial heritage.

Thus, alongside Raichur’s political history, the Hatti Mines stand as a testament to the region’s enduring economic and geological importance.