The Aravidu Dynasty of Vijayanagara, Vol. I v1.c13.145

v1.c13.145

The latter, after returning from Cochin in 1532, ² had received some slight instruction in the Christians faith and were baptized by Fr. Michael Vaz, Vicar General of India, and by several other priests who had come from Cochin ³. Then the Portuguese established themselves in Manapadu, Punnei Kayal, Tuticorin and Vambar, and took over the civil and some explanation, since it might be misunderstood. The Telugu soldiers and their generals had nothing against the Christians as Christians. Both the Nayaks of Madura and the Emperors of Vijayanagara tolerated and received respectfully into their capitals the Jesuit missionaries. The Telugu armies that invaded the Fishery Coast were so often sent against the Christians, because the latter had put themselves under the protection of the Portuguese, and these had taken possessions of the Coast that belonged to Vijayanagara. Now Madura wanted to retain as her dominion that rich shore. The motive of this first invasion was a little different, as related above. These Badagas must not be confused with the agricultural caste of the Nilgiris, also called Badagas. Cf. Thurston, Castes and Tribes of Southern India, I, p. 62-124.