The Aravidu Dynasty of Vijayanagara, Vol. I v1.c30.39

v1.c30.39

Oba Raya's influence at Venkata's court is thus recorded by du Jarric: "He (Oba Raya) was one of the highest nobles in the whole kingdom and his authority before the King was very great" ³. While journeying from St. Thome to Chandragiri, Frs. de Sa and Ricio were given a free passport over any road and river merely by showing the letters patent of this Oba Raya. "A refusal of any officer would have been equivalent to signing his death sentence; such was Oba Raya's power," says du Jarric ⁴. When the same Fathers were received by Venkata they found Oba Raya seated on the same mat as the King and Prince Ranga ⁵. This favour at Venkata's court was resented in some quarters. Naturally Oba's power was envied by the Dalavay or chief minister; du Jarric describes them as enemies ⁶. Now as both enjoyed such great power, they were no doubt the central figures round whom all the courtiers assembled. Thus they became the heads of the parties at Venkata's court.