The Aravidu Dynasty of Vijayanagara, Vol. I v1.c9.19

v1.c9.19

3. From the very beginning the wise activity of the Regent in conducting the State affairs surpassed all expectations. A grant of Sadasiva in 1558 exalts the virtues of Rama Raya as a ruler, ‘possessed of valour, liberality and mercy’ 1; moreover he is said to be ‘versed in politics’ 2, or ‘well versed in politics’ 3, ‘skilled in politics’ 4 conversant with politics 5, and to have ‘studied politics’ 6. One of the prudent steps he took in connection with the rule of the vast Empire was the division of responsibility. Couto relates that he at once secured the co-operation of his two brothers in the ministership; the administration of justice was assigned to Tirumala while Venkatadri took over the supervision of the State finances⁵. Several inscriptions justify the statement. Early in 1545, according to an inscription of Hampi, the Mahamandalesvara Tirumalarayadeva Maharasu granted to some person the village of Kotanahalli together with its hamlets⁶. In another inscription at Hampi, bearing the same date, mention is made of “Jangamayya, the Dalavay or general of Timmaraja, younger brother of Rama Raya” 7.