Battle of Toppur


The Battle of Toppur was one of the largest battles in the history of South Asia. In this battle, cannons were used at a large scale for the first time in South India. It causes complete destruction of already declining Vijaya Nagara Empire. It was a civil war fought by the claimants for the kingship of Vijayanagara Empire. Jagga Raya challenged the Sriranga Authority on behalf of his nephew.

Background

the ruler of Vijayanagara Empire. belonging to the Aravidu line died without direct no heirs. So he declared his nephew Sriranga II as heir. But King Venkatapati's Queen Obayamma who had adopted a Brahmin boy named Chenga Raya wanted him to be a real heir. Her ambition causes civil war. Her brother Gobburi Jaggaraya kidnapped and murdered the king and his whole family. Only his one son survived. This brutal murder caused angst in his court among other Nayaks and commanders. The commander of Imperial army revolted and supported the son of Sriranga II named Rama Deva Raya.

Battle

The location of the battle that took place is mentioned by most historians as Toppur, located on the banks of Cauvery river a mile of Grand Anicut, which is present day Thogur.

Aftermath

The battle was won by Yachama Naidu faction and Rama Deva Raya, son of Sriranga II, who was only 13 years old and was crowned as Emperor.

Casualties