A Family History of Venkatagiri Rajas/2nd Generation
Second Generation.
Dama Naidu.
Of the three sons of Bhetala Naidu, the eldest Dama Naidu is the ancestor of this line. He was also known as Malla Naidu in the stone inscription of his mother. He resided at Amanagallu between the years 1199 and 1257 A.D., a contemporary of Ganapathi Deva Rai. On account of his great strength he was popularly known as Bala-Bhima, which means as strong as Bhima and had great skill in wielding the sword. He also received rewards and titles from the King of Vijayanagar and these are preserved in a Telugu verse sung in his name. He was also famous for his charity and popularity.
The second son Prasaditya Naidu is more important. He won greatest distinction among the seventy-six Velama commanders of the Emperor. When Orangal was attacked by the Muhammadans, the Emperor sent for his warriors of seventy-seven gothrams and offered special honour of equal seat with him- self and homage by the rest to one who could defeat the enemy. While all others were hesitating, Prasaditya Naidu boldly came forward and sought permission for the challenge. He soon marched against the enemy, drove back his forces and got the promised rewards. He was besides presented with a jewel for the leg, and the title of Kakatirajapujita, that is, adored by the Kakatiya Kings.
Later on when the Emperor died without a son and Rudrama Devi succeeded to the throne with the help of Prasaditya Naidu, several chiefs tried to overthrow the woman- ruler. But Prasaditya Naidu saved the Kingdom from the hands of such rebels by every time defeating their armies and was therefore known as "the Supporter of the Kakatiya Kingdom." Lastly when Pandya Kings refused to pay the annual tribute to Rudramamba, Prasaditya Naidu and his younger brother Rudrama Naidu jointly marched against them and came out completely victorious. Hence, the name Pandyagaja Kesari (lion to Pandya elephants).