In the 1690s, South India was like a giant chessboard where different rulers moved their pieces to gain control. The Mughal Empire, led by Emperor Aurangzeb, was fighting the Marathas for control of the region. But caught in between were local chiefs who had to make tough choices about which side to support. One of the most interesting stories from this period is about Yachama Nayak, a powerful local ruler who switched sides – and paid the ultimate price for it.
After Kasim Khan brought reinforcements, the Mughals regained control in the region. But when Zulfikar Khan retreated to Wandiwash, local enemies took advantage. They captured forts, stole supplies meant for Mughal camps, and created serious problems. The worst troublemakers were small local rulers called zamindars. They attacked the grain convoys of traders called Banjaras, making it hard to get food supplies.
Meet Yachama Nayak – A Powerful Local Ruler
The most important of these local chiefs was Yachappa (or Yachama) Nayak from the famous Velugoti family. His ancestors had captured Satghar fort long ago and got permission from Golconda rulers to recruit local soldiers.
His Background and Achievements
Full name: Rajah Bangaru Yachama Naidu Bahadur (1693 A.D.)
Family status: 22nd generation of the Velugoti family
Territory: Controlled Mallur and nearby areas in Chittoor district
His generous gifts:
- Gave Mahadevamangalam village in Tiruvannamalai area as a temple gift
- Donated Mannur village in Nellore district, renaming it Kumara Yachasamudram after his father
- In 1682, gifted Siddavaram village near Venkatagiri, renaming it Varadamambapuram
- Built a hall in Vijayaraghavasami temple at Tiruppukkulli
His military success:
- Won a battle at Lakkireddipalli against a rebel chief
- Got rewarded by Golconda Sultan with the title “Rajah Bahadur”
- Received command of 6,000 horses (shash hazari mansab)
- Got special honors like sabji ambari, goshpesh, and parvamaratib
Recognition from Emperor Aurangzeb: Historical records say Emperor Aurangzeb greatly respected Yachama Nayak’s bravery. The Emperor even once considered replacing Nawab Zulfikar Khan with him!
Yachama Nayak’s Side-Switching Story
With the Marathas first: Yachama Nayak initially worked as chief advisor to Maratha leader Rajaram at Gingee. But when other military advisors like Dhanaji got more influence, he felt ignored and left the Marathas angrily in March 1693.
Going independent: After leaving the Marathas, he tried to create his own kingdom. He took control of Satgarh fort and expanded his power eastward toward Vellore. He even started fighting against his former Maratha allies.
Joining the Mughals: Only after he had gained control of territory and started fighting Rajaram did Zulfikar Khan convince him to join the Mughal side.
The attractive offer: Zulfikar Khan tempted him with:
- A six thousand rank mansab (military command)
- A valuable land grant in the Carnatic region
- Annual income of about three lakh hun
This offer was too good to refuse, so Yachama Nayak switched to the Mughal side – a decision that ultimately cost him his life.
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