SVADI DYNASTY (1555-1764)

Svadi royal dynasty(ಸ್ವಾದಿ ರಾಜವಂಶ) is one of the minor dynasties of coastal Karnataka and Malnad region. (Hilly Area) Sonde a town near Sirsi in North Canara district was the capital city of this kingdom. It was founded by Arasappa in the mid sixteenth century. The boundaries of the kingdom were later extended to Soraba region of the Shivamogga district to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. Mirjaan and Bandivade were the southern and northern boundaries respectively. These kings were engaged in constant warfare with the neighboring kingdoms of Beelagi and Keladi. There were also threats from distant invaders such as Marathas, Mughals and the Adilshahi kings of Bijapur. Nine kings ascended to the royal throne during the regime of this dynasty. They were Arasappa-1, Arasappa-2, Ramachandra, Raghunatha, Madhulinga, Savai Ramachandra, Immadi Sadashiva, Immadi Basavalinga and Mummadi Sadashiva.

The administrative model of this kingdom was inspired by the Vijayanagar Empire. The state was divided into ulitu, naadu, veente, seeme and graama. Graama (Village) was of course the smallest unit. Some poems written by Immadi Sadashiva give extensive information about the various administrative and court practices prevalent during those days. A strong wall was built around the capital town and arms and ammunitions required by the kingdom were procured from Portugee merchants.

The contribution of this dynasty to literature and other cultural fields are noteworthy. Some kings have written scholarly books and poetry. Sadashiva Raya-2 is credited with eighteen works. However, only ‘Sadashiva Neethi’ has outlived the ravages of time. It contains about 160 svara vachanas covering a wide range of themes.

The temples built by the kings of this dynasty do not possess any unique characteristics. However the Venkataramana temple of Hunisehonda, Siddheshvara temple of Siddapura and the Someshvara temple of Somaapura are remarkable for their simple and elegant structures.

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