Komati (caste)
Encyclopedia
The Ārya Vaiśyas or Gomatis are a Telugu speaking Vaiśya Hindu caste
from Andhra Pradesh
. They are also found in Karnataka
, Tamil Nadu
, Maharashtra
and Orissa
. The people of this caste are mainly involved in business,agriculture and cow protection activities(as per Bhagavatgita). Ārya Vaiśyas are strict vegetarians. Orthodox Ārya Vaiśyas follow rituals prescribed in the Vasavi Puranamulu, a text written in the late medieval times. Vasavi
is the kuladevata of the Ārya Vaiśya. Here is a small List of Telugu Vaishyas.
in Tamil Nadu. Some members of the community are also known to use the suffix "Shreshti". Ārya Vaiśyas in Maharashtra are found in greater numbers in the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. Almost exclusively, they speak Marathi as their mother tongue and have adopted largely Maharashtrian customs.
and Vizianagaram
districts of Andhra Pradesh and Orissa, whereas Thrivarnikas are small in number and reside in small pockets of the Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam
, East Godavari
and Warangal
districts.
According to Thurston (1975)m Komti is derived from ‘’gomati’’, “possessor of cows”, and their main occupation was protecting cows. The book Religion in Andhra: a survey of religious developments in Andhra from early times up to 1325 AD, page 175 mentions that the merchant classes preferred Jainism for gaining social status and respectability, and the erstwhile Bania
s became gomati or followers of the Gomata cult in the medieval times.
Social mobility in Medieval Andhra by BSL Hanumantha Rao, page 176, mentions that an alternative etymology for the word Komti is a "derivation of the word from gomata (Gomateshwara), the great Jaina saint
, which implies that they were followers of Gomata cult or were originally Jains". The book Socio-cultural history of ancient and medieval Andhra, page 130, mentions that "The story of Vasavi, the caste goddess of the Vaisyas narrated in the Vaisya Purana appears to have definite Jain overtones".
The book Socio-cultural history of an Indian caste, by C. Dwarakanath Gupta, page 10, mentions that "the tradesmen from Gouda desa took to Jainism
and adopted the Gomata cult. The word Gomata became distorted to Gomatlu, Komtulu. The word Gomati is used In Malayalam and Tamil. The Jain Vaiśyas gave up Jainism and embraced Vedic
religion during its revival".
(Brahmin
) councillors who controlled the powerful Mandri Mahanad did not accept their claim.
Attempts by Gomatis to adopt orthodox Vaiśya rituals drew the hostile attention of Niyogis. When a Gomati family in Masulipatnam (Machilipatnam
) announced its intention to perform the Upanayana
ceremony for their son, leaders of the Mahanad invaded the house, polluted the fire and stopped the ceremony. Violent encounters along these lines leading to loss of lives were noted in 1784, 1803, 1809, 1817 and 1820.
Of the approximately 1000 Gomati families living in Masulipatnam in 1825, the Gavara gomatis (who later registered their caste name as Ārya Vaiśyas in 1905) were one of the two main Gomati groups. They had 102 gotra
s, which were not considered to correspond in identity with the gotras deemed appropriate for Brahmanas or Vaiśyas. From 1784 to 1825 few families organized the upanayana, but by 1825 a majority of the caste's males wore the sacred thread.
The upanayana ceremonies were officiated by the Vaidiki Brahmins
who were tolerant of the wishes of their patrons. However, the Niyogis continued to mobilize the untouchables (Dalit
s) to riot and organized their offensives against such ceremonies. This led three gomati litigants to take their complaints to the civil court. One litigant, Mamidi Venkataryulu had studied the Dharmashastras and took a leading role in Gomati activities with regard to the upanayanams. The litigants were supported by the Vaidiki Brahmins.
The Niyogis and their lawyers attempted to destroy the Vaidiki support in court by arguing that the Vaidikis were unread in the dharma shastras, and that they supported the gomatis because they depended on Komti fees for their livelihood. In 1833 the Sadr Adalat decided in favour of the Niyogis. In 1845 the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council refused to make a formal decision.
The Magistrates of Masulipatnam continually received charges from gomatis and Niyogis and could not manage the dispute. The Magistrates attempted to solve the dispute by asking Gomatis to stop performing the rituals. The Komtis however remained unfazed by the court orders and kept going with their attempts.
By the beginning of the 20th century, it was common for the Gomatis to describe their clan membership in terms of brahmanical rishi gotras. And in the 1901 census the Gomatis - significant numbers of whom had prospered in the 19th century - were the only Telugu community who succeeded in getting the government to rank them as Vaiśyas (5). Following this inclusion, a group of Gomatis established the South India Vaisya Association in 1905.
implemented a commission, which helped the people in their community to register any name changes in the community. The South India Vaisya Association (1905) registered their community as Ārya Vaiśyas.(provide further details).
is the Treasure House of many temples. Among them is Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari, a temple situated in Penugonda
, a town in the West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is a fascinating multi-colored (Gali Gopuram) seven storied tower with beautiful architecture. This Penugonda Kshetram is considered the ‘Kasi of Vaiśyas' and is a holy place for Vaiśyas.
Kusuma Sresti or Setty was the Setty king of Vaiśyas, also known as Pedda Setty (Elder among Shettys), whose territory was a Vassal state of Vengi desha, which was ruled by Vishnu Vardhana (Vimaladitya Maharajulu). His capital was Penugonda (Jestasailam) city for all the 18 paraganas during the 10th and 11th centuries A.D. He and his wife Kusumamba were considered an ideal couple and led a peaceful domestic life. They worshiped Lord Siva (Nagareswara Swamy) as the part of their daily duties.
Though they had been married for many years, the couple did not have peace of mind as there was no successor to the kingdom. Their many prayers and sacrifices did not bear fruit and hence they were grief stricken. They approached their Kula guru (family Teacher) Bhaskar Acharya also a Komti who was well versed in shastras and by virtue of his profession was treated as a Gomti Bramhana. He advised them to perform Puthra Kamesti Yaga, which Dasharatha had observed.
During the auspicious hour, the couple started the yaga. The Gods were pleased and sent prasadam (blessed fruit from god) through Yagneswara (fire God
). They were told that they would beget children after eating prasadam. With devotion they ate the Prasadam and within a few days the signs of pregnancy were found with Kusumamba. She expressed unusual desires, which indicated that she would give birth to children who would fight for the welfare of all.
Under the guidance of Bhaskaracharya, Virupaksha learnt the Puranas
, fencing
, horse riding, martial arts
, archery
, and statecraft
, which were essential to rule his Territory. Vasavi learnt fine arts and mastered philosophy
and was proud to be an intelligent woman.
When King Vishnu Vardhana went on expedition to expand his empire, he visited Penugonda, where King Kusumasresty received him and took him in a procession and arranged a felicitation program in the colorful auditorium
. After Manamathan (God of Romance) threw his sweet arrows on him, Vimaladitya (Vishnu Vardhana) spotted Vasavi among the crowd and fell madly in love with her. He felt he could not live without her and was determined to marry her. He sent a minister to enquire about her. The desire of Vishnuvardhana (Vimaladitya) was like a death blow to Kusumasresty. He was neither in a position to accept nor deny the proposal. Kusumasresty was extremely distressed because the Emperor was already married, was much older, was from a different caste, and he was not in a position to prevent this from occurring.
He discussed these issues with his closest family and friends and they unanimously decided to let Vasavi decide. Vasavi frankly expressed her desire to be a Virgin throughout her life and intended not to concentrate on worldy matters.
Kusumasetti sent a denial message to king Vishnuvardhana. The king was furious and sent a Battalion with orders to attack mercilessly and to get Vasavi for him. The brave Komti's of Penugonda by using the techniques of Sama, Dhana, Bheda and finally Danda, defeated Vishnuvardana's army
.
In the conference, there was difference of opinion. The Chiefs of 102 Gotras made a firm decision that "Those who are born must die and cowards die many times before their death but the valiant taste death but once. Even if the opponent is stronger, can't the spark burn a heap of straw? Hence, let us fight for a good cause. Whereas, the leaders of the other 612 gotras felt that the matrimonial alliance would be safer and more beneficial."
Bhaskar Acharya said: "We must safeguard our respect even at the cost of our lives". These words acted as a catalyst for Kusumasresti. Even though they formed a minority he was determined not to give his daughter Vasavi in marriage to the king. With this incident, the unity of the Komti's was broken. The Emperor
, like an injured Cobra
, took the lead of his huge army with strong determination to destroy his opponents. In Penugonda necessary arrangements were made with the supporters of the 102 Gotras to face the consequence.
She smiled and revealed her true self, which had the glittering radiance surpassing the brightness of the sun. She said: "I am the incarnation of Adiparashakthi." To safeguard the dignity of woman and to protect Dharma
, to destroy Vishnu Vardhana and to reveal to the world the magnanimity of Komti's I come here in Kaliyuga. Like Sati Deva who was insulted entered into holy fire, I too plunge into the holy fire and enter the other world. Kusumasresty during last birth was a great Saint by name Samadhi as per his aspirations he could attain salvation along with the people of 102 Gotras. That is why I asked you all to undergo Athmam Balidhana." Vasavi advised the gathering about patriotism, honesty, social service, and tolerance.
Though Vishnuvardhana felt bad Omens, he marched ahead and reached the main entrance of Penugonda. Then his detectives reported all that had happened in the city. He could not bear the great shock and his heart shattered into pieces. He fell down vomiting blood and he was no more.
The self-sacrifice of Vasavi and the end of Vishnuvardhana was the talk of the town. People condemned the deeds of Vishnuvardhana and appreciated the epoch maker Vasavi and her non-violent principle (1).
rushed to Penugonda and repented about the incident. Later, Virupaksha consoled him and said: "Brother, let us learn and formulate the present and future on the strong base of past. Vasavi had come to rescue of the people without giving room for great bloodshed. Her non-violence gave a good result". Hence forth Komtis shall not fight or rule states but shall engage in service and as well wishers of others including services such as trade
and agriculture
.
Virupaksha visited many pilgrim centers like Kasi, Gaya and others under the guidance of komti kula guru Baskaracharya. To commemorate the pilgrimage they installed 101 lingas for each gotra in Penugonda. Then, Narendra installed a statue of Vasavi as a token of respect. From that day onwards all Komti's began performing poojas to her and she is considered as Komtikula Devatha-Vasavi Kannika Parameswari.
Vasavi's life is worth remembering because of her faith in non-violent religious values and her defense of the status of women. She became immortal because she has been mainly responsible for the propagation of the reputation of Komtis throughout the world. Vasavi is an epitome for aryan women who sacrificed her life rather than inter marry with the black skinned Dravidian kings of that time when Vaiśyas moved south, and hence the community of Komtis who followed her have now rechristened themselves and their community as Ārya Vaiśya's.Vasavi, who had rejected worldly pleasures, won the minds of Komtis and is the champion of peace and non-violence and is remembered by the faithful.
Groups of Ārya Vaiśyas became followers of particular Rishi for conducting their rituals and they claimed to be the followers of that particular Rishi. Thus they are identified by the Rishi name. And for still feature identification they use a pre-fix surname generally indicating the area from which they migrated or the profession to which they belong and other such identification.
The same list can be found in Kannada.
Caste system in India
The Indian caste system is a system of social stratification and social restriction in India in which communities are defined by thousands of endogamous hereditary groups called Jātis....
from Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh , is one of the 28 states of India, situated on the southeastern coast of India. It is India's fourth largest state by area and fifth largest by population. Its capital and largest city by population is Hyderabad.The total GDP of Andhra Pradesh is $100 billion and is ranked third...
. They are also found in Karnataka
Karnataka
Karnataka , the land of the Kannadigas, is a state in South West India. It was created on 1 November 1956, with the passing of the States Reorganisation Act and this day is annually celebrated as Karnataka Rajyotsava...
, Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is one of the 28 states of India. Its capital and largest city is Chennai. Tamil Nadu lies in the southernmost part of the Indian Peninsula and is bordered by the union territory of Pondicherry, and the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh...
, Maharashtra
Maharashtra
Maharashtra is a state located in India. It is the second most populous after Uttar Pradesh and third largest state by area in India...
and Orissa
Orissa
Orissa , officially Odisha since Nov 2011, is a state of India, located on the east coast of India, by the Bay of Bengal. It is the modern name of the ancient nation of Kalinga, which was invaded by the Maurya Emperor Ashoka in 261 BC. The modern state of Orissa was established on 1 April...
. The people of this caste are mainly involved in business,agriculture and cow protection activities(as per Bhagavatgita). Ārya Vaiśyas are strict vegetarians. Orthodox Ārya Vaiśyas follow rituals prescribed in the Vasavi Puranamulu, a text written in the late medieval times. Vasavi
Vasavi
Vasavi is the goddess or kula devatha of the Arya Vysya community as mentioned in the Vasavi Puranamulu written in telugu during the 10th century AD before the birth of Goddess Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari Devi...
is the kuladevata of the Ārya Vaiśya. Here is a small List of Telugu Vaishyas.
Name Suffix based on the location
Ārya Vaiśyas use the suffix "Gupta" in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, and ChettiarChettiar
Chettiar , also spelled Chetty, is a title used by various castes in South India especially in Tamil Nadu. In Kannada, it appears as Setty, Shettar and Shettigar, who are Padmashalis in Andhra Pradesh....
in Tamil Nadu. Some members of the community are also known to use the suffix "Shreshti". Ārya Vaiśyas in Maharashtra are found in greater numbers in the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. Almost exclusively, they speak Marathi as their mother tongue and have adopted largely Maharashtrian customs.
Typical Surnames
- In the TelanganaTelanganaTelangana is a region in the present state of Andhra Pradesh, India and formerly was part of Hyderabad state which was ruled by Nizam. It is bordered with the states of Maharashtra on the north and north-west, Karnataka on the west, Chattisgarh on the north-east and Orissa to the east...
region of Andhra Pradesh,Chandra, Varagantis, Javaji, Battu, Peddi, Tammana, Vetcha,Rashipuram and Varanasis are some other famous surnames. However, ancestors of these families are known to speak Telugu; there are many Telugu families residing in the Telangana areas of Andhra Pradesh bordering with Maharashtra for many generations who have these surnames. They are Telugu Ārya Vaiśyas residing in Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh adjacent to Maharashtra state. - In KarnatakaKarnatakaKarnataka , the land of the Kannadigas, is a state in South West India. It was created on 1 November 1956, with the passing of the States Reorganisation Act and this day is annually celebrated as Karnataka Rajyotsava...
they speak Kannada and some Telugu. Their surnames are Mummadi, Ghantoji, Jajee, Gada, Chidri, Mailapur, Ainapur, Amman, Bacha, Pola, Kotarki, Mukka, Chowdry/Chowdari,Akalwadi. - Many Gomatis have lived In Orissa for generations. Their surname are Patro, Subuddhi, Senapati, Rao and others. They speak a mixture of Oriya and Telugu.
- In Maharastra, Ārya Vaiśyas' last names typically include Parsewar,Nalamwar,Mamidwar,Kotalwar,Tammewar, Banginwar, Polawar, Palkrutwar, Raiwar, Mungilwar, Gujalwar, Kankanwar, Yadawar, Pattewar, Revanwar, Raiwar, Yerremwar, Wattamwar, Bidwai, Chalikwar, Papinwar, Chidrewar Gundawar, Pampatwar, Pokalwar, and Rathkanthiwar. Some uncommon names are also found in Maharashtra. These include Vyawahare, Lade, Kole, Kotgire, Mahajan, Gadam, Kottur, Chidri, Ainchwar, Desu, etc.
Origin of Vaiśyas
A large number of Vaiśyas are said to have originally lived and still live in large numbers on the banks of the Godavari. One of the local names for the river is Gomati.Ārya Vaiśya etymology
Ārya Vaiśyas, also known as Gavara Gomatis, are one of the three subsets of the Gomati grouping. The other two are Kalinga Vaiśya and Thrivarnika. While Ārya Vaiśyas are vegetarians, the Kalinga Vaiśyas and Thrivarnikas are non-vegetarians. Ārya Vaiśyas are distributed throughout Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. Kalinga Vaiśyas live mainly around the SrikakulamSrikakulam
Srikakulam is a town, municipality and headquarters of Srikakulam district in the north-eastern Andhra Pradesh, India. It is part of Srikakulam Assembly constituency and Srikakulam Parliament Constituency. Srikakulam was formerly called as Gulshanabad during Muslim rule and was headquarter of...
and Vizianagaram
Vizianagaram
Vizianagaram is the main city of the Vizianagaram District of north-eastern Andhra Pradesh in southern India. Vizianagaram district was formed on 1 June 1979, with some parts carved from the neighbouring districts of Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam. It is, at present, the largest municipality of...
districts of Andhra Pradesh and Orissa, whereas Thrivarnikas are small in number and reside in small pockets of the Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam is a major sea port on the south east coast of India. With a population of approximately 1.7 million, it is the second largest city in the state of Andhra Pradesh and the third largest city on the east coast of India after Kolkata and Chennai. According to the history, the city was...
, East Godavari
East Godavari
East Godavari District is a district situated on the northeast of the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. Its district headquarters is Kakinada. It is the second richest district in the whole country...
and Warangal
Warangal
Warangal is a city and a municipal corporation in Warangal district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Warangal is located northeast of the state capital of Hyderabad and is the administrative headquarters of Warangal District. This district is a combination of three cities: Warangal,...
districts.
According to Thurston (1975)m Komti is derived from ‘’gomati’’, “possessor of cows”, and their main occupation was protecting cows. The book Religion in Andhra: a survey of religious developments in Andhra from early times up to 1325 AD, page 175 mentions that the merchant classes preferred Jainism for gaining social status and respectability, and the erstwhile Bania
Bania
Bania may refer to:* Bania or Vanika, a trader or merchant belonging to the Indian business class** Punjabi Banias* Bănia, a commune in Caraş-Severin County, Romania* Bănia River, a tributary of the Nera River in Romania...
s became gomati or followers of the Gomata cult in the medieval times.
Social mobility in Medieval Andhra by BSL Hanumantha Rao, page 176, mentions that an alternative etymology for the word Komti is a "derivation of the word from gomata (Gomateshwara), the great Jaina saint
Siddha
A Siddha सिद्ध in Sanskrit means "one who is accomplished" and refers to perfected masters who, according to Hindu belief, have transcended the ahamkara , have subdued their minds to be subservient to their Awareness, and have transformed their bodies into a different kind of body dominated by...
, which implies that they were followers of Gomata cult or were originally Jains". The book Socio-cultural history of ancient and medieval Andhra, page 130, mentions that "The story of Vasavi, the caste goddess of the Vaisyas narrated in the Vaisya Purana appears to have definite Jain overtones".
The book Socio-cultural history of an Indian caste, by C. Dwarakanath Gupta, page 10, mentions that "the tradesmen from Gouda desa took to Jainism
Jainism
Jainism is an Indian religion that prescribes a path of non-violence towards all living beings. Its philosophy and practice emphasize the necessity of self-effort to move the soul towards divine consciousness and liberation. Any soul that has conquered its own inner enemies and achieved the state...
and adopted the Gomata cult. The word Gomata became distorted to Gomatlu, Komtulu. The word Gomati is used In Malayalam and Tamil. The Jain Vaiśyas gave up Jainism and embraced Vedic
Vedic
Vedic may refer to:* the Vedas, the oldest preserved Indic texts** Vedic Sanskrit, the language of these texts** Vedic period, during which these texts were produced** Vedic pantheon of gods mentioned in Vedas/vedic period...
religion during its revival".
Inclusion into the Vaiśya Varna
The book Religion and public culture: encounters and identities in modern South India by John Jeya Paul and Keith E. Yandell (page 33 to 55) details the inclusion of Gomatis into the Vaiśya during the colonial times. It noted that Komtis desired to be members of the Vaiśya caste in the colonial times. However NiyogiNiyogi
Niyogis are a sect of Hindu Brahmins who gave up priestly occupations and are predominantly Telugu language speakers, from Andhra Pradesh, India.-Theories of origin:...
(Brahmin
Brahmin
Brahmin Brahman, Brahma and Brahmin.Brahman, Brahmin and Brahma have different meanings. Brahman refers to the Supreme Self...
) councillors who controlled the powerful Mandri Mahanad did not accept their claim.
Attempts by Gomatis to adopt orthodox Vaiśya rituals drew the hostile attention of Niyogis. When a Gomati family in Masulipatnam (Machilipatnam
Machilipatnam
Machilipatnam is a city and a special grade municipality in the Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is located south east of state capital, Hyderabad.-History:...
) announced its intention to perform the Upanayana
Upanayana
Upanayana is the initiation ritual by which initiates are invested with a sacred thread, to symbolize the transference of spiritual knowledge .- Significance of the sacred thread :...
ceremony for their son, leaders of the Mahanad invaded the house, polluted the fire and stopped the ceremony. Violent encounters along these lines leading to loss of lives were noted in 1784, 1803, 1809, 1817 and 1820.
Of the approximately 1000 Gomati families living in Masulipatnam in 1825, the Gavara gomatis (who later registered their caste name as Ārya Vaiśyas in 1905) were one of the two main Gomati groups. They had 102 gotra
Gotra
In the Hindu society, the term Gotra broadly refers to people who are descendants in an unbroken male line from a common male ancestor. Panini defines gotra for grammatical purposes as apatyam pautraprabhrti gotram , which means "the word gotra denotes the progeny beginning with the son's son"...
s, which were not considered to correspond in identity with the gotras deemed appropriate for Brahmanas or Vaiśyas. From 1784 to 1825 few families organized the upanayana, but by 1825 a majority of the caste's males wore the sacred thread.
The upanayana ceremonies were officiated by the Vaidiki Brahmins
Vaidiki Brahmins
Vaidiki Brahmins are a sect of Telugu speaking Smartha Brahmins. They are predominantly followers of Adi Shankaracharya. The term Vaidika derives itself from the term Vedas. Vaidikis are people who mastered Vedas, also called Ghanaapaathi...
who were tolerant of the wishes of their patrons. However, the Niyogis continued to mobilize the untouchables (Dalit
Dalit
Dalit is a designation for a group of people traditionally regarded as Untouchable. Dalits are a mixed population, consisting of numerous castes from all over South Asia; they speak a variety of languages and practice a multitude of religions...
s) to riot and organized their offensives against such ceremonies. This led three gomati litigants to take their complaints to the civil court. One litigant, Mamidi Venkataryulu had studied the Dharmashastras and took a leading role in Gomati activities with regard to the upanayanams. The litigants were supported by the Vaidiki Brahmins.
The Niyogis and their lawyers attempted to destroy the Vaidiki support in court by arguing that the Vaidikis were unread in the dharma shastras, and that they supported the gomatis because they depended on Komti fees for their livelihood. In 1833 the Sadr Adalat decided in favour of the Niyogis. In 1845 the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council refused to make a formal decision.
The Magistrates of Masulipatnam continually received charges from gomatis and Niyogis and could not manage the dispute. The Magistrates attempted to solve the dispute by asking Gomatis to stop performing the rituals. The Komtis however remained unfazed by the court orders and kept going with their attempts.
By the beginning of the 20th century, it was common for the Gomatis to describe their clan membership in terms of brahmanical rishi gotras. And in the 1901 census the Gomatis - significant numbers of whom had prospered in the 19th century - were the only Telugu community who succeeded in getting the government to rank them as Vaiśyas (5). Following this inclusion, a group of Gomatis established the South India Vaisya Association in 1905.
History
Between 1921 to 1931, the Viceroy of Madras PresidencyMadras Presidency
The Madras Presidency , officially the Presidency of Fort St. George and also known as Madras Province, was an administrative subdivision of British India...
implemented a commission, which helped the people in their community to register any name changes in the community. The South India Vaisya Association (1905) registered their community as Ārya Vaiśyas.(provide further details).
Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari Devi Puranamulu as written in Telugu
South IndiaSouth India
South India is the area encompassing India's states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu as well as the union territories of Lakshadweep and Pondicherry, occupying 19.31% of India's area...
is the Treasure House of many temples. Among them is Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari, a temple situated in Penugonda
Penugonda
Penugonda is a village and a mandal in West Godavari district in the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. Penugonda is famous for Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari temple, which is the most important temple for Arya Vysyas all over India....
, a town in the West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is a fascinating multi-colored (Gali Gopuram) seven storied tower with beautiful architecture. This Penugonda Kshetram is considered the ‘Kasi of Vaiśyas' and is a holy place for Vaiśyas.
Kusuma Sresti or Setty was the Setty king of Vaiśyas, also known as Pedda Setty (Elder among Shettys), whose territory was a Vassal state of Vengi desha, which was ruled by Vishnu Vardhana (Vimaladitya Maharajulu). His capital was Penugonda (Jestasailam) city for all the 18 paraganas during the 10th and 11th centuries A.D. He and his wife Kusumamba were considered an ideal couple and led a peaceful domestic life. They worshiped Lord Siva (Nagareswara Swamy) as the part of their daily duties.
Though they had been married for many years, the couple did not have peace of mind as there was no successor to the kingdom. Their many prayers and sacrifices did not bear fruit and hence they were grief stricken. They approached their Kula guru (family Teacher) Bhaskar Acharya also a Komti who was well versed in shastras and by virtue of his profession was treated as a Gomti Bramhana. He advised them to perform Puthra Kamesti Yaga, which Dasharatha had observed.
During the auspicious hour, the couple started the yaga. The Gods were pleased and sent prasadam (blessed fruit from god) through Yagneswara (fire God
God
God is the English name given to a singular being in theistic and deistic religions who is either the sole deity in monotheism, or a single deity in polytheism....
). They were told that they would beget children after eating prasadam. With devotion they ate the Prasadam and within a few days the signs of pregnancy were found with Kusumamba. She expressed unusual desires, which indicated that she would give birth to children who would fight for the welfare of all.
Birth of Vasavi Devi
During spring season, there was pleasure everywhere. Amidst this beauty, Kusumamba gave birth to twins, one male the other female, on Friday the tenth of Vaisaka (Telugu month) at twilight during convergence of Uttara Nakshatra and Kanya (Virgo). The male child was named Virupaksha and the female Vasavamba. During childhood, Virupaksha showed the features of becoming a powerful king, whereas Vasavi's inclinations were towards art, architecture, adoration music, and philosophical approach.Under the guidance of Bhaskaracharya, Virupaksha learnt the Puranas
Puranas
The Puranas are a genre of important Hindu, Jain and Buddhist religious texts, notably consisting of narratives of the history of the universe from creation to destruction, genealogies of kings, heroes, sages, and demigods, and descriptions of Hindu cosmology, philosophy, and geography.Puranas...
, fencing
Fencing
Fencing, which is also known as modern fencing to distinguish it from historical fencing, is a family of combat sports using bladed weapons.Fencing is one of four sports which have been featured at every one of the modern Olympic Games...
, horse riding, martial arts
Martial arts
Martial arts are extensive systems of codified practices and traditions of combat, practiced for a variety of reasons, including self-defense, competition, physical health and fitness, as well as mental and spiritual development....
, archery
Archery
Archery is the art, practice, or skill of propelling arrows with the use of a bow, from Latin arcus. Archery has historically been used for hunting and combat; in modern times, however, its main use is that of a recreational activity...
, and statecraft
Public policy
Public policy as government action is generally the principled guide to action taken by the administrative or executive branches of the state with regard to a class of issues in a manner consistent with law and institutional customs. In general, the foundation is the pertinent national and...
, which were essential to rule his Territory. Vasavi learnt fine arts and mastered philosophy
Philosophy
Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental problems, such as those connected with existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. Philosophy is distinguished from other ways of addressing such problems by its critical, generally systematic approach and its reliance on rational...
and was proud to be an intelligent woman.
Vishnu Vardhana Raju
When Virupaksha attained the proper age he married Rathnavathi, daughter of Aridhi Setty of Aelur Town. The huge gathering thought that Vasavi's marriage would one day also be observed with the same pomp and grandeur.When King Vishnu Vardhana went on expedition to expand his empire, he visited Penugonda, where King Kusumasresty received him and took him in a procession and arranged a felicitation program in the colorful auditorium
Auditorium
An auditorium is a room built to enable an audience to hear and watch performances at venues such as theatres. For movie theaters, the number of auditoriums is expressed as the number of screens.- Etymology :...
. After Manamathan (God of Romance) threw his sweet arrows on him, Vimaladitya (Vishnu Vardhana) spotted Vasavi among the crowd and fell madly in love with her. He felt he could not live without her and was determined to marry her. He sent a minister to enquire about her. The desire of Vishnuvardhana (Vimaladitya) was like a death blow to Kusumasresty. He was neither in a position to accept nor deny the proposal. Kusumasresty was extremely distressed because the Emperor was already married, was much older, was from a different caste, and he was not in a position to prevent this from occurring.
He discussed these issues with his closest family and friends and they unanimously decided to let Vasavi decide. Vasavi frankly expressed her desire to be a Virgin throughout her life and intended not to concentrate on worldy matters.
Kusumasetti sent a denial message to king Vishnuvardhana. The king was furious and sent a Battalion with orders to attack mercilessly and to get Vasavi for him. The brave Komti's of Penugonda by using the techniques of Sama, Dhana, Bheda and finally Danda, defeated Vishnuvardana's army
Army
An army An army An army (from Latin arma "arms, weapons" via Old French armée, "armed" (feminine), in the broadest sense, is the land-based military of a nation or state. It may also include other branches of the military such as the air force via means of aviation corps...
.
Community reaction
At this crucial juncture, Kusumasresti called for a Great Conference of the Chief of all the 18 cities and the leaders of all 714 Gotras in the presence of Komti Kula Guru Bhaskaracharya.In the conference, there was difference of opinion. The Chiefs of 102 Gotras made a firm decision that "Those who are born must die and cowards die many times before their death but the valiant taste death but once. Even if the opponent is stronger, can't the spark burn a heap of straw? Hence, let us fight for a good cause. Whereas, the leaders of the other 612 gotras felt that the matrimonial alliance would be safer and more beneficial."
Bhaskar Acharya said: "We must safeguard our respect even at the cost of our lives". These words acted as a catalyst for Kusumasresti. Even though they formed a minority he was determined not to give his daughter Vasavi in marriage to the king. With this incident, the unity of the Komti's was broken. The Emperor
Emperor
An emperor is a monarch, usually the sovereign ruler of an empire or another type of imperial realm. Empress, the female equivalent, may indicate an emperor's wife or a woman who rules in her own right...
, like an injured Cobra
Cobra
Cobra is a venomous snake belonging to the family Elapidae. However, not all snakes commonly referred to as cobras are of the same genus, or even of the same family. The name is short for cobra capo or capa Snake, which is Portuguese for "snake with hood", or "hood-snake"...
, took the lead of his huge army with strong determination to destroy his opponents. In Penugonda necessary arrangements were made with the supporters of the 102 Gotras to face the consequence.
Vasavi Devi's reaction
Vasavi, entered onto the scene and said: "Why should there be bloodshed among ourselves for the sake of a Girl? Why sacrifice the lives of soldiers for our selfish desire. It is better to give up the idea of war. Instead, let us rebel in a novel way. We can control war through non-violence and self-sacrifice. Only people with strong will power and moral strength can participate in this kind of self-sacrifice. Vasavi's new idea was delightful to her parents and they decided to act in accordance with Vasavi's directions.Athmam Balidhana
As per the directions of Vasavi, at the holy place of Brahmakunda on the banks of Godavari, the royal servants arranged 103 Agnikundas (fire pits) in a special way. The whole city was observing that day as a festival day. Then Vasavi asked the couples of the 102 Gotras: "Will you plunge into this holy fire along with me?" Everyone of them whole heartedly gave their consent. They suspected Vasavi must be an incarnation of God and requested her to show her real nature or swarupa.She smiled and revealed her true self, which had the glittering radiance surpassing the brightness of the sun. She said: "I am the incarnation of Adiparashakthi." To safeguard the dignity of woman and to protect Dharma
Dharma
Dharma means Law or Natural Law and is a concept of central importance in Indian philosophy and religion. In the context of Hinduism, it refers to one's personal obligations, calling and duties, and a Hindu's dharma is affected by the person's age, caste, class, occupation, and gender...
, to destroy Vishnu Vardhana and to reveal to the world the magnanimity of Komti's I come here in Kaliyuga. Like Sati Deva who was insulted entered into holy fire, I too plunge into the holy fire and enter the other world. Kusumasresty during last birth was a great Saint by name Samadhi as per his aspirations he could attain salvation along with the people of 102 Gotras. That is why I asked you all to undergo Athmam Balidhana." Vasavi advised the gathering about patriotism, honesty, social service, and tolerance.
Vishnu Vardhana's death
Devi disappeared as soon as the divine words came out of her mouth and people saw her in human form. Then all of them entered into holy fire after meditating upon their Gods.Though Vishnuvardhana felt bad Omens, he marched ahead and reached the main entrance of Penugonda. Then his detectives reported all that had happened in the city. He could not bear the great shock and his heart shattered into pieces. He fell down vomiting blood and he was no more.
The self-sacrifice of Vasavi and the end of Vishnuvardhana was the talk of the town. People condemned the deeds of Vishnuvardhana and appreciated the epoch maker Vasavi and her non-violent principle (1).
Sri Vasavi Devi's legacy
The son of Vishnuvardhana, Raja Raja NarendraRajus
The Raju are a Telugu caste inhabiting Andhra Pradesh, India.-Etymology:Raju is a Telugu variation of the Sanskrit word Raj and Raja meaning king, prince or lord...
rushed to Penugonda and repented about the incident. Later, Virupaksha consoled him and said: "Brother, let us learn and formulate the present and future on the strong base of past. Vasavi had come to rescue of the people without giving room for great bloodshed. Her non-violence gave a good result". Hence forth Komtis shall not fight or rule states but shall engage in service and as well wishers of others including services such as trade
Trade
Trade is the transfer of ownership of goods and services from one person or entity to another. Trade is sometimes loosely called commerce or financial transaction or barter. A network that allows trade is called a market. The original form of trade was barter, the direct exchange of goods and...
and agriculture
Agriculture
Agriculture is the cultivation of animals, plants, fungi and other life forms for food, fiber, and other products used to sustain life. Agriculture was the key implement in the rise of sedentary human civilization, whereby farming of domesticated species created food surpluses that nurtured the...
.
Virupaksha visited many pilgrim centers like Kasi, Gaya and others under the guidance of komti kula guru Baskaracharya. To commemorate the pilgrimage they installed 101 lingas for each gotra in Penugonda. Then, Narendra installed a statue of Vasavi as a token of respect. From that day onwards all Komti's began performing poojas to her and she is considered as Komtikula Devatha-Vasavi Kannika Parameswari.
Vasavi's life is worth remembering because of her faith in non-violent religious values and her defense of the status of women. She became immortal because she has been mainly responsible for the propagation of the reputation of Komtis throughout the world. Vasavi is an epitome for aryan women who sacrificed her life rather than inter marry with the black skinned Dravidian kings of that time when Vaiśyas moved south, and hence the community of Komtis who followed her have now rechristened themselves and their community as Ārya Vaiśya's.Vasavi, who had rejected worldly pleasures, won the minds of Komtis and is the champion of peace and non-violence and is remembered by the faithful.
Gothras
There are 714 gotras before agnipravesham of vasavi matha now there are 102 gotras among Ārya Vaiśyas. They followed 102 Rishis for conducting their rituals. Surname gotras and Rishis for identification and classification for all the Ārya Vaiśyas are one and the same. The gotras is equivalent of the Sanskrit names of Rishis.Groups of Ārya Vaiśyas became followers of particular Rishi for conducting their rituals and they claimed to be the followers of that particular Rishi. Thus they are identified by the Rishi name. And for still feature identification they use a pre-fix surname generally indicating the area from which they migrated or the profession to which they belong and other such identification.
- AGASTHYASA anubha Gula, anubala, anubala Gula
- ATHREYASA ARASAKULA- ARISISHTAKULA-ELISISHTAKULA- ARISETLAKULA-HARISISHTAKULA
- ACHAYANASA AKRAMULAKULA- AKYAMULAKULA- AMALAKULA- ARKYAMULA
- UGRASENASA KUMIRISISHTA- KUMARSISHTA- KOMARSISHTAKULA
- UDHGRUSHTASA KANYAKULA- KANUKULA- KRANUKULA- KRANU
- UTHAMOJASA UTHAKALAKULA-UTHAKULA- UTHASISHTAKULA- UHTAMAKULA
- RUSHYASHRUNGASA ANANTHAKULA
- AUSHITHYASA YANASAKULA- YAANASAKAKULA- YAANASABIKULA
- GANVSA GARNAKULA
- GANDHARPASA SARAKULA- SEKOTLAKULA- SEGOLLA- SAMANAKULA- SHRESHTA KUNDALA KULA
- KABILASA MANDU- MANDHAKULA- HASTHAKULA- MANDAKULA
- KABEEDHASA VENKALAKULA
- KASYABASA GANAMUKU KULA
- GUTHSASA ISHVAKU KULA
- KOUNDINYASA KANALOLA- KANASRILA- KANASRILA KULA
- GOUNDHEYASA KAMASISHTA
- KOUSIKASA KARAKA PALA
- KRUSHNASA DHANAKULA- THANANAKULA- THENUKULA
- GARKYASA PRAHEENUKULA- PRAHEENIKULA- PAIPIKULA
- GRUTHSAN MATHASA ESABAKULA- ESUBAKULA- ESHUBAKULA- SANNAKULA
- GOPAKASA INJTHAPAKULA- GOPAKULA- KONDAKULA- KONDAKAKULA
- GOUTHAMASA GANTHISEELA- GANTHASEELAKULA- GANTHASEELA- GRANTHISEELA
- CHAKRAPANISA CHAKRAMULAKULA- CHAKRAMULASAKULA
- CHAMARSHANASA BETHASHRESHTA- BETHAKISHTA- PATHASISHTAKULA- PATHTHASISHTAKULA
- JADABARATHASA KUNDAKULA- DHURASISHTA- DHURASISHTAKULA
- JADHUKARNASA CHANDRAKULA- CHANDRAMOOLA- CHANDRAMASISHTA
- JAMBASOOTHANASA THRIMULA- THRIMULAKULA
- JARATHKARASA SANTHAKULA- JANAKULA- JYANUKULA
- JABAALISA SIRISISHTAKULA- SIRASISHTAKULA
- PAPREYASA SANASISHTA- SANASISHTAKULA- SINISHETLA
- JEEVANDHISA BURHTILASISHAKULA- BRUMASISHTAKULA- LRUTHTHIKULA
- THARANISA THRIVIKRAMA- SISHTASA- THRIVIKRAMASISHTAKULA
- THITHIRISA PAMTHAKULA- PRAHTAMAKULA- PRAVATHAKULA
- THRIJADASA UPARAKULA- USIRAKULA
- THAITHREYASA SITHURUBELLU- SITHRUBELLU- SITHRUBA- SITHRUBAKULA
- THALPYASA PADINAKULA- PLAKAKULA- PALAKALAKULA- PADANASISHTAKULA
- DHURVASASA THITHISA- THITHINAKULA- THENTHSULA- THENTHASALA- THETHANAKULA
- DHEVARATHASA HAARAASIKULA
- DHEVA KALKYASA USIRAKULA- DHESISHTAKULA
- NARADHASA PALAKAKULA- PALAKULA,NABHILLA
- NETHRA PAHTASA SANDHOKU- SANDHOKULAKULA
- PARAS PARAAYANYASA DHUVVISISHTAKULA- POULATHATHSYA KULA- SRIBHUMSIKULA
- PALLAVASA KANAPAKULA- KANTAKULA- KANTAASUKULA- KANTASUUKULA- KANTASTHULAKULA
- PAVITHRA PAANISA DHAYASISHTAKULA- DHAYAA SISHTAKULA- DHASISHTAKULA- THAISETTAKULA- THESETLAKULA- THESISHTAKULA- THYSISHTAKULA
- PAARAASARYASA KAMATHENUKULA- PATAKASEELAKULA- PANCHALAKULA- PANCHALLAKULA- PRANASEELAKULA- PRANUSEELAKULA- PRANA SEELA KULA- PAMPAALLA
- PINGALASA AYANAKULA
- PUNDAREEGASA ANUSISHTA- ANUSISHTAKULA- KRANUKULA- THONDIKULA
- BHOODHI MASHASA DHURVADIKULA- DHULAASISHTAKULA- DHURYADAKULA- DHULASISHTAKULA- DULASIKULA- DHODAKULA- DHODILULA
- POUNDRAKASA BUMSIMAMSUKULA- BUMSIMANAKULA- BROSISHTAKULA- BROSI- BROLEKAKULA
- POULASTHYASA GOSEELA- UTHAMAGOSEELA- PALLALAGOOSEELA- PADUGOSEELA- SRIGOSEELA-PUNAGOSEELA- SOORYAKULA- UTHAMASEELA- PUNAGORSEELA- PATTUGOSEELA- PUNAKASEELAKULA BHEEMAGOSEELA- SATHYAGOSEELA- CHANDHIGOSEELA-
- PRASEENASA VANISISHTAKULA- LENASISHTAKULA- LELISISHTAKULA
- PRABHADHASA UDHVAHAKULA- PENDLIKULA- RAVISISHTAKULA
- BRUHATHATHVASA PERUSISHTA- BERISISHTAKULA- BHYRUSISHTAKULA
- BHODHAYANASA BHUDHIKULA- BHDHANAKULA
- BHARADHVAJASA BALASISHTA- BALASESHTA- BALISISHTA
- BHARGGAVASA PRUTHIVISISHTA- PRUTHIVISRESHTA
- MANTHAPALASA VINNASA- VINNAKULA- VINUKULA- VENNAKULA
- MAANAVASA MATHYAKULA- MANYUKULA-MARAASAKULA- MAANAACHAKULA
- MAREECHASA THISHAMASISHTAKULA- THEESHMAKULA- THEESHMASISHTAKULA- THEESHMASHRESHTA
- MAARKANDEYASA MONUKULA- MORUKA- MORUSA- MORKKALAKULA,MOORKULA
- MUNIRAJASA PADMASISHTASA- PADMASISHTAKULA- PADMASHRESHTA
- MAITHREYASA MATHTHIKULA- MATHANAKULA- MATHYASAKULA- MITHUNAKULA- MAITHRIKULAv
- THOUMYASA CHANDA- CHANDHAKULA- CHANDAKAKULA- CHANKALAKULA
- MOUNJAYA MUNJEEKULA- MOUNJRISA- MOUNJIKULA
- MOUTHKALYASA NAABILLA- NAABEELAKULA- NAABEELASAKULA- MUNIKULA- MOOLAKULA
- YAASKASA VYALAKOOLASA- VELGOLLA- VAELIGOLLA
- YAGNA VALKYASA ABIMANCHIKULA
- VADUGASA ANUMARSHANAKULA
- VARADHANTHUSA MASANTHA- MASANTHA - MASANTHAKULA - MASHANTHAKULA
- VARUNASA YELASISHTAKULA- VELASISHTAKULA- VELISISHTAKULA- SIRISISHTAKULA
- VASHISHTASA VASTHI- VASTHISA- VASTHIKULA- VASTHRIKULA
- VAMADEVASA UPALAKULA- UPAMAKULA- UPANAKULA- UPAMANYAKULA
- VASUDEVASA BHEEMASISHTA- BHEEMASISHTAKULA- BHEEMASRESHTAKULA
- VAYAVYAYA MRANGAMAKULA- VRAHASISHTAKULA- VRAKALAMULA- VRANGAMAKULA- VRANGAMULAKULA
- VALMIKASA SUKALAKULA- SAKALLAKULA- SUCHALAKULA- SUGOLLAKULA
- VISHVAGSHENASA UBARISISHTA- VIBARISISHTA
- VISVAMITHRASA VIKRAMASISHTA- VIKRAMASISHTAKULA
- VISHNUVRUNTHASA PIPPALAKULA- PUPPALAKULA
- VAIROHITHYASA VASNTHA- VASANTHAKULA
- VYASASA THANAKU- THANATHAKULA
- SARABANKASA KRAMASISHTA- KRAMASISHTAKULA- KRAMASHRESHTAKULA
- SAARGNARAVASA KUNDAKAKULA- KONDAKAKULA
- SHANDILYASA THUPPALA- THUPPALAKULA
- SRIVATHSASA SILAKULA- SRIRANGAKULA- SRILAKULA
- SRIDHARASA SIRISHESHTA- SIRISHESHTAKULA-SRISHISHTA
- SHUKLASA SRISALAKULA- SRISALLA- SRISALLAKULA
- CHOWCHEYASA ILAMANCHIKULA- YALAMANCHIKULA- HELAMANCHIKULA
- CHOWNAKASA KAMALAKULA- DHRUGASISHTA- DHRUGASISHTAKULA- THANATHAKULA- CHAANAKALAKULA- CHOWNAKA
- SATHYASA ANTHIRAKULA- CHINTHAKULA- CHINTHAMASISHTA CHINTHYAKULA- CHINTHALA
- SANAKASA SHANAKULA- SANAKULA
- SANATHKUMARASA DANKARAKULA- MUTHUKULA
- SANANTHANASA SAMASISHTAKULA
- SAMVARTHAKASA RENDUKULA- RENTAKULA
- SUKANCHANASA PUCHAKULA- PUCHAKASEELA- PUNITHA- PUNEETHASA- PUNTHAKULA
- SUDHEESHANASA DHANTHAKULA- DHYANTHAKULA- DHVANTHAKULA- DHENTHAKULA- DHEVISETLA- DHONTHAKULA
- SUNDHARASA INA- INAKULA- INAKOLA- VINUKULA
- SUVARNASA PRODAYASAKULA- PRODAJAKULA- PROUDAAYAJA
- SUBHRAMHANYASA SANTHANAKULA- SANIKTHAKULA
- SOWBARNASA PUTHURUKULA- PUTHURUKSAKULA
- SOWMYASA HASTHIKULA
- SOWVARNASA CHUSALAKULA- SAKALLAKULA- SOOCHALAKULA- SOOKASALLAKULA- SOOSALAKULA
- HARIVALGAYASA KAPATA- KURATA- KORATAKULA- GORANTAKULU
- DESATELA
The same list can be found in Kannada.
Organisations
- KAMS - Karnataka AryaVysya Mahasabha, Bengaluru.
- KAYMS - Karnataka AryaVysya Yuvajana Mahasabha, Bengaluru. www.aryavysyaworld.net
- Vasavi Penugonda Trust:responsible for developmental works and creation of a Khsetra in penugonda the only punya Kshetra for Ārya VaiśyaS link provided below
- VYS - Vasavi Yujana Sangha
- YMVA - Young Men's Vysya Association: Responsible for organizing Community service activities on behalf of Vysyas.
- VLA - Vysya Ladies Association: Same as YMVA but organized by Vysya Women.
- VH - Vysya Hostel: A Boys Hostel for students from Vysya Community.
- Vysya Bhawans are organized by Vysyas at all important pilgrimage places
- AVOPA - Ārya Vaiśya Officials and Professionals Association [1]
- Tamil Nadu Ārya Vaiśya Maha Sabha, Chennai
- Andhra Pradesh Sri Vasavi Ārya Vaiśya Maha Sabha, Hyderabad
- Sri Vasavi Ārya Vaiśya Sangam,Sri Vasavi Ārya Vaiśya Yuvagana Sangam,Vasavi Club every where in Hyderabad City and every in Andhra Pradesh and also at every priligrims we have Boarding and loadging facilities to Ārya Vaiśya at low price and free of cost for poor in these Ārya Vaiśyas.
- AVOGA - Ārya Vaiśya Officials and Graduates Association, Tuni, East Goadavari (dist.)
- Ārya Vaiśya BavanVasavi Bhavan road - Miryalguda-508207
- Ārya Vaiśya Sangam Main Road Giddalur Prakasam (dt) -523357
- Kanyaka Parameshwari Temple Nalgonda Road - Miryalguda-508207, Nalgonda(dist.)
- Kanyaka Parameswari Satram Near 1 town Market - Eluru 534001, West Godavari(dist.)
- NRIVA (NRI VASAVI ASSOCIATION) based in USA - WWW.NRIVA.ORG
- Ārya Vaiśya Yuvajana Sangham, ITown Area, Viskhapatnam-530001, Andhrapradesh, India
- Ārya Vaiśya Sangham, kushaiguda, rangareddy dist,hyderabad- 500062
- Vasavi clubs, All over andhrapradesh
- Ārya Vaiśya Sabha, Proddatur
- Anna Nagar Ārya Vaiśya Sangam, Chennai 600 040
- Coimbatore Ārya Vaiśya Samajam, Coimbatore 641 001, Tamil Nadu, India
- Salem Ārya Vaiśya Samajam, Salem 636002, Tamil Nadu, India
- KAVYA - Hyderabad City Kalinga Vysya Association, Andhrapradesh
- Ārya Vaiśya Samajam, Puducherry 605001
- Vasavi Society Inc in USA, www.vasavisociety.org
- VysyaClub.com,http://www.Vysyaclub.com First eClub for Vysya community
- aryaVysyagroup.com,http://www.aryaVysyagroup.com internet site for Vysya community about history of vasavi kanyaka parameshwari devi & gothras & temples and aryaVysya satram details
- AVOPA - Ārya Vaiśya Officers and Professionals Association, Karnataka
- SRI KANCHI Ārya Vaiśya SAMAJAM (Reg. NO. 62/68 & Estd:1907), Kanchipuram - 631501
Some of the Eminent Members of the Community
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi - Father of the Nation. Fought for the country. (He is Gujarathi Vysya)
- Potti Sriramulu- Famous for undertaking a fast-unto-death demanding the creation of Andhra StateAndhra StateAndhra State was a state in India created on October 1, 1953 from the Telugu-speaking northern districts of Madras Presidency. On November 1, 1956 it was merged with the Telangana region of Hyderabad State to form the united Telugu-speaking state of Andhra Pradesh.- Madras Manade movement :In 1953,...
and losing his life in the process. - Konijeti RosaiahKonijeti RosaiahKonijeti Rosaiah is the current Governor of Tamil Nadu and a former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. He was previously an MLC, MLA & MP of the Indian National Congress numerous times and has handled many ministerial posts over his long political career spanning over half a century...
- Former Chief Minister of Andhra PradeshAndhra PradeshAndhra Pradesh , is one of the 28 states of India, situated on the southeastern coast of India. It is India's fourth largest state by area and fifth largest by population. Its capital and largest city by population is Hyderabad.The total GDP of Andhra Pradesh is $100 billion and is ranked third...
, current Governor of Tamil NaduTamil NaduTamil Nadu is one of the 28 states of India. Its capital and largest city is Chennai. Tamil Nadu lies in the southernmost part of the Indian Peninsula and is bordered by the union territory of Pondicherry, and the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh... - Sudhir Mungantiwar - BJP President of MAharashtra / MLA (BJP) from Chandrapur Maharashtra.
- Justice SD Gundewar : Justice of the Bombay High Court who led the Gundewar Commission to investigate the Bombay riots in 1992-93.
- Vilas MuttemwarVilas MuttemwarVilas Muttemwar is a member of the 14th Lok Sabha of India. He represents the Nagpur Loksabha constituency of Maharashtra and is a member of the Indian National Congress political party....
: Minister of States,Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha representative from Nagpur. - Ramesh GelliRamesh GelliRamesh Gelli is an Indian banking executive who served as the chairman and managing director of Vysya Bank and was a promoter and CMD of the troubled Global Trust Bank, India....
Founder and chairperson of the erstwhile and now defunct Global Trust Bank head quartered at Bangalore and merged with Oriental Bank of Commerce. - Kolagatla Veerabhadra Swamy - Former MLA from VizianagaramVizianagaramVizianagaram is the main city of the Vizianagaram District of north-eastern Andhra Pradesh in southern India. Vizianagaram district was formed on 1 June 1979, with some parts carved from the neighbouring districts of Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam. It is, at present, the largest municipality of...
, Government of Andhra PradeshGovernment of Andhra PradeshGovernment of Andhra Pradesh is the government for the state of Andhra Pradesh in South India.It is an elected government with 294 MLAs elected to the legislative assembly for a 5 year term.-Executive:... - Grandhi Mallikarjuna RaoGrandhi Mallikarjuna RaoGrandhi Mallikarjuna Rao is the founder and chairman of GMR Group, a leading infrastructure developer in India. He was ranked 198th in the world's richest list by Forbes, and his wealth was valued at $2.6 billion...
- Chairman, GMR GroupGMR GroupGMR Group is a major infrastructure company in India which is headquartered in Bangalore. The company was founded in 1978 by Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao The core business areas of the company include airports, energy and highways; apart from having presence in the agriculture and aviation sectors...
, First TeluguTelugu peopleThe Telugu people or Telugu Prajalu are an ethnic group of India. They are the native speakers of the Telugu language, the most commonly spoken language in India after Hindi and Bengali...
Person in Forbes Magazine - D.H. Shankaramurthy - BJPBharatiya Janata PartyThe Bharatiya Janata Party ,; translation: Indian People's Party) is one of the two major political parties in India, the other being the Indian National Congress. Established in 1980, it is India's second largest political party in terms of representation in the parliament...
, Chairman, Vidhana Parishath, KarnatakaKarnatakaKarnataka , the land of the Kannadigas, is a state in South West India. It was created on 1 November 1956, with the passing of the States Reorganisation Act and this day is annually celebrated as Karnataka Rajyotsava...
. - Pendekanti Venkata Subbayya- Former Governor of KarnatakaKarnatakaKarnataka , the land of the Kannadigas, is a state in South West India. It was created on 1 November 1956, with the passing of the States Reorganisation Act and this day is annually celebrated as Karnataka Rajyotsava...
- S. M. Ashwathanarayana Setty - ex Member of Legislative Council MLC from KolarKolarKolara is a city in the South Indian state of Karnataka. It is the headquarters of Kolar District. It is known for being one of the gold mining sites in India....
and former President, Bangarpet Town Municipality - S. N. Krishnaiah Setty - MLAMember of Legislative AssemblyA Member of Legislative Assembly, or MLA, is a representative elected by the voters of an electoral district to the Legislature of a State in the Indian system of government...
from MalurMalurMalur is a town in Kolar district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is near Bangalore.-Geography:Malur is located at . It has an average elevation of 910 metres ....
and former Housing & Muzrai Minister, Government of KarnatakaGovernment of KarnatakaThe Government of Karnataka is a democratically elected body with the Governor as the constitutional head. The Governor who is appointed for a period of five years appoints the Chief Minister and his council of ministers... - Singanamala Ramesh Babu:Famous Producer in Telugu and Tamil
- H.P. Manjunath- MLA from HunsurHunsurHunsur is a taluk in Mysore district in the Indian state of Karnataka.Its main claim to fame was that former Chief minister of Karnataka state Sri D. Devaraj Urs hailed from this constituency of Karnataka Legislative Assembly and famous film director Hunsur Krishnamurthy hailed from here. It...
- Sidda Ragava Rao - MLC from Ongole,AP
- M.S. Partha SarathiM.S. Partha SarathiM.S. Partha Sarathi was MLA representing Kadiri constituency. He is the one and only MLA won in Rayalaseema from BJP. Presently, He is the Andhra Pradesh Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party.- Early life :...
- Ex-MLA, Kadiri. Secretary, BJP, Andhra Pradesh. - Bangaru Usharani - MLA(INC) from Palakollu (Defeated Chiranjeevi (PRP Leader))
- Madhusudan Gupta - MLA(INC)from Guntakal
- K NAGESHWAR - MLC from Hyderabad
- TG Venkatesh - MLA(INC)from Kurnool
- Vellampalli Srinivas - MLA(PRP)from Vijayawada East
- Anna Rambabu - MLA (PRP)from Giddalur
- Sriram RajGopal (Tataiah) - MLA (TDP) from Jaggaiahpet
- CH Ramakotaiah - MLA(TDP)from Nuziveedu
- Madan Yerawar - MLA (BJP) from yavatmal Maharashtra
- Dr.Anant Labhsetwar, First person from India to own a Bank in the USA
- Gundaiah Setty, - MLC ( BJP) Bangalore Graduates Constituency, Karnataka
- Rajesh Setty, Author, Angel InvestorAngel investorAn angel investor or angel is an affluent individual who provides capital for a business start-up, usually in exchange for convertible debt or ownership equity...
, Santa Clara, California, USA. - Chandu Kumar Potti - Industrialist, Founder & Chairman of VERSATILEVersatileVersatile is a Canadian brand of agricultural equipment that has produced augers, swathers and combine harvester.In the 1970s, it was an independent operation, founded by Peter Pakosh and Roy Robinson, that had 70% of the 4WD tractor market and then was later owned by Ford and Fiat's New Holland,...
Group - C P B Prasad -Visual Artist
- Sri Palasamudram - CEO, MobiDEOS, Milpitas, CA