The 12 Pillars of the Kakatiya Village Republic While the Kakatiya Kings ruled from the stone fortresses of Orugallu, the real strength of the empire lay in its Grama (village) administration. They perfected a decentralized governance model known as the Ayagar System . This system made every village a self-contained, self-governing republic—a structure so robust it survived for nearly 800 years. The Core Philosophy An Ayagar was a village functionary who was granted tax-free land, known as Manyam , in exchange for their hereditary services. There were 12 Ayagars in a standard village, ensuring that every social, economic, and religious need was met locally. The 'Big Three' Village Leaders 1. The Reddy Role: The Village Headman. He was the chief executive and magistrate. He settled local disputes, maintained law and order, and was the primary link between the village and the King's officials. ...
"While Kings built the forts, the Neerati built the future. Discover the 800-year-old secret to Telangana's agricultural prosperity." The Kakatiya era (1163–1323 CE) is famous for its grand temples, but its real genius lay in the Ayagar System —a village-level administration that made every community a self-sustaining republic. At the heart of this was the Neerati , the Village Water Manager. Dawn: 05:00 AM The Morning Rounds (Prayanam) Before the village wakes, the Neerati inspects the Cheruvu (Tank). He checks the massive earth bunds for leaks and ensures the inlet channels are clear of debris. In the Kakatiya world, a single crack in the bund could mean a season of famine. Mid-Morning: 09:00 AM Opening the Thummu (Sluice Gates) This is the most critical moment. Based on the Aaru Talla (rotation schedule), the Neerati opens the stone sluice gates. He doesn't just release water; he c...