Anantapur

Anantapur is a historic city in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, shaped by its position on the Deccan plateau and its long connection to trade routes linking Karnataka, Telangana, and coastal Andhra. The region’s early history reflects broader South Indian developments, with dynastic influences that included the Chalukyas and later the powerful Vijayanagara Empire. Under Vijayanagara rule (14th–16th centuries), the Anantapur area gained importance through fortified settlements, temple patronage, and agrarian expansion supported by tanks and irrigation works suited to the dry landscape.

After the decline of Vijayanagara, control in the wider region shifted among local poligars (palegars) and competing southern powers. In the 18th century, parts of Rayalaseema saw contests involving Mysore and the Nizams of Hyderabad, before British authority expanded and the area was organized within the Madras Presidency. Under colonial administration, Anantapur developed as a district headquarters town, with new roads, markets, and public institutions that strengthened its role as an administrative and commercial centre.

In post-independence India, Anantapur grew steadily, supported by education, transport, and agriculture adapted to semi-arid conditions—especially groundnut cultivation, which became closely associated with the district. The city also serves as a gateway to heritage sites such as Lepakshi nearby. Today, Anantapur reflects a blend of Rayalaseema culture, historical layers, and modern development.