It was ruled by gajapathi kings. The dynasty started with Vijayramagajapathy, Anandagajapathy , Alaknarayanagajapathy etc. The present prince is Ashokagajapathy Raju. This city is known to be the city of Education where the renowned personalities like Dr.V.V.Giri former President of India. Gen.K.V.Krishnan Rao. Indian hercules mr.Kodi Rama Murthy are the products of Maharaja college vijayanagaram.govt. m.r.music college has produced dr.ghantasala,p.suseela the legends of singing in telugu film industry. It was given a separate prominance and made as a district in late 70's.