The Parichchedis were a medieval chiefly lineage in Andhra. [1] They belonged to the Vasistha gotra. [2]
The Parichchedis were initially the samantas (vassals) of the Chalukyas. [3] They originated from social groups such as the besta (fisherman) and peasant groups of the Shudra varna. [3] After becoming rulers, they claimed Kshatriya status. [4] They also claimed descent from Durjaya, a legendary chieftain of ancient Andhra. [5] [6] These claims of Kshatriya origin and descent from semi-mythical and mythical persons demonstrate a tendency of the medieval Brahmanical society to absorb lower caste rulers into Kshatriya fold. [6] They were staunch patrons of Hindu Dharma in contrast to the Chalukyas, who initially were patrons of Jainism. [7]