Question

Within the Vijaynagar administration what were Manyams?

A Tax free land granted to the temples
B Tax free land granted to the Ayagars
C Village assemblies
D Assemblies of territorial divisions that were larger than the villages

Answer & Explanation

Answer: [B]

The correct answer is tax free land granted to the Ayagars. An important feature of the village organization was the Ayagar system. According to it every village was a separate unit, and its affairs were conducted by a body of twelve functionaries who were collectively known as the Ayagars. These village functionaries were generally appointed by the government. The Ayagars had the right to sell or mortgage their offices. They were granted tax free lands (manyams) which they were to enjoy in perpetuity for their services.