Gonka I ruled as a vassal to Kulottunga I of Chalukya Cholas of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and his son Mammadi Varma, viceroy of Vengi. He fought as general in the battles against Kalyani Chalukyas and also against refractory vassals, Kalinga anmd Chakrakuta, who joined with Kalyani Chalukyas. He assumed the title Chola Mula Stambha(The pillar of Chola empire). His kingdom included the region from Gundlakamma in south to Tripurantakam in West.