The Vijayanagar Empire was one of the most powerful Hindu empires in South India. It was renowned for its prosperity, military strength, administration, and cultural achievements. It played a crucial role in resisting Islamic invasions and promoting art, architecture, and trade.
1. Foundation and Growth
- Founded in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka I of the Sangama Dynasty.
- The empire flourished on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
- It served as a barrier against Muslim invasions from the north.
- Reached its peak under Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529).
- Declined after the Battle of Talikota (1565).
2. Dynasties of Vijayanagar Empire
| Dynasty | Important Rulers | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Sangama | Harihara I, Bukka I | 1336–1485 |
| Saluva | Saluva Narasimha | 1485–1505 |
| Tuluva | Krishnadevaraya, Achyuta Deva Raya, Sadasiva Raya | 1505–1570 |
| Aravidu | Tirumala Raya, Venkata II | 1570–1646 |
3. Important Rulers
1. Harihara I and Bukka I (1336–1377)
- Established the empire in 1336.
- Expanded territories in South India.
- Fought against the Bahmani Sultanate and Madurai Sultanate.
2. Deva Raya I & II (1406–1446)
- Improved military tactics and fortified cities.
- Encouraged Persian and Telugu literature.
- Constructed irrigation canals.
3. Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529) – Greatest Ruler
- Defeated Bijapur, Golconda, and Orissa.
- Wrote Amuktamalyada in Telugu.
- Patronized Ashtadiggajas (eight great poets).
- Built Vithala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple.
- Encouraged trade with Portuguese.
4. Achyuta Deva Raya & Sadasiva Raya (1529–1565)
- Faced continuous battles against Muslim rulers.
- Battle of Talikota (1565): Vijayanagar defeated by Deccan Sultanates (Bijapur, Golconda, Ahmednagar, and Bidar).
- Hampi was plundered and destroyed.
5. Aravidu Dynasty (1570–1646)
- Tried to restore Vijayanagar, but weakened due to internal conflicts.
- Final decline in 1646.
4. Administration of Vijayanagar Empire
- King = Supreme authority.
- Efficient centralized administration.
- Governors (Nayakas) controlled provinces.
- Strong military with cavalry, infantry, and navy.
- Revenue from land tax, trade, and temples.
5. Economy & Trade
- Agriculture: Main occupation, with irrigation facilities.
- Trade: Exported spices, textiles, and precious stones to Portugal, Persia, and Arabia.
- Markets in Hampi flourished.
6. Art and Architecture
1. Temple Architecture
- Vithala Temple (famous for the Stone Chariot).
- Virupaksha Temple in Hampi.
- Hazara Rama Temple (wall carvings of Ramayana).
2. Sculpture and Paintings
- Beautiful carvings of gods, dancers, musicians.
- Mural paintings in temples.
3. Monuments
- Hampi (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, and Stepwells.
7. Causes of Decline
- Battle of Talikota (1565) – Defeat by Deccan Sultanates.
- Plunder of Hampi – Destroyed the capital.
- Weak successors after Krishnadevaraya.
- Rise of Nayakas (local rulers who gained power).
- Internal conflicts and revolts.
8. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) for Practice
- Who was the founder of the Vijayanagar Empire?
- (a) Krishnadevaraya
- (b) Bukka I and Harihara I
- (c) Narasimha Deva
- (d) Tirumala Raya
- Answer: (b) Bukka I and Harihara I
- Which battle led to the decline of the Vijayanagar Empire?
- (a) First Battle of Panipat
- (b) Battle of Talikota
- (c) Battle of Plassey
- (d) Battle of Khanwa
- Answer: (b) Battle of Talikota
- Which ruler of Vijayanagar wrote Amuktamalyada?
- (a) Krishnadevaraya
- (b) Bukka I
- (c) Achyuta Deva Raya
- (d) Harihara I
- Answer: (a) Krishnadevaraya
- Which empire was Vijayanagar’s main rival in the north?
- (a) Maurya Empire
- (b) Mughal Empire
- (c) Bahmani Sultanate
- (d) Chola Empire
- Answer: (c) Bahmani Sultanate
- What was the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire?
- (a) Bijapur
- (b) Golconda
- (c) Hampi
- (d) Madurai
- Answer: (c) Hampi
9. Summary of Key Points
- Founded in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka I.
- Reached its peak under Krishnadevaraya.
- Battle of Talikota (1565) led to destruction of Hampi.
- Known for trade, temples, and military power.
- Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today.
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