The medieval history of the Indian subcontinent is rich with vibrant dynasties, cultural exchanges, and significant political shifts. Among the prominent empires of this era, the Vijayanagara and Bahmani Empires stand out as key players, shaping the socio-political landscape of South India. The UPSC Prelims examination, known for its comprehensive coverage of historical events and their significance, often includes questions that delve into the intricacies of these empires. Understanding their rise, interactions, and eventual decline is crucial for aspirants seeking success in this competitive examination. In this context, exploring the nuanced dynamics of the Vijayanagara and Bahmani Empires becomes imperative, as it not only sheds light on medieval Indian history but also provides insights into broader themes of governance, culture, and regional integration.
Q1. Who among the following were famous jurists of medieval India? (1995)
1. Vijnanesvara
2. Hemadri
3. Rajasekhara
4.Jimutavahana
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4
Ans. (c)
Vijnanesvara, Hemadri, and Jimutavahana stand as eminent jurists of medieval India, each leaving a lasting impact on legal discourse. Vijnanesvara, a notable figure in 12th-century India, authored the influential treatise Mitakshara, which extensively addresses inheritance laws drawn from the Yajnavalkya Smriti, solidifying its place as a cornerstone in Hindu legal scholarship.
Hemadri, a luminary of 14th-century India, served as a distinguished minister under kings Mahadeva and Ramdeva of Devagiri, Maharashtra. His contributions to jurisprudence endure, with his insights shaping legal frameworks during his era.
Jimutavahana, an esteemed Sanskrit scholar, enriched the legal and religious literature of Vaishnavism during the early medieval period in India. His seminal work, Dayabhaga, meticulously examines inheritance laws derived from the ‘Manusmriti’, a testament to his profound understanding of legal intricacies within Hindu traditions.
While Rajasekhara occupies a notable place in Indian literature as a Sanskrit poet, dramatist, and critic, he diverges from the realm of legal scholarship. Serving as the court poet of Gurjara Pratiharas, his renowned work, Kavyamimamsa, stands as a testament to his literary prowess, distinct from the legal expertise demonstrated by Vijnanesvara, Hemadri, and Jimutavahana.
Q2. Consider the following statements. (2003)
1. Narasimha Saluva ended the Sangama dynasty and seized the throne for himself and started the Saluva dynasty.
2. Vira Narasimha deposed the last Saluva ruler and seized the throne for himself.
3. Vira Narasimha was succeeded by his younger brother, Krishnadeva Raya.
4. Krishnadeva Raya was succeeded by his half brother, Achyuta Raya.
Which of the statement(s) given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. (d)
Statements (1), (2), (3), and (4) are accurate. Narasimha Saluva terminated the Sangama dynasty, establishing the Saluva dynasty in its stead. Numerous foreign invasions and Bahamani Sultan assaults contributed to the decline of its grandeur. Nonetheless, Narasimha, a formidable chieftain from Chandragiri, triumphantly conquered and seized Vijayanagara city, dethroning the final ruler of the Sangama dynasty in 1486 AD.
Vira Narasimha subsequently ousted the last Saluva sovereign, claiming the throne for himself. Narasimha Raya II marked the conclusion of the Saluva lineage. His demise at the hands of Nazasa’s son, Nayaka, prompted Vira Narasimha Raya to assert himself as the new monarch. Vira Narasimha Raya functioned as the regent of the realm following Narasa Nayaka’s demise, culminating in the demise of the Saluva dynasty.
His brother, Krishna Deva Raya, succeeded Vira Narasimha. He ruled the Vijayanagara Empire from 1509 AD to 1529 AD. Upon Krishnadeva Raya’s reign, his half-brother, Achyuta Raya, ascended to power in 1529 AD.
Q3. When Raja Wodeyar founded the kingdom of Mysore, who was the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire? (2006)
(a) Sadasiva
(b) Tirumala
(c) Ranga II
(d) Venkata II
Ans. (a)
When Raja Wodeyar established the Mysore kingdom, Sadasiva reigned over the Vijayanagara empire. The Wodeyar dynasty originated as a feudatory principality in 1399 AD. Initially, the rulers of the Mysore kingdom served as vassals of the Vijayanagara empire from 1399 AD to 1565 AD. Subsequently, they governed independently from 1565 AD to 1761 AD.
Q4. Regarding the taxation system of Krishnadeva, the ruler of Vijayanagara, consider the following statements. (2016)
1. The tax rate on land was fixed depending on the quality of the land.
2. Private owners of workshops paid an industries tax.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans. (c)
Both statements (1) and (2) accurately depict the taxation system under Krishnadeva Raya, the ruler of the Vijayanagara empire. Land taxation was determined by the quality of the land, serving as the primary revenue source. Rates ranged from one-third to one-sixth depending on land quality. Additionally, private workshop owners were subject to an industry tax. Beyond land tax, various other levies targeted shopkeepers, farmers, and shoemakers, including property taxes. Private owners also paid commercial and industrial taxes during the Vijayanagara era.
Q5. According to Portuguese writer Nuniz, the women in Vijayanagara empire were expert in which of the following areas? (2021)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
1. Wrestling
2. Astrology
3. Accounting
4. Soothsaying
(a) 1,2 and 3
(b) 1,3 and 4
(c) 2 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. (d)
According to Portuguese author Nuniz, women within the Vijayanagara empire excelled in wrestling, astrology, accounting, and soothsaying. Fernao Nuniz explored the Vijayanagara empire between 1535 and 1537 AD, during the reign of Achyuta Deva Raya.
Q5. Prem Vatika, poems on the life of Krishna, was composed by
(a) Bihari
(b) Surdas
(c) Ras Khan
(d) Kabir
Ans. (c)
“Prem Vatika,” a collection of poems celebrating the life of Krishna, emerged from the pen of Ras Khan. Although born Syed Ibrahim, Ras Khan adopted this Hindi pseudonym. A poet of unique duality, he embraced both Islam and the devotion to Lord Krishna. From his youth, Ras Khan found solace in the embrace of Krishna and dedicated his life to the spiritual realm of Vrindavan.
Q6. Who among the following rulers of Vijayanagara Empire constructed large dam across the Tungabhadra River and a canal-cum-aqueduct several kilometres long from the river to the capital city? (2023)
(a) Deva Raya I
(b) Mallikarjuna
(c) Vira Vijaya
(d) Virupaksha
Ans. (a)
Deva Raya I is renowned for his pivotal role in expanding the capital city of the Vijayanagara Empire into a flourishing metropolis during the 15th century. Acknowledging the challenges posed by insufficient water supply for both drinking and irrigation purposes, he embarked on a bold initiative. Around 1410, he commanded the construction of a dam spanning the Tungabhadra River and initiated the development of a 24-kilometer aqueduct to channel water from the river to the capital.
FAQs
Question: What were the key factors contributing to the rise of the Vijayanagara Empire?
Answer: The Vijayanagara Empire emerged in the 14th century primarily due to the decline of the Hoysala and Kakatiya kingdoms, which created a power vacuum in the Deccan region. Additionally, the fertile lands along the Tungabhadra River provided a strong economic base for the empire. Its strategic location also facilitated trade with other regions, contributing to its prosperity.
Question: Who was the founder of the Bahmani Sultanate, and what was its significance in medieval Indian history?
Answer: The Bahmani Sultanate was founded by Alauddin Bahman Shah in 1347. Its significance lies in being one of the major Muslim kingdoms in the Deccan region during the medieval period. The Bahmani Sultanate played a crucial role in shaping the socio-political landscape of South India and acted as a bulwark against the expanding Vijayanagara Empire.
Question: What were the architectural achievements of the Vijayanagara Empire?
Answer: The Vijayanagara Empire was renowned for its impressive architectural marvels, including the Hampi ruins, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites today. The empire built numerous temples, palaces, and monuments characterized by intricate carvings, colossal statues, and towering gopurams (entrance towers). The Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple are notable examples of Vijayanagara architecture.
Question: What were the major cultural contributions of the Vijayanagara Empire?
Answer: The Vijayanagara Empire made significant contributions to literature, art, music, and dance. The royal court patronized scholars, poets, and artists, leading to the flourishing of literature in Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, and Tamil. The empire’s architectural style influenced subsequent South Indian temple architecture. Additionally, classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music experienced a renaissance under Vijayanagara patronage.
Question: How did the conflict between the Vijayanagara and Bahmani Empires impact South Indian history?
Answer: The rivalry between the Vijayanagara and Bahmani Empires led to centuries of intermittent warfare in the Deccan region. These conflicts not only shaped the political landscape but also influenced cultural exchanges, trade routes, and the spread of religion. The Battle of Talikota in 1565, where the Vijayanagara Empire suffered a significant defeat, marked a turning point, leading to the decline of Vijayanagara’s power and the subsequent fragmentation of the Deccan Sultanates.
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