Vijayanagara, also known as the Vijayanagara Empire, stands as a testament to the grandeur and cultural richness of medieval South India. This formidable kingdom, which existed from the 14th to the 17th century, was renowned for its extraordinary architectural marvels, vibrant cultural traditions, and military prowess. Located in the southern region of the Indian subcontinent, Vijayanagara was a formidable power that left an indelible mark on the history and heritage of the Deccan plateau. In this introductory paragraph, we will delve into the fascinating history and enduring legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire, a beacon of South Indian glory that continues to captivate the imagination of historians and enthusiasts alike.
The Age of Vijayanagara (1336-1647 AD) was a time when the Vijayanagara kingdom was established by Harihara and Bukka in Karnataka, breaking away from the Delhi Sultanate. This article will discuss the political history, literary sources, and foreign accounts that provide information on this period.
Political History
The Vijayanagara kingdom was ruled by four different dynasties: the Sangama dynasty (1336-1486), Saluva dynasty (1486-1506), Tuluva dynasty (1506-1565), and Aravidu dynasty (1570-1647).
Sangam Dynasty
Harihara Raya was the first ruler, and the Vijayanagar and Bahamani conflict began during his reign. Bukaraya succeeded him, and his son Kamparaya annexed Madurai. Bukaraya was later succeeded by Harihara 2, and then Devaraya came to power. Devaraya 1 was the first important king and constructed the first dam across the river Tungabhadra. However, he was defeated by Bahamani Sultan Feroz Shah 1. The greatest ruler of the Sangama dynasty was Devaraya II. After his death, the dynasty became weak, and the last king, Virupaksharaya, was dethroned by his commander Saluva Narsimharaya 1, starting the Saluva dynastic rule.
Saluva Dynasty
Narasimha Raya 2 was the greatest in the Saluva dynasty. After his death, Narasa Nayaka installed his son Veeranarsimha on the throne, starting the rule of the Tuluva dynasty.
Tuluva Dynasty
Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529) was the greatest in this dynasty. He fought a series of wars with the independent kingdoms that came on the ruins of the Bahamani kingdom, maintained law and order, and dealt with the Portuguese influence in the Deccan. He was a great patron of literature and art and was known as the Yavanarajya sthapanacharya. He was a great commander and an efficient administrator who defeated Prataparudra Gajapati of Orissa and defeated Ismail Adil Shah in the Raichur campaign in 1520, which was his last campaign.
Literary Sources
Various literary sources provide genealogical, political, and social information about the Vijayanagara kingdom. The Rayavachakam by Vishvanatha Sthanapati, “The Forgotten History of Vijayanagar Empire” by Robert Seawell, and the Kannada and Telugu literature like Manucharitram and Saluvabhyudayam were patronized in the Vijayanagara court.
Foreign Accounts
Several foreign accounts of the time provide information on the Vijayanagara kingdom. Nichole de Conti visited Vijayanagar during the times of Devaraya 1 and gave details about his personality. Abdul Razzaq from Persia visited during Devaraya 2 and described the beauty of the capital city Hampi. Domingo Paes and Barbosa visited during Krishnadevraya’s time, and Nuniz visited during the times of Achyuthdevaraya.
Inscriptions
Various inscriptions like the Bitragunta inscription, the Srirangam copper plates of Devaraya II, and various copper plate inscriptions of Krishnadevaraya’s time provide information on the Vijayanagara rulers. The Hampi ruins and other monuments of Vijayanagara also provide information on the cultural contributions of the Vijayanagara rulers.
Aravidu Dynasty
Important Rulers
- Thirumala, Sri Ranga, and Venkata II were the important rulers of this dynasty.
- Venkata II was contemporary to Akbar.
- The last ruler of Vijayanagar kingdom was Sri Ranga III.
Administration
- The traditional monarchy was followed by the king as the ultimate authority and supreme commander of the army.
- A council of ministers assisted the king in day-to-day administration.
- The Amaranayaka system was important where the commander of the Vijayanagar army (nayaka) was given an area for administration, responsible for expanding agricultural activities and collecting taxes.
- The amara-nayakas sent tribute to the king annually and personally appeared in the royal court with gifts to express their loyalty.
Revenue
- Land revenue was the major source of income for the state.
- Generally, it was at the rate of one-sixth of the total produce.
Society
- People were fond of luxurious life, using silk and cotton clothes, perfumes, flowers, and ornaments.
- Prostitution was institutionalized and the Devdasi or temple dancer system became popular.
- The practice of sati was also prevalent.
- There were four castes: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas, and Sudras.
Religion
- Sangama rulers were chiefly Saivaites while other dynasties were Vaishnavites.
- Kings were tolerant towards other religions.
- Shunya sampadane – a collection of vachanas produced in this age.
- Muslims were employed in the administration and allowed to build mosques and worship.
Literature
- Sanskrit, Kannada, and Telugu languages witnessed voluminous literature in the Vijayanagar period.
- Famous literary works include Gangadevi’s Madhuravijayam, Krishnadevarya’s Usha Parinayan and Jambavanti Kalyanam, and Guru Vidyaranya’s Raja Kalanirnaya.
- Kannada literary works include Chamarasa’s Prabhulingaleele, Kanakadas’ Ramadhanacharite and Nala Charite, Kumaravyasa’s Karnataka Katha Manjari, and Purandardas’ Keertanas.
- Telugu literary works include Krishnadevaraya’s Amuktamalyada, Allasani Pedanna’s Manucharita, and Nandi Timanna’s Parijathaparahana.
- Ashtadiggajas – eight great poets of Telugu literature flourished in the court of Krishnadevaraya.
Architecture
- Dravidian style of architecture was used, later adding unique features that came to be called the Vijayanagara style.
- Local hard granite was the building material of choice.
- Vijayanagar temples were surrounded by strong enclosures, characterized by ornate pillared Kalyana mandapa, tall rayagopurams, and adorned with life-sized figures of gods and goddesses.
- Courtly architecture often shows secular styles with Islamic-influenced arches, domes, and vaults.
- Famous temples exemplifying the Vijayanagar style include the Virupaksha Temple at Hampi and the Hazara Rama temple of Deva Raya I.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What was the Vijayanagara Empire?
A: The Vijayanagara Empire was a powerful South Indian kingdom that existed from the 14th to the 17th century. It was known for its cultural richness, military strength, and architectural marvels, and it played a significant role in the history of India.
2. Who were the founders of the Vijayanagara Empire?
A: The Vijayanagara Empire was founded by Harihara I and Bukka Raya, two brothers who were initially governors of the Kakatiya dynasty. They later established the empire in 1336 AD, following the decline of the Hoysala Empire.
3. What were the major achievements of the Vijayanagara Empire?
A: The Vijayanagara Empire made significant contributions to art, culture, and architecture. It is known for its impressive temples, like the Virupaksha Temple and the Vittala Temple, as well as its support for various art forms, including classical music and dance. The empire also played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the Hindu tradition.
4. What led to the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire?
A: The empire’s decline can be attributed to several factors, including constant conflicts with the neighboring Deccan Sultanates, economic pressures, and internal strife. The Battle of Talikota in 1565, where the Vijayanagara Empire was defeated, marked a turning point, leading to its fragmentation and eventual downfall.
5. What is the legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire today?
A: The legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire lives on through its architectural wonders, cultural contributions, and the Hampi ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also continues to influence South Indian art, temple architecture, and classical music and dance forms. The empire’s historical significance is still celebrated in various cultural events and festivals in the region.
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