Introduction – The Glory of Vijayanagara

• Vijayanagara, meaning “City of Victory,” was one of the most powerful and prosperous empires in South India.
• Founded in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama dynasty, it lasted until 1565 when it was defeated in the Battle of Talikota.
• The empire was known for its strong administration, military, economic prosperity, and magnificent architecture, especially in its capital, Hampi.

The Foundation of Vijayanagara Empire

• Harihara and Bukka, originally governors under the Kakatiya rulers, founded Vijayanagara in response to Islamic invasions in the Deccan.
• They were supported by sage Vidyaranya, who helped establish a Hindu kingdom to counter Muslim influence.
• The empire expanded rapidly, controlling the Tungabhadra region and later dominating South India.

Vijayanagara Administration and Governance

The empire had a well-organized administrative system with centralized control over provinces.

Kingship and Political Structure

• The king was the supreme authority, ruling with divine legitimacy.
• He was assisted by ministers and provincial governors (Nayakas).
• The empire was divided into provinces (Rajya), districts (Nadu), and villages (Grama).

The Nayankara System

• Military commanders (Nayakas) were given land grants in return for maintaining troops.
• This feudal system strengthened military power and ensured local governance.

Economy and Trade – The Prosperity of Vijayanagara

• The economy of Vijayanagara was based on agriculture, trade, and taxation.
• The capital, Hampi, was a major trade center, attracting merchants from Persia, Portugal, and China.

Agriculture and Irrigation

• Vijayanagara rulers constructed large tanks and canals for irrigation.
• Main crops: Rice, sugarcane, cotton, spices (especially pepper and cardamom).

Trade and Commerce

• Controlled major trade routes and exported textiles, spices, and gems.
• Portuguese, Arab, and Persian traders conducted maritime trade through Goa and Calicut.
• Markets in Hampi sold luxury goods like silks, horses, and precious stones.

Society and Culture in Vijayanagara

• Vijayanagara society was multi-religious and multi-ethnic, with a strong emphasis on Hindu traditions.
• The empire patronized scholars, poets, and religious leaders.

Role of Women

• Women participated in literature, music, and even administration.
• Some noblewomen were warriors, diplomats, and traders.
• Devadasi system (women dedicated to temple service) was prevalent.

Religious Tolerance

• Hinduism was dominant, but Islam was also practiced by traders and soldiers.
• Vijayanagara rulers built temples and supported Brahmins, but also employed Muslims in the army.

The Architectural Marvel of Vijayanagara

Hampi, the capital, was known for its grand temples, palaces, markets, and fortifications.

Temples and Religious Architecture

• Vijayanagara rulers built large temple complexes with towering gopurams (gateways).
• Famous temples: Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Hazara Rama Temple.
• Mandapas (pillared halls) were used for religious ceremonies.

Fortifications and City Planning

• Massive stone walls and watchtowers protected the city.
• A network of roads, markets, and water tanks was planned scientifically.

The Battle of Talikota (1565) and Decline of Vijayanagara

• In 1565, the combined armies of the Deccan Sultanates (Bijapur, Golconda, Ahmadnagar, and Bidar) defeated Vijayanagara at Talikota.
• The city of Hampi was looted and destroyed, leading to the empire’s decline.
• Though Vijayanagara continued under the Aravidu dynasty, it never regained its former glory.

Sources of Vijayanagara History

Historians reconstruct Vijayanagara’s history using archaeological evidence, literary sources, and foreign accounts.

Archaeological Sources

• Hampi ruins (UNESCO World Heritage Site) provide evidence of Vijayanagara’s architecture.
• Inscriptions on temples and copper plates reveal administrative details.

Literary and Foreign Accounts

• Krishnadevaraya’s Amuktamalyada describes Vijayanagara’s governance.
• Foreign travelers like Domingo Paes (Portugal) and Abdur Razzaq (Persia) praised Vijayanagara’s wealth and administration.

Conclusion