The Age of Vijayanagara Empire: Its Foundation and Conflicts with Bahmani Kingdom

The Vijayanagara Empire: History, Impact, and Legacy

Foundation and Early History

Foundation:

Founded in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka I after the decline of the Delhi Sultanate.
Rapid expansion into the Deccan, asserting Hindu sovereignty.

Conflict with Bahmani Sultanate

Rivalry over control of strategic regions like Tungabhadra doab and Krishna-Godavari delta.
Military engagements characterized by diverse tactics and territorial gains.

Portuguese Arrival and Impact

Arrived late 15th century, established coastal trading posts like Goa.
Initiated European colonial influence, altering regional dynamics.
Contest for maritime trade routes, impacting local political alliances.
Introduced new technologies and naval strategies.

Expansion and Rule under Deva Raya I and II

Deva Raya I (1404-1422):

Expanded eastward towards Krishna-Godavari basin.
Integrated smaller Hindu principalities, fostering territorial consolidation.

Deva Raya II (1425-1446):

Focused on military and administrative reforms.
Height of empire's territorial expansion and economic prosperity.

Economic and Social Life

Vijayanagara's strategic location facilitated flourishing trade routes linking the Deccan plateau with coastal regions.
Merchants engaged in brisk trade of spices, textiles, and gemstones with foreign markets.
Agricultural innovation led to bumper yields of rice, pulses, and cotton.
Irrigation systems like tanks (pushkarnis) and canals supported agricultural growth.
Hierarchical society with Brahmins at the apex, followed by warriors, traders, and farmers.
Caste-based occupations regulated social and economic life.

Cultural and Architectural Legacy

Hampi, adorned with temples and palaces, symbolized empire's cultural vibrancy.
Intricate sculptures and urban planning reflected artistic patronage.
Multilingual literary works in Kannada, Telugu, and Sanskrit.
Artisans and scholars attracted, contributing to diverse cultural milieu.
Vijayanagara's capital, Hampi, boasted intricate temples and palaces adorned with sculptures and carvings.
Temples like the Virupaksha Temple and the Vitthala Temple complex exemplified the empire's artistic and religious patronage.

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