An exploration of the Vijayanagara Empire, its foundation, and conflicts with the Bahmani Kingdom, including the roles of Firuz Shah Bahman and Ahmed Shah-I.

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.