Question

‘The establishment of the Vijayanagar Empire considered significant in the history of the Indian subcontinent’. Justify the statement.

Answer 1

1. The Vijayanagara Empire flourished as a diverse cultural, linguistic, and religious tradition.
2. It fostered a climate of cultural synthesis.
3. The empire's architectural marvels, such as temples, palaces, and fortifications, reflected a blend of indigenous Dravidian styles with influences from neighboring regions.
4. The Vijayanagara Empire controlled trade routes and attracted merchants from across the Indian Ocean region.
5. Its strategic location facilitated trade with Arab, Persian, and European merchants, contributing to its economic prosperity.
6. The empire's control over vital trade routes and access to precious commodities such as horses, spices, textiles, and precious stones strengthened its economy.
7. Within the polity, claimants to power included members of the ruling lineage as well as military commanders.
8. Their rule was characterized by expansion and consolidation.
9. They acquired Orissa and the Sultan of Bijapur.
10. The kingdom remained in a constant state of military preparedness.
11. It flourished under conditions of unparalleled peace and prosperity.
12. Krishnadeva Raya is credited with building some fine temples and adding impressive gopurams to many important South Indian temples.
13. He also founded a suburban township near Vijayanagara called Nagalapuram.
14. Their fortifications surrounding the capital city provided defense against external threats, ensuring the empire’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
15. The Vijayanagara period witnessed a golden age of literature in languages such as Sanskrit, Kannada, Telugu, and Tamil, with prolific literary works, poetic compositions, and scholarly treaties produced during this era.
16. Urban cores with well-planned layouts and extensive irrigation networks highlighted their advanced planning.
17. Their water management systems left a lasting legacy in the region.
18. Rayas and Nayaks showcased their political innovation.
19. The empire's architectural achievements included the Royal Centre, Mahanavami Dibba, and more.
20. Their temple architecture included prominent sites like Virupaksha, Vittala, and Hazara Ram Temples.