Class 12 History - KARNATAKA
An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara
This chapter explores the glorious history, administrative systems, architectural marvels, and socio-cultural life of the Vijayanagara Empire, with a special focus on its imperial capital, Vijayanagara (modern Hampi). Established in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka, the empire reached its zenith under Krishnadeva Raya. For Karnataka (KSEEB) Class 12 board exams, this chapter is crucial as it highlights the rich heritage of Karnataka, featuring detailed architectural analyses of structures like the Virupaksha and Vittala temples, descriptions provided by foreign travellers such as Abdur Razzaq and Domingo Paes, and the unique water management and fortification systems of the capital.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Establishment of Vijayanagara
Founded in 1336 on the banks of the Tungabhadra River by Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama dynasty, who previously served the Hoysala kingdom.
Dynasties of Vijayanagara
The empire was successively ruled by four dynasties: the Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva (under whom Krishnadeva Raya ruled), and Aravidu dynasties.
Nayakas and Amara-Nayaka System
Military chiefs known as nayakas controlled forts and armed supporters, collecting taxes and remitting a tribute to the central royal treasury under the amara-nayaka system.
Water Resources and Fortification
The capital was protected by massive concentric fortification walls and relied on innovative engineering feats like the Kamalapuram tank and Hiriya canal for irrigation and urban water supply.
Architectural Highlights
Key architectural features include the Lotus Mahal, Mahanavami Dibba, and grand temple complexes like the Virupaksha and Vittala temples featuring iconic stone chariots and musical pillars.
Foreign Accounts
Accounts of foreign travellers like Domingo Paes (Portuguese), Duarte Barbosa, and Abdur Razzaq (Persian ambassador) provide invaluable eyewitness descriptions of the city's wealth and administration.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
This chapter carries approximately 8 to 12 marks in the Karnataka (KSEEB) Class 12 History board exam. Questions typically include 1-mark objective questions, 2-mark short answers, 5-mark conceptual/descriptive questions, and map-based questions requiring students to mark Hampi or Vijayanagara.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the Vijayanagara Empire and when?
The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka, belonging to the Sangama dynasty.
What was the significance of the Mahanavami Dibba?
It was a high, decorated platform used for grand royal ceremonies during the nine-day Mahanavami festival, where the king displayed his power, prestige, and suzerainty.
What led to the decline of Vijayanagara?
The empire suffered a severe blow after the defeat of its forces under Ali Rama Raya at the Battle of Talikota in 1565 by the combined armies of Ahmednagar, Bijapur, and Golconda, leading to the eventual ruin and abandonment of the capital.
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