Class 12 History - ODISHA
An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara
The chapter 'An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara' explores the history, rise, architectural grandeur, and eventual fall of the Vijayanagara Empire (City of Victory) located in the Deccan. Established in the fourteenth century by Harihara and Bukka, the empire reached its zenith under rulers like Krishnadeva Raya. For Odisha BSE board exam aspirants, this chapter is crucial as it details urban core structures, royal centres, irrigation systems, trade networks, and foreign accounts left by travelers such as Domingo Paes and Abdur Razzaq. Mastering this helps students understand medieval Indian history, statecraft, and rich architectural traditions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Establishment of Vijayanagara
Founded in 1336 by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka, on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, growing into a powerful empire bridging the south of India.
Rayas of Vijayanagara
The ruling lineage of the empire, most notably the Tuluva dynasty king Krishnadeva Raya, whose rule was characterized by expansion and consolidation.
Sacred Centre and Royal Centre
The spatial division of the capital city into the sacred zone containing prominent temples like Virupaksha and Vittala, and the royal centre featuring palaces and state-ritual platforms.
Water Resources
The capital relied heavily on the semi-arid terrain of the Bellary region, managed through sophisticated embankments, reservoirs like Kamalapuram tank, and canal networks.
Battle of Talikota (1565)
A decisive battle where the united Sultanates of Ahmadnagar, Bijapur, and Golconda defeated the Vijayanagara army, leading to the pillaging and eventual abandonment of the capital.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Odisha BSE Class 12 History board exams, this chapter generally carries around 8 to 12 marks. Common question types include multiple-choice questions on dates and travelers, short-answer questions on water management or temple architecture, and long-answer questions detailing the structural features of the Royal Centre or the historical significance of foreign travelers' accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the Vijayanagara Empire and when?
The empire was founded in 1336 CE by two brothers named Harihara and Bukka.
What was the significance of the Lotus Mahal in Vijayanagara?
The Lotus Mahal was a striking secular building located within the Royal Centre, believed by historians to be a council chamber where the king met his advisers.
Why was the Battle of Talikota important?
The Battle of Talikota in 1565 CE resulted in the defeat of Vijayanagara by the Deccan Sultanates, leading to the destruction and desertion of the imperial capital.
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