Class 12 History - WEST-BENGAL
An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara
The chapter 'An Imperial Capital: Vijayanagara' explores the glorious city of Vijayanagara, meaning 'City of Victory', which served as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire from the fourteenth to the sixteenth century. Based primarily on architectural remains, inscriptions, and accounts of foreign travelers like Domingo Paes and Abdur Razzaq, this chapter offers a vivid picture of the empire's administrative system, religious traditions, and socio-economic life. For West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBBSE) Class 12 students, this chapter is extremely important for board exams as it tests structural understanding of medieval Indian history, town planning, and archaeological sources.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Vijayanagara Empire Foundation
Founded in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama dynasty on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka.
Nayakas and Amara-Nayaka System
Military chiefs known as nayakas controlled forts and armed supporters, while the amara-nayakas were military commanders given territories to govern by the Rayas.
The Royal Centre
The zone containing over 60 temples and 30 palace structures, highlighting the close link between royal authority and religious sanction.
Hazara Rama Temple and Mahanavami Dibba
Key architectural marvels used for royal rituals, festivals like Mahanavami, and the display of imperial power.
Water Management System
Advanced techniques such as capturing rainwater in reservoirs and constructing canals like the Kamalapura tank to irrigate fields and supply the arid capital.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBBSE) Class 12 History exams, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions frequently appear as Long Answer Type (LAQs) worth 8 marks focusing on town planning, water resources, or the architectural features of the royal centre, alongside Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Short Answer Type (SAQs) on travelers and dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the Vijayanagara Empire and in which year?
The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 CE by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka, of the Sangama dynasty.
What was the significance of the Amara-nayaka system?
The Amara-nayaka system was a major political innovation where military commanders were assigned territories to govern. They collected taxes, maintained a contingent of troops, and paid an annual tribute to the king.
Why was the Battle of Talikota important?
Fought in 1565, the Battle of Talikota resulted in the defeat of the Vijayanagara army by the combined forces of Ahmednagar, Bijapur, and Golconda, leading to the devastation and eventual abandonment of the capital city.
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