THEME SEVEN : An Imperial Capital: Vijayanagara || History Class 12th Chapter-7 NCERT CBSE || NOTES IN ENGLISH || 2024-25

THEME SEVEN : An Imperial Capital: Vijayanagara

A Grand Empire: Vijayanagara, meaning "City of Victory," was both a city and an empire founded in the 14th century. It extended from the Krishna River in the north to the southern tip of India. The city was destroyed in 1565 but continued to live in people’s memories as Hampi.
"Although it fell into ruin... it lived on in the memories of people living in the Krishna-Tungabhadra doab."

Rediscovery by Colin Mackenzie: In 1800, Colonel Colin Mackenzie, an engineer and surveyor, brought the ruins of Hampi to light. He mapped the site and collected stories from local priests. Later, from 1856, photographers began documenting the monuments, and historians started gathering information from inscriptions and travelers’ accounts.
"The ruins at Hampi were brought to light in 1800 by an engineer and antiquarian named Colonel Colin Mackenzie."

Founding of the Empire: The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka. It was a large empire with many different languages and religions. The kings of Vijayanagara (known as rayas) competed with northern rulers like the Sultans of the Deccan and the Gajapati rulers of Orissa.
"According to tradition and epigraphic evidence two brothers, Harihara and Bukka, founded the Vijayanagara Empire."
Trading and Borrowing Ideas: The Vijayanagara rulers borrowed architectural ideas from other kingdoms, especially in architecture, and controlled important trade routes, including the trade of horses, spices, and precious stones.
"The rulers of Vijayanagara borrowed concepts and building techniques which they then developed further."

Importance of Trade: Trade, especially in horses and valuable goods like spices and gems, was crucial for the Vijayanagara Empire. The Portuguese, who arrived in 1498, also became important players in the region.
"Trade was often regarded as a status symbol for such cities, which boasted of a wealthy population that demanded high-value exotic goods."

Krishnadeva Raya's Rule: The Vijayanagara Empire reached its peak under Krishnadeva Raya (ruled 1509-1529). He expanded the empire, conquered many territories, and built impressive temples. After his death, the empire faced rebellions, and the combined armies of the Deccan Sultans defeated Vijayanagara in 1565 at the Battle of Talikota.
"Strain began to show within the imperial structure following Krishnadeva Raya’s death in 1529."

City Layout: The city of Vijayanagara was strategically located in a natural basin formed by the Tungabhadra River, with hills surrounding it. The city had fortification walls, temples, roads, and canals, and was divided into the sacred center, royal center, and urban core.
"Vijayanagara was characterised by a distinctive physical layout and building style."

Irrigation System: Vijayanagara had an advanced water management system. Reservoirs and canals, like the Hiriya canal, were built to store and supply water for agriculture and the city's needs.
"Elaborate arrangements had to be made to store rainwater and conduct it to the city."

Seven Lines of Forts: The city was surrounded by seven lines of fortifications. These walls enclosed not only the city but also agricultural areas, protecting food supplies during sieges.
"The fort was entered through well-guarded gates, which linked the city to the major roads."

Temples and Palaces: The royal center was the heart of the city and housed temples, palaces, and important structures like the "Mahanavami Dibba," a platform used for grand ceremonies. The Lotus Mahal and Hazara Rama temple are examples of the stunning architecture built by the Vijayanagara rulers.
"The royal centre was located in the south-western part of the settlement."

Temples and Rituals: The sacred center was home to important temples like the Virupaksha and Vitthala temples. These temples were not only places of worship but also centers of learning, culture, and economic activity.
"The Virupaksha temple was built over centuries... it was substantially enlarged with the establishment of the Vijayanagara Empire."

Markets and Wealth: The city had bustling bazaars where merchants traded in goods like gems, spices, and textiles. The markets were well-stocked, and travelers praised the abundance and variety of products available.
"Paes gives a vivid description of the bazaar: Going forward, you have a broad and beautiful street."

Legacy of the City: Historians continue to study the ruins of Vijayanagara to understand its history and the lives of ordinary people. Many questions remain about how the city was built and maintained, and what life was like for its residents.
"Investigations of architectural features do not tell us what ordinary men, women and children... thought about these impressive buildings."