Vijayanagara - The Last Emperors of South India

The article discusses the history and significance of the Vijayanagara Empire, which was the last major Hindu empire in South India. With its capital located in present-day Hampi, the empire reached its zenith during the 14th to 16th centuries.

The Vijayanagara Empire was founded by Harihara I and Bukka I, who were brothers and served as generals under the Kakatiya dynasty.

After the Kakatiya kingdom fell to the Delhi Sultanate, the brothers established their own empire in 1336 CE. Their early rule was marked by consolidation and establishing control over territories.

Under the rule of Bukka's son, Devaraya I, the Vijayanagara Empire experienced significant expansion. Devaraya I not only secured his position but also defeated multiple neighboring kingdoms, including the Reddis of Kondaveedu and the Madurai Sultanate.

The empire grew in wealth and power, attracting traders and merchants from across the world.

The reign of Devaraya II, the next prominent ruler, was a time of continued prosperity for the Vijayanagara Empire. He expanded the kingdom's territories to the northern Deccan region, extending his influence over regions that were previously dominated by the Bahmani Sultanate.

The empire's cultural and artistic achievements also reached their pinnacle during this period.

The city of Vijayanagara, the empire's capital, became a thriving center of art, architecture, and literature. The rulers patronized various forms of art, resulting in the development of a unique Vijayanagara style of architecture, which incorporated elements from both the Dravidian and Islamic traditions.

However, the empire faced challenges from various external forces. The Bahmani Sultanate, the Deccan Sultanates, and the Portuguese all posed challenges to the Vijayanagara Empire.

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