Vijayanagar Empire

Though the origin of the Vijayanagar Empire is in the realm of debate, it can be said with certainty that its foundation in 1336 was a culmination of the political and cultural movement against the Muslim ideas and forces of Delhi Sultanate in the south India. This powerful kingdom continued to unfurl the banner of Hinduism for almost three centuries. The nucleus of the kingdom was the city of Vijayanagar, identified with present day Hampi (located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River) in Karnataka.

Sangama Dynasty

There is unanimity among the historians that the kingdom was founded by Harihara and Bukka, sons of Sangama. The first dynasty which lasted from 1336 to 1485 was named after Sangama, father of the duo. After Harihara, Bukka ruled from 1356 to 1377. In 1374 he sent an embassy to China. He was succeeded in 1377 by his son Harihara II who ruled till 1404. During his rule of 27 years he strengthened the power of the Vijayanagar empire and was responsible for its supremacy over the whole of southern India.

Another important ruler of the Sangama dynasty was Deva Raya I who became its ruler in 1406 and ruled till 1422. Deva Raya II who ruled from 1424 to 1446 was the greatest ruler of the Sangama dynasty. He is known for his title Gajabetegara (a hunter of elephant).

Saluva dynasty

The second dynasty, known as Saluva dynasty, was founded by Narasimha Saluva in 1485. The Saluva dynasty ruled till 1505.

Taluva dynasty

Taluva was the third dynasty which ruled till 1570. This dynasty produced the greatest king of Vijayanagar empire, Krishnadeva Raya (ruled 1509-29).

It was during the reign of the Taluva king Sadashiva Raya (1543- 69) that famous battle of Rakshasa Tangadi or Talikota in 1565 was fought in which Vijayanagar army was defeated by the combined forces of the five Muslim Sultanates of Deccan. This gave body blow to the empire. After this battle the kingdom lost its grandeur and glory.

Aravidu dynasty

Though the rulers of the fourth dynasty, known as Aravidu dynasty, continue to rule till the middle of the seventeenth century, they were not able to retrieve the lost glory of the kingdom.

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