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3. An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara (c. fourteenth to sixteenth century)

The chapter discusses the Vijayanagara Empire, its history, and significance, particularly focusing on the capital city, Hampi. It highlights the architectural innovations, trade dynamics, and key figures such as Krishnadeva Raya, emphasizing the cultural amalgamation that defined this era. The analysis includes the discovery of Hampi and the role of inscriptions and traveler accounts in reconstructing its history and heritage.

Sections

  • 3

    An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara (C. Fourteenth To Sixteenth Century)

    Vijayanagara, an empire founded in the 14th century, was remembered as Hampi after its fall in 1565 and is known for its historical significance.

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  • 3.1

    The Discovery Of Hampi

    The Discovery of Hampi discusses the founding, rediscovery, and historical significance of the Vijayanagara Empire and Hampi, particularly through the contributions of Colonel Colin Mackenzie.

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  • 3.2

    Rayas, Nayakas And Sultans

    The section discusses the establishment of the Vijayanagara Empire by the brothers Harihara and Bukka, its interactions with contemporary powers, and the significance of trade and military strategies in its rise and decline.

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  • 3.2.1

    Kings And Traders

    The Vijayanagara Empire, known for its extensive trade networks and military prowess, thrived in South India with a strong emphasis on horse trade and cultural interactions.

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  • 3.2.2

    The Apogee And Decline Of The Empire

    The section outlines the rise and fall of the Vijayanagara Empire, highlighting key rulers and events that led to its decline.

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  • 3.2.3

    The Rayas And The Nayakas

    This section describes the roles of military chiefs (nayakas) within the Vijayanagara Empire and their relationship with the ruling kings (rayas), highlighting the amara-nayaka system and its significance.

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  • 3.3

    Vijayanagara: The Capital And Its Environs

    The section explores the historical significance and architectural features of Vijayanagara, focusing on its ruins, fortifications, and urban planning.

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  • 3.3.1

    Water Resources

    This section discusses the intricate water management systems of Vijayanagara, emphasizing the critical role of tanks and canals in sustaining agriculture and urban life.

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  • 3.3.2

    Fortifications And Roads

    This section discusses the impressive fortifications and transportation infrastructure of the Vijayanagara Empire, highlighting their role in protecting the city and facilitating trade.

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  • 3.3.3

    The Urban Core

    The urban core of Vijayanagara reveals insights into the lives of different social groups, particularly traders, through archaeological findings and historical accounts.

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  • 3.4

    The Royal Centre

    The Royal Centre in Vijayanagara was a significant area characterized by its many temples and palatial structures that helped to establish the authority of the rulers.

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  • 3.4.1

    The Mahanavami Dibba

    The mahanavami dibba is a key architectural feature in the Vijayanagara Empire's royal centre, reflecting its ceremonial significance and architectural grandeur.

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  • 3.4.2

    Other Buildings In The Royal Centre

    This section discusses the architectural and cultural significance of various structures in the royal centre of Vijayanagara, including the Lotus Mahal and the Hazara Rama temple.

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  • 3.5

    The Sacred Centre

    The section discusses the significance of Vijayanagara's sacred sites, the traditions associated with temple architecture, and the political and cultural importance of these temples for the rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire.

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  • 3.5.1

    Choosing A Capital

    The selection of the site for Vijayanagara was influenced by sacred traditions and prior temple-building practices, serving as a foundation for the Vijayanagara Empire's legitimacy and power.

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  • 3.5.2

    Gopurams And Mandapas

    The section discusses the architectural significance of gopurams and mandapas in Vijayanagara's temple architecture, highlighting their role in expressing imperial authority and cultural rituals.

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  • 3.6

    Plotting Palaces, Temples And Bazaars

    The section details the discovery and documentation of the Vijayanagara Empire's remnants, emphasizing the mapping of structures such as palaces, temples, and bazaars.

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  • 3.7

    Questions In Search Of Answers

    The section delves into the history, architecture, and significance of the Vijayanagara Empire, particularly focusing on its capital, Hampi.

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  • 3.8

    Timelines: Major Political Developments

    This section discusses the historical significance of the Vijayanagara Empire, including its founding, key rulers, and architectural achievements.

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  • 3.9

    Timelines: Landmarks In The Discovery And Conservation Of Vijayanagara

    The section details the discovery and preservation of the Vijayanagara Empire, focusing on archaeological efforts and historical insights, particularly centered around the city of Hampi.

    Learning Practice

References

NCERT Study Material

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • Vijayanagara was both a cit...
  • The empire's architecture s...
  • Archaeological findings and...

Final Test

Revision Tests

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