History Of The Vijayanagar Empire

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The Vijayanagar Empire Introduction: One of the important kingdoms in the medieval Indian history, Vijayanagara is in today’s Bellary District of northern Karnataka. The historic kingdom was extended over South India and included the territories of Mysore, Trichinopally, Kanara, Pondicherry, Chingalpet and Kanchivaram. Two brothers (also known as Sangama brothers) Harihara (Hakka) I and Bukka Raya, in A.D. 1336, laid the foundation of the Vijaynagar city, which was on the South bank of Tungabhadra River near Anegudi Fortress. This empire consolidated under Harihara I and began to expand under Bukka Raya. It is said that a sage Madhav Vidyaranya and his brother Sayana were the inspirational source for this empire. The rulers were strict worshipers of the Hindu Gods and Goddess, but also tolerant towards the other religions. The emperors were great patrons of art and culture. The region influenced development in the streams of music, literature and architecture. Many temples built in the south represent the Vijaynagar architecture. The economy of the region flourished and several coins were introduced during the reign of the rulers of the Vijaynagar Empire. Vijaynagar Dynasties: Dynasties that ruled over Vijaynagar include Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva and Aravidu Dynasty. Sungama Kings: Harihara I (1336 – 1356 CE): He is known as Hakka and Vira Harihara I. He was the founder of Vijaynagar Empire. He was Bhavana Sangama’s eldest son, belonged to the Kuruba and was the