Context:
Rare Copper Plates documenting Devaraya I’s coronation unveiled in Bengaluru.
Devaraya I (1406-1422):
- Belongs to – Sangama Dynasty
- Ascended the throne after a civil war following Harihara II’s demise.
- Conducted campaigns in Tamil Nadu, Konkan, and Tondaimandalam, effectively defending against Bahmani Sultanate invasions.
- Built a dam on the Tungabhadra River, enabling canal irrigation for cities and villages.
- Supported literature and trade, establishing ties with Arab and Chinese merchants.
- Niccolo de Conti, an Italian traveler, visited Vijayanagara during his reign
Sangama Dynasty:
- Marked the foundation of the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Founders – Harihara I and Bukka Raya I
- Capital – Hampi.
- Other notable Rulers – Harihara II (1377–1406 CE), Devaraya II (1425–1446 CE)
- Contributions –
- Administrative Structure – Divided the empire into regions (Nadu) for effective governance.
- Military Strength – Resisted Bahmani Sultanate and Gajapati invasions.
- Cultural Development – Encouraged Kannada and Telugu literature, arts, and temple construction.
- Religious Inclusivity – Patronized Hindu, Jain, and Islamic scholars.
Source: TH
Previous Year Question
Regarding the taxation system of Krishnadeva, the ruler of Vijayanagara, consider the following statements:
1. The tax rate on land was fixed depending on the quality of the land.
2. Private owners of workshops paid an industries tax.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c)