Class 12 History Chapter 7 Notes
An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara notes

Here, we are providing notes for Chapter 7 of the Class 12 History curriculum, “An Imperial Capital: Vijayanagara.” This chapter examines the key features associated with the imperial capital of Vijayanagara.

These notes will prove useful to students preparing for this year’s board examinations. Prepared in simple and organized language, this material will help in quickly reviewing the chapter and retaining key points.

Class 12 History Chapter 7 Notes, An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara notes

class 12 History chapter 7 notes

Vijaya Nagar

Established in the fourteenth century, the Vijayanagara Empire extended from the Krishna River in the north to the far south of the Indian peninsula.
Vijayanagara, or the “City of Victory,” was the name of both a city and an empire.
It was attacked and looted in 1565 and subsequently fell into ruin.
Although it had completely perished by the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, it lived on in the memories of the inhabitants of the Krishna-Tungabhadra *doab* region.
They remembered it by the name Hampi.

The Discovery of Hampi

Hampi was a city named after Pampa Devi.
Pampa Devi is a form of Goddess Parvati, who was married to Virupaksha (Lord Shiva).
The ruins of Hampi were discovered in 1800 AD by Colonel Mackenzie, an engineer and antiquarian.
Mackenzie, who worked for the East India Company, prepared the first survey map of the site.
The initial information he gathered was based on the memories of the priests at the Virupaksha Temple and the Pampa Devi shrine.
Later, starting in 1856 AD, photographers began compiling images of the structures there, enabling researchers to study them.
From 1836 onwards, epigraphists began collecting dozens of inscriptions from various temples in Hampi to assist historians in reconstructing history.

The founding of Vijayanagara

According to historical evidence, the Vijayanagara Empire was established by two brothers—Harihara and Bukka—in 1336.
Vijayanagara is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, in the region that is now the state of Karnataka.
In 1565 CE, the Vijayanagara Empire was invaded and looted; subsequently, the empire fell into ruin and was completely destroyed between the 17th and 18th centuries.
Nevertheless, it lived on in the memories of the people of the Krishna-Tungabhadra Doab region as Hampi.
Vijayanagara was renowned for its markets dealing in textiles, spices, and precious stones.
Vijayanagara was both a city and an empire.
Raichur (Doab): The term ‘Doab’ refers to the land between two rivers; in this case, the rivers were the Tungabhadra and the Krishna.

Amar-Nayakas

The *Amar-Nayakas* were military commanders who were granted territories by the *Raya* for administrative purposes.
They collected land revenue and other taxes from peasants, craftspersons, and traders.
They retained a portion of the revenue for personal use and for maintaining the prescribed contingents of horses and elephants.
The remaining amount was deposited into the royal treasury.
Their contingents provided military assistance to the rulers of Vijayanagara in times of need.
The *Amar-Nayakas* sent gifts to the king once a year and personally appeared at the royal court with these offerings to demonstrate their loyalty.
The king would sometimes assert his control by transferring them from one region to another; however, by the seventeenth century, many of these *Nayakas* had established their independence.

Nayakas

In the Vijayanagara Empire, local military chieftains were known as *Nayakas*.
They possessed military power.
*Nayakas* generally controlled forts and maintained armed supporters.
They moved from place to place, and at times, peasants would also accompany them in search of fertile land.
They typically spoke Telugu and Kannada. Many *Nayakas* had submitted to the suzerainty of the Vijayanagara rulers.
However, they frequently rebelled and had to be subdued through military action.

Vijayanagara: The Capital and its Environs (Surrounding Area)

1. Vijayanagara

It was a renowned capital.
It was counted among the most famous and prosperous cities of that time.

2. Unique geographical location

It was situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
It was surrounded by granite hills that provided protection.

3. Beautiful and robust construction style

The buildings here were constructed using special stones.
In terms of architecture, the temples, pavilions, pillars, and gateways were magnificent.

4. Good security arrangements

Fortifications, high walls, and strong gates were constructed.
The hills and the river also provided natural protection.

5. Religious and Cultural Significance

There were several temples here, such as the Vitthala Temple and the Hazara Rama Temple.
Cultural events like festivals, plays, and music performances used to take place.

6. Advanced Water Management System

Systems for water conservation were in place due to low rainfall.
Reservoirs, canals, and tanks were constructed (such as the Kamalapuram Reservoir and the Hiriya Canal).

7. Center of trade

Traders from within the country and abroad used to come here.
Trade was conducted in spices, textiles, gemstones, and weapons.

8. Modern city-like life

The roads, markets, and marketplaces had a planned layout.
There were separate neighborhoods for the wealthy and the common people.

Fortifications and Roads

Various parts of the city of Vijayanagara were enclosed by massive fortification walls.
Abdur Razzaq, an envoy sent to Calicut by the ruler of Persia in the fifteenth century, was deeply impressed by the fortifications and noted the existence of seven lines of forts.
He reported that the city, agricultural fields, and forests were all enclosed; the outermost wall linked the hills surrounding the city.
No mortar or binding material of any kind was used in their construction.
The stone blocks were wedge-shaped, allowing them to stay in place; the core of the walls consisted of a mixture of earth and rubble.
The most remarkable feature of this fortification was that it also enclosed agricultural tracts.
Abdur Razzaq writes, “Between the first, second, and third walls, there are cultivated fields, gardens, and houses.”

1. First Fortification :-

It connected the hills surrounding the city.
Huge granaries were built within the fortified area.
Forest and agricultural areas
Water reservoirs

2. Second Fortification :-

It was built around the urban center.

3. Third Fortification :-

The administrative center was enclosed.
There were gateways to enter the fortified settlement.
Arches were constructed at the gateways.
Additionally, domes were built above the gateways.

Benefits of fortification

Protection against external attacks
Protection of crops
Protection against intruders
Granaries were built within these very walls, where grain was stored safely.

Disadvantages of fortification

It was an extremely expensive system.
It was difficult to maintain.

What were the reasons for fortifying the area around the crops?

The primary reason for fortifying the crops was to protect them from falling into enemy hands during wartime.
In any conflict, an enemy would typically seize the kingdom’s crops first to sustain their army within the region.
Therefore, the Vijayanagara Empire fortified its crops to ensure they would not be captured by the enemy during a war.
This made it difficult for the enemy army to sustain itself, while simultaneously preventing a food crisis for the people of Vijayanagara.

Rule in Vijayanagara

The rulers of Vijayanagara were known as ‘Raya’.
The army commanders of Vijayanagara were called ‘Nayaka’.

Sangama Dynasty:

Vijayanagara was founded by Harihara and Bukka in 1336.
Their father’s name was Sangama, and they named their dynasty after him.
Thus, the Sangama dynasty was the first to rule over Vijayanagara.
Its last ruler was Virupaksha II.

Saluva Dynasty:

The Saluvas were military commanders during the Sangama dynasty.
Narasimha established his rule after defeating Virupaksha II, the last ruler of the Sangama dynasty.
This marked the beginning of the Saluva dynasty. Narasimha Raya II was the last ruler of the Saluva dynasty.

Tuluva Dynasty :

It was established by Vira Narasimha, the first ruler of the Tuluva dynasty, after defeating the last ruler of the Saluva dynasty.
Krishnadeva Raya became king during this dynasty.
He is considered the most illustrious king of Vijayanagara.
Sadashiva was the last ruler of the Tuluva dynasty.

Aravidu Dynasty:

The Aravidu dynasty was established by Tirumala after defeating the last ruler of the Tuluva dynasty.
Sriranga III was the last ruler of the Aravidu dynasty.

Krishnadevaraya

Birth – 14 January 1471
Place – Hampi
Dynasty – Tuluva Dynasty
Death – 17 October 1529

Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529 CE) was the most illustrious king of the Vijayanagara Empire. He was a poet himself and a patron of poets. His work *Vanshacharitavali*, based on ancient Indian history, exists in both Telugu and Sanskrit.
Krishnadevaraya assumed the throne in 1509; this period is considered the most prosperous and flourishing era of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Krishnadevaraya strengthened the administrative system of Vijayanagara and conquered several significant territories.

Works performed by Krishna Dev :-

He acquired the Raichur Doab (the fertile region between the Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers) in 1512.
He defeated the rulers of Odisha in 1514.
He also decisively defeated the Sultan of Bijapur in 1520.
During the reign of Krishnadevaraya, the kingdom remained constantly prepared for war.
He was also conferred the title of ‘Andhra Bhoja’ (King of the entire Andhra region).
Krishnadevaraya authored two books: *Amuktamalyada* (in Telugu) and *Jambavati Kalyanam* (in Sanskrit).
He commissioned the construction of several major temples and is credited with adding *gopurams* (massive entrance towers) to vast temple complexes.
He also had the Kamalapuram reservoir constructed to ensure a water supply.
Krishnadevaraya established a suburb named Nagalapuram near Vijayanagara, naming it after his mother.

Trade in the Vijayanagara Empire

The army of Vijayanagara relied on horses.
Therefore, the rulers of Vijayanagara imported horses from Central Asia and Arabia.
Initially, this trade was controlled by Arab merchants.
Horse traders residing in Vijayanagara were known as *Kudirai Chettis*.
Vijayanagara was renowned as a market for spices, precious stones, and textiles.
The people of Vijayanagara were prosperous, and there was a high demand for expensive foreign goods.
The state generated substantial revenue from this extensive trade, which contributed to its prosperity.

Explain the significance of the Royal Centre of Vijayanagara, particularly its important buildings:

The royal centre was situated in the south-western part of the settlement.
It housed more than 60 temples, reflecting the religious interests of the kings.
A massive structure known as the King’s Palace was discovered in this area. It featured two impressive platforms.
These are known as the *Sabha Mandapa* (Audience Hall) and the *Mahanavami Dibba*.

Assembly Hall / Pavilion

This is a tall pavilion enclosed on all sides by double walls, with a passageway running between them.
There are numerous pillars in the center, supporting the second story of the structure.
Staircases have been constructed to provide access to the upper floor.
The pillars are spaced very closely together, leaving minimal open space between them.
It is precisely because of this lack of space that historians have struggled to understand the pavilion’s purpose; the area between the pillars is insufficient for seating or for holding any kind of gathering.

Mahanavami Box

The Mahanavami Dibba is a massive platform.
It spans an area of 11,000 square feet and
reaches a height of approximately 40 feet.
Some very beautiful carvings have been found at the base of this platform.

Festivals associated with this:-

Grand fairs were organized on this occasion.
These fairs were primarily held during Hindu festivals such as Dussehra and Durga Puja.
Religious rituals were performed during these events, involving the worship of idols.
Animal sacrifices were offered, and the state’s horse was worshipped.
Events such as dance performances, wrestling competitions, and processions were also organized.
On the final days of the festivities, the king would inspect the armies of his commanders, and gifts were presented to the rulers.

Vitthal Temple

It was a sturdy and visually impressive temple.
The walls here were clad in copper panels from bottom to top.
Sculptures of animals adorned the temple roof.
Between 2,500 and 3,000 burnt lamps have been found inside the temple.
The stones here feature carvings of women, delicate flowers, and animals.
Granite chariots dedicated to the Sun God stand in the courtyard.
Their wheels still rotate, though the government has banned them from being turned.
Lord Vishnu is worshipped here.

Hazar Ram Temple :-

The “Hazara Rama Temple” is situated in the royal complex.
It is a magnificent sight; it was likely used exclusively by the king and his family.
This is a massive temple, and scenes from the Ramayana are carved onto its walls.
For this reason, it is known as the Hazara Rama Temple.

Lotus Mahal (Kamal Mahal):-

The Lotus Mahal is a palace-like structure.
The Lotus Mahal is one of the most beautiful buildings in the Royal Centre.
It was given this name by British travellers in the 19th century.
Historians are not certain about the purpose for which this building was constructed.
However, based on maps created by Mackenzie, it is surmised that it was a council chamber where the king would sit and consult with his ministers.

Vijayanagara Water System

Although the Vijayanagara region was surrounded by rivers on all sides, the main capital city of Vijayanagara was situated quite far from water sources.
A natural water reservoir was formed by the Tungabhadra River, which flowed near Vijayanagara; water was supplied to the city from this reservoir.

Tank

Several small streams originated from the Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers, and dams were constructed across them.
Water from these dams was diverted to man-made reservoirs known as *hauz*.
One such significant reservoir was the Kamalapuram reservoir.

Canals

Along with this, several small canals were constructed to supply water to various regions of Vijayanagara.
The most important among these was the Hiriya Canal.
It facilitated the easy distribution of water to the general public.

Water Resources

The Tungabhadra River and the geographical location of Vijayanagara.

Near the northeast-flowing Tungabhadra River lies a large natural water tank (or pond), a feature that enhances the distinct character of Vijayanagara. The area is surrounded by beautiful granite hills that appear to encircle the city.
Several small streams originate from these hills and flow into the Tungabhadra River. Reservoirs of various sizes were constructed by building dams across these streams.
Since the region received little rainfall, elaborate systems were devised to collect water and channel it to the city.
The Kamalapuram Reservoir and the Hiriya Canal are notable examples of these systems.

Kamalapuram Reservoir

One of the most important tanks—known today as the Kamalapuram reservoir—was constructed in the early years of the fifteenth century.
Water from this tank was used not only to irrigate nearby fields but was also conveyed to the “Royal Centre” via a canal.

Hiriya Canal

The Hiriya Canal, one of the most important water-related structures, can still be seen today amidst the ruins.
Water was brought into this canal from a dam built on the Tungabhadra River and used to irrigate the valley separating the “religious centre” from the “urban core.”
It was likely constructed by the rulers of the Sangama dynasty.

The cause of the downfall of Vijayanagara

1. Hostility towards neighboring states

The rulers of Vijayanagara were constantly engaged in conflicts with neighboring states.
The kings of Vijayanagara were frequently at odds with the Bahmani rulers.
This weakened the position of the empire.

2. Despotic ruler

Most of the rulers were despotic.
They could not become popular among the people.

3. Successor to the Commission -

After Krishnadevaraya, his nephew Achyuta Raya ascended the throne; he was a weak ruler, and his weakness led to a civil war.

4. Invasions of Odisha and Bijapur

During the period when the Vijayanagara Empire was embroiled in a civil war, King Prataparudra Gajapati of Odisha and Ismail Adil, the ruler of Bijapur, invaded Vijayanagara.
Although the King of Odisha was defeated and retreated, the ruler of Bijapur succeeded in capturing the forts of Vijayanagara.

The Battle of Talikota and the End of the Vijayanagara Empire -

This battle took place in 1565 between Vijayanagara and the combined forces of Bijapur, Ahmadnagar, and Golconda.
Vijayanagara was led by Prime Minister Rama Raya.
Vijayanagara suffered defeat in this battle.
The invading armies extensively looted the city of Vijayanagara, causing it to fall into ruin within just a few years.
This battle is known as the Battle of Rakshasi-Tangadi.

Bhakti- Sufi Traditions
Class 12 Chapter 6 Notes

किसान जमींदार और राज्य
Class 12 Chapter 8 Notes in Hindi

ncert Class 12 History Chapter 7 Notes

Do share your thoughts on the notes.

Class 12 History Chapter 7 Notes An Imperial Capital Vijayanagara notes