The Vijayanagara Empire: Foundation and Administration
The Vijayanagara Empire, a formidable South Indian power, rose in the 14th century, leaving an indelible mark on the region's history, culture, and administration. This module delves into its origins and the sophisticated administrative machinery that sustained its prosperity.
Foundation of the Empire
The empire was founded in 1336 CE by Harihara I and his brother Bukka Raya I, who were feudatories of the Kakatiya dynasty. They established their capital at Vijayanagara (meaning 'City of Victory') on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. The empire emerged as a bulwark against the expansion of the Delhi Sultanate into the Deccan.
Harihara I and Bukka Raya I founded the Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 CE.
Key Dynasties
The empire was ruled by four prominent dynasties, each contributing to its growth and evolution:
| Dynasty | Period | Notable Rulers |
|---|---|---|
| Sangama Dynasty | 1336–1485 | Harihara I, Bukka Raya I, Deva Raya II |
| Saluva Dynasty | 1485–1505 | Saluva Narasimha Deva Raya |
| Tuluva Dynasty | 1505–1565 | Krishnadevaraya, Achyuta Deva Raya |
| Aravidu Dynasty | 1565–1646 | Tirumala Deva Raya, Venkata II |
Administration of the Empire
The Vijayanagara administration was highly centralized and efficient, drawing inspiration from earlier Indian traditions and adapting them to its needs. The king was the supreme head, assisted by a council of ministers.
The Vijayanagara administration was a well-structured monarchy with a council of ministers and a hierarchical system of governance.
The empire's administration was headed by the king, who was advised by a council of ministers known as the 'Ashta Pradhana' (though this term is more commonly associated with the Marathas; Vijayanagara had a council of ministers). Key officials managed various departments.
The King (Rayar) was the ultimate authority, supported by a council of ministers (Mantri Parishad) comprising prominent nobles and officials. The empire was divided into provinces (Vishayas or Rajya), which were further subdivided into districts (Kottams or Valanadus) and villages (Grama). Governors (Nayakas) were appointed to administer provinces, often with significant autonomy, but were accountable to the central authority. The revenue system was based on land revenue, customs, tolls, and taxes on various professions. A well-organized bureaucracy managed the day-to-day affairs of the state.
Key Administrative Departments and Officials
Several key departments and officials played crucial roles in the functioning of the empire:
The administrative structure of Vijayanagara can be visualized as a pyramid, with the King at the apex. Below him were the central ministries, followed by provincial governors (Nayakas), district officials, and finally the village administration. This hierarchical system ensured efficient collection of revenue and maintenance of law and order.
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| Official/Department | Role |
|---|---|
| Mantri (Prime Minister) | Chief advisor to the king, oversaw administration |
| Amatya (Finance Minister) | Managed state finances and treasury |
| Samantadhishas (Provincial Governors) | Administered provinces (Vishayas/Rajya), collected revenue, maintained troops |
| Dandanayaka (Commander-in-Chief) | Led the army and maintained law and order |
| Adhikari (Revenue Officer) | Responsible for land revenue assessment and collection |
Revenue System
The empire's economy was robust, largely due to its efficient revenue collection. Land revenue formed the backbone, with elaborate surveys and assessments. Other sources included customs duties, tolls, taxes on crafts and professions, and tributes from vassal states.
The Nayankara system was a significant feature, where military commanders (Nayakas) were granted territories to administer and from which to collect revenue, in return for maintaining troops and providing military service to the king. This system had both strengths and weaknesses, contributing to the empire's military might but also potential decentralization.
Land revenue was the primary source of revenue.
Military Organization
The Vijayanagara army was a formidable force, comprising infantry, cavalry, and elephants. The Nayankara system ensured a ready supply of troops, and the empire maintained a strong navy to control maritime trade routes.
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Learning Resources
A comprehensive overview of the Vijayanagara Empire, covering its history, rulers, administration, and cultural achievements.
An authoritative article from Britannica providing detailed insights into the empire's foundation, expansion, and decline.
A detailed video lecture explaining the key aspects of the Vijayanagara Empire's history and administration, suitable for competitive exam preparation.
An article focusing specifically on the administrative structure and revenue system of the Vijayanagara Empire, tailored for UPSC aspirants.
Information on the most famous ruler of the Tuluva dynasty, Krishnadevaraya, and his contributions to the empire's administration and culture.
Educational material from IGNOU providing a structured overview of the Vijayanagara Empire, including its administrative setup.
A comprehensive blog post detailing the administration, economy, society, and culture of the Vijayanagara Empire, with a focus on exam-relevant points.
An academic paper offering a scholarly analysis of the administrative and governance systems of the Vijayanagara Empire.
A well-structured article covering the history, administration, society, culture, and art of the Vijayanagara Empire, beneficial for competitive exams.
A video explaining the historical context and foundation of the Vijayanagara Empire, including the roles of its early rulers.