Part of: Karnataka Gk set 2

By whom were the two brothers who established the Vijayanagar empire inspired

Category: Karnataka Gk

Hint: Consider the religious and philosophical guidance provided to the founders.

Correct Answer: B) Madhava Vidyaranya.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Vijayanagar Empire was a significant Hindu kingdom that emerged in South India in the 14th century, primarily as a response to the Islamic invasions from the north. The empire was founded by two brothers, Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, who were originally part of the administration of the Kakatiya dynasty. The establishment of the Vijayanagar Empire is closely associated with the guidance and inspiration provided by the sage Madhava Vidyaranya, who was a prominent Advaita philosopher and a key figure in the religious and administrative aspects of the empire.

Madhava Vidyaranya, also known as Maydanacharya, was a scholar and a spiritual leader who played a crucial role in the early years of the Vijayanagar Empire. He was the head of the Sringeri Sharada Peetham, a renowned Advaita Vedanta monastic institution. His influence extended beyond religious matters; he was also involved in the political and administrative aspects of the empire, providing strategic advice and support to the founding brothers.

The inspiration provided by Madhava Vidyaranya was instrumental in shaping the Vijayanagar Empire's policies and culture. He encouraged the brothers to establish a strong and stable kingdom that could resist the Islamic invasions and preserve Hindu traditions and culture. His guidance helped in the formation of a powerful and prosperous empire that lasted for over two centuries.

It is important to note that while other historical figures such as Ghiyas-ud-din-Tughlaq, Zain-ul-Abidin, and Krishna Deva Raya were significant in their own right, they were not directly involved in the establishment of the Vijayanagar Empire. Ghiyas-ud-din-Tughlaq was a Sultan of the Tughlaq dynasty, Zain-ul-Abidin was a ruler of the Sharqi dynasty, and Krishna Deva Raya was a later ruler of the Vijayanagar Empire. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is Madhava Vidyaranya, who provided the spiritual and administrative inspiration for the founding of the Vijayanagar Empire.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Ghiyas-ud-din-Tughlaq was a Sultan of the Tughlaq dynasty and not associated with the Vijayanagar Empire's establishment. This option is incorrect as it does not align with historical records.
  • Option B: Madhava Vidyaranya was a prominent Advaita philosopher and the inspiration behind the Vijayanagar Empire's establishment. He provided spiritual guidance to the founders, Harihara I and Bukka Raya I. This option is correct.
  • Option C: Zain-ul-Abidin was a ruler of the Sharqi dynasty and not associated with the Vijayanagar Empire. This option is incorrect as it does not pertain to the empire's establishment.
  • Option D: Krishna Deva Raya was a later ruler of the Vijayanagar Empire and not involved in its establishment. This option is incorrect as it refers to a figure from a later period.

Mnemonic: MAD: Madhava Vidyaranya Directed

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