Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 36

Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 A.D. on the southern bank of ..... river.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the location of the Vijayanagara Empire's capital.

Correct Answer: D) Tungabhadra

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Vijayanagara Empire was a significant Hindu empire that ruled South India from the 14th to the 16th century. It was founded in 1336 A.D. by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, who established their capital on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River. The Tungabhadra River is a tributary of the Krishna River and flows through the states of Karnataka and Telangana. The river's location was strategically chosen for several reasons:

First, the Tungabhadra River provided a natural defense for the capital city. The river's banks were difficult to cross, which made it challenging for invaders to attack the city. This natural barrier was crucial for the empire's security and helped it to withstand numerous invasions.

Second, the river was a vital source of water for the city. The Tungabhadra River supported agriculture and provided water for the daily needs of the inhabitants. The river's water was also used for irrigation, which was essential for the empire's agricultural economy.

Third, the Tungabhadra River was a significant religious site. The river was considered sacred, and many temples were built along its banks. The river's religious significance added to the cultural and spiritual importance of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The Vijayanagara Empire's capital, Vijayanagara, was located near the modern-day city of Hampi in Karnataka. The city was known for its grand architecture, including numerous temples and palaces. The empire's rulers were patrons of art and culture, and the city was a center of learning and religious activity.

The Tungabhadra River played a crucial role in the development and prosperity of the Vijayanagara Empire. Its strategic location, natural resources, and religious significance made it an ideal site for the empire's capital. The river's importance in the history of the Vijayanagara Empire is well-documented, and it remains a significant historical site today.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: The Kaveri River is not the correct answer. While it is an important river in South India, it is not associated with the founding of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Kaveri River flows through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and is significant for agriculture and religious purposes.
  • Option B: The Krishna River is not the correct answer. Although it is a major river in South India, it is not the river on which the Vijayanagara Empire was founded. The Krishna River flows through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
  • Option C: The Godavari River is not the correct answer. While it is one of the longest rivers in India, it is not associated with the founding of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Godavari River flows through the states of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
  • Option D: The Tungabhadra River is the correct answer. The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 A.D. on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River, near the modern-day city of Hampi in Karnataka. The river provided both water and a natural defense for the empire's capital.

Mnemonic: T for Tungabhadra, T for Temple-rich Vijayanagara

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