Fall of Civilizations Podcast
14. Vijayanagara - The Last Emperors Of South India
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Quick takeaways
- Vijayanagara Empire emerged as a powerful Hindu stronghold in South India against Islamic rule.
- Mohammed bin Tughluq's ambitious move to relocate the capital proved disastrous and led to thousands of deaths.
- Vijayanagara Empire built a fortified city with layered walls and advanced military strategies.
- Conflicts between Vijayanagara Empire and the Bahmani Sultanate arose over fertile regions and trading ports.
- Ramariah's tyrannical rule and the sultans' effective use of cannons led to the downfall of Vijayanagara Empire.
Deep dives
The Curiosity of Captain Colin Mackenzie
Colin Mackenzie, a Scottish captain in the British East India Company, became fascinated with India and amassed a collection of historical manuscripts and artifacts during his 40-year stay in the country. During his travels, he heard of the ruins of an ancient city near Anogundi, which he visited and recorded in his journal. Mackenzie's visit to the ruins revealed grand palaces, forts, waterworks, and more. His sketches and maps became the first comprehensive documentation of the site.
The Rise and Fall of Vijayanagar Empire
The Vijayanagar Empire, located in South India, emerged out of the chaos following the collapse of the Delhi Sultanate. The empire was founded by two brothers, Bukka and Harihara, who united Hindu lords and captured territories in the southern regions. The empire extended from the Indus Valley to the Bay of Bengal and aspired to be a Hindu stronghold in the face of Islamic rule. However, internal conflicts, invasions from the north, and the sack of Delhi by Timur led to the empire's decline.
Mohammed bin Tughluq and the Ambitious Capital Relocation
Mohammed bin Tughluq, a controversial ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, sought to modernize and centralize power by relocating the capital from Delhi to Devagiri. However, this ambitious move proved disastrous, resulting in thousands of deaths during the forced relocation of citizens and the subsequent decision to move back to Delhi. Mohammed's unstable reign and paranoia also led to severe punishments and the shedding of innocent blood, making him infamous as a tyrant.
The Founding of Vijayanagara and its Fortified Legacy
In the face of anarchy and disintegration following the Delhi Sultanate's collapse, the Sangama brothers, founders of the Vijayanagara Empire, conquered a considerable part of South India. They built the city of Vijayanagara as a formidable fortress, fortified with layered walls, horse stones, and watch posts. The empire sought to protect itself from fragmented kingdoms like the Bahmani Sultanate, which emerged as a powerful rival in the region.
The Rise of the Bahmani Sultanate
The Bahmani Sultanate, founded by Zapar Khan after declaring independence from the Delhi Sultanate, posed a threat to the Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagara.
Territorial Conflicts and Economic Disputes
The Bahmani Sultanate and Vijayanagara engaged in battles over the Richur Doab, a fertile and resource-rich region. Conflicts also arose over control of river deltas and trading ports.
Technological and Military Advancements
Vijayanagara embraced advancements like gunpowder and refined their military strategies. The king's personal fitness routine and adoption of Western-style artillery played key roles in their victories.
Krishnadevaraya's Victories and the Fall of the Bahmani Sultanate
King Krishnadevaraya's military triumphs brought him great power and expanded Vijayanagara's territory. However, his boldness also led to increased tensions with other Moslem kingdoms, ultimately resulting in the disintegration of the Bahmani Sultanate.
Ramariah's Rebellion and Reign
Ramariah led a successful rebellion and put a young boy named Sardasive on the throne as a puppet king. As regent, Ramariah effectively ruled the kingdom, imprisoning Sardasive when he demanded to take over. The citizens of Vigenagra suffered under Ramariah's tyrannical rule for 23 years, experiencing corruption, poverty, and religious divisions.
The Battle of Talicotta and the Fall of Vigenagra
Ramariah's reign ended with the combined forces of the Sultanate of Decan marching against him. Despite Vigenagra's numerical advantage, the Sultans' effective use of cannons turned the tide of battle. Ramariah was killed, and Vigenagra fell into chaos. The sultans looted the city, leaving it in ruins and without leadership. The empire fragmented, and the once-great empire of Vigenagra never recovered its former power.
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