Vijayanagar — Set 4
Indian History · विजयनगर · Questions 31–40 of 60
Which Italian traveler visited Vijayanagar during the reign of Devaraya I?
Correct Answer: D. Nicolo Conti
Nicolo Conti visited the Vijayanagar Empire around 1420 AD during Devaraya I's reign. He was one of the earliest European visitors to give a comprehensive account of the city. He described the festivals and the king's court.
The administrative unit 'Mandalam' in the Vijayanagar Empire referred to a:
Correct Answer: A. Province
The empire was divided into large provinces called 'Mandalams' or 'Rajyas'. Each Mandalam was under a governor or a Nayaka. Mandalams were further subdivided into Nadus, Sthalas, and Gramas.
Who was the de facto ruler and minister who led the Vijayanagar army at Talikota?
Correct Answer: A. Rama Raya
Rama Raya was the regent and the actual power behind the throne of Sadasiva Raya. He was a skillful diplomat but his interference in the affairs of the Sultanates eventually united them against him. He was captured and beheaded during the battle.
The Virupaksha Temple at Hampi is dedicated to which deity?
Correct Answer: C. Shiva
The Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Virupaksha. It predates the empire but was expanded significantly by the Vijayanagar rulers. It remains an active site of worship in Hampi today.
Which Vijayanagar ruler is credited with building a dam across the Tungabhadra river to create a canal for the capital?
Correct Answer: D. Devaraya I
Devaraya I constructed a dam across the Tungabhadra river. This project helped bring a canal into the city to solve water shortage problems. It promoted agriculture and provided water for the royal center.
The 'Ashtadiggajas' were a group of eight great poets in the court of:
Correct Answer: B. Krishnadevaraya
The Ashtadiggajas adorned the court of Krishnadevaraya. They were eight eminent scholars and poets of Telugu literature. Their presence marked the golden age of Telugu literature, often called the 'Prabandha period'.
Duarte Barbosa, who described the Vijayanagar city in detail, was from which country?
Correct Answer: C. Portugal
The correct answer is 'Portugal'. Duarte Barbosa was a Portuguese writer and officer. He served in Portuguese India and visited Vijayanagar in the early 16th century. He wrote about the social customs and the grandeur of the city.
The Vijayanagar Empire was established in which century?
Correct Answer: B. 14th Century
The Vijayanagar Empire was established in 1336 AD. This date falls within the 14th century. It rose to prominence as a major power in South India during this period.
What was the main religion patronized by the early Sangama rulers?
Correct Answer: B. Shaivism
The correct answer is 'Shaivism'. The early Sangama rulers were primarily Shaivites and devotees of Virupaksha. Their family deity was Lord Virupaksha of Hampi. Later dynasties, like the Tuluvas and Aravidus, shifted more towards Vaishnavism.
The 'Rayagopuram' or royal gateway is a characteristic feature of temples built by:
Correct Answer: D. Vijayanagar Rulers
The massive, tall entrance towers known as Rayagopurams were a hallmark of Vijayanagar architecture. Krishnadevaraya added these gopurams to many old temples across South India. They served as imposing landmarks for the temple complexes.