An Imperial Capital – Vijayanagara Test - 1

The building in the royal center of Vijayanagara known for its sculpted panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana is the Hazara Rama temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is famous for its exquisite carvings portraying episodes from the epic Ramayana.

The amara-nayakas in the Vijayanagara Empire were military commanders appointed by the king to govern territories, collect taxes, and maintain a fighting force. They played a crucial role in the administration and defense of the empire's vast territories.

The detailed documentation of Vijayanagara's structures in the 1980s was enabled by extensive and intensive surveys. These surveys involved thorough examination and documentation of the architectural remains, providing valuable data for understanding the layout, design, and significance of the structures within the Vijayanagara site.

Photographers began recording the monuments at Hampi in 1856. This marked the beginning of visually documenting the rich cultural and historical heritage of the site through the medium of photography.

The rulers of Vijayanagara demonstrated their close links with gods by signing royal orders as "Shri Virupaksha." This practice symbolized their devotion to the deity Virupaksha, whose temple was a significant religious center within the Vijayanagara Empire, and emphasized the divine authority and legitimacy of their rule.

The aspect of Vijayanagara's construction projects that raises questions about the daily lives of its inhabitants is the labor contributed by ordinary people. The extensive building projects of Vijayanagara required a significant workforce, and understanding the roles, conditions, and organization of laborers sheds light on various aspects of daily life, such as social structure, economic activities, and living conditions within the city.

The significant feature about the location of Vijayanagara in terms of water resources was the presence of the River Tungabhadra. This river provided a vital source of water for irrigation, agriculture, and other activities, contributing to the prosperity and sustenance of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The choice of the site for Vijayanagara was inspired by local myths and traditions. According to historical accounts, the founders of the Vijayanagara Empire believed that the region held significance in Hindu mythology and chose the site based on its sacred and auspicious associations, thereby establishing Vijayanagara as a center of religious and cultural importance.

The Vijayanagara kings competed with the Sultans of the Deccan and Gajapati rulers of Orissa for control of fertile river valleys and overseas trade. This rivalry for dominance over strategic territories and trade routes shaped much of the political landscape of South India during that period.

Colonel Colin Mackenzie.- He was an engineer and antiquarian who worked for the English East India Company and prepared the first survey map of the  Hampi site.