States PCS: Karnataka GK for KPSC and other Karnataka State Exams

Notes:
The Sangama dynasty ruled South India from 1336–1485 CE. Founded by brothers Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, they established the Vijayanagara Empire on the Tungabhadra River in present-day Karnataka. Under rulers like Deva Raya II, the empire expanded across southern India, controlling territories from Odisha to Malabar. The dynasty ended in 1485 CE when Narasimha of the Saluva Dynasty seized power. The Sangama period marked the empire’s military peak and cultural flourishing before later decline.

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Harihara II was an emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire from the Sangama Dynasty who succeeded the King Bukka Raya I. He ascended to the throne in 1377 CE and ruled from 1377 CE to 1406 CE.

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King Albuquerque sent ambassadors to Krishna Deva Raya, maintaining friendly ties with the Portuguese. Travelers Domingo Paes and Barbosa visited during his reign. Paes recorded the Vijayanagara Empire’s grandeur, Hampi festival, and irrigation systems. Barbosa highlighted its thriving trade in horses and spices. Krishna Deva Raya oversaw the construction of the Vittala Temple and the growth of Telugu literature, writing as “Andhra Bhoja.”

Notes:
In 1565 CE, the Deccan Sultanates (Bijapur, Ahmadnagar, Golkonda, Bidar) defeated the Vijayanagar Empire at the Battle of Talaikotta, leading to its decline. Vijayanagar ruler Aliya Rama Raya was captured and executed, resulting in chaos and the sacking of Hampi. The Sultanates’ advanced artillery was key to their victory.

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The Kings of Vijaynagara empire were tolerant towards other religions. Muslims were employed to help in the administration of the empire and were freely allowed to build mosques.

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Hazrat Syed Muhammad Gesu Daraz, or Banda Nawaz, was a prominent Sufi saint of the Chishti Order. His mausoleum in Gulbarga, built by Ahmad Shah I, is a major pilgrimage site. He authored works in Persian, Arabic, and Dakhni, influencing the Deccan’s cultural landscape. The mausoleum features Indo-Islamic architecture and contains a library of rare manuscripts, reflecting the Bahmani Sultanate’s syncretic culture.

Notes:
Fathullah Imad Shah, originally Kazi Fathullah, founded the Imad Shahi dynasty after converting to Islam. He served as a military officer and governor of Berar, declaring independence in 1490. His reign enhanced Berar’s prominence in the Deccan, noted for administrative skills and promoting agriculture and trade.

Notes:
Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah succeeded Muhammad Qutb Shah. His reign saw increased Mughal influence in the Deccan, pressure from Jahangir and Shah Jahan, and a withdrawal of support for Malik Ambar. He contributed to Hyderabad’s architecture, completing the Mecca Masjid, and promoted Persian literature and Deccani Urdu.

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In 1636 CE, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan forced the Qutb Shahis to abandon Shia worship and recognize Mughal suzerainty, shifting Deccan politics. This era also saw the construction of the Charminar in Hyderabad, reflecting the Qutb Shahi dynasty’s cultural contributions.

Notes:
A monolithic statue of Bahubali referred to as “Gommateshvara” built by the Ganga dynasty minister and commander Chamundaraya is a 60 feet (18 m) monolith and is situated above a hill in Shravanabelagola, in the Hassan district of Karnataka. It was built in the 10th century AD.