The Vijayanagara Empire, known for its remarkable contributions to South Indian history, thrived as a powerful kingdom between the 14th and 17th centuries. Renowned for its military prowess, architectural marvels, and rich cultural heritage, the empire left a lasting impact on the region.
In this article, we present a collection of General Knowledge multiple-choice questions (MCQs) focused on the Vijayanagara Empire. These questions will help you explore and deepen your understanding of this influential period in Indian history.
1. Who among the following was the Sultan at Delhi when the Vijayanagar empire was founded?
- Firoz Tughlaq
- Sikandar Lodi
- Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
- Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq
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Answer: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq
The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 CE by Harihara and Bukka under the reign of Sultan Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq of the Delhi Sultanate. They established it after Tughlaq’s attempted expedition to the south, and the empire became a prominent power in South India, particularly in the Deccan Plateau region.
2. Which among the following was the single biggest item of import to the Vijayanagar empire?
- Precious stones
- Horses
- Luxury goods
- Raw Silk
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Answer: Horses
The kings of Vijayanagara did indeed import Arabian horses on a large scale. These horses were crucial for improving the breed of cavalry horses in their dominions. The import of horses played a significant role in enhancing the empire’s military capabilities.
3.Which of the following rulers earned the title of Purvapaschima Samudradhishavara?
- Samudragupta
- Karikala Chola
- Harihara I
- Parantaka-I
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Answer: Harihara I
Harihara I, one of the founding monarchs of the Vijayanagara Empire, extended the empire’s influence to areas south of the Tungabhadra River. He earned the title “Purvapaschima Samudradhishavara,” signifying his control over the eastern and western seas.
4. Areas of which of the following current states did not come under the control of Vijayanagar emperor Krishnadeva Raya?
- Tamil Nadu
- Kerala
- Odisha
- Maharashtra
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Answer: Kerala
Krishnadeva Raya, a celebrated emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire, effectively united vast regions of South India under his rule, including parts of modern Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha. However, Kerala did not come under his direct control.
5. During the reign of Devaraya II, which of the following famous temples were built in the Vijayanagar empire?
- Hampi
- Hazura
- Belgaum
- None of them
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Answer: Hazura
The Hazura temple was indeed constructed by Devaraya II, one of the notable temples within the Vijayanagara Empire. Devaraya II was known for his administrative skills, military ambition, and literary accomplishments.
6. Which among the following was a gold coin issued in the Vijayanagar empire of South India?
- Tara
- Varaha
- Kakini
- None of the above
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Answer: Varaha
The standard unit of coin issued by the Vijayanagara Empire was the gold Pagoda in English or Varaha of 3.4 gr. The Varaha was also called the Hon, Gadyana or a Pon and came in the Ghattivaraha, Doddavaraha and Suddhavaraha coin.
7. Sayana, a very important commentator of Vedas, flourished in which of the following?
- Hoysala Empire
- Kakatiya dynasty
- Vijayanagar Empire
- Pandyan Empire
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Answer: Vijayanagar Empire
Sayana was a renowned Sanskrit scholar who lived during the reigns of King Bukka Raya I and his successor Harihara II. He made significant contributions to Sanskrit literature and is best known for his commentaries on the Vedas.
8. The Battle of Talikota resulted in the end of which of the following?
- Madurai Sultanate
- Deccan Sultanates
- Pandya Empire
- Vijayanagar Empire
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Answer: Vijayanagar Empire
The Battle of Talikota was a pivotal conflict between the Vijayanagara Empire and an alliance of the Deccan sultanates. It took place at Talikoti in northern Karnataka and led to the defeat and decline of the Vijayanagara Empire.
9. The Vijayanagar empire ruled during which of the following years?
- 1236-1672 CE
- 1336-1646 CE
- 1136-1472 CE
- 1336-1672 CE
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Answer: 1336-1646 CE
The Vijayanagara Empire existed from approximately 1336 to 1646 CE. It was founded in 1336 CE and continued to thrive until it was eventually defeated and its capital, Vijayanagara, was captured in 1565 CE at the Battle of Talikota. Though the empire faced a decline after the Battle of Talikota, it continued to exist in a diminished form until the fall of its last stronghold, Vellore, in 1646 CE.
10. The Vijayanagar kingdom constituted of how many dynasties?
- 4
- 3
- 5
- 2
Show Answer
Answer: 4
The Vijayanagara Empire was characterized by a succession of four dynasties: Sangama (1336-1485 CE), Saluva (1485-1503 CE), Tuluva (1503-1570 CE), and Aravidu (until the late 17th century).
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