Chapter 7 of the Class 12 History NCERT book is titled An Imperial Capital: Vijayanagara. It takes us deep into the history of one of the grandest cities ever built in medieval South India. Located near the Tungabhadra River in present-day Karnataka, Vijayanagara was once the capital of a mighty empire that flourished between the 14th and 17th centuries. The chapter explores its urban planning, religious structures, political significance, and cultural life. It also includes insights from archaeological findings and foreign travellers’ accounts.
I am writing about this topic because the story of Vijayanagara is not just about a lost city but about the height of Indian architecture, governance, and urban planning. Many students treat history as a list of dates and rulers, but this chapter changes that by showing us a real city with real people, temples, markets, and kings. For anyone preparing for board exams, competitive tests, or simply curious about Indian heritage, understanding Vijayanagara gives a vivid picture of how advanced and organised our ancestors were. Plus, the photos and maps in this chapter make it more interesting and relatable.
The Rise of Vijayanagara Empire
The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 CE by Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama dynasty. It rose to power at a time when many smaller kingdoms were fighting each other, and there was a need to protect southern India from invasions, especially by the Delhi Sultanate. Over the next two centuries, it became a strong centre of trade, military strength, and religious patronage.
Reasons Behind the Empire’s Growth
- Strategic Location: Vijayanagara was built on rocky terrain and near the river, making it easy to defend and self-sufficient.
- Strong Administration: Kings like Krishnadevaraya ensured smooth functioning through a well-managed bureaucracy.
- Religious Harmony: The rulers promoted both Shaivism and Vaishnavism and even supported some Jain and Muslim communities.
- Trade and Agriculture: Good irrigation systems and location near the cotton and spice-growing regions helped the economy.
- Temple Patronage: The empire is famous for large temples like those in Hampi, which still attract tourists and historians today.
Life in the City of Vijayanagara
What made Vijayanagara unique was how well it was planned and how lively it was. According to the chapter, the city had a mix of grand palaces, crowded bazaars, beautiful temples, and even military garrisons.
Key Features of the City
- Urban Planning: The city had distinct zones for royal people, religious institutions, and common citizens.
- Massive Walls and Gates: Huge stone walls surrounded the city, with several gateways that helped control movement and trade.
- Markets: These were not just local—they attracted traders from Arabia, Persia, and Europe. Horses, spices, jewels, and textiles were commonly traded.
- Water Tanks and Canals: To support agriculture and daily life, the city had a strong water management system. The Kamalapura tank is still visible today.
- Temples and Mandapas: Structures like the Vitthala Temple and Hazararama Temple show the mix of architecture, sculpture, and religious life.
What Foreign Travellers Said
Several foreign travellers visited Vijayanagara and gave detailed descriptions, which are mentioned in the NCERT chapter.
Important Travellers
- Domingo Paes (Portugal): Described the richness of the city and the power of the king.
- Abdur Razzaq (Persia): Mentioned the size and security of the empire.
- Nicolo Conti (Italy): Spoke about the wealth and cultural activities.
Their accounts help us understand how others viewed India during that time and add authenticity to the archaeological data.
Fall of Vijayanagara
Though Vijayanagara reached its peak during Krishnadevaraya’s rule (1509–1529 CE), the empire later weakened due to internal issues and continuous battles with the Deccan Sultanates. The Battle of Talikota in 1565 CE was a major turning point. After this, the city was looted and destroyed, and the capital shifted. However, its ruins—especially those in Hampi—still tell the story of its past glory.
Download PDF: NCERT Class 12 History Chapter 7 – Vijayanagara
To study this chapter properly, it’s best to download the official PDF from here:
