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language Kannada, Telugu, Sanskrit
capital(s): Vijayanagara
emblem: Sun, Moon, Dagger and Boar.
major monuments: Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam; Virupaksha Temple, Hemakuta Hill, Nandi Statue & Vittala Temple; Zenana Enclosure, Lotus Mahal, Queen's Bath, Hampi (Vijayanagara)
Masterpieces: Fine temple sculptures

The Kingdom of Vijayanagara was established by Harihara I and his brother Bukka Raya I. It rose to prominence after regional powers came together to ward off invasions from North India. What started as a small Kingdom eventually became a large Empire that covered most of South India. The Empire gets its name from its capital, Vijayanagara, the ruins of which can be found at Hampi in Karnataka, which is a World Heritage site today.

The Vijayanagara kings maintained a well-functioning administrative system which was derived from the systems inherited from kingdoms that came before it, especially the Pandyas and Hoysalas. Extensive overseas trade and efficient administration ensured prosperity across the Empire.

Patronage of the Vijayanagara kings enabled arts and architecture to reach new heights. Its legacy includes numerous monuments across South India, constructed in the Vijayanagara architectural style, many of which can be found in Hampi. Literature in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu and Sanskrit also prospered during this period. Carnatic Music in its current form developed in Vijayanagara.

While the Empire marked one of the high points of South Indian art and culture, it did not last long and their power declined after their army was defeated by the combined forces of the Deccan Sultanates.

Hoysala

Chera

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