Krishna Deva Raya (reigned 1509–1529 AD) was one of the most illustrious rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire and is regarded as one of the greatest kings in Indian history. His reign is considered a golden period in South Indian history, characterized by territorial expansion, administrative efficiency, military prowess, cultural achievements, and significant developments in literature and architecture.
Early Life and Ascension to Power
Krishna Deva Raya belonged to the Tuluva Dynasty and ascended to the throne of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1509 AD after the death of his predecessor, Vira Narasimha Raya. Upon becoming king, he inherited an empire that faced internal instability and external threats from multiple directions. The Bahmani Sultanate in the Deccan, the Gajapatis of Odisha, and the Portuguese on the western coast were constant challengers to his power.
Military Achievements
One of Krishna Deva Raya’s greatest accomplishments was his success in strengthening the military might of the Vijayanagara Empire. His reign is known for several important military campaigns:
- War with the Bahmani Sultanate (1512):
- Krishna Deva Raya’s first military success came with his victory over the Bahmani Sultanate. He recaptured the important fortress of Raichur, located between the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers. Raichur had been a contested region between the Bahmanis and Vijayanagara for many years. The victory not only stabilized the northern boundaries but also strengthened his reputation as a powerful king.
- Victory over the Gajapati Kingdom (1513-1519):
- Krishna Deva Raya also waged successful campaigns against the Gajapati rulers of Odisha. Between 1513 and 1519, he led expeditions to capture the important forts of Udayagiri, Kondavidu, and Kataka (Cuttack). These victories extended the empire’s influence over large parts of Andhra Pradesh and Orissa, making Vijayanagara one of the most dominant powers in South India.
- Raichur Doab Conflict (1520):
- In 1520, Krishna Deva Raya fought a decisive battle at Raichur against the combined forces of Bijapur, a successor state of the Bahmani Sultanate. He captured the Raichur fort after defeating the army of Ismail Adil Shah of Bijapur. This victory cemented his dominance in the Deccan region.
- According to the accounts of Portuguese travelers, his army was enormous, consisting of over 700,000 infantry, cavalry, and war elephants. His military strategy and leadership were crucial to this success.
Administration and Governance
Krishna Deva Raya was not only a warrior but also an efficient administrator. He introduced various reforms aimed at strengthening the empire’s economy, maintaining law and order, and improving agricultural productivity:
- Irrigation and Agricultural Reforms:
- Krishna Deva Raya placed great emphasis on improving irrigation to increase agricultural output. He commissioned the construction of several tanks, canals, and reservoirs, such as the Dam on the Tungabhadra River, to ensure sufficient water supply to farming lands.
- Taxation and Revenue System:
- He reformed the tax system, ensuring that farmers could prosper without undue burdens. The administration also improved the collection of taxes and reduced corruption. This led to better governance and an increase in state revenue.
- Religious Tolerance and Patronage:
- Krishna Deva Raya was known for his religious tolerance. Though he was a devout Hindu, particularly devoted to Lord Venkateshwara of Tirupati, he respected other religions. He contributed to the construction and repair of temples, including the famous Virupaksha Temple in Hampi and Vithala Temple. He also patronized Jain and Buddhist institutions and was open to diplomatic relations with Muslim rulers.
Cultural and Literary Patronage
Krishna Deva Raya’s reign is often considered a golden age of Telugu and Sanskrit literature. He himself was a scholar and poet, and his court became a hub of literary activity:
- Court of Eight Poets (Ashtadiggajas):
- Krishna Deva Raya’s court was adorned with some of the greatest poets and scholars of the time, referred to as the Ashtadiggajas. Among them, the most notable was Allasani Peddana, who was considered the chief poet. Peddana’s work Manucharitramu is one of the great epics of Telugu literature.
- Other famous poets included Nandi Thimmana, Tenali Ramakrishna, Dhurjati, and Ramarajabhushana.
- Amuktamalyada:
- Krishna Deva Raya was a poet himself, and he composed the famous Telugu work Amuktamalyada, a beautiful narrative poem in which he describes the story of the Tamil saint Andal and her devotion to Lord Vishnu. This work is still regarded as a masterpiece of Telugu literature and showcases the king’s deep devotion and literary talent.
- Patronage of Arts and Architecture:
- Krishna Deva Raya was also a great patron of architecture. Under his reign, several magnificent temples and structures were built in the Dravidian architectural style. The Vithala Temple in Hampi is a marvel, known for its stone chariot and musical pillars. The Hazara Rama Temple is another example of the fine temple architecture during his reign.
Relations with the Portuguese
Krishna Deva Raya established diplomatic relations with the Portuguese, who had by then settled in Goa. He allowed them to set up trading posts and engaged in trade for horses and firearms, which were crucial for his military. The Portuguese traveler Domingo Paes, who visited Vijayanagara during Krishna Deva Raya’s reign, provided a vivid account of the king’s wealth, power, and administrative capabilities.
Decline and Legacy
Krishna Deva Raya’s reign ended in 1529 when he passed away. He was succeeded by his half-brother Achyuta Deva Raya. Though the empire continued to flourish for a few decades after his death, it eventually declined due to internal conflicts and external invasions, culminating in the disastrous Battle of Talikota in 1565, where Vijayanagara faced a catastrophic defeat.
Conclusion
Krishna Deva Raya’s legacy is one of a wise and just ruler, a fierce warrior, a skilled administrator, and a generous patron of arts and literature. His reign marked the zenith of the Vijayanagara Empire’s power and cultural development, and his contributions continue to be celebrated in South Indian history. His reign is often viewed as a model of ideal kingship, combining military strength with administrative wisdom and cultural flourishing.
