(Political, cultural contributions,administration, economy and art)
Introduction
In South India, two significant empires emerged between the 14th and 16th centuries: the Bahmani Sultanate and the Vijayanagara Empire. The political, cultural, and economic climate of medieval India was significantly shaped by these kingdoms. Control of Raichur Doab, a strategically significant area between the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers, was the main focus of the two countries’ long-standing conflict.
Political Structure
Vijayanagara Empire:
- Founded in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama Dynasty, the Vijayanagara Empire was established to resist Muslim invasions in South India.
- Ruled by four dynasties—Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu.
- Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529) was its most powerful ruler, expanding the empire and defeating the Deccan Sultanates.
- The empire collapsed after the Battle of Talikota (1565) when combined forces of the Deccan Sultanates destroyed the Vijayanagara capital.
Bahmani Sultanate:
- Founded in 1347 by Hasan Gangu (Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah), with its capital at Gulbarga, later shifted to Bidar.
- The kingdom was divided into five independent Deccan Sultanates—Bijapur, Ahmadnagar, Golconda, Berar, and Bidar—by the late 15th century.
- Mahmud Gawan, a key administrator, introduced several reforms to strengthen the administration.
Administration
Vijayanagara Empire:
- Monarchical System: The king was regarded as a divine ruler and followed a hereditary succession.
- Central Administration: A council of ministers, led by the Mahapradhani (Prime Minister), assisted the king.
- Provincial Administration: Divided into Mandalam (provinces), Nadu (districts), Sthala (sub-districts), and Grama (villages).
- Nayankara System: Military chiefs, called Nayaks, were granted land (Amaram) in return for maintaining a military force.
Bahmani Sultanate:
- Centralized Rule: The king had absolute power and was assisted by ministers such as the Vakil-us-Sultan (Regent), Wazir-i-Kul (Finance Minister), and Amir-i-Jumla (Revenue Officer).
- Provincial Administration: The kingdom was divided into Tarafs (provinces), each governed by a Tarafdar.
- Judicial System: Sharia law was followed, with Kotwals serving as law enforcers.
Economy
Vijayanagara Empire:
- Agriculture: The primary occupation, supported by well-developed irrigation systems.
- Trade: Major exports included spices, textiles, iron, and sugar, while imports included horses, pearls, and silk.
- Coinage: Gold coins called Varahas/Pagodas were issued.
Bahmani Sultanate:
- Agriculture and Taxation: Revenue was collected based on crop yield, with surplus grain stored in royal granaries.
- Trade and Commerce: Major ports like Goa and Dabhol facilitated trade with Persia, Arabia, and Africa.
- Introduction of Gunpowder: Enhanced military capabilities, especially under Mahmud Gawan.
Cultural Contributions
Vijayanagara Empire:
- Architecture: The empire is known for Hampi’s temples, including Vittala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, and Krishna Temple.
- Literature: Patronage to Telugu, Sanskrit, Kannada, and Tamil scholars. Krishnadevaraya’s Amuktamalyada is a notable literary work.
- Music and Dance: Flourished in temple traditions with Bharatanatyam receiving royal patronage.
Bahmani Sultanate:
- Architecture: Indo-Islamic architecture flourished, with structures like Jama Masjid in Gulbarga and Bidar Fort.
- Persian Influence: Persian was the court language; Mahmud Gawan’s Madrasa in Bidar was a center for learning.
- Dakhini Language: A mix of Persian, Arabic, and regional languages, which later evolved into Dakhini Urdu.
Art and Literature
- Vijayanagara Art: Known for intricate carvings, bronze sculptures, and temple paintings.
- Bahmani Influence: Persian miniature painting and calligraphy were introduced.
Decline
- Vijayanagara Empire fell after its defeat at the Battle of Talikota (1565).
- Bahmani Sultanate disintegrated into five independent Deccan Sultanates.
Conclusion
The medieval history of South India was significantly shaped by the Vijayanagara and Bahmani dynasties. The Bahmani Sultanate made a substantial contribution to Islamic architecture, trade, and governance, while the Vijayanagara Empire left behind an enduring legacy in art, culture, and temple construction. Their disputes and cross-cultural interactions enhanced the history of the area and had an impact on succeeding Deccan and Mughal emperors.
