The Tuluva Dynasty (1506-1565 AD) marks a crucial period in the Vijayanagara Empire, known for its remarkable leadership, military conquests, and cultural achievements. This post explores the Tuluva Dynasty, focusing on its key ruler, Krishnadevaraya, and the eventual decline of the empire.

Establishment of the Tuluva Dynasty

Transition of Power

After Veeranarasimha’s death, the prime minister Thimmarasu installed Krishnadevaraya on the throne. This marked the beginning of the Tuluva Dynasty, setting the stage for an influential era in the Vijayanagara Empire’s history.

Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529 AD)

Krishnadevaraya stands out as one of the greatest rulers of the Tuluva Dynasty. His reign was characterized by significant military and administrative accomplishments:

Military Achievements

• Defeating Adil Shahi Forces: Krishnadevaraya first defeated the Adil Shahi forces of Bijapur. Next, he captured Gulbarga, freeing three Bahamani princes who had been imprisoned there. He assisted them in reclaiming the throne of Gulbarga and adopted the title Yavanarajya Sthapanacharya.
• Eastern Campaign: In 1513 AD, Krishnadevaraya initiated his eastern campaign, capturing Udayagiri, the first fort of the campaign.
• Victory Over Prataparudra Gajapati: He defeated Prataparudra Gajapati of Orissa and married Gajapati princess Tukkadevi, also known as Annapurnadevi.
• Raichur Campaign: His final major campaign in 1520 targeted Ismail Adil Shah. This victory solidified his control over the region.

Diplomatic Relations

• Treaty with the Portuguese: During Krishnadevaraya’s reign, the Portuguese governor Alfonso de Albuquerque negotiated a treaty with him. This relationship was significant because, in 1510, the Portuguese captured Goa from the Bijapur Sultan.

Cultural Contributions

• Patron of Arts and Literature: Krishnadevaraya was a great patron of literature and art. He earned the title Andhra Bhoja and supported eight eminent scholars, known as the Ashtadiggajas, who flourished under his patronage.

Personal Tragedy

• Impact of His Son’s Death: The death of Krishnadevaraya’s son deeply affected him, leading to a nervous breakdown. He passed away in 1529 AD.

Succession and Decline

Successors

• Achyutadeva and Sadashivaraya: Following Krishnadevaraya’s death, Achyutadeva and Sadashivaraya succeeded him. Their reigns, however, faced numerous challenges and marked the beginning of the empire’s decline.

Fall of the Empire

• Battle of Talikota (1565): During Rama Raya’s reign, the Bahamani confederacy, which included Bijapur, Ahmadnagar, Golkonda, and Bidar, defeated Rama Raya at the Battle of Talikota in 1565. They captured and executed him, leading to the destruction of Vijayanagara city. This battle is often seen as the end of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Aftermath

Even after the destruction of the capital, the Vijayanagara kingdom continued under the Aravidu Dynasty for about another century.

In conclusion, the Tuluva Dynasty made significant contributions to the Vijayanagara Empire through military victories, diplomatic relations, and cultural patronage. Krishnadevaraya’s leadership left a lasting impact, but the empire’s eventual decline was marked by the Battle of Talikota, which ended an influential era in South Indian history.