Introduction
Sri Krishnadevaraya history in English is detailed biography which covers life events of this sourthern king Krishnadevaraya. He was an emperor of the 16th century, was known for his magnificence and charisma. As the king of the Vijayanagara Empire, he ruled most of South India, extending his dominion over parts of present-day Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. He was a formidable opponent to both the Badami kings and the Portuguese, who sought to expand their empires during his reign.
A Custodian of Indian Culture
Over 500 years ago, the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya marked a golden era for Indian culture. The Vijayanagara kingdom, founded by Harihara I and Bokka Raya after escaping from the Delhi Sultanate, became a beacon of Indian heritage under his leadership. The city introduced modern amenities such as drainage systems and irrigation canals, many of which are still functional today. People often recount tales of the emperor wandering the streets disguised as a commoner, while he also exuded grandeur in his court.
Celebrated by Scholars and Artists
Renowned as one of the greatest rulers of his age, Sri Krishnadevaraya was the subject of many songs and legends. His engagement with philosophers and spiritual leaders added to his formidable reputation. Despite his prominence, it took surprisingly long for a comprehensive English book about him to be available. Sreenivasa Reddy’s “Raya: Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagara” fills this gap with a richly detailed and engaging narrative.
Exploring Reddy’s “Raya”
Srinivas Reddy’s book draws from literary sources and physical evidence in arts and architecture. It weaves many threads into a sophisticated yet readable text. The first half of the book covers the battles and conquests of Sri Krishnadevaraya, revealing the political dynamics and caste systems of the time. The second half delves into his cultural contributions, including temple patronage in Tirupati and support for poets and thinkers.
Legacy and Caste Struggles of Krishnadevaraya
Although Sri Krishnadevaraya was of low caste, he proved himself a true king by upholding Hindu ideals. Despite being looked down upon by higher caste rulers like Prataparudra Deva, Krishnadevaraya’s hard work and dedication earned him immense respect. Both kings supported religious movements and traditions, highlighting their roles as patrons of culture and learning.
Kings Worshipped as Gods
Both Sri Krishnadevaraya and Prataparudra Deva were revered as kings of kings and worshipped as gods on earth. Their courts were filled with Brahman Pandits, masters of poetry and languages, who immortalized their reigns on palm leaves. They were also scholars and poets, embodying the ideal of Kavi Raja—the poet-king. Sri Krishnadevaraya, in particular, was seen as the new Bhoja, an enlightened philosopher-king.
Contributions to Literature and Culture
While Prataparudra Deva wrote classical Sanskrit, Sri Krishnadevaraya produced significant works in Telugu literature. Prataparudra’s major work was the Sanskrit “Vilasam,” a comprehensive text on Dharma Shastra, covering Hindu religious morals and civil laws. Despite their different backgrounds, both kings made lasting contributions to their respective literary traditions.
Golden Age of Literature
The period of Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya is often called the golden age of literature because of the extensive creation of literature in various languages. Emperors provided shelter to poets of different languages like Tamil, Kannada, Sanskrit, Telugu, and others.
Controversy of Krishnadevaraya’s Dynasty
Some historians believe that Raja Krishnadevaraya belonged to the Tuluva dynasty, while others think he was Telugu or Kannadiga. The question of Maharaj Krishnadevaraya’s dynasty is controversial. However, most historians agree that he belonged to the Tuluva dynasty.
Brief Information
Information
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Details
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Full Name
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Krishnadevaraya Narasa Nayaka
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Birthdate
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July 26, 1509 CE
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Birthplace
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Hampi, Karnataka, Vijayanagar Empire (Medival times)
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Wives
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Children
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Tirumala Raya
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Parents
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Mother: Nagala Devi
Father: Tuluva Narasa Nayaka
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Dynasty
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Tuluva
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Religion
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Hinduism
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Reign
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20 years, 3 Months, and 22 Days
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Lifespan
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58 years
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Death
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October 17, 1529 CE
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Kingdom of Vijayanagar
In medieval India, before Mughal came to South Asian counties like India. At that time, in India there were only two powerful kingdoms. First is Vijayanagar and other is Bahamani empire. Vijayanagar empire was one of the most glorious and prosperous empires in Indian history. Therefore, history lovers like you must read about the Vijayanagar Empire once. The hero of the vast realm of this great Emperor, Sri Krishnadevaraya.
Current new generation is going to forget about such a great ruler. Most people know great personalities only after Bollywood, Hollywood released films on them. In this biography you will know about this great Emperor.
Before we get to real main topic lets know his background. So his father Tuluva Narasa Nayaka was the minister of Saluva Narasimha Deva Raya who was from Saluva dynasty.
After his short reign of 6 years, he died at age of 60 years in 1491 CE. But his children were too young to handle the responsibility of throne. So as influential minister, father of Krishnadevaraya became guardian and took responsibility of thorne.
After 12 years reign of his father, children of Saluva dynasty came to throne. But they were very ignorant in court and their luxuarious lifestyle was not in favor of kingdom. Influential minister Timmarusu realized that and supported Krishnadevaraya to became king. So with support of all ministers, he became king. Hence, permanent shift of Saluva dynasty to Tuluva dynasty happened.

Then, after Tuluva dynasty, Sangama dynasty overtook the kingdom which lasts till 1646 CE.
In the history of notable figures like History of Sri Krishnadevaraya in English, understand Shivaji Maharaj’s impact on India can provide deeper insights into Maratha leadership and its legacy.
Fame of Emperor Krishnadevaraya

Emperor Krishnadevaraya ruled Vijayanagara from 1509 C.E. to 1592C.E.. He was the third ruler of the great Tuluva dynasty in South India. Many great Indian rulers like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj were considered him as ideal.
During his lifetime, he received titles like Kannada Rajya Rama Ramana (God of Kannad Empire), Andhra Bhoja (Banquet for Telugu Literature) and Muru Raira Ganda (King of Three Kings).
In his career, he had defeated powerful states like Bijapur, Golconda, Bahmani Sultanate, Gajpati Sultan of Odisha.
When Babar was beginning the Mughal rule in the North, during that time, Emperor Krishnadevaraya was the most powerful ruler in India. His kingdom Vijayanagara was the most outstretched Empire in India.
Wives of Sri Krishnadevaraya
King Krishnadevaraya was a famous ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire. He ruled during the 16th century. His reign is known for prosperity and cultural richness.
First Wife: Tirumala Devi
Tirumala Devi was first wife and chief consort of King Krishnadevaraya. She was deeply loved by the king. She was known for her wisdom and grace. “Her beauty was unmatched,” said many poets of that time.
Second Wife: Chinnama Devi
Chinnama Devi (Chinna Devi) was second wife of the king. She was also very important and supported him in his battles and governance. People admired her bravery and strength.

Third Wife: Jaganmohini OR Annapurna Devi
Jaganmohini was another wife of Krishnadevaraya. She had a kind heart. She often helped the poor and needy. She was loved by the people for her generosity. She was less known among all others.
The queens had a significant impact on art and culture. They were patrons of music, dance, and literature. Their influence helped in the growth of the rich heritage of Vijayanagara Empire.
The wives of King Krishnadevaraya played vital roles. They were more than just queens. They were partners in his success and glory. Their stories are remembered even today.
Family of Sri Krishnadevaraya
Tirumala Raya married Vengalamba Devi, the granddaughter of Sri Krishnadevaraya, making him the son-in-law of the great ruler. Other wives, including Chinna Devi and Jaganmohini OR Annnapurna Devi, had no offspings. So, the lineage of Sri Krishnadevaraya continued further with his daughter named Tirumalamba, the children of Tirumala Devi.

Foreign Traveller who Visited Vijaynagar
Many foreign tourists, such as Domingo Paes and Fernao Nuniz, visited Vijaynagar. Timirusu was the Prime Minister in the court of Sri Krishnadevaraya. Timmarusu helped Maharaj Krishnadevaraya to see the kingdom.
The history of Emperor Krishnadevaraya behind becoming King of Vijaynagar: Tuluva Narsa Nayaka was the father of Sri Krishnadevaraya. Tuluva Narsa Nayak was also the army commander of Suluva Narasinghadevaraya.
At that time, a competent king was needed to prevent the disintegration of the kingdom & even to unite and strengthen the country. Therefore, Sri Krishnadevaraya takes Vijayanagara into his control.
Coronation of Sri Krishnadevaraya performed on the festival of Krishna Janmastami (Birthday or Appearance day of Lord Krishna) with the help Timmarusu.
Samrat Krishnadevaraya gives Timmurusu the status of his father, and due to his worthiness, he declares Timmurusu as the Prime Minister of the state.

Personality of Sri Krishnadevaraya
Emperor Krishnadevaraya had great respect for the foreign pilgrims coming to the state. It is also strict in terms of legislation. He was irritated with the rebellions, treasons and thefts in the country.
According to the travel details of pilgrims visiting Vijaynagar, Sri Krishnadevaraya was an excellent judicial patron, as well as a great warrior.
In every battle, he was the leader of the army, in many battles, he found in travelogue describing his leadership despite being injured.
Military Success of King Sri Krishnadevaraya
Maharaj Krishnadevaraya achieved the highest military achievement in the history of Vijayanagar. He was known to change the war strategy at the last minute.
This strategy does not give enough time to the enemy to take action to understand the new plan. Because of such war strategy, he did not lose any war in his career.
Campaign of Sri Krishnadevaraya in Deccan
Sultan of Deccan sent his army to loot the people of Vijayanagara. Therefore, the villages of Vijaynagar were in trouble. The robberies were stopped entirely, during the reign of Emperor Krishnadevaraya.
The Emperor Shri Krishnadevaraya defeated Sultan Mahmud Shah by invading Vijapur in 1509 AD. Therefore, Bidar, Gulbarga and Vijapur are once part of Vijayanagar kingdom, again reunited to the kingdom.
People gave a title to Maharaj Krishnadevaraya as “founder of Bijapur.” After giving the throne of Bijapur to Mahmud Shah, he also titled as “founder of the Yavan kingdom.” Prime Minister Timmarusu defeated Sultan Kuli Qutub Shah of Golconda.
Siege of Udayagiri and Victory
Maharaj Krishnadevaraya fought and defeated many rebel local rulers, such as Dharanikota Kamas, Ummatur’s head. Raja Krishnadevaraya had passed the Godavari river in the year 1516-1517.
During the time of Sri Krishnadevaraya, Kalinga ruled by Odisha and Gajapati Prataprudra of Andhra Pradesh. In campaign of Ummatur, he had a lot of help in attacking the Andhra region.
Maharaj Krishnadevaraya surrounded the Udayagiri fort in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh for 18 months.
The army of Gazapati Prataprudra has to retreat due to hunger, after cutting the food supply to the fort. After the success of Udayagiri, Emperor Krishnadevaraya worshipped with his wives in the temple of Sri Venkateswara at Tirupati.

Battle at Kondavidu
There was a bloody battle at the Kondavidu between King of Kaling Prataprudra and Raja Krishnadevaraya. After seizing Kondavidu fort, Vijaynagar army has to retreat for some time due to accidents and significant losses.
After, minister Timmarsu finds the secret path to the east gate of the Kondavidu fort. The army of Vijayanagara suddenly invades the Kondavidu fort during a night attack with that secret entrance. The son of Gajapati Prataprudra, Yuvraj Virabhadra was imprisoned from the fort.
Victory of Sri Krishnadevaraya over Kalinga
Some Wanderer people from Andhra Pradesh who previously serviced to Prataparudra, betrayed the Gajapati Pratap Rudra.
Timiruusu successfully persuade them provding wealth & gets all the details of the plan of Pratap Rudra. When the army of Vijayanagara invades Kalinga, Pratap Rudra ran away to the Cuttak.
At that time, Cuttack was the capital of the kingdom of Gajapati Pratap Rudra. After that, soon Gajapati Pratap Rudra surrendered, and give his daughter, Jagan Mohini to the emperor Krishnadevaraya.
Maharaj Krishnadevaraya accepted the deal of Gajapati Pratap Rudra, hence Krishna River becomes the border of Gajapati and Vijayanagara.
Battle of Raichur
Battle of Raichur is considered to be important. In this battle on 15th May 1520, about 16,000 soldiers of Vijaynagar were killed. Later, Vijaynagar soldiers, led by Pamasan Ramalinga Naidu, conquered Raichur fort.
Thereafter, the emperor appreciated Pamaszan Ramalinga Naidu very much. There was terrible bloodshed happened in this war. Along with Vijayanagar, there were about 800,000 infantry, 35,000 cavalries, and 600 elephants in this battle.
After this war, the army of Vijaynagar siege to the previous capital of Bahamani Sultanate that fort of Gulbarga and conquered it. After this campaign, the Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya was ruled over the whole of South India.
Death of Crown Prince – Tirumala Raya
In 1524, Emperor Krishnadevaraya declared his son Tirumala Rai as the Crown Prince of Vijaynagar. However, Tirumala Raya was poisoned and died due to the same reason.
Maharaj Krishnadevaraya suspected that the most trustworthy advisor and father figure Timiruusu and his son may include in this conspiracy. Therefore, he gave a penalty of blinding them.
Legacy
After death of son, he had only daughter named Tirumalamba. Her father arranged marriage with a noblemen in Vijayanagar named as Araviti Ranga. Prince Virabhadra and Vengalamba were their two two childrens.
Later, Vengalamba Devi married to younger brother of Rama Raya. Aliya Raya Raya was the most influential minister of Vijayanagar. During times of Krishnadevaraya, he served in many military campaigns. So along with his battle skills, he also well-known to kept deplomatic foreign relations.

Foreign Relations
Emperor Krishnadevaraya established a very good relationship with the Portuguese. In 1510, the emperors established the Portuguese Dominion of India in Goa. So, foreign trade gets encouraged.
Emperor Krishnadevaraya included Portuguese guns in his defense system, and also Portuguese horses in his horse barn. Raja Krishnadevaraya adopted Portuguese’s improved water supply system in the Vijayanagara with the help of Portuguese experts.
Relationship with Enemy Kingdom
At time of Bahmani Sultanate there were one powerful ruler among five strongholds. That ruler used to became Bahmani Sultan.
Ismail Adil Shah and King Krishnadevaraya were prominent figures. They ruled during the same period in southern Indiaand their interactions shaped history.
Ismail Adil Shah ruled Bijapur Kingdom. He had a complex relationship with Sanrat Krishnadevaraya. Sometimes they were allies, other times rivals.
Their rivalry peaked during battles. One notable conflict was the Battle of Raichur in 1520. Krishnadevaraya defeated the forces of Adil Shah. This battle showed their power struggle.
The two rulers also engaged in diplomacy. At times, they made temporary alliances to counter mutual threats. Their political maneuvers were strategic.
Despite conflicts, there was mutual respect. Krishnadevaraya admired tactics of Adil Shah. Similarly, Adil Shah recognized leadership quality of Krishnadevaraya. This respect influenced their interactions.
Their relationship left a mark on history. It shaped regional politics and influenced cultural exchanges. Their legacy continues to be studied.
Death
After that, while preparing for the attack on the fort of Belgaum, Sri Krishnadevaraya became seriously ill. He declared his brother Achyuta Dev Raya as his successor. Later, soon after 1529 CE, he died.
Eight Legends Appointed by Sri Krishnadevaraya in Vijayanagara Empire
The eight poets who were the backbone of Telugu literature in the court of Sri Krishnadevaraya were called “Ashtadiggajas” (Eight Legends).
Apart from the Vijayanagar court, these eight legends were responsible for running Vijayanagar uninterruptedly. Due to those great legends, the historical Telugu literature of Vijayanagar reached the summit.
The period from 1540 CE to 1600 CE is called “Prabandha Kaal.” In the court of Emperor Krishnadevaraya, in the “Poet Literature Assembly,” those legends considered as eight pillars. Seems that, The eighth legend believed to have appointed in the seventeenth century.
Sr. No.
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Ashtadiggajas
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Information
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1.
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Allasani Peddana
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Identity:
Name of Allasani Peddana comes first in the Ashtadigagas. As he recognized as the most important gem of Vijaynagar durbar. Place of Living- Village: Somanandapalli, Anantapur was then transferred to Pandanpasu, Yeraguntla, Kadapa district.
Important events of his life:
It is believed that Peddana was the senior and highest of all poets. According to references, Maharaj Krishnadevaraya himself lifted his palanquin in his honor.
Sri Krishnadevaraya conferred the title of “Kanakabhishekam” to Peddana. He was the only poet to receive the honor of sitting on the royal elephant of the dynasty. On the death of Sri Krishnadevaraya, Peddana expressed his grief with this poem “Ati Krishna Rayala Thotti Dvikengaleka Braithiki Undithi Jeevatchawambu Nagachu”. It’s believed that he was born in the house of Singanna and Thimmamamba. |
2.
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Nandi Thimmana
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Identity:
Famous writer and poet in Vijayanagar court. His poems was famous among Telugu literature.
Place of Living- Village:
He was also considered the residents of Anantapur.
Important events of his life:
It is said that Nandi Thimmana was the head of a sub-kingdom in the Vijayanagara Empire. His daughter was Princess named Tirumala Devi.
He had dedicated his work to Maharaja Sri Krishnadevaraya. This work of his literature completed under the name “Parijatpaharnamu.”
He was a disciple of Acharya Aghora Shiva. Although he was from the Shaiva sect, some of his work also based on the Vaishnava sect. In those days the Vaishnava sect had a royal asylum in Vijayanagara.
At that time his poems were published in Telugu on the beautiful nose, which became very popular. In Telugu, the nose is called mukku. As a result, he was also known as “Mukku Thimmana”.
Nandi Thimmana completed the incomplete Mahabharata of the poet Kumaraswamy. Kumaraswamy was the famous poet in Kannada literature. Nandi Thimmana presented that work in the durbar which called “Karnataka Krishnadevaraya Bharatha Kathamanjari.”
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3.
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Tenali Rama Krishna
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Identity:
Tenali Rama Krishna was also known as Vikatkavi (Hindi: Vidushak, English: clown) and most popularly called as Tenali Rama in legends. He was a famous Telugu poet. He was also quick-witted of Vijaynagar durbar. Place of Living- Village:
Tenali Rama Krishna was from Tenali village in Vijaynagar Empire.
Important events of his life:
A man of brilliant intelligence, he gained a prominent position in the court due to his humorous nature and quick-wittedness. During the reign of Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya, he played an essential role in the court.
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4.
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Madayyagari Mallana
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Identity:
Telugu poet of 16th century. Birthplace:
Rayalaseema was the birthplace of Madayyagari Mallana under the rule of Vijaynagar.
Important events of his life:
It is said that, he was one of companion during military campaigns of Maharaj Sir Kirshnadevraya.
Popular Works:
“Rajasekara Charitram”: It based on the military success of Rajasekara who was king of Avanti.
He dedicated his work to Appaji or Nadendla Appana who was the governor of Kondavidu. Nadendla Appana was also nephew of minister Saluava Timmana in Vijaynagar court.
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5.
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Dhurjati
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Identity:
Telugu poet of 16th century. Jakkayya was grandfather of Dhurjati. Birthplace: He was from holy town of Sri Kalahasti. Popular Works:
As he was great devotee of lord Shiva, his work based on his praise.
“Sri Kalahasteeshwara Mahatyam” (miracles and praise of God Shiva) and “Sri Kalahasteeshwara Satakam” (includes 100+ poems)are few of his popular work.
In his work we find devotional fiction which includes local myths. |
6.
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Ayyalaraju Ramabhadrudu
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Identity:
Popular Telugu poet of 16th century. Birthplace:
Cuddapah (Kadapa) city in Andhra Pradesh was acknowledged as his birthplace. It is located in the Rayalseema region.
Popular Works:
Ramabhyudayamu was his famous work and he dedicated it to Narasaraya. Sri Krishnadevara requested to translate his work in to Telugu language. So, Ayyalaraju Ramabhadrudu translated it with name “Sakala Katha Sara Sangraham.”
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7.
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Pingali Suranna
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Identity:
Famous Telugu poet of 16th century. In Kanala village there is his tomb and Potter community also celebrates his Jayanti every year.
Birthplace:
Though his birthplace was unknown, he lived in Kanala village near Nandyala city and Koilakuntla Road of Kurnool district.
Popular works:
Garuda Puranam, Prabhavatee Pradyumnamu, Raghava Pandaveeyam and Kalapurnodayamu.
He dedicated Garuda Puranam to his father Amarana and Kalapurnodayam to Nandyal King.
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8.
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Ramarajbhushanu/ Bhattu Murti
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Identity:
Magnificent Telugu poet and exceptional musician of 16th century. Popular works:
Kavyalankarasangrahamu, Vasucaritramu, Hariscandra Nalopakhyanamu, and Narasabhupaleeyamu.
He dedicated his work Vasucaritramu to Tirumala Deva Raya. Tirumala Deva Raya was son-in-law of Sri Krishnadevaraya.
His poetic compositions had a unique musical flow and rhythm.
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Brief History about End of Empire
Brothers Aliya Rama Raya and Tirumala Deva Raya were considered the son-in-law of great Krishnadevaraya. All Deccan powers were combined their military forces. Their forces meet with VIjayanagara army at Talikota battlefield in year 1565 CE. Even after combined forces of enemy in front of Vijayanagara military they small and battle were seems like piece of cake.
Aliya Rama Raya had suffered the mistake done several months ago. He was appointed two muslim commanders in his army which were previously served Bahamani kingdom. These commanders flip their forces against Vijayanagar at important time.
War end with beheading of Aliya Rama Raya and entire Vijayanagara city was converted ruins and history of past. Brother of Rama Raya, Tirumala Deva Raya tried to regain the power of Vijayanagar. But significant losses in war never recovered.
FAQs
How many wars did krishnadevaraya fought?
Krishnadevaraya fought 9 major wars and campaigns during his reign from 1509 to 1529. Apart from that he could have done many other war campaigns.
What are the names given to Sri Krishnadevaraya?
Andhra Bhoja, Karnatakaratna Simhasanadeeshwara, Yavana Rajya Pratistapanacharya, Kannada Rajya Rama Ramana, Gaubrahmana Pratipalaka, Mooru Rayara Ganda.
Who was guru of Krishnadevaraya?
Guru of Krishnadevaraya was Sri Vyasaraya, who was also known as his “Raja Guru.” Sri Vyasaraya was a prominent figure in the Haridasa movement and played a significant role in Krishnadevaraya’s life, influencing his cultural and literary pursuits.
What was Sri Krishnadevaraya’s date of birth?
Sri Krishnadevaraya, a prominent ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, was born on February 16, 1471. According to Hindu Panchanga, it was the auspicious day of Sri Krishna Janmasthami, hence his name also kept on it.
What was event at time of birth of Krishnadeveara?
It was widely believed that on the day of birth, there was Krishna Janmasthami. On this auspicious day he born and hence he named after name of Lord Krishna.
I hope you like the Sri Krishnadevaraya history in English which can be really important for history of southern India. Though combine powers of deccan Sultanates overthrew his empire in Battle of Talikota of 1646 CE. Still his work in administration and telugu literature make us realise his undeniable contribution.
Images Credits
- Featured Image: Krishnadevaraya sitting on Vijayanagara Throne
- Kannada Inscription of Krishnadevaraya at Entrance of Mandapa of Virupaksha Temple in Hampi ( 1509 AD ), Credit: Dineshkannambadi, Source: Wikimedia
- Krishnadevaraya Statue at Srikakulam village, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, Credit: Srikar Kashyap, Source: Wikimedia
- Statues of Krishnadevaraya with Chinnadevi, Tirumaladevi at Chandragiri Museum, Credit: Ravitheja Kumar Reddy C, Source: Wikimedia
- Kannada Inscriptions of Krishnadevaraya (1513 AD) at the Krishna Temple in Hampi, Credit: Dineshkannambadi, Source: Wikimedia
- Ashthadiggaj (Asthanam) Court of Sri Krishnadevaraya, Credit: IM3847, Source: Wikimedia
- Standing Statue of Sri Krishnadevaraya, Credit: Chavakiran, Source: Wikipedia
About the Author

Ashish Salunke
Ashish is a skilled biographer and content writer specialized in crafting captivating historical narratives. Through HistoricNation, he skillfully merged his IT expertise with the art of storytelling.