Question

He founded a suburban township near Vijayanagara called Nagalapuram after his mother. Some of the most detailed descriptions of Vijayanagara come from his time or just after. Identify the "he" mentioned in the above lines.

• A. Rama Raya
• B. Krishnadevaraya
• C. Saluva Narasimha
• D. Achyuta Deva Raya

Hint:

To remember this, link "Nagalapuram" to "Nagaladevi." Krishnadevaraya is also credited with building the famous Vitthala and Virupaksha temple expansions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: Krishnadevaraya (reigned 1509–1529) was the most famous ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, belonging to the Tuluva dynasty. His reign is characterized by expansion, consolidation, and unparalleled architectural and literary patronage. Key historical markers of his reign:
• Urban Planning: He developed the city of Vijayanagara and its suburbs, including the construction of fine temples and gopurams.
• Foreign Accounts: His reign coincided with the arrival of Portuguese travelers like Domingo Paes and Duarte Barbosa, whose journals provide the detailed descriptions mentioned in the question.

Step 1: Founder of Nagalapuram.
Krishnadevaraya founded the suburban township of Nagalapuram in honor of his mother, Nagaladevi. This township was strategically located near the capital to accommodate the growing population and visiting dignitaries.

Step 2: Evaluating Other Options.

• Rama Raya (a): He was a later de facto ruler whose policies led to the Battle of Talikota (1565).
• Saluva Narasimha (c): He was the founder of the Saluva dynasty but did not oversee the "golden age" peak described.
• Achyuta Deva Raya (d): He was the successor of Krishnadevaraya; while he maintained the empire, the specific founding of Nagalapuram is credited to his predecessor.