Harihar and Bukka:
Harihar and Bukka were two brothers who played crucial roles in the establishment of the Vijayanagara Empire in South India. Their story is closely associated with the rise of the Vijayanagara Kingdom during the 14th century.
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| Harihar and Bukka |
1. Background:
Origin: Harihar and Bukka were born into a noble Hindu family in the Kakatiya Kingdom (present-day Telangana, Andhra Pradesh).
Captivity: The brothers, along with their other family members, were captured by the invading forces of the Delhi Sultanate, specifically Muhammad bin Tughluq, during the early 14th century.
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2. Harihar and Bukka’s Conversion and Service to the Delhi Sultanate:
Conversion to Islam: During their captivity, the brothers embraced Islam and served in the military of the Delhi Sultanate.
Administrative Roles: They gained prominence and held important administrative positions within the Sultanate.
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3. The Founding of the Vijayanagara Empire:
Return to Hinduism: After spending several years in the service of the Delhi Sultanate, Harihar and Bukka decided to return to their Hindu roots. It is said that they underwent a spiritual transformation and reverted to Hinduism under the guidance of the sage Vidyaranya.
Formation of Vijayanagara Empire: In 1336, the brothers established the Vijayanagara Empire, choosing the region of present-day Hampi as their capital. They are credited with founding the Sangama Dynasty, the first dynasty of the Vijayanagara Kingdom.
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4. Harihar and Bukka’s Contributions and Rule:
Reconstruction: The brothers played a key role in rebuilding and re-establishing Hindu culture and governance in the Deccan region, which had been significantly influenced by Islamic rule.
Expansion: Under their rule, the Vijayanagara Empire expanded its territory through military campaigns and diplomatic alliances.
Harihara II and Bukka II: The brothers were succeeded by their respective sons, Harihara II and Bukka II, who continued the legacy of the Sangama Dynasty.
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5. Legacy:
Vijayanagara Empire: The Vijayanagara Empire, founded by Harihar and Bukka, became one of the most powerful and prosperous kingdoms in South India, lasting for several centuries.
Cultural and Architectural Contributions: The empire made significant contributions to art, culture, and architecture. The ruins of Hampi, the capital of Vijayanagara, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcase the architectural brilliance of the empire.
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6. Decline:
Battle of Talikota (1565): The empire faced a major setback in the Battle of Talikota in 1565, where the Deccan Sultanates inflicted a decisive defeat on Vijayanagara forces. This event marked the beginning of the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire.
The story of Harihar and Bukka reflects a period of historical transformation and cultural resurgence in South India. The Vijayanagara Empire, established by these brothers, made a lasting impact on the region’s history and left behind a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
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