SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 17

Correct Answer

Vijayanagara Empire

Explanation

The Battle of Talikota, fought in January 1565, was a watershed moment in the history of medieval South India. It saw the forces of the Vijayanagara Empire, led by Rama Raya, defeated by an alliance of the Deccan Sultanates (Bijapur, Bidar, Ahmednagar, and Golconda). This crushing defeat led to the systematic destruction of the capital city, Hampi, and marked the beginning of the rapid decline of the Vijayanagara Empire. The collapse of this powerful state significantly altered the political landscape of South India, leading to the fragmentation of the region into smaller principalities.

Key Points

While the Vijayanagara Empire (established in 1336) was the primary power affected by this battle, the other empires listed had different historical trajectories. The Mughal Empire reached its zenith later under Akbar and his successors. The Chola Dynasty, famous for its maritime power and temple architecture, had significantly declined centuries before the Battle of Talikota. The Maratha Empire rose to prominence much later, largely in the 17th and 18th centuries, often filling the power vacuum left in the Deccan after the decline of the Sultanates and the Mughals.

Important Questions and Answers

Question: Who was the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire at the time of the Battle of Talikota?

Answer: Aliya Rama Raya.

Question: Which major city served as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, famous today for its extensive ruins?

Answer: Hampi.