Question

Which dynasty ruled from Penukonda?

• A. Tuluvas
• B. Gajapatis
• C. Deccan Sultans
• D. Aravidu

Hint:

Associate Penukonda with the later phase of Vijayanagara history and the Aravidu dynasty.
The four major Vijayanagara dynasties were Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu.
The shift to Penukonda should be remembered in the context of the post-Talikota decline.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept:
Penukonda became an important political centre of the Vijayanagara Empire, particularly after the weakening and destruction of the imperial capital at Hampi.
The Aravidu dynasty was the fourth and final ruling dynasty of Vijayanagara.

Step 1: Understanding the Change in the Capital:
The Battle of Talikota in 1565 was a major turning point in Vijayanagara history.
The defeat of the Vijayanagara forces led to the destruction and extensive plundering of the imperial capital.
As a result, the political centre of the empire shifted away from the traditional capital.

Step 2: Rise of the Aravidu Dynasty:
After the decline of the Tuluva line, the Aravidu family assumed control of the Vijayanagara state.
Tirumala Deva Raya, associated with the Aravidu dynasty, played an important role in reorganising the surviving political structure of the empire.
Penukonda became one of the principal centres from which the later Vijayanagara rulers exercised authority.

Step 3: Evaluating the Options:
The Tuluva dynasty was the dynasty of Krishnadeva Raya and ruled during the earlier sixteenth century.
The Gajapatis were rulers of the Odisha region and were important rivals of Vijayanagara.
The Deccan Sultans were a group of Muslim states that competed with Vijayanagara, particularly in the Deccan.
The Aravidu dynasty, however, controlled the later Vijayanagara state from centres including Penukonda.
Final Answer:
Therefore, the correct answer is (D) Aravidu.