UPPCS (Pre) 2016

Vijayanagara Architecture and Urbanism

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which city was founded by Krishnadeva Raya?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Vijayanagara rulers were not just builders of temples but also planned urban centers that served as extensions of the capital and hubs for trade and culture.

Explanation Krishna Deva Raya founded the suburban township of Nagalapura (near modern Hospet) as a tribute to his mother, Nagala Devi. This city was part of the greater metropolitan area of Vijayanagara and was a thriving center for commerce and elite residents.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Warangal and Udayagiri were existing fortified cities that Krishna Deva Raya conquered or defended, but he did not found them.
Logic 2: Chandragiri served as a later capital of the Aravidu dynasty, but Nagalapura is the specific city recorded in inscriptions as his foundation project.

Active Recall

Question

What was the significance of Nagalapura?

Answer

It served as a major residential and commercial suburb that helped accommodate the expanding population of the imperial capital.

Core Insight

The founding of Nagalapura illustrates the 'imperial benevolence' of Krishna Deva Raya, combining family honor with urban planning.