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40th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1995

Maritime Strategy of Vijayanagara

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Identify the first ruler of Vijayanagar who captured Goa from Bahamani's?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Control over the western coast was critical for the Vijayanagara Empire to dominate the import of Arabian horses, which were essential for their military. Goa was the most important port in this region.

Explanation Harihara II (reigned 1377–1404) was the first Vijayanagara ruler to capture Goa from the Bahmani Sultanate in 1380. This was a strategic masterstroke that significantly increased the empire's maritime trade and military capabilities.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: While the empire was founded by Harihara I, it was during the reign of his nephew, Harihara II, that the empire truly began its aggressive westward expansion.
Logic 2: This victory secured a perennial source of high-quality war horses, which previously had to pass through Bahmani-controlled ports.

Active Recall

Question

Why was Goa so important to Vijayanagara?

Answer

It was the primary entry point for foreign horse trade, which determined the military superiority of Deccan kingdoms.

Core Insight

Harihara II's capture of Goa proved that Vijayanagara was not just a land power but also a sophisticated maritime player.

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