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UPSC CSE Pre 2006

Deccan Regional Kingdoms

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

When Raja Wodeyar founded the Kingdom of Mysore who was the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The Wodeyar dynasty’s transition from local chiefs to independent kings happened during the twilight of the Vijayanagara Empire. As the central authority moved its capital to Penukonda and Chandragiri, regional vassals began asserting autonomy.

Explanation Raja Wodeyar (1578–1617) established Mysore as a significant power. During his rise, the titular head of the decaying Vijayanagara Empire was Venkatapati Deva Raya (Venkata II). Raja Wodeyar successfully captured Srirangapattana in 1610, making it his capital.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: While the Wodeyar family was founded much earlier in 1399, Raja Wodeyar was the first 'great' ruler who expanded the territory significantly.
Logic 2: Venkata II was one of the last influential rulers of the Aravidu dynasty of Vijayanagara, but he was unable to prevent the rise of independent states like Mysore.

Active Recall

Question

What was the significance of Srirangapattana for the Wodeyars?

Answer

It served as their strategic capital and a center of political and religious power for centuries until the British conquest.

Core Insight

The rise of the Wodeyars is a classic example of a 'vassal-to-sovereign' transition common during the collapse of large centralized empires.

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