Diplomacy in Vijayanagara

Abdur Razzaq's Visit to Deva Raya II

The Persian traveler and ambassador Abdur Razzaq visited the Vijayanagara Empire during the reign of King Deva Raya II in the 1440s. He recorded some of the most famous descriptions of the city's wealth and splendor.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII: Themes in Indian History - Part II

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Under which king did Persian traveller Abdur Razzak visit?

[60th-62nd BPSC (Pre) 2016]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Abdur Razzaq’s embassy represents the high point of 15th-century diplomatic relations between India and Persia. His detailed accounts are the reason we know about the empire's vast territory and sophisticated administration.

Authentic Source Evidence


Abdur Razzaq, the ambassador of Shah Rukh of Persia, visited the Vijayanagara Empire in 1443 during the reign of Deva Raya II. In his book, Matla-us-Sadain, he famously described Vijayanagara as a city 'the like of which eye has not seen nor has ear heard of any resembling it in the whole world.'

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Deva Raya II was the greatest ruler of the Sangama dynasty, and under him, the empire reached its early peak of stability and wealth.

  • Logic 2: Razzaq provides specific details about the seven lines of fortification that protected the capital, which align with archaeological findings at Hampi.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "How did Abdur Razzaq describe the city's structure?"

    He noted seven layers of fortifications that enclosed not just the city but also agricultural fields and forests.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Abdur Razzaq's account proves that Vijayanagara was recognized as a top-tier global power as early as the mid-15th century."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Deva Raya II 2Sangama Dynasty 8

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