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Q. Analyse the socio-economic conditions under the Vijayanagara rulers.

Introduction:
 The Vijayanagara Empire (1336–1646) was strategically located beside the Tungabhadra River, which played a significant role in irrigation and agriculture, key to the empire's prosperity. Under rulers like Krishnadevaraya, the empire flourished through a blend of agriculture, trade, religious tolerance, and cultural patronage, creating a lasting socio-economic impact in South India.

Body:
Socio-Economic Conditions under the Vijayanagara Rulers Social Conditions
1. Caste System 
The Vijayanagara Empire upheld a rigid caste hierarchy, with Brahmins occupying high positions in administration, religion, and education. Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras had clearly defined roles, maintaining a structured society.
2. Women’s Status and Literary Contributions 
Women in the empire had a limited role, primarily within domestic spheres, but they enjoyed religious freedoms. Gangadevi, a notable scholar, authored the "Madhura Vijayam", while Tirumalamba contributed to Kannada literature with "Varadambika parinayam", reflecting their intellectual contributions.
3. Religious Diversity
 While Hinduism was the dominant religion, the empire practiced religious tolerance, supporting the coexistence of Islam, Jainism, and other faiths. Kings like Krishnadevaraya fostered unity through patronage of both Hindu and Muslim communities.
4. Dietary Practices
 The diet of the Vijayanagara people was diverse, consisting of rice, millets, and spices like pepper and cardamom, which were grown locally. Fish and meat were commonly consumed, influenced by the empire's trade connections and regional agricultural practices.
5. Education and Cultural Patronage 
Temples, were central to education, promoting Sanskrit and the study of Vedic texts. E.g. Virupaksha Temple. Krishnadevaraya's court, home to the Ashta Diggaja (eight poets), a hub for literary production, with scholars like became Vidyaranya advancing Vedantic philosophy.

Economic Conditions
1. Agriculture:
The Vijayanagara economy was primarily based on agriculture, supported by sophisticated irrigation systems. The Tungabhadra River played a key role in sustaining the empire's agriculture. Major crops included rice, cotton, and spices like pepper, which were crucial to both domestic consumption and trade.
2. Trade Networks 
The empire served as a key trade hub, with goods like cotton textiles, spices, and precious stones being exported. Hampi was a major market city connected to Persia, Portugal, and Arabia, making it a prominent center for global trade.
3. Monetary System 
The empire employed a sophisticated monetary system with gold coins, silver coins, and copper coins. This facilitated market exchanges, trade, and economic stability both within the empire and with foreign traders.
4. Urbanization and Infrastructure
Hampi the capital, featured well-planned markets, temples, fortifications, and an extensive water supply system. Public infrastructure, including rest houses, baths, and roads, supported the smooth functioning of urban life and trade.
5. Crafts and Art
 The empire was renowned for its artistic achievements, particularly in textile production, metalwork, and stone carvings. Iconic temple architecture, such as the Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple, displayed intricate sculpture, stone-carving techniques, and grandeur that reflected the empire’s wealth and cultural richness.

Conclusion:
 As K.A. Nilakanta Sastri states, "The Vijayanagara Empire was a land of prosperity." Its social inclusivity and economic growth, visible in Hampi and the Virupaksha Temple which are UNESCO world heritage sites, shaped South India’s enduring legacy. The empire’s success in agriculture, trade, and urbanization continues to influence the region’s socio-economic landscape today.