The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 by :

Correct option is C

Correct Answer: (c) Harihara and Bukka

Explanation:
The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, also known as the Sangama brothers. They established the empire with its capital at Hampi (modern-day Karnataka) on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. The Vijayanagara Empire was founded to resist invasions from the Delhi Sultanate and to protect the Hindu religion and culture in South India.

The empire flourished for over two centuries and became renowned for its advancements in art, architecture, literature, and trade. The Vijayanagara rulers patronized temples and created a robust administrative and military system.

Knowledge Booster:
● Harihara I and Bukka Raya I were originally governors under the Hoysala Empire.
● The empire played a significant role in uniting South India under a strong centralized administration.
● Hampi, the capital, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its architectural marvels like the Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple.
● The empire reached its zenith under Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529), who is regarded as one of its greatest rulers.
● The empire declined after its defeat in the Battle of Talikota (1565), when it was attacked by the Deccan Sultanates.

Additional Information:
● Devaraya I (Option a): A prominent ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, known for his military campaigns and administrative reforms, but not the founder.
● Narasimha Saluva (Option b): Established the Saluva dynasty within the empire after the decline of the Sangama dynasty but did not found the empire.
● Krishnadevaraya (Option d): A celebrated ruler from the Tuluva dynasty who expanded the empire, but he was not its founder.