Vijayanagara Empire (early formation)

The Vijayanagara Empire was a powerful South Indian kingdom that formed in the mid-14th century, around 1336, as a response to regional conflicts and foreign threats. It emerged from smaller Hindu dynasties and was founded by Harihara and Bukka, who established it as a strong center of culture, trade, and military strength. Situated in present-day Karnataka, the empire thrived by controlling key trade routes and promoting art, architecture, and religion, especially Hinduism. Its early formation marked a consolidation of political and military power that laid the foundation for its later grandeur and influence in Indian history.