The Vijayanagara Empire, founded in the 14th century, was a prominent South Indian kingdom. Its military organisation was crucial for its expansion and defence. The empire’s military strength was a result of continuous warfare, especially against the Bahmani Sultanate. IASPOINT explores the features, composition, strength, and administration of the Vijayanagara military.
Features of the Military
The Vijayanagara military was characterised by its large army and advanced warfare techniques. Continuous warfare necessitated a robust military structure. Artillery played role, with a focus on well-bred horses. The empire imported high-quality horses from Arabia and other regions, primarily through the Malabar port. This port was vital for trade and military supplies. Vijayanagara rulers embraced modern warfare. They hired Turkish and Portuguese experts to train their soldiers in firearms. Deva Raya II notably integrated Muslims into the military, providing them with jagirs and places of worship. This inclusivity enhanced the military’s effectiveness. Fortifications were strengthened to counter the use of firearms. Thick fort walls and specially designed parapets were constructed to accommodate cannons. Various firearms, including rifles and pistols, were employed.
Composition of the Army
The Vijayanagara army comprised infantry, cavalry, and war elephants. The infantry was armed with bows, arrows, swords, and lances. Historical accounts vary regarding the soldiers’ attire. Some foot soldiers wore oil on their bodies with no armour, while others were described as using protective clothing made from animal skin. Despite a general disinterest in firearms, the army included a matchlock regiment. The navy was another component, particularly under the leadership of Timmoju during Krishna Deva Raya’s reign. This naval power facilitated invasions into Sri Lanka and assisted Portuguese forces in Goa.
Strength of the Army
The numerical strength of the Vijayanagara army is debated among historians. Estimates during Krishna Deva Raya’s reign ranged from 200,000 to 500,000 troops. Niccol de’ Conti suggested 245,000 soldiers, while Fernao Nuniz estimated 200,000. The latter included 170,000 foot soldiers, 30,000 cavalry, and 550 war elephants. Deva Raya II’s recruitment of 2,000 Muslim cavalrymen was aimed at enhancing archery skills among Hindu soldiers. This strategy was crucial in countering the superior Bahmani cavalry.
Administration of the Army
The administration of the Vijayanagara army was structured under the amaranayaka system. Each military commander, known as a nayaka, was responsible for a specific administrative region. Nayakas expanded agricultural activities and collected taxes to fund their military. They were also in charge of fortifications within their territories. Nayakas maintained their own troops, which contributed to the overall military strength of the empire. However, this feudal system occasionally led to challenges against the central authority. Some nayakas eventually established independent states in the 17th century, weakening Vijayanagara’s internal structure. The Kandachari department managed military affairs, with the Dandanayaka as the commander-in-chief. The Vijayanagara military was well-equipped and trained, often receiving instruction from foreign experts. The presence of forts was vital, as they played role in defence strategies.
Types of Forces
The Vijayanagara military included several types of forces. The Kaijeeta Sainya and Amaranayaka Sainya were the two main branches. The Kaijeeta Sainya comprised palace guards and personal bodyguards, while the Amaranayaka Sainya relied on the feudal system for troop supply. Fortresses were strategically important in warfare. Historical texts describe various types of forts, including hill forts and water forts. Forts were often surrounded by dense forests and equipped with cannons and catapults for defence.
Training and Recruitment
Training was integral to the military. Facilities were established to enhance bravery and physical strength. The samu garidi, a traditional dance involving knives and fire, was part of military training. Hontakaras, or trainers, played a vital role in preparing soldiers for battle. Recruitment practices were diverse, drawing from various ethnic groups. Soldiers were recruited from Kannada, Telugu, and Tamil communities. This inclusivity boosted the army’s strength and adaptability.
Role of Forts
Forts were critical to the Vijayanagara military strategy. They served as defensive structures and military bases. The construction of forts followed strategic principles, with designs tailored to the geographical landscape. The presence of forts allowed for better control of territories and facilitated military operations. Forts not only provided shelter but also served as training grounds for soldiers. They were equipped with artillery and defensive mechanisms to withstand sieges. The strategic positioning of forts contributed to the empire’s military prowess.
Challenges and Decline
The Vijayanagara Empire faced numerous challenges, including external invasions and internal strife. The feudal system occasionally led to conflicts between the central authority and local nayakas. The Battle of Talikota in 1565 marked turning point, resulting in a devastating defeat for the empire. The decline of the Vijayanagara military was gradual. The loss of key battles weakened its influence and control over territories. The once-powerful navy diminished in capability, impacting the empire’s ability to project power across the seas.
Legacy of the Military Organisation
The military organisation of the Vijayanagara Empire left a lasting legacy. Its integration of diverse forces and advanced military techniques set a precedent for future South Indian kingdoms. The feudal system influenced military structures in subsequent empires. The emphasis on training and fortification strategies contributed to the development of military tactics in the region. The Vijayanagara military’s adaptability in warfare and recruitment practices became a model for later states.
