With reference to the conflict between Bahmani Sultanate and Vijayanagara Empire during the third quarter of the 14th century, consider the following statements:

1. The Bahmani Sultan crossed the Tungabhadra for the first time to enter Vijayanagara territory in 1367.
2.The Bahmani Sultanate and the Vijayanagara Empire used artillery for the first time during this battle.
3. The conflict resolved the territorial dispute over the Tungabhadra Doab.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a)1 only
(b) 2 only
(c)1 and 2 only
(d)1 ,2 and 3

Question

With reference to the conflict between Bahmani Sultanate and Vijayanagara Empire during the third quarter of the 14th century, consider the following statements:

1. The Bahmani Sultan crossed the Tungabhadra for the first time to enter Vijayanagara territory in 1367.
2.The Bahmani Sultanate and the Vijayanagara Empire used artillery for the first time during this battle.
3. The conflict resolved the territorial dispute over the Tungabhadra Doab.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a)1 only
(b) 2 only
(c)1 and 2 only
(d)1 ,2 and 3

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Statement 1 is correct: The Bahmani Sultanate and the Vijayanagara Empire frequently engaged in conflicts over territorial control, particularly in the Tungabhadra Doab. In 1367, Vijayanagara ruler Bukka I attacked and captured the fortress of Mudkal, leading to a violent confrontation. Enraged by the massacre of his troops, the Bahmani Sultan personally led an invasion across the Tungabhadra River for the first time, marking his direct entry into Vijayanagara territory.

Statement 2 is correct: Although both sides used artillery in this battle for the first time, the Bahmani Sultanate&rsquo;s victory was due to its superior artillery and cavalry. However, despite their military advantage, the Bahmani forces could not capture the Vijayanagara king or his capital. The Vijayanagara ruler was defeated and retreated into the jungle, avoiding capture.

Statement 3 is not correct: The war ended with a treaty that restored the previous territorial arrangement, where the Tungabhadra Doab remained divided between both kingdoms. While the treaty did not resolve the territorial dispute, it introduced an important agreement aimed at reducing wartime atrocities. Both sides agreed that in future conflicts, unarmed civilians should not be harmed. Although this provision was not always strictly followed, it contributed to a more humane approach to warfare in South India.

Medieval India

Bahmani Sultanate and Vijayanagara Empire Conflict

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