With reference to the Vijayanagar Empire, consider the following statements:
1. Mahapradhani supervised both military and administrative officers under the king.
2. During the Tuluva dynasty, the Nayak system diminished the administrative and revenue role of rajyas.
3. Provinces were governed solely by military officers related to the royal family.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation Statement 1 is correct: The Mahapradhani (also called Mahapradhana) was one of the highest-ranking officials in the Vijayanagara Empire. The Mahapradhani had a significant role in supervising both military and administrative officers. They were responsible for the overall governance and implementation of royal orders, bridging the military and civil functions under the king’s authority.
Statement 2 is correct: During the reign of the Tuluva dynasty, particularly under Krishnadeva Raya, the Nayak system came to prominence. The Nayakas were given military and administrative control over regions. This decentralized the administration and revenue collection from the central rajyas (provinces) and vested it in the hands of the Nayakas, who operated more independently from the central government, reducing the role of rajyas in direct governance and revenue collection.
Statement 3 is not correct: While military officers did govern the provinces, they were not necessarily related to the royal family. The Nayakas (military governors) were often appointed from outside the royal family, and they were responsible for both military and administrative duties in their respective provinces. The governance of provinces was more decentralized, with many Nayakas being granted significant autonomy by the central government.
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