NOBLE PEACE PRIZE - NO MORE NOBLE

Nice acrobatics of words !! Thats what Barack Obama is doing right from the moment he entered the White House. There have been Videos and Books on his speeches. A text for those aspire to become orators. Winston Churchill was the one before this. The mere acrobatics of words has made the Black President of predominantly White America, a Mesiah. The world sees him as its saviour. Is it really so? Can he do it? He said, Yes we can !! And the World recited it like a Nursery Rhyme.

December 10, he was bestowed with the Peace prize. And the cynic part of it is that, the Noble Peace prize is worth a price and has been undervalued. Since 1901, the US has been imposed upon with this award 24 times !!

Saddest part of it is that, it has been given the award even in 1945. After nearly assaulting and bringing an end to almost a nation, it was conferred upon with this award. Even in 1946. Having been in war front throughout the century and having been assimilating wealth at the cost of world poverty and expanding its economic and political barriers at the cost of lives of innocent, it has been time and again given this Prize. It would be appropriate to say that "this time the US keeps the prize for itself".

Obama could not himself believe that it came to his hands !! War with Vietnam, Afghanisthan, Iraq, threatening Iran, North Korea, compelling developing nations to sign certain treaties which US has itself violated or has not ratified, all goes as the parametres for getting the Noble Peace prize.

By conferring this award to Barack Obama, the Commitee has devalued the Peace prize and demoralised the peace loving world. When Al Gore was chosen for the award, the US had disagreed to adhere to the Kyoto Protocol and now it has not ratified and has not been in consonance with the Copenhagen summit. How can such a rouge country save the world?

The Noble has lost its Nobility. Its just an other Poltical award. It can easily be purchased for ransome or at Gunpoint !!

Hindu shakthi and the Rajya shakthi

Is public power a reality or a farce? Is political power, the BE ALL AND END ALL of a nation? Can political power solve all the problems of the country? Can it uplift the nation from the ashes to the glory? If so which is that political party? Is it the Congress? The BJP? The CPI? The BSP, SP? Can they really do this? What does the post Indepedence period say? What does post 1977 and 1989 say? Has any political party served the Hindu cause? When the Hindu society rises from a long sleep and fight for its existence and walk towards its glory, does it need a political party to help its way? What does the events of past decade place before the Hindu society and what does it mean to BJP or any political party?

1977 saw the post emergency elections and the defeat of Indira Gandhi. The nation stood as a whole and uprooted the dictatorship. Public power outpowering the Empire !! A decade after, 1989 saw the Ram Mandir movement. The government at the centre could do nothing but to watch the frenzy devotees of Rama giving a decesive turn to the movement. Again the Public Power(Praja shakthi) winning over the Rajya shakthi.

1992 saw the Babri mosque ??? being pulled down heralding the dawn of a new Hindu era during that decade.

The cumulative result is being reaped by the Hindu society in this decade. For the very consumption of BJP lets travel where it is not in power. The recent victory at Amarnath tells a lot about the Hindu power. In a state where the population of Hindus is found wanting,leave alone BJP coming to power, the Hindu society has won the Battle against an alien government. Orissa saw the retaliatory act of Hindus against the killing of Swami Lakshmanand Saraswathi. BJp was not at the helm of affairs. The Ram sethu movement was a success against the Tamilnadu government and the central government. The Tirupathi struggle was also against a anti Hindu government. Recent Ganesha festival incidents in Nanded ( maharashtra) was also against an alien lot. These are just to mention a few major victories of Hindu praja shakthi. If Hindus can act possitively and collectively to save their own pride and honor, is there a necessity for BJP to come to power in the name of Hindutva? If Hindus can serve there own cause whats the need for a HIndutva Government? Its about the Praja shakthi not about the Rajya shakthi. An eminent personality has opined -"By mere change of a government you cannot elevate a nation which is individually fallen, just as you cannot improve your daughter`s grammer by giving her a new parker pen".

The RSS through its Shakha has uplifted the masses and has inculcated Hindu national values. since 1925 the RSS has faced opposition from the British government, the Congress led by Nehru, Indira and the lot and now puppeted by Sonia. In this lengthy history of 87 years RSS has come across a less alien government when BJP was in power for 6 years!! It doesn`t matter what party is in Power. What matters is what the Hindu society is upto. Now, it is UP and towards its Glory, inspite of who is at the Power.

UNINDIAN BOLLYWOOD PROMOTING LOVE JEHAD

Lets face it. The films do sway the generations. May it be Prithviraj Kapoor or Ranbir Kapoor, Babita or Kareena, Rakesh or Hrithik,Asha Parekh or Aishwarya, from Ashok kumar to Amir khan, from Sanjeev Kumar to Shahrukh Khan, saifoo etc etc., all have a huge fan following. To add pepper to the mint, they are not only adored, they are imitated. In trends, styles, hair dos, attitude and in LIVE LIFE STAR LIKE !!

It may be a pluralistic industry. So what if they chose the partners of their choice, so what if they ditch their man/woman more often than not, so what if they cross all barriers of culture, nation and nationality ??

Yes, here is something that go unnoticed. But have swayed over the younger generations through the times.

What`s the crux? Its the Inter religious tie-up and the subtle way of dealing with the subjects, that contradict or disagree with the Indian values.


Sunil Dutt and Nargis (Sanjay Dutt), Pankaj Kapoor and Neelima Azim ( Shahid Kapoor), Asha Parekh, Mahesh Bhat, Nagma, Shivinder Singh and Rukhsana Sultana(Amrita singh, Ex wife of Saifoo), Uttamchand mohanchand and Jaddanbai(Nargis). Actors having Hindu father and muslim mother.

Now lets start the vice versa..i.e, Hindu mother and Muslim father. Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and Sharmila Tagore(Saif Ali khan and Soha Ali Khan), Zeenat Aman, Reena Roy to name a few.

The dawn of new era has seen Saif Ali khan marrying Amritha singh, divorcing her, dating Rosa, dumping her and now seeing Kareena, a Hindu Lass. Sallu, the list goes like a Hanuman tail, right from Somi ali, Sangeeta Bijlani, Raveena, going hayware with Aishwarya Rai and now for the time being with Katrina kaif. Amir khan married his next door girl Reena Dutta(again a Hindu kudi), divorced her and his second victim is Kiran Rao. The King khan, Shah Rukh is knotted with Gauri, Arbaaz(brother of Salman) with Malaika Arora, Zayed Khan with Mallika, Sohail Khan (another brother of Salman) with Seema, Emran Hasmi with Parveen Shahani - the list just goes on and on and on.

Seldom there has been a Hindu marrying a muslim. Kishor, Hrithik, Kamal Amrohi(Meena Kumari) to name a few. Mayur Madhwani married mumtaz and now, their daughter Natasha tied Knots with Fardeen Khan, and we have a mixed Indian, John Abraham dating Bipasha. HUH.


Now lets come to the films that have had impact on the Gen-Next of Bharath. Kabhi Alvida Na kehna(Stg: Amitabh, Abhishek, SRK, Preity and Rani). A strained marital relationship is broken by father and the couples are swapped. It doesn`t happen in India Mr. Karan Johar. Though the film was a not a HIT, it was criticised for its UnIndian story line.


Salam Namaste - Stg: Saif and Preity. A story of Live-In-Relationships. Its the worst form of Dating. It may happen in West but not in Bharath.

Its a conspiracy. Donned by Dawood. Leading and the most influential actors touching the delicate and UnIndian issues. Filmdom needs to be cleaned up of this Khans. Love Jehad needs to be answered at all nooks and corners and at all levels. Even the celebrities should not be spared. Films are not only meant for entertainment but to educate the masses.

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom -12

-THE HAUNTING QUESTIONS


Nothing can be said in defence of Hindu troops that lost the war. The long history India has seen so many of such battles being fought. But four major wars that resulted in the complete downfall of the country are:

1. Battle of Panipat ( Haryana): Fought three times at the same venue. First was Babar against Ibrahim lodhi in 1526 resulting in victory of Babar. Second was between Akbar and Hemu in 1556 and the third battle of Panipat was between Marathas and Afghans in 1761.

2. Battle of Plassey(West Bengal):Between Robert Clive and Siraj Ud daulah in 1757 which led to the Major victory of British in India.

3. Haldighati(Udaipur, Rajasthan): Between Raja Man singh, General of Akbar and Rana pratap Singh in 1576.

4. The battle of Talikota ( Karnataka): Fought between combined forces of Islam in south India and the vijayanagar troops in 1565 leading to the complete downfall of Hindu empire in south India.

All these were mainly fought in 15th century which subsequently lead to the downfall of whole of India for the next 4 centuries.

Some questions still haunt when spoken of Vijayanagar:

1 . Did the rulers of Vijayanagar remember the very idea and motto of their existence?

2. Was there no social and national awareness among the people of capital city? Why did they not show any resistance to the agressors?

3. Is the wealth and vast army sufficient to protect the Kingdom?

4. When Gilani soldiers were secretly invited to the enemy camp what was the intelligence of Ramaraya doing?

5. Tirumala and Venkatadri had once intrigued against Ramaraya for the throne and when the oppurtunity came after his death, why did they turn their backs to the Hindu empire?

6. Why didn`t the troops fight even after the death of Ramaraya? Was there no one, even a single soldier who could lead the army?

7. Is Krishnadeva Raya justified in nominating Achyuthadeva Raya as his successor?

The Great empire of Vijayanagar did not even last for 35 years after Krishnadeva Raya. Was there no other king being raised for the very purpose of leading the country. Was the royal family runout of such able children?

The history imposes on us, such questions and prompts us to learn some lessons.

It is said that "if you dont learn lessons from History, History will teach you a Lesson"

Time to think, ponder and learn.

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom -11

Vijayanagar -Part 11 - The battle of Talikota


On december 25th 1563 the combined forces of Islam gathered at Bijapur and marched towards Talikota. The Hindu forces led by Tirumala and Venkatadri headed towards the battle field as well. On january 24th 1565, both the armies came face to face at the battle field. At the infamous venue Rakkasathangadi.

The hindu army comprised of 650,000 foot soldiers, 32000 cavalry and 550 elephants in comparison to the Combined Islamic troops of 350,000. On the D-day Tirumala was standing before Adil shah, Venkatadri before Qutb shah and Ramaraya was facing Nizam shah. Ramaraya had ordered his soldiers to capture Qutb shah and Adil shah and behead Nizam shah. First honors were enjoyed by Hindu forces.

At one point of time Nizam shah and qutb shah thought of running away from the battle field. Tirumala and Venkatadri had given such a mortal blow to both of them. Suddenly there was confusion in the ranks of Hindu troops. They were dumb struck that they were being attacked from behind. That was the deciding moment of the war. Two muslim soldiers, the Gilani brothers had betrayed the Hindu troops. They were expelled from Adil shah`s army for betraying him but were offered higher status in Ramaraya`s army !!

A day before the war, they were secretly invited by the muslim troops and were instigated to betray Hindus. Same thing happened. No one knew what was going on and that was a total intelligence failure on the part of Ramaraya. Canons fired continuosly from the frontend leaving thousands of Hindus dead and at that point of time an elephant belonging to Ahmadnagar pushed Ramaraya out of his litter. He was taken prisoner and was produced before Adil shah. In no time Ramaraya was beheaded and his head was exhibited to the troops. Seeing that their king was dead, in utter confusion as well, the Hindu troops turned their back to the warfield and ran away.

There was no one to lead the troops, though the army consisted of lakhs of soldiers. They had come travelling almost for 160 Kms from the capital city. The muslim soldiers chased Hindu troops and butchered them on their way. More than one lakh soldiers were killed that day.

The people at the capital city received the news that Ramaraya was killed and the army had lost the war. But they wouldn`t believe the news because they had neither seen such a scenario not heard the news of vijayanagar being defeated in the war for that past 200 years. But when the troops entered the city along with Tirumala and Venkatadri with their heads down they could hardly believe what they were seeing. Tirumala and Venkatadri slipped into palace and took whatever they could before muslims came and killed them too. They fled along with their family members. Those who remained loyal to throne followed them and the rest who dint want to leave their beloved motherland stayed there and waited for muslims to enter and kill them. There was a pitched battle at that juncture also, but in vain.

The muslim troops waited and rested outside the capital for three days. And those three days saw the never before scenario of theft and robbery in a city where Gold and diamonds were sold on road sides !

After three days, Muslim troops entered the city. There was no one to stop them. They looted, plundered and destroyed the city. Men, women and children were killed without any mercy. Shops, temples and houses were burnt and the sacred Hindu idols were destroyed. This destructive episode continued for six months relentlessly. The havoc was complete. The scenes showed the magnitude of hatred Muslims had for Hindus. That was the end of the most splendid city of the World. The end of a Great hindu empire.
Robert sewell in his book "The Forgotten empire" concludes thus -With fire and sword, with crow bars and axes, they carried on day after day their work of destruction. Never perhaps in the history of the World has such havoc been wrought, and wrought so suddenly, on so splendid a city, teeming with a wealthy and industrious population in the full plentitude of prosperity one day, and on the next seized, pillaged and reduced to ruins, and scenes of savage massacre and horrors begging description.

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom -10

Vijayanagar -Part 10 - The begining of the end

After Krishnadeva Raya(1530), Achyuthadeva Raya was acceded the throne. He ruled for a brief period of 7 years. This was the deciding period in the timeline of Vijayanagar. He lost the faith of his close aides, his tributaries and his close friends. He had ill treated those who were faithful to the throne. There were disturbances and strained relations within the Kingdom. He gave such a mortal blow to the kingdom that he himself did not live to see the fate of the empire. After him Sadashiva Raya was asked to sit on the throne, but was deprived of all the powers and the administration was handled by Ramaraya(nephew of Krishnadeva Raya) keeping Sadashiva Raya under house arrest.

By that time Bahamani Kingdom was split into five different territories. They were fighting among themselves. Ramaraya had his hands at the fighting Islamic rulers. Whenever he was asked for help he was there at their disposal, helping one ruler against another. This was unacceptable among the subsidiaries of the Kingdom. Moreover small rulers wanted to declare themselves as independent sovereign states. They also opposed Ramaraya`s arrogance in keeping sadashiva Raya under house arrest. Slowly but surely cracks began appearing on the very foundation of the mightiest kingdom of India.

Ramaraya was undoubtedly a shrewd and a great statesman. But was too old to handle day to day affairs. He had to, at times, face opposition from his brothers Tirumala and Venkatadri. Ramaraya had once teamed up with Nizam shah to fight against another muslim ruler. It was after the battle that Nizam shah thought that he had teamed up with a Kafir and had killed his own men. Because after the war, Ramaraya did not sheath the sword and killed innocent people. Mostly muslims.

Nizam shah convened a meeting of all Five rulers of southern region and in that meeting it was decided that the common enemy of Islam should be wiped out. That is Vijayanagar.

By that time to add salt to the wound, Ramaraya had spoiled his trade relations with portuguese as well. Where Krishnadeva Raya had dictated trade terms, Ramaraya had succumbed the proposal of Portuguese.

The Islamic rulers sent a letter through a messenger asking Ramaraya to handover all the territories that were captured by muslims back to them. The messenger was received only after a month and was humiliated and sent back with a negative answer.

The stage was then set for a decisive battle.

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom -9

Women in Vijayanagar :

The women unlike in western countries during that period, in Vijayanagar, were well educated and were not deprived of any social status. They even enjoyed their status politically. Women were allowed to learn archery, artillery, wrestling and astrology to name a few. Not to mention fine arts and music. Some of the women were also included in Security sevices and as body guards as well. Devadasi system that prevailed in the state was also duly respected. Widows ran hotels in their houses and were enabled to lead an independent life.

There is an instance of Gangambika, wife of Veera kamapna, early ruler of the kingdom, writing Veera kamapana charitha and Madhura Vijayam. This she completed when she accompanied Kampana to War field. It is said that she had also performed Sahasravadhana.

Interesting to note the status of women in other parts of the World. In ancient Rome no women could exercise any civil or public office and could not act as curator, tutor and surety and were not allowed to make any will or contract.

Till 1928 women of England had no voting rights and they had to fight for it. United States has witnessed women fighting for their rights during 18th century. Christians dont even believe that women is also divine ! Mary Ann Evans (An english Poetess) had to change her name to get her works published. The world know her by name George Eliot, a male name. Wife of Mohammad Pygamber, Khadija was looking after her father`s business and was a well educated women of her times. She had to wear a Burkha and sit at home after her marriage to Pygamber.

Can such Civilizations match the Empire of vijayanagar?

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom - 8

Vijayanagar - The Fabled City :

It was said that "All roads lead to Rome"! Such was the beauty and marvel of that city. Domingo Paes of Portugal exclaimed after seeing the city of Vijayanagar - "I am seeing a city bigger than Rome and the most richest and splendid city on Earth"! The city was spread over an area of 60 Sq. Kms with a picturesque backdrop of huge mountains. It required more than three days to have a glimpse of the city even if travelled on a horse. The city of Vijayanagar had overtaken all the economic centres of the World. It had grown into a Cosmopolitan, metropolitan and a Pluralistic city of the World 500 years ago. It was the most envied and visited World trade centres.

Travellers, traders, educationists, Phlosophers, historians, from all over the world would come and have a glimpse of the most popular city and in an AWE would narrate, describe and write chronicles over the marverl, splendour, grandeur and majesty of the city of Vijayanagar.

Another traveller describes the city thus - "the eyes of the pupil have never seen and the ear of intelligence have never heard of such a city".

Internal security was given prime importance. The city was protected by seven rounds of fort. Each round was secure in hands of soldiers who stood in protection and everyone was invariably checked before entering the city and it was the same for all seven rounds of fort. Krishnadeva Raya`s army comprised of 10 lakh soldiers, 32000 cavalry and 550 elephants. The largest army held by a Hindu ruler. The army was equipped with the most sophisticated weapons of that time. They had in their army, horses from Persia, canons from Europe and Turkey.

Economy:

The economy of Vijayanagar cannot be just explained through the Share and stock indices of modern day times. The riches of the city attracted travellers from all over the world. Krishnadeva Raya not only managed his resources efficiently but dictated trade terms on Portuguese and Persians. The markets of vijayanagar consisted of stalls selling Jasmine and Roses. The People of Vijayanagar loved flowers more than anything else is what another traveller opines.

Nowhere in the world has been seen that the vendors sell rubies, pearls, gold, silver, emerals, ornaments and diamonds on road side !! But that was the case with Vijayanagar. Women could wear ornaments and go out of their houses even during night times. When the riches is of such highscale, obviously the standard of living and the Moral values of people would be par excellence, leave alone the GDP and the Per capita Income.

The items of trade included cotton, quick silver, copper, Gold, rubies, pearls, diamond, Horse trade with Persia, weapons, areca nut, coconut, pepper, cashew, sugarcane, rice, wheat, jowar, barley etc,. The trade relations spread from Red Sea to Mecca, Aden, Venice, China(silk), Burma(Cotton), Java and Sumatra(clothes), Elephants were purchased from Srilanka thus touching the Nooks and corner of the Globe. Every year One Crore Gold coins were added to the treasury and the King would not use even a single rupee for his or to the benefit of his family. Such high moral standards were set and followed by the King himself. Land revenue was the main source of income along with agricultual taxes. The taxation system was called RAYAREKHA, the taxes were imposed as per the yield of every farmer. The ports on the east and west coast added 240 crore rupees every year through sea trade. Krishnadeva Raya was bestowed with the title - Poorva Paschima Samudradhipathi ( Master of east and west coast)

Such was the economic condition of Vijanayangar. Worthy to note that the personal wealth ammased by Robert Clive from the blunder of Bengal was estimated at around 401,102 pounds. Total amount of treasure looted by British was one Billion pounds by the year 1901. Taking into consideration Interest rates and the inflation rates, this would be worth close to one Trillion pounds in real terms today. (One trillion = One lakh crore Indian rupees) !!. And the total debt of India for the financial year 2008 is 19.57 trillion rupees. From Riches to Rags.

Irrigation :

Irrigation was given top priority. No wonder every King gave much importance to Irrigation and agriculture, water conservation and rain water harvesting. Krishnadeva constructed several lakes and canals which can still be seen. They are even today called Rayakaluve(Raya`s canals). The British records show that he was the first to use Dynamites. The farmers of Vijayanagar had developed some unique seeds that would give yield within three months.

Architecture and Temples:

Krishnadeva took up the task of restoring temples of Srirangam, Kalahasthi, Tirupathi and Madurai. They were named Raya Gopuram in memory of Rayas(kings) of Vijayanagar. Many temples like Hajara Rama, virupaksha, vijaya Vithala were built during this period. The witness to the spledid architectural marvel of the empire still stands in the form of the Stone Chariot, Ugra Narasimha Idol and the Musical Pillars of Hampi.

Due to Islamic agression the temples of Vijayanagar took shape of the fort. Krishnadeva practically built very less temples during his reign but ensured the safety and sanctity of existing temples. During his reign of 21 years no temple was even touched by Jihadis.

Administration :

The state was divided into several administrative areas such as Pranth, rajya, mandal. The system of administration was decentraliized. Everything was village centred. The head of the unit was called Mahanayakacharya. Even though the king was supreme power in deliveing justice there were local officer who would, at times give judgement. The cases were immediately attended and suitable action taken. Criminal offenses would fetch the offender a severe punishment. Everyone had access directly to the King.

Even though the king was Hindu, he treated all faiths with equal reverence. Jews, Portuguese, Muslims were given due respect and Muslims enjoyed their status in his army. Vaishnava Krishnadeva saw all castes that dwelled in his state with utmost reverence. His Royal flag had the emblem of Varaha and his Royal signature had the emblem of Virupaksha. The king along with his minister would go in the Guise of a commoner to have a glimpse of his people.

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom -7

Unique features of Krishnadeva Raya`s political conquests:

In the long history of battles that the world has seen, heard and endured, the ones that have involved Islam and Christianity have been the most bloodiest. Atleast in the Modern era. That too when it is motivated by Semitic ambitions.

India too has seen wars. Since SATYAYUGA !! But nowhere it can be seen, traced nor heard that the Hindu soldiers have destroyed a culture, a civilization and have imposed Hindu faith upon the conquered. In this long history, only two soldiers have remained undefeated. One is Shivaji and the other is Krishnadeva Raya!! Proud to be their posterity.

Very important feature of Krishnadeva`s conquest was that most of his wars were fought away from his capital. He had to travel lengthy distances from his capital and fight enemies in their own territory. The battle of Raichur and Orissa will stand as the most risky and calculative of his wars. He, along with his troops, had travel for over 1000 Kms. He had to carry with him weapons, canons, horses, elephants. At that time his was the largest army in India, comprising of 10 lakh foot soldiers, 32,600 cavalry and 550 elephants. To provide for such a vast army during war was another herculean task. Ten to twelve thousand soldiers would march ahead of the army and find water sources and arrange for food and shelter. No one could predict how long the war would go. And most risky factor was to protect the capital from enemies when his army is engaged in war. He was all successful in whatever step he took. Truly, an undefeated King of the History !!

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom - 6

Krishnadeva Raya`s political conquests :

From day one it was not a cake walk for Krishnadeva Raya. His brother had strained relations with the tributaries of the Kingdom and his trade relations were also not healthy. Krishnadeva first emphasized on cementing relations with the subsidiaries of the empire and improve trade relations. He was not only successful in his initial venture, he actually made all small rulers submit before him and brought them under one Rule and ruler. He not only improved trade relations with the portuguese and Persians but he dictated the trade terms on them. He was all the more supreme and unarguably the emperor of the whole of south India. His conquests began from Ummattur. He defeated Gangaraja over there amidst strong resistance. This helped him in gaining confidence of all small rulers under him.

The most ferocious of the wars that Krishnadeva fought is said to be that of Raichur battle. A small incident led to such a huge war. Syyed Markar was a soldier of Krishnadeva`s army. He was handed some money and was sent to purchase Horses from Goa. He betrayed Krishnadeva and escaped to Adil shah of Bijapur. Adil shah did not heed to the request letter sent by Krishnadeva, asking him to handover Syyed Markar. Furious over this attitude of Adil shah, Krishnadeva ordered his troops to get ready to fight him out and restore his pride. He was not only a brave soldier but a shrewd thinker and a great strategist as well. He thought that Adil shah would come in rescue of Raichur fort, if he attacked Raichur instead of Bijapur. Exactly the same happened and Adil shah arrived with his army in rescue of Raichur fort.

Ferocious battle took place between the two. Initial honors went to Adil shah and the brutality was of such magnitude that Krishnadeva`s army almost turned its back to the war. Krishnadeva addressed them and infuriated them with the sense of National pride and asked them to FIGHT UNTO VICTORY. The troops fought in such a way that Adil shah thought of saving his life rather than winning the Fort. He fled from the battle field. This great victory saw Krishnadeva Raya as the sole emperor of South India and the saviour of Hindu Dharma.

The victorious troop entered the city of Raichur and Krishnadeva promised the people over there and left them with the choice of leaving the city or to accept the Hindu rule henceforth. He did not allow any of his soldiers to loot or destroy the city. All the loot was handed over to its original owners. He assured the people that no lives will be damaged. Natural for a true Hindu King.

Akbar after winning the fort of Chittod, did not stop there, and killed more than 30000 people in a single day. And unfortunately he is bestowed with the title- GREAT. Who really is Great?

Krishnadeva`s victory march continued through Udayagiri, Mudkal, Kondapalli, cuttack. His kingdom, the Hindu Kingdom now stretched from Goa to Andhra and Kanyakumari to Orissa. He conquered Orissa which was ruled by Pratap Rudra Gajapathi. He was pardoned and was made king again and declared that he acted as subsidiary to Vijayanagar. Krishnadeva married his daughter Jaganmohini as well, leaving no room for Pratap whatsoever to intrigue against him.

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom - 5

Krishnadeva Raya (1509-1530):

In the brief history of Vijayanagar that spanned for 229 years, Krishnadeva Raya was unarguably the most successful King. The time and situation at which he took the reigns and the way he lead the army into victory and the subsequent achievements is in itself self explanatory to the towering personality of this great King of Vijayanagar.

He was given education that is required for a king to lead the country. He showed great promise that he became inevitable and unanimous choice to accede the throne of the most prestigious Empires of India.

Born to Narasanayaka and Nagaladevi in 1471, Jan 21st, he excelled in archery, artillery, horse riding, power lifting, fencing and was articulate in political sciences. He also showed exemplary talent in the field of literature, fine arts, music under the guidance of Sri Vyasaraya.

After his elder brother veera Narasimha nayaka, he took over the responsibility and led the Empire to the heights of glory. Under him the hindu kingdom reached the Pinnacles of Glory. The day he was asked to take charge of the Kingdom, it was engaged in a war and his brother was a martyr in that battle. Anyone can accept the charge when the state of affairs is running smoothly. But to lead the country when it is in crisis - it requires a real MAN.

His day would begin as early as 3.30 A M. He started his routine by bending himself to the limits of physical exercises such as horse riding, fencing, power lifting, wrestling and the likes. He was a fine blend of Kshatra and Bramha Tejas. After offering his daily prayers he would meet his prime minister Timmarasa and his close aides. Amidst all this he took sometime everyday for his family.

Those who met him even once were invariably inspired and impressed by his tremendous personality. Such was his stature. He was at the same time humble, polite and pleasing and strong, sturdy and firm in his decesions. Domingo Paes, a portuguese traveller describes Krishnadeva Raya thus - "the most feared and the perfect king that could possibly be"

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom - 4

Vidyaranya - A Saint and a true Nationalist :

One of the historan says "Vidyaranya was the first to identify Islam as the idea of Imperialism". Thus a man with rare insight and vision was responsible for establishment of such a great kingdom. He, being a true nationalist made it clear to the men around him, on whom he entrusted to implement the idea of nationalism, that there was no need for creating an empire to assimilate economic riches nor there was any need to build an army to fullfil the capitalistic thirst of Royal families. He emphaised on four things before the Kingdom was established. 1. Restore Hindu Dharma. 2. Build strong forts to protect people. 3. Organize large army to fight Islamic onslaught. 4. Wipe out Islam from bharath.

Vidyaranya was born and brought up in an orthodox Brahmin family. His father Mayana, mother Srimathi, brothers Sayana and Bhoganatha, sister Singale all led a happy and content life. Children were given moral education along with the regular text book studies. Children were also given liberty to choose the field of education of their interest. Not a well to do family, but they were earning sufficiently to lead a life of respect and independence. Vidyaranya was well-verse in sanskrit and could recite Vedas. He knew to play veena, flute and other Musical instruments. He also excelled in the field of fine arts. Gifted with a rare insightful vision, Vidyaranya had an eye on what was happening around the country. He could diagnose the situation and could evolve suitable solutions.

A scholar has to be a nationalist. His intellect should not be overshadowed by temporary emotional outburst, but it should translate into wise social and political moves. Vidyaranya was such a nationalist personified. He worked at he grass-root levels to organize and create awareness among Village sarpanch. He used Temple reserves for social and national causes such as irrigation, education and defense etc. This is regarded as the revolutionary work at that time, that too for a man hailing from a orthodox family.

He was a minister to Hakka and Bukka. It is said that he lived for 91 years. Before brething his last he took Sanyasa at Shringeri. He also contributed to the field of literature and nowhere in his works one could find the hatred for other faiths. Before bidding adieu to his Motherland he was cocksure of his vision being put to action and the mission being accomplished. Hakka and Bukka blossomed as great kings under his guidance and blessings and laid a strong foundation for the most celebrated Kingdoms of Indian History.

Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom - 3

Early days of the Empire :

Across the Banks of Tunga lies Anegundi. Vijayanagar was established by the name Vidyanagar and later came to be known as Vijayanagar. It was initially a small township with the picturesque backdrop. First rulers of the kingdom stressed on rehabilitation of the town, cementing relations with the tributaries of Kingdom, bringing all small rulers under one roof, restoring the temples of Madurai, Srirangam, Kalahasti etc.

Sayanacharya, brother of Vidyaranya was assigned with the laborious job of writing commentary on Vedas . His works stand as authority even today.

Hakka was the first king. He ruled for a brief period of 7 years (1336-1343) and laid a strong foundation for posterity. After him Bukka took over the reign and expanded the kingdom over good parts of southern India. Some of the forts which were held by muslims were recaputred, thus gaining confidence of small Hindu rulers. Seeing this all small rulers submitted before Vijayanagar kingdom and came united under one Hindu ruler and rule.

Earlier Chanakya and Chandragupta had adapted similar strategy to counter Alexander. The Greek king was able to penetrate the borders just because all the kings and rulers of that part were divided and had declared themselves as Independent sovereign kings. They were easily defeated and thus the borders were open for Alexander. Chandragupta united all of them under one rule.

The history as it is said - Repeats itself. Under the rulers of Vijayanagar the history of Hindu rulers was about to repeat and they would now live with their head held high and swollen chest.

The rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom - 2

The Idea of Vijayanagar :

As already mentioned the Islamic conquest had almost spread throughout the globe and muslims were the most feared Race on Earth. Wherever they stepped, they looted, plundered and destroyed the civilizations and diversity as a whole.

Though it was a not a cake walk for Islam in India, yet they were successful in establishing themselves through the length and breadth of half of India.

When the idea of Establishing a Kingdom and organizing an army sprouted in the minds of Vidyaranya and Veera Ballala they were in no Dilemma over the Motto behind the Establishement. It was obvioulsy and unanimously decided in the meeting of Tiruvannamalai that the very meaning of establishment of the Kingdom would be to 1. Restore and protect Hindu Dharma. 2. Build strong army 3. Fight Islamic onslaught. Nowhere in the minds of these men lingered a slight doubt or did they think otherwise of creating an empire with economic and military might, or to quench the capitalistic thirst of the Royal families. The Idea was absolutely clear. Save, restore and protect Hindu dharma.

RISE AND FALL OF VIJAYANAGAR - THE HINDU KINGDOM -1

Prelude :

Many Civilizations, dynasties, Kingdoms and Empires have taken birth on the face of Mother Earth. Some famous, some notorious, some wealthy, some strong in Military so on and so forth. There were a couple of such Kingdoms which attracted entire world towards them. Rome, Byzantine, the city of Damascus to name a few.. But Vijayanagar was on top of all of them.

Vijayanagar was established in the year 1336 A D. Its worthy to note the scenario that prevailed across the globe before the inception of the Kingdom.

After the death of Mohammad the Prophet in 632 A D., his four companioons took leadership of the latest monotheistic religion after Judaism and christianity. They quenched the thirst of their holy sword by conquering the neighbourhood countries. Egypt, Damascus, Africa and syria fell in the first phase. The second phase saw the fall of Turkish speaking territories of Tashkand, Samarquand, Mongolia and Bekhara. As early as 636 A D., India saw the first of Islmaic agression in thana, Bombay. But that was foiled. Third phase saw the fall of Sindh to Md. bin kasim.

Thus the period comprising of 600-700 years saw Brutality that the Mother Earth had never witnessed. During that period more than 5 crore people were killed.

In Europe the concept of Rennaisance had just sprouted or was still in the womb of Western thinkers. Western science was in cross Roads discussing and arguing over the shape of Earth and the argument had taken a violent turn too!!

Jews were driven out of their Promised land. 636 A D saw the first Naval attack on India through Sindh. The subsequent centuries were swept away by The Ghories, Ghaznies and it was in the year 1206 A D that the Islamic troops were successful in acceeding the throne at Delhi. But Assam remained free for almost 5 centuries, Orissa for 3 centuries and Gujrath remained free for almost the 13th century.

It took less than three centuries for Jihadis to bring half of India on its Knees but for a few resistances here and there. By early 14th century half of India upto Vindyas was under Islamic rule. South India was not fully conquered though it had tasted the fundamentalist attacks by Malik kafur. He invaded South India which was nothing more than a loot. He destroyed the temples of Madurai, Vellore and Kalahasthi.

All the south Indian rulers submitted before Muslim rulers one after the other. The Pandyas, Devagiri Yadavas, Kakateeyas and the Hoysalas. Warangal was the last to fall.

Small rulers were mute spectators to the onslaught as the mode of attack was totally unseen and unheard for this Race.

Veera Ballala of Hoysala dynasty was the sole survivor of south India and he came to Tiruvannamalai and he organised all the small rulers of that region.

It was a very Momentous and a timely meeting of five brothers. Hakka, Bukka, Marappa, Muddappa, and Kampana. There it was decided to establish a Kingdom to 1. protect and restore Hindu dharma. 2. Fight the Islamic agression 3. Build a strong army 4. Build strong and large forts to protect the people. The task was handed over to Hakka. Saint Vidyaranya also found his Life mission to save and restore Hindu dharma in two youths that is Hakka and Bukka.

It was the vision and Action put together. The Kshatra and the Bramha tejas combined to uphold Sanatana Dharma. Am eminent historian says that Vidyaranya was the first to identify Islam as the Philosphy of Imperialism.

Across the banks of Tunga was established the city of Vidyanagar later came to be known as Vijayanagar . Hakka became the King and saint Vidyaranya chose to act as his Minister. Well begun was half done.