Consider the following statements regarding the Vijayanagara Empire and its administration: 1. The empire was divided into provinces called Mandalas, which were further subdivided into Nadus, Sthalas, and Gramas. 2. The 'Nayankara' system involved military commanders known as Nayakas being assigned tracts of land in exchange for military service and revenue collection. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Both statements accurately describe the administrative machinery of the Vijayanagara Empire. The imperial territory was hierarchically divided into Mandalas, Nadus, Sthalas, and villages, while the Nayankara system formed the backbone of its feudal military organization. The Nayakas exercised considerable autonomy within their assigned territories provided they maintained military contingents for the king. Krishnadevaraya was the most illustrious ruler of the Tuluva dynasty.