In fact, Vijayanagara was also noted for its markets dealing in spices, textiles and precious stones. Trade was often regarded as a status symbol for such cities, which boasted of a wealthy population that demanded high-value exotic goods, especially precious stones and jewellery. Strain began to show within the imperial structure following Krishnadeva Raya's death in 1529. His successors were troubled by rebellious nayakas or military chiefs. Eventually this led to an alliance of the Sultanates against Vijayanagara. The victorious armies sacked the city of Vijayanagara. The city was totally abandoned within a few years.
The lines left out include a note on the name Gajapati. Which of the following does it say?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Lord of elephants; a ruling lineage very powerful in Orissa
Option (1) Lord of elephants; a ruling lineage very powerful in Orissa — Correct. Gajapati literally means lord of elephants. It was the name of a ruling lineage that was very powerful in Orissa in the fifteenth century.
Option (2) Lord of elephants; a ruling lineage very powerful in Bengal — Incorrect. The meaning lord of elephants is right, but the Gajapati lineage was powerful in Orissa. Bengal is the wrong region.
Option (3) Lord of horses; a ruling lineage very powerful in Orissa — Incorrect. Lord of horses is ashvapati, the name Vijayanagara traditions gave to the Deccan Sultans. Gajapati means lord of elephants.
Option (4) Lord of horses; a ruling lineage very powerful in Bengal — Incorrect. Both parts fail. Lord of horses is ashvapati, the Deccan Sultans, and the Gajapatis were powerful in Orissa.
NCERT (2026-27): “2.1 Kings and traders … |