Fourth Delight
Sri Vyasa Raja Yati Sarvabhouma
45. A legacy of victory
For any nation to reach the pinnacle of prosperity, it must be founded on peace and harmony. Governance must be just and beneficial to the people. Society should be stable, allowing citizens to live in happiness and security. Only then can the nation thrive in wealth, education, arts, and civilization, achieving global renown.
The time when Krishnadevaraya ascended the throne marked a turning point. South India was plagued by enemy invasions and rebellions. Establishing peace in the region, reclaiming lost territories, and fostering alliances with neighboring Hindu rulers and northern Indian kings were necessary tasks. Reinvigorating Sanatana Dharma and building a strong moral foundation in society to cultivate truth, dharma, and virtuous living among the people were crucial to advancing Indian civilization.
The Role of Vyasaraja and Timmarasu
Krishnadevaraya’s aspiration to fulfill these ideals was profoundly influenced by Shri Vyasaraja, the sage and mentor who shaped his vision. He was also supported by wise ministers like Timmarasu, who provided strategic guidance.
Shortly after his coronation, Krishnadevaraya approached Vyasaraja with Timmarasu, bowed, and said, "Revered Guru, I am eager to put your teachings into action. First, I wish to address the injustice caused by the ruler of Orissa, Prataparudra Gajapati. I seek your permission to march against his kingdom and end his tyranny."
Vyasaraja, after a moment of contemplation, replied, "O Emperor, your intent is righteous, but haste must be avoided. Although war is a Kshatriya’s duty, it brings bloodshed and loss. Begin by seeking reconciliation through friendship and diplomacy. If these efforts fail, employ strategies of persuasion, gifts, and negotiation. Resort to force only as a last resort. If victory is achieved, treat the vanquished with dignity. Protect the vulnerable—women, children, the elderly, and the poor. Respect the defeated rulers and win their trust to integrate them into your fold. As a protector of an undivided Bharat, act with humanity and justice. May Lord Hari, Virupaksha, and Goddess Bhuvaneshwari always bless you with success and righteousness."
Krishnadevaraya, deeply moved by the sage's advice, vowed, "I will act according to your guidance, Gurudeva."
A Tradition of Generosity and Piety
Before embarking on his campaign, Krishnadevaraya sought Vyasaraja’s blessings and expressed his desire to offer villages in gratitude. Vyasaraja shared his wish to construct a golden chariot for Shri Varadarajaswamy in Kanchipuram and establish an annual "Avani Utsav." Krishnadevaraya happily agreed, donating the village of Polambakkam for this purpose and facilitating the construction of the chariot.
Vyasaraja blessed the emperor, saying, "Your noble act of devotion will pave the way for triumph. May you achieve unmatched glory in your conquests."
Conquests of Krishnadevaraya
From 1510 to 1522 CE, Krishnadevaraya waged several wars, displaying extraordinary valor and strategy.
Victory Over Prataparudra Gajapati
The ruler of Orissa, Prataparudra Gajapati, frequently attacked Vijayanagara’s borders, causing havoc. Aligning with Bahmani Sultans, he posed a significant threat. Krishnadevaraya’s army, strengthened by loyal chieftains and strategists like Timmarasu, marched against Prataparudra. The emperor achieved a decisive victory, capturing key forts like Udayagiri, Kondavidu, and Jagannathapura. Prataparudra surrendered, offering his daughter, Princess Jaganmohini, in marriage to Krishnadevaraya as a gesture of peace.
Securing Alliances and Reclaiming Territories
Krishnadevaraya's diplomacy was equally remarkable. He resolved disputes with the Portuguese, ensuring a steady supply of horses for his army, and supported rightful heirs like Alauddin in Gulbarga, earning titles such as "Yavanarajya Sthapanacharya."
Reclaiming Raichur
The Raichur Doab, a highly contested region between Vijayanagara and Bijapur, was next. Despite unfavorable planetary alignments and ominous omens, Vyasaraja performed rituals to mitigate any ill effects. Encouraged by his Guru’s blessings, Krishnadevaraya launched a successful campaign, defeating Ismail Adil Shah of Bijapur and reclaiming Raichur and Mudgal provinces. This victory further solidified his reputation as an invincible ruler.
Honoring the Guru
Upon returning from his conquests, Krishnadevaraya visited Vyasaraja to express his gratitude. "Gurudeva, it is your blessings that have brought me success. May you continue to guide and protect me."
Vyasaraja, pleased with the emperor's humility, praised his courage and devotion. The relationship between the sage and the emperor exemplified the perfect synergy of spiritual wisdom and political power.
Golden Age of Vijayanagara
Under Vyasaraja’s guidance, Krishnadevaraya initiated numerous developmental projects. The capital, Vijayanagara, became a hub of art, culture, and education. Magnificent temples, palaces, and public works were constructed, including the Krishna Temple and Vittala Temple. The emperor patronized scholars, poets, and artists, leading to a renaissance in literature and the arts.
Prominent figures like Purandaradasa, Kanakadasa, and Tenali Ramakrishna flourished during his reign. Krishnadevaraya himself authored the celebrated Telugu work Amuktamalyada. His administration was marked by justice, efficiency, and benevolence, earning him admiration across India and beyond.
Legacy
Krishnadevaraya’s reign, guided by Vyasaraja’s wisdom, marked the zenith of Vijayanagara’s glory. His victories, generosity, and commitment to dharma established him as one of India’s greatest emperors, and his era remains a shining chapter in the annals of Indian history.