The Economic Condition of The Vijayanagar Empire

Vijayanagar was about 60 miles in circumference, surrounded by mountains and valleys. The geographical structure increased the extent of the city. The city’s population was more than 5,00,000 of which King was the first citizen. 

The King believed in the growth and prosperity of all, due to which women had equal power. The equal participation of the population helped the economy to grow in various sectors like agriculture, industry, trade, commerce, and others. Hence, the economic condition of the Vijayanagar empire was extreme. 

Social Conditions of the City 

The Vijayanagar empire encompassed four dynasties, namely Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu. It is essential for understanding social conditions as it contributes hugely toward prosperity and growth. Even though the kings prayed to Vishnu, a policy of religious toleration for all was ardently followed. Women were given equivalent positions compared to men in politics, literature, and others. 

The kingdom had women who would wrestle, experts in accounts, political reporting, music players, and others. Women were allowed to do all jobs, which is not accepted within social strata.  

Although men were given more power like double marriage, and accepting high dowry, Sati and other Brahmans’ practice was given high preference in different domains like social, religious, and others. Thus, the caste system and ethnic divide prevailed within the reign of people who had the freedom of eating anything except ox and cow, which were associated with religious beliefs. 

From the social condition, it is clear that kings under different dynasties were committed to growing agriculture, industries, cities, and other developments, which helped to strengthen the economic condition. 

The Economy of the Vijayanagar Empire

The economic situation of the empire was extreme. It is said that many foreign travelers have visited the city and witnessed its wealth, growth, and prosperity. The factors that influenced economic conditions have been mentioned below.

Industries– The government of kings supported the development of industries of which the most common ones are textile, mining, perfumery, and metallurgy. Guilds were accountable for regulating industries and crafts. People involved in the same trade commonly lived in the city or an area. 

Agriculture– All the rulers had adopted policies for encouraging agriculture in different parts of Vijayanagar  Additionally, a wise and efficient irrigation policy further supported agricultural production. Once, a Portuguese traveller named Nuniz mentioned dams and canals’ presence and ongoing construction. This made the region self-sufficient and prosperous in the agricultural sector.

Trade– Another traveller from Persia named Abdur Razzak mentions the location of the same trade shops. Shops trading the same thing were built close to each other, creating intense competition amongst the players. 

Flourishing of trade attributed to inland, coastal, and overseas trading  Exports could be considered familiar sources of prosperity and growth. In addition, the exports were supported by more than 300 seaports which eased trade and transportation.

Development of commercial areas– Kings developed commercial areas considered essential income sources for the family. Malabar, located on the Western coasts, was an important commercial area owing to the presence of Cannanore ports. 

It is said that the port has developed international relations with countries like Burma, China, Arabian states, South Africa, Portugal, and others. In addition, the port was very well connected with the Indian Ocean and the islands of the Malay Archipelago. These factors supported the trade, which further led to growth and prosperity. 

The main exports during the reign included clothing, spices, iron, iron ores, sugar, and others. The probable imports were copper, pearls, velvets, corals, etc. Ships were the most common transporters used for overseas and coastal trades. It is said that the people of Vijayanagar knew the shipbuilding art, which helped them to carry out trade. Barbosa evidenced the art of shipbuilding by quoting those ships of Vijayanagar that were initially built from the Maldives Islands.

Taxonomy and Coinage 

Emperors issued gold coins in considerable numbers to conduct trade and other economic activities. The coins were commonly known as Varahas and Pagodas. 

The symbol within coins changed as per the King. Hence, Harihara and Bukka I engraved the picture of Hanuman (Hindu God), while Krishna Dev Raya used Venkatesh and Balkrishna figures on the money.  

Since the economic condition was strong, many foreign travellers mentioned high living standards. However, despite the kingdom being wealthy, the disparity was common. Also, trade and business were divided as per caste systems, creating a massive divide in the lower, middle, and upper classes. 

High taxes for the economy were collected from ordinary people. The data collection system is oppressive. The agricultural producers received lower prices for the products. 

Conclusion  

The Vijayanagar Empire had a strong economic condition, which owed to social and economic reforms. Equal participation from men and women helped the economy grow in all domains, namely trade, industries, and commerce. However, the reign had created a strong caste and cultural divide, which increased the unequal distribution of wealth and resources. Inspite, the empire being so old teaches us a lot about our history and culture.