New Light on Vijayanagar History
Summary
Focusing on the Udayagiri province of the Vijayanagara Empire, the article reassesses the chronology and status of governors mentioned in copper‑plate grants. Earlier scholars interpreted the Bitragunta plates as showing that Karhpana succeeded Harihara I as emperor; the author argues instead that Karhpana I and II were provincial governors (Mahamandalesvaras) under Sangama rulers. Drawing on epigraphs dated Saka 1286–1317, the author reconstructs a sequence of governors—Virupanna, Karhpana I, Karhpana II, Devaraya and others—who administered Udayagiri. The article describes the geographical extent and strategic importance of the province and analyses its interactions with neighbouring powers like the Reddis and the Gajapatis. It concludes that Udayagiri remained under imperial control and that the provincial governors were members of the ruling family rather than independent kings. This reevaluation corrects earlier misinterpretations and highlights the complexity of Vijayanagara’s provincial administration.
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Conclusion
Using newly published epigraphic evidence, the study shows that figures such as Karhpana were provincial governors, not emperors. By reconstructing a plausible chronology of Udayagiri’s governors and clarifying their familial ties, it refines understanding of Vijayanagara’s administrative structure. The article demonstrates the importance of regional records in interpreting imperial history and invites further research into other provinces.