Welcome to new mini-series, "India's Past Unfolded.". Introducing a new video podcast format where Indian history comes alive!

Join Narendra Vikram, the host of Ithihasa India History Podcast, as he teams up with Abhijeet Hiliyana—a passionate history buff, historical fiction writer, and tech enthusiast. Together, we dive deep into the rich tapestry of Indian history, exploring the grandeur and legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire and beyond.

In each episode, Abhijeet and Narendra blend shared enthusiasm for history with engaging storytelling and insightful analysis. Whether you’re a history aficionado or just curious about India’s vibrant past, this podcast promises to bring you fascinating discussions and fresh perspectives. Tune in as we unravel the mysteries and marvels of India’s historical narrative, offering both a tribute to the past and a thought-provoking look at its impact on the present.

Get ready for a journey through time where history is not just learned but experienced—don’t miss out on this new adventure in historical exploration.

We delve into an episode that combines the intrigue of an unsolved mystery with the enduring legacy of one of India's greatest rulers—Sri Krishna Deva Raya.

This episode was inspired by an interesting question from a handful of the listeners of this podcast and also something I have seen floating around on the internet forums and comment sections related to Vijayanagara or Sri Krishna Deva Raya.

In the heart of Hampi, amidst the grandeur of temples and palaces that once echoed with the sounds of a thriving empire, lies a tantalizing enigma: the lost tomb of Emperor Sri Krishna Deva Raya.

His reign, a golden age of prosperity and artistic brilliance, left a monumental legacy, yet the location of his final resting place has eluded historians and adventurers for centuries.

Could it be hidden beneath the 64 pillar mandapam in Hampi on the banks of Tungabhadra; a structure whose intricate carvings might conceal the emperor's final resting place?

Before Venkata's reign, the Vijayanagara Empire had largely contented itself with defending its territories. Notably, Tirumala and later Ranga concentrated on safeguarding their domains from external threats. Ranga I, for instance, had taken action only to expel Muslims from Ahobilam and its surroundings.

However, Venkata II chose a different path. He inaugurated his rule as Emperor of Vijayanagara with an offensive campaign, a strategy shift that would ultimately prove to be a game-changer.

Imagine, if you will, a time when the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire, once an epitome of power and prosperity, was slowly waning. Even as the shadows of its own demise encroached around it, the empire started to cast its most brilliant and vibrant light, like a candle nearing its end.

The emperor Venkatapati Deva Raya II, whose legacy we are about to explore, ruled during these tumultuous times. He stood as the candle's final guardian, its flame dancing defiantly against the encroaching darkness. His reign would prove to be a beacon of hope, a testament to the enduring spirit of Vijayanagara, as it burned with an intensity that defied its imminent extinguishment.

The very mention of the downfall of Krishna Deva Raya might sound blasphemous for the romanticists of History and die-hard fans of him. Nevertheless, this fall was the logical conclusion of a meteoric rise.

After all, the fate and fortune of empires and emperors are at the mercy of the gravity of time. And the great Krishna Deva Raya was no exception.

The seeds of destruction of the greatest empires are usually sown during their rise itself, and they tend to be so small to even notice while they are happening that it's generally too late to do anything by the time damage is done.

Saluva Thimmarasu's idea of forging letters from the 16 of Gajapati’s Mahapatras and making it seem like the vassals of Gajapati were actively conspiring with the Vijayanagara Emperor to betray Prataparudra on the day of the battle was a masterstroke.

Meanwhile, Subuddhi, the officer who had been sent by the Gajapati to keep him updated of all that was happening, learned that Vijayanagara officers were secretly proceeding toward the Gajapati’s camp with 16 boxes and he hurried to write up a message about this to warn Prataparudra.

This episode is the Vijayanagara-Gajapati War mini-series finale, culminating in the total domination of Sri Krishnadevaraya over the entire South after vanquishing his Hindu rival.