Vijayanagara Empire

06.11.2025

Vijayanagara Empire

Context
 In November 2025, archaeologists discovered 103 gold coins from the Vijayanagara Empire (14th–16th centuries CE) during restoration of a Later Chola-period Shiva temple in Kovilur, Tamil Nadu, highlighting links between Chola and Vijayanagara traditions.

Discovery Details

• The coins were unearthed near the sanctum during temple renovation.
   
• Officials from the Tamil Nadu State Archaeology and Revenue Departments secured the find under the Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878.
   
• Preliminary studies suggest the coins date to the reigns of Harihara II or Krishnadevaraya, possibly as temple offerings.
   

Features of the Coins

• Composition: Punch-marked coins (approx. 5 mm) made of high-purity gold, reflecting superior metallurgical skill.
   
• Royal Emblem: The boar (Varaha) symbol, royal insignia of the Vijayanagara Empire, representing divine sovereignty.
   
• Iconography: Depicts deities like Uma-Maheshwara, Vishnu-Lakshmi, and Balakrishna, symbolising religious inclusivity.
   
• Inscriptions: Contain Devanagari, Kannada, or Tamil legends with titles like “Sri Pratapa Krishna Raya.”
   
• Artistry: Fine detailing and die-casting show advanced minting and artistic precision.
   

Historical Context

The Vijayanagara Empire (1336–1646 CE), founded by Harihara I and Bukka I, was the last great Hindu empire of South India with its capital at Hampi. It resisted northern invasions and became a major center of trade, art, and architecture. Under Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529 CE), it reached its cultural and economic zenith.

Economic Significance

• Monetary System: Included gold pagodas, silver taras, and copper jitals for trade and taxation.
   
• Gold Coin Use: Served for temple offerings, royal donations, and international trade.
   
• Trade Networks: Circulated across South India, Sri Lanka, and Indian Ocean routes, proving the empire’s maritime reach.
   

Archaeological and Cultural Insights

• Reflects the temple’s dual role as a religious and economic hub.
   
• Highlights continuity from the Chola to Vijayanagara periods in sacred geography.
   
• Reinforces Tiruvannamalai’s place within the southern frontier of Vijayanagara influence.
   

Significance

• Provides tangible proof of Vijayanagara’s monetary policy and religious economy.
   
• Demonstrates advanced metallurgy and artistic coin design.
   
• Deepens understanding of temple patronage and ritual donations.
   
• Promotes heritage conservation and awareness of Tamil Nadu’s archaeological wealth.
   

Conclusion

The Kovilur gold coin discovery exemplifies the Vijayanagara Empire’s prosperity, devotion, and artistic mastery. Bridging Chola and Vijayanagara legacies, it enriches our understanding of South India’s cultural continuum and underscores the importance of temple restoration in revealing India’s vibrant historical layers.