Correct Option
Assertion (A) states that Saluva Narasimha put an end to the old dynasty and assumed the royal title. This statement is historically accurate. Saluva Narasimha, a powerful general of the Vijayanagara Empire, overthrew the Sangama dynasty in 1485, which had become weak and ineffective. He then established the Saluva dynasty, marking a significant political transition in the empire. This event is often referred to as the First Usurpation.
Reason (R) states that he wanted to save the kingdom from further degeneration and disintegration. While the Vijayanagara Empire was indeed facing challenges and a period of decline under the later Sangama rulers, attributing Saluva Narasimha's actions solely to an altruistic motive of "saving the kingdom" is an oversimplification. His usurpation was primarily driven by political ambition and the desire to establish his own dynastic rule. Historical evidence suggests that his reign, though an attempt to consolidate power, did not immediately resolve all the empire's issues, and stability was fully restored later under the Tuluva dynasty. Therefore, Reason (R) does not accurately represent the complete or primary motivation for his actions and is considered false in its singular emphasis.
Since Assertion (A) is true and Reason (R) is false, option 3 is the correct choice.
Incorrect Options
Options 1 and 2 are incorrect because Reason (R) is false. For these options to be correct, both the Assertion and the Reason must be individually true.
Option 4 is incorrect because Assertion (A) is true, not false, and Reason (R) is false, not true.