The correct option is Penukonda and Chandragiri.
Explanation
The Battle of Talikota (1565), also known as the Battle of Rakshasa-Tangadi, marked a decisive turning point for the Vijayanagara Empire. Following the defeat of the combined forces of the Deccan Sultanates, the capital city of Vijayanagara (Hampi) was sacked and destroyed. The Aravidu dynasty, the fourth and final dynasty of the empire, shifted the political center to sustain the kingdom.Historical Analysis:
- Shift to Penukonda: After the destruction of Hampi, Tirumala Deva Raya, the founder of the Aravidu dynasty, re-established the empire's base at Penukonda (in present-day Andhra Pradesh). This served as the capital during the initial phase of recovery.
- Shift to Chandragiri: Due to continued military pressure from the Bijapur and Golconda Sultanates, the capital was later moved further south to Chandragiri (near Tirupati) during the reign of Venkata II.
- Final Phase: The capital was eventually shifted to Vellore before the empire disintegrated into various independent Nayaka kingdoms.
Analysis of Incorrect Options:
- Madurai and Thanjavur Madurai and Thanjavur: These were the capitals of the Madurai Nayaks and Thanjavur Nayaks, respectively. While they were provinces (Nayankaras) under Vijayanagara, they became independent kingdoms, not the seat of the imperial Aravidu throne.
- Gingee and Ikkeri Gingee and Ikkeri: Gingee was a stronghold of the Gingee Nayaks. Ikkeri was the capital of the Keladi Nayakas. Both were feudatory states that asserted independence later.
- Mysore and Bidar Mysore and Bidar: Mysore was the seat of the Wodeyars (feudatories). Bidar was the capital of the Barid Shahi dynasty (one of the Deccan Sultanates), which was an enemy state of Vijayanagara.
Key Takeaway:
The Aravidu dynasty prolonged the existence of the Vijayanagara Empire for nearly a century after the disaster of 1565, ruling successively from Penukonda, Chandragiri, and finally Vellore.