The correct option is
1 and 3 only
Explanation
The Vijayanagara Empire was ruled by four distinct dynasties in chronological order: Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu. The death of the greatest ruler, Krishnadeva Raya (Tuluva dynasty), in 1529 marked the beginning of internal strains that eventually weakened the empire's central authority.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Following the death of Krishnadeva Raya in 1529, his successors (such as Achyuta Deva Raya) faced significant challenges. The central authority was strained by rebellious nayakas (military chiefs) and internal succession disputes, which weakened the administrative cohesion established earlier.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: By 1542, control at the centre had not shifted to the Sangama lineage. The Sangama dynasty was the first dynasty (founded in 1336). By 1542, the empire was under the Tuluva dynasty, but actual power had shifted to the Aravidu lineage, specifically into the hands of Aliya Rama Raya, who acted as the regent and de facto ruler for Sadasiva Raya.
- Statement 3 is Correct: After the disastrous Battle of Talikota (Rakshasa-Tangadi) in 1565, the capital city of Vijayanagara (Hampi) was sacked and abandoned. The focus of the empire shifted eastward. The Aravidu dynasty, the fourth and final dynasty, ruled from Penukonda and later moved their capital to Chandragiri (near Tirupati) and eventually Vellore.
Key Takeaway:
The chronological order of Vijayanagara dynasties is Sangama → Saluva → Tuluva → Aravidu. The Aravidu dynasty sustained the empire from Penukonda and Chandragiri after the fall of the capital at Hampi in 1565.