Administration and Social Life under Vijayanagar c13.5

c13.5

As orthodox Hindus themselves and as followers of an orthodox Hindu tradition, the Vijayanagar kings felt it their duty to protect the institution of caste or varṇāśramadharma especially in view of the Muhammadan invasions. The sovereigns and their subjects felt that a tightening of the bond of union among themselves was quite essential for preserving their religion, for, according to them, the caste system was inextricably interwoven with religion. The anxiety of the rulers of Vijayanagar to maintain the social solidarity of the Hindus is clearly seen in the titles they assumed, such as :