<h4>Discovery of Vijayanagara Copper Plates</h4><p>A significant collection of <strong>copper plate inscriptions</strong> was recently discovered. These plates feature two leaves dating back to the <strong>16th Century CE</strong>, offering valuable insights into the <strong>Vijayanagara Kingdom</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Location of Discovery:</strong> Sri Singeeswarar temple, <strong>Mappedu village</strong>, <strong>Tiruvallur district</strong>, <strong>Tamil Nadu</strong>.</p></div><p>The two leaves of the copper plates were meticulously strung together using a ring. This ring prominently featured the distinct <strong>seal of the Vijayanagara kingdom</strong>, authenticating their origin.</p><h4>Details of the Inscription</h4><p>The inscription itself details the <strong>donation of a village to Brahmins</strong>. This grant was made by the <strong>Raja of Chandragiri</strong>, a significant figure within the broader Vijayanagara political landscape.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Language:</strong> <strong>Sanskrit</strong><br><strong>Script:</strong> <strong>Nandinagari</strong><br><strong>Engraving Year:</strong> <strong>1513 CE</strong></p></div><p>The engraving date of <strong>1513 CE</strong> places this inscription firmly within the glorious reign of <strong>King Krishnadevaraya</strong>, one of the most celebrated rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire.</p><h4>King Krishnadevaraya: A Pivotal Ruler</h4><p><strong>King Krishnadevaraya</strong> ruled the powerful <strong>Vijayanagara Kingdom</strong> for two decades. His reign is often considered the zenith of the empire's power and cultural flourishing.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Reign Period:</strong> <strong>1509 to 1529 AD</strong></p></div><p>He was adorned with several prestigious titles, reflecting his stature and influence. These titles highlight his dominion and cultural patronage.</p><ul><li><strong>Kannadaraya</strong></li><li><strong>Kannada Rajya Ramaramana</strong></li></ul><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Krishnadevaraya</strong> is widely regarded as one of the <strong>greatest emperors in Indian history</strong>. He stands as one of the most significant rulers of <strong>medieval South India</strong>, known for his administrative acumen, military prowess, and literary patronage.</p></div><h4>Successors to Krishnadevaraya</h4><p>Following the illustrious reign of <strong>Krishnadevaraya</strong>, the Vijayanagara throne saw a succession of rulers. These transitions marked different phases in the empire's history.</p><ol><li>In <strong>1530 AD</strong>, <strong>Achyuta Raya</strong> succeeded Krishnadevaraya.</li><li>Subsequently, in <strong>1542 AD</strong>, <strong>Sada Siva Raya</strong> took over the reins of the empire.</li></ol><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>Understanding the chronology of rulers and the significance of their reigns, like that of <strong>Krishnadevaraya</strong>, is crucial for <strong>UPSC Prelims (GS Paper 1)</strong>. Questions often test knowledge of key figures and their contributions to Indian history.</p></div>