UPSC Prelims 2015— Question 47

Correct answer: Option C. Harihara I was one of the founders of the Vijayanagara Empire. The new capital was established on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra, a tributary of the Krishna, and the rulers associated their sovereignty with the deity Virupaksha. The question therefore points to Harihara I rather than the other listed rulers. Option-wise analysis: Option A: “Amoghavarsha I” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option B: “Ballala II” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option C: “Harihara I” is correct. It directly matches the factual or conceptual requirement tested by the question and is supported by the principle explained above. Option D: “Prataparudra II” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Prelims takeaway: Focus on the precise institutional role, constitutional provision, geographical association, or technical definition being tested. UPSC questions often place a broadly familiar fact beside a narrowly incorrect qualifier; identifying that qualifier is essential for elimination.