In the Vijayanagar Empire’s administrative system, to what do the terms amara, bhandarvada and manya refer ?

The correct answer is - Types of land grants

Key Points

• Amara
  • The term Amara refers to a system of land grants within the Vijayanagar Empire.
  • It was linked to the military and administrative structure, where land was assigned to officials or military commanders (Amaranayakas) in exchange for their services.
  • This system ensured the decentralization of administration and efficient collection of revenue.
• Bhandarvada
  • Bhandarvada referred to lands that were part of the state treasury or managed directly by the central administration.
  • The revenue generated from these lands contributed to the empire’s financial resources.
• Manya
  • Manya referred to tax-free lands granted to religious institutions, temples, or Brahmins.
  • These grants were made for religious and charitable purposes, reflecting the strong association between the state and religious institutions.

Additional Information

• Vijayanagar administrative system
  • The Vijayanagar Empire had a highly structured administrative system divided into central, provincial, and village levels.
  • Revenue collection was primarily based on the assessment and taxation of agricultural produce.
• Amaranayaka system
  • The Amaranayaka system was similar to the feudal system, where officials were granted land in return for military and administrative services.
  • Amaranayakas were responsible for maintaining a certain number of troops and collecting revenue from their assigned lands.
  • A portion of the revenue was sent to the central administration, while the rest was used for local governance and military upkeep.
• Significance of land grants
  • Land grants played a critical role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the empire by decentralizing responsibilities.
  • They also strengthened the relationship between the state and religious or social institutions, ensuring political stability.