Learn founder–capital–dynasty–event links. The recurring pairs are Vijayanagara–Hampi–Harihara/Bukka; Bahmani–Gulbarga/Bidar–Alauddin Bahman Shah; and Talikota–1565. Keep the Tungabhadra-Krishna region in mind.
Core pairs
State / item
Safe clue
Vijayanagara
Founded in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka I; capital at Hampi.
Sangama dynasty
First ruling dynasty of Vijayanagara.
Krishnadevaraya
Tuluva ruler; reigned 1509–1529; associated with Amuktamalyada.
Bahmani Sultanate
Founded in 1347 by Alauddin Bahman Shah; initial capital Gulbarga.
Bidar
Later Bahmani capital, shifted under Ahmad Shah Wali.
Talikota
1565 battle; Vijayanagara was defeated by a Deccan-sultanate coalition.