Krishna Deva Raya: The Boy Who Would Be King

Abhijeeth Hiliyana

He fought, he loved, he conquered...

Vijayanagara, 1485. The second son of a famed army commander, Tuluva Krishna sees around him a decaying empire assailed by the treachery of vassals and the belligerence of neighbours. Determined to restore peace and glory to the Vijayanagara Samrajya, Krishna, hot-headed and impatient, follows in his father's footsteps and begins his military service under Emperor Saluva Narasimha.

Peace, though, is hard to forge, and Krishna's loyalty, ingenuity and persistence towards his singular cause are constantly tested, both on and off the battlefield. Fuelled by his passion and his dreams of one day uniting with his true love – the rebellious, enigmatic temple dancer, Chinna – Krishna quickly rises through the ranks. But he soon finds that the way up is beset with intrigue and danger.

Can Krishna navigate the intricate web of politics that threatens the great empire? And can he rebound from devastating betrayal and prove his mettle as a true leader?

Raising the dust of battle, the stench of conspiracy and the bittersweet aroma of love, Krishna Deva Raya: The Boy Who Would Be King tells the dramatic tale of a valiant soldier who has come to be known as one of India's greatest emperors.