Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Vijayanagara Empire was one of the most powerful empires in Southern India. The question asks to identify its founders.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 CE by two brothers, Harihara I and Bukka Raya I. They belonged to the Sangama dynasty. They established their capital at Vijayanagara (modern-day Hampi) on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. The other options are incorrect:
(A) Krishnadeva Raya: He was the most famous and powerful ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, belonging to the Tuluva dynasty, but he was not the founder.
(B) Rama Raya: He was an influential regent and the de facto ruler during the final phase of the empire, who led the army in the fateful Battle of Talikota in 1565.
(C) Deva Raya II: He was a powerful emperor from the Sangama dynasty who ruled in the 15th century, but he was not a founder.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The founders of the Vijayanagara Empire were Harihara and Bukka. Therefore, option (D) is the correct answer.