Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the founders of the Vijayanagara Empire, a prominent kingdom in Southern India.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Vijayanagara Empire was established in 1336 A.D. by two brothers, Harihara I and Bukka Raya I.
They belonged to the Sangama dynasty and established their capital at Vijayanagara (present-day Hampi) on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
The other individuals listed were also important rulers of the same empire, but they were not the founders:
Krishnadeva Raya: He was the most famous and powerful ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, belonging to the Tuluva dynasty, who reigned from 1509 to 1529.
Rama Raya: He was a regent and the de facto ruler from the Aravidu dynasty, who led the empire during the fateful Battle of Talikota in 1565.
Deva Raya II: He was a powerful emperor from the Sangama dynasty who ruled before Krishnadeva Raya.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The founders of the Vijayanagara Empire were the brothers Harihara and Bukka. Thus, option (A) is correct.