Analyzing Historical Statements: Hampi and Golconda

Let's carefully examine each statement provided in the question to determine its historical accuracy.

Statement I: Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire.

This statement is historically correct. Hampi served as the magnificent capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most powerful Hindu kingdoms in South India. Located in modern-day Karnataka, Hampi was a prosperous and well-fortified city during the height of the empire's power, particularly between the 14th and 16th centuries. Its ruins today are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, testament to its past grandeur and its central role as the Vijayanagara capital.

Statement II: In 1687, the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb annexed Golconda to the Mughal Empire.

This statement is also historically correct. The Mughal emperor Aurangzeb launched extensive campaigns in the Deccan region to expand the Mughal Empire. After a long siege, he successfully captured the fort of Golconda in 1687. The Sultanate of Golconda, ruled by the Qutb Shahi dynasty, was one of the last remaining independent Deccan Sultanates. Its annexation in 1687 brought a vast territory, including the rich diamond mines, under Mughal control, significantly expanding the Mughal Empire's reach in the south.

Conclusion

Based on the historical evidence, both Statement I (Hampi as the capital of Vijayanagara) and Statement II (Aurangzeb's annexation of Golconda in 1687) are accurate descriptions of events in Indian history.