Who of the following rulers of medieval India gave permission to the Portuguese to build a fort at Bhatkal?

The correct answer is Krishnadevaraya.

Here is the detailed step-by-step historical explanation of why this option is correct:

1. Understanding the Portuguese Expansion in India:
During the early 16th century, the Portuguese, led by governors like Francisco de Almeida and Afonso de Albuquerque, were actively trying to establish strongholds and trade monopoly along the western coast of India. To secure their trade routes, especially for the lucrative trade of Arabian horses, they needed strategically located forts.

2. The Role of the Vijayanagara Empire:
Bhatkal was an important port town on the western coast (modern-day Karnataka) that fell under the influence or territory of the Vijayanagara Empire. During this period, the Vijayanagara Empire was ruled by the famous emperor Krishnadevaraya (who reigned from 1509 to 1529 CE).

3. The Agreement and Permission:
In 1510 CE, the Portuguese governor Afonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa from the Sultan of Bijapur. To strengthen their position and maintain friendly relations with the powerful Vijayanagara Empire, Albuquerque sought permission to construct a fort at Bhatkal. Krishnadevaraya, recognizing the mutual benefits of trade (particularly the import of high-quality Persian and Arabian horses for his cavalry) and sharing a common rival in the Deccan Sultanates, granted permission to the Portuguese to build a factory and fort at Bhatkal.