Harihara I founded a new city on the south bank of a tributary to river Krishna and undertook to rule his new kingdom as the agent of a deity to whom all the land south of the river Krishna was supposed to belong.

Harihara I was a 14th-century ruler and the founder of the Vijayanagara Empire in South India. He was one of the two brothers who established the empire, the other being Bukka Raya I. Together, they laid the foundation for one of the most powerful and prosperous kingdoms in Indian history.

Here is a detailed explanation of Harihara I's actions and the establishment of the new city:

1. Harihara I's Background:
- Harihara I belonged to the Sangama dynasty, which originated in the Kakatiya dynasty of Warangal.
- He and his brother Bukka Raya I were appointed as governors of the Hoysala Empire under the rule of Veera Ballala III.
- However, they rebelled against the Hoysala Empire and established their own independent kingdom.

2. Founding a New City:
- Harihara I established a new city on the south bank of a tributary to the river Krishna.
- This city came to be known as Vijayanagara, which means "City of Victory" in Sanskrit.
- The location of Vijayanagara was strategically chosen due to its proximity to the river and its potential for trade and agriculture.

3. Ruling as the Agent of a Deity:
- Harihara I claimed to rule his new kingdom as the agent of a deity.
- According to the belief at the time, all the land south of the river Krishna was considered to belong to this deity.
- By ruling as the agent, Harihara I sought to legitimize his authority and gain the support of the people.

4. Expansion and Consolidation:
- Harihara I's rule marked the beginning of the Vijayanagara Empire, which would go on to become a major power in South India.
- He focused on expanding his kingdom and consolidating his rule.
- Harihara I adopted a policy of religious tolerance, promoting the coexistence of different faiths within his empire.

In conclusion, Harihara I founded the city of Vijayanagara on the south bank of a tributary to the river Krishna. He claimed to rule as the agent of a deity who was believed to own all the land south of the river Krishna. This marked the beginning of the Vijayanagara Empire, which would grow to become a significant force in South India.