The Amara-Nayakas were a group of powerful feudal chiefs in the Vijayanagara Empire of South India. During the reign of King Krishnadevaraya, they were entrusted with significant administrative responsibilities and held a considerable amount of power. In order to express their loyalty and maintain a harmonious relationship with the king, the Amara-Nayakas often sent gifts to the royal court.

Gifts as a Symbol of Loyalty:

Sending gifts to the king was a common practice during that time and was seen as a gesture of loyalty and respect. By presenting gifts, the Amara-Nayakas aimed to showcase their allegiance and strengthen their ties with the ruling monarch. These gifts symbolized their commitment to the king and the empire and also served as a means to gain favor and maintain their position of authority.

Types of Gifts:

The gifts sent by the Amara-Nayakas varied in nature and could include a wide range of valuable items. Some of the commonly sent gifts included:

1. Precious Metals and Gems: Gold, silver, jewels, and precious stones were often presented as gifts. These items held great value and were a symbol of wealth and prestige.

2. Luxury Goods: Fine textiles, silk garments, luxurious fabrics, and ornate garments were also commonly given as gifts. These items represented opulence and were highly valued.

3. Livestock and Agricultural Produce: The Amara-Nayakas, being feudal chiefs, often sent gifts of livestock such as horses, elephants, and cattle. Additionally, agricultural produce like grains, fruits, and vegetables were also offered to the king.

4. Art and Crafts: The Amara-Nayakas were patrons of art and encouraged skilled craftsmen. They would often send intricately crafted sculptures, paintings, and other artistic creations as gifts to the king.

5. Exotic and Rare Items: The Amara-Nayakas, being well-traveled and having access to various regions, would send unique and rare items as gifts. These could include spices, herbs, perfumes, and exotic animals.

Significance of Gift Exchange:

The exchange of gifts between the Amara-Nayakas and the king played a crucial role in maintaining a harmonious relationship. It solidified the loyalty of the powerful feudal chiefs and ensured their continued support to the king. Moreover, receiving gifts from the Amara-Nayakas was a sign of the king's authority and power. It reinforced his position as the ruler and allowed him to display his wealth and influence.

In conclusion, the Amara-Nayakas sent gifts to the king as a means to express their loyalty and strengthen their relationship. These gifts, ranging from precious metals and gems to agricultural produce and art, symbolized their allegiance and showcased their wealth and status. The exchange of gifts played a significant role in maintaining a harmonious relationship between the feudal chiefs and the ruling monarch.

The correct answer is option 'D': Gifts.

Explanation:
The Amara-Nayakas were a powerful ruling class in the Vijayanagara Empire of South India during the 16th and 17th centuries. They were appointed as governors of various regions by the king and were responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining law and order, and overseeing the administration of their respective territories.

To express their loyalty to the king, the Amara-Nayakas often sent gifts as a symbolic gesture. These gifts served multiple purposes:

1. Demonstrating loyalty: By sending valuable gifts to the king, the Amara-Nayakas aimed to demonstrate their loyalty and devotion. These gifts were a way of showing their support and commitment to the monarch.

2. Building relationships: The act of sending gifts helped in building and maintaining strong relationships between the Amara-Nayakas and the king. It was a way of fostering goodwill and ensuring a harmonious working relationship.

3. Acknowledging authority: The act of sending gifts also symbolized the recognition of the king's authority and power. By presenting valuable items, the Amara-Nayakas acknowledged the king's position as the supreme ruler and showcased their submission to his rule.

4. Gaining favor and rewards: Sending gifts to the king was also a means for the Amara-Nayakas to gain favor and seek rewards. It was believed that by presenting valuable and thoughtful gifts, they could increase their chances of receiving benefits such as promotions, land grants, and other privileges.

Overall, the practice of sending gifts by the Amara-Nayakas to the king was an important ritual that served political, social, and strategic purposes. It helped in reinforcing loyalty, building relationships, acknowledging authority, and seeking rewards. These gifts could vary in nature and could include items like precious jewels, textiles, rare artifacts, horses, or even land.