Rama Raya led the army into battle at Rakshasi-Tangadi.

Background:
Rakshasi-Tangadi was a significant battle fought between the Vijayanagara Empire and the Deccan Sultanates in 1565 CE. The battle took place at a place near Raichur Doab, which lies between the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers. The Vijayanagara Empire was ruled by Rama Raya, who was the regent for the minor king, Sadasiva Raya.

The Battle:
The Deccan Sultanates, which included the kingdoms of Bijapur, Ahmadnagar, and Golconda, formed a confederacy to attack the Vijayanagara Empire. The Sultanates had a combined army of around 80,000 soldiers, while the Vijayanagara Empire had a force of 200,000 soldiers.

The battle began with the Vijayanagara Empire attacking the confederacy, and they initially had the upper hand. However, due to a strategic error, the Vijayanagara army got separated, and the Sultanates took advantage of it. The Sultanates attacked the divided Vijayanagara army and defeated them.

Rama Raya's Role:
Rama Raya was the commander-in-chief of the Vijayanagara army and led the army into battle. However, his leadership was questioned by some of the nobles, who accused him of not providing enough support to the flanks of the army. This accusation proved to be costly, as the Vijayanagara army got separated.

Aftermath:
The battle of Rakshasi-Tangadi was a significant defeat for the Vijayanagara Empire, and it marked the end of their dominance in South India. The Sultanates sacked the Vijayanagara capital, Hampi, and destroyed the city. Rama Raya was captured by the Sultanates and executed.

Conclusion:
Rama Raya led the Vijayanagara army into battle at Rakshasi-Tangadi, but his leadership was criticized by some of the nobles. The battle resulted in a significant defeat for the Vijayanagara Empire and marked the end of their dominance in South India.