Subject: Art & Culture

Answer:

Krishnadeva Raya (1509-1529 CE), the most illustrious ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, was renowned for his exceptional scholarship and patronage of arts, earning him the title "Andhra Bhoja". His reign marked the Golden Age of Telugu literature and South Indian art, characterized by remarkable cultural and literary achievements.

Personal Scholarly Accomplishments

• Authored the celebrated Telugu work "Amuktamalyada", which showcased his mastery over poetry and demonstrated profound knowledge of administration, warfare, and statecraft.

• Composed Sanskrit works like "Jambavati Kalyanam" and "Ushaparinayam", displaying his versatility in multiple languages and literary forms.

• His court discussions on philosophy, religion, and literature with scholars were documented in "Rayanavachakamu", reflecting his intellectual prowess.

Patronage of Literature and Languages

• Established the concept of "Ashtadiggajas" (Eight Elephants), a group of eight distinguished Telugu poets including Allasani Peddana and Tenali Ramakrishna.

• Supported multilingual literary development by patronizing works in Telugu, Sanskrit, Kannada, and Tamil, promoting cultural synthesis.

• Commissioned translations of important Sanskrit texts into regional languages, making classical literature accessible to common people.

Contribution to Arts and Architecture

• Initiated the construction of the Hazara Rama Temple and Vittala Temple, exhibiting the peak of Vijayanagara architecture.

• Promoted the Vijayanagara School of Painting, characterized by distinctive features like large eyes and graceful movements.

• Supported classical dance forms, particularly Bharatanatyam, leading to the development of unique regional styles.

Educational and Religious Patronage

• Established numerous Agraharas (settlements of learned Brahmins) that served as centers of learning and Sanskrit education.

• Built Mathas (monasteries) and temples that functioned as educational institutions, promoting religious and secular learning.

• Encouraged scholarly debates (Vakyartha Sabhas) in his court, fostering intellectual discourse and philosophical discussions.

Krishnadeva Raya's reign exemplified the harmonious blend of rulership and scholarship, establishing the Vijayanagara Empire as a cultural powerhouse. His legacy continues to influence South Indian art, literature, and architecture, making him a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage. The literary and artistic achievements of his era serve as a testament to the cultural renaissance that flourished under enlightened patronage, establishing benchmarks for future generations.