Vijayanagar dynasty By Kalyan S Patil

A

GREAT

HINDU

KINGDOM

JAI VIRUPAKSHA

JAI VIRUPAKSHA

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/f2/Emblomofvijayanagar1.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/f2/Emblomofvijayanagar1.jpg

History of History of VijayNagar KingdomVijayNagar Kingdom

Mithun ReddyMithun Reddy

SOURCESSOURCES

INSCRIPTIONSINSCRIPTIONS

LITERARY DOCUMENTSLITERARY DOCUMENTS

COINSCOINS

ARCHITECTUREARCHITECTURE

Sultan-Allahudeen-GherzaiSultan-Allahudeen-Gherzai

YADAVA’S OF YADAVA’S OF DEVAGIRIDEVAGIRI

KAKATIYAYA’S OF KAKATIYAYA’S OF WARANGALWARANGAL

HOYASALA’S OF HOYASALA’S OF DORASAMUDRADORASAMUDRA

The OriginThe Origin

Telugu or Warrangal origin theory .Telugu or Warrangal origin theory .

Kannada origin theory .Kannada origin theory .

The Vijayanagara EmpireThe Vijayanagara Empire

The Sangama Dynasty (1336 – 1485 A. The Sangama Dynasty (1336 – 1485 A. D.)D.)

The Saluva Dynasty (1485 – 1505 A. D.)The Saluva Dynasty (1485 – 1505 A. D.)

The Tuluva Dynasty (1505 – 1567 A. D.)The Tuluva Dynasty (1505 – 1567 A. D.)

The Aravidu DynastyThe Aravidu Dynasty

The Sangama Dynasty (1336 – The Sangama Dynasty (1336 – 1485 A. D.):1485 A. D.):

Sangama was the first of the four dynasties that ruled Vijayanagara in succession. Sangama was the first of the four dynasties that ruled Vijayanagara in succession.

Harihara I (1336 – 1356 A.D.)Harihara I (1336 – 1356 A.D.)The first ruler of this dynasty was Sangama’s eldest son Harihara I (1336 – 1356 A.D.) He The first ruler of this dynasty was Sangama’s eldest son Harihara I (1336 – 1356 A.D.) He founded the new kingdom in collaboration with his four brothers. He established his control over founded the new kingdom in collaboration with his four brothers. He established his control over the valley of Tungabhadra, portions of Konkana and Malabar Coast. With the disappearance of the valley of Tungabhadra, portions of Konkana and Malabar Coast. With the disappearance of Hoysala power Harihara was able to assume the status of an independent sovereign. The grant Hoysala power Harihara was able to assume the status of an independent sovereign. The grant to Sringeri matha, in which Harihara is mentioned as ruler of the whole country between the to Sringeri matha, in which Harihara is mentioned as ruler of the whole country between the eastern and western seas, as well as the inscription of 1348 stating that Vidya Nagara was his eastern and western seas, as well as the inscription of 1348 stating that Vidya Nagara was his capital, shows his improved political status after the death of Ballala IV.Harihara set up an capital, shows his improved political status after the death of Ballala IV.Harihara set up an efficient and orderly government, ensuring the enjoyment of peace and security by his subjects. efficient and orderly government, ensuring the enjoyment of peace and security by his subjects. The appointment of his brothers as viceroys over different regions helped the centralization of The appointment of his brothers as viceroys over different regions helped the centralization of administration. administration. The establishment of the Bahamani Sultanate at Gulbarga in 1347 checked the northward The establishment of the Bahamani Sultanate at Gulbarga in 1347 checked the northward expansion of Vijayanagara Kingdom. expansion of Vijayanagara Kingdom.

Bukka I, (1356 – 1377 A.D.)Bukka I, (1356 – 1377 A.D.)Harihara I was succeeded by Bukka I, (1356 – 1377 A.D.) the most distinguished among the Harihara I was succeeded by Bukka I, (1356 – 1377 A.D.) the most distinguished among the Panchasangamas. He set up upon himself the task of destroying the hostile elements so that he Panchasangamas. He set up upon himself the task of destroying the hostile elements so that he could consolidate and strengthen the new state. The Shambuvaraya Kingdom of Arcot region could consolidate and strengthen the new state. The Shambuvaraya Kingdom of Arcot region was conquered and the Reddis of Kondavidu was subdued. Kumara Kampana, the son of Bukka, was conquered and the Reddis of Kondavidu was subdued. Kumara Kampana, the son of Bukka, destroyed the Sultanate of Madhura in 1371 and the entire peninsula to the south of destroyed the Sultanate of Madhura in 1371 and the entire peninsula to the south of Tungabhadra was brought under the sway of Vijayanagara. Tungabhadra was brought under the sway of Vijayanagara. Bukka had to fight with the Bahamani Sultans twice, once during the period of Muhammad I and Bukka had to fight with the Bahamani Sultans twice, once during the period of Muhammad I and another at the time of Mujahid. Goa was captured during Bukka’s reign and the rulers of Malabar another at the time of Mujahid. Goa was captured during Bukka’s reign and the rulers of Malabar and Ceylon paid tribute to him. and Ceylon paid tribute to him.

RAICHUR FORTRAICHUR FORT

Mudgal fortMudgal fort

It is admirable that in spite of grave political challenges and It is admirable that in spite of grave political challenges and ceaseless wars, Bukka was able to pay attention to the work of ceaseless wars, Bukka was able to pay attention to the work of reconstruction and rehabilitation. Under his direction the city of reconstruction and rehabilitation. Under his direction the city of Vijayanagara was enlarged and strengthened. In 1368 he heard a Vijayanagara was enlarged and strengthened. In 1368 he heard a complaint of Jains against the Vaishnavas and reconciled the two complaint of Jains against the Vaishnavas and reconciled the two sects. He is said to have sent a mission to the Emperor of China. sects. He is said to have sent a mission to the Emperor of China.

Harihara II (1377 – 1404 A.D.) Harihara II (1377 – 1404 A.D.) extended his dominions in Konkana beyond Goa to Chaul. His son extended his dominions in Konkana beyond Goa to Chaul. His son Virupaksha quelled the wide spread rebellion in the Tamil region. Virupaksha quelled the wide spread rebellion in the Tamil region. In Andhra Harihara II was able to defeat the Reddis of Kondavidu In Andhra Harihara II was able to defeat the Reddis of Kondavidu and the Velamas of Rajakonda, thereby making himself the master and the Velamas of Rajakonda, thereby making himself the master of the peninsula to the south of the river Krishna.of the peninsula to the south of the river Krishna.

On the death of Harihara II the succession to the throne was On the death of Harihara II the succession to the throne was disputed. disputed. Virupaksha IVirupaksha I ruled for only a few months and was ruled for only a few months and was followed by followed by Bukka II Bukka II (1404 – 1406 A.D.) Finally (1404 – 1406 A.D.) Finally Devaraya I Devaraya I (1406 – (1406 – 1422) came to the throne. He had to fight against the Reddis of 1422) came to the throne. He had to fight against the Reddis of Kondavidu, Velamas of Rajakonda and the Bahamani Sultan of Kondavidu, Velamas of Rajakonda and the Bahamani Sultan of Gulbarga. Gulbarga. Amidst these difficulties Devaraya I proved himself capable of Amidst these difficulties Devaraya I proved himself capable of retaining his control over the vast territories inherited by him. retaining his control over the vast territories inherited by him. Devaraya I was followed by his sons Devaraya I was followed by his sons Ramachandra (1422)Ramachandra (1422) and and Vira Vijaya (1422 - 24) Vira Vijaya (1422 - 24) whose rule was not eventful.whose rule was not eventful.

Devaraya II (1424 – 1446Devaraya II (1424 – 1446Devaraya II (1424 – 1446) repulsed the intrusion of Gajapati Devaraya II (1424 – 1446) repulsed the intrusion of Gajapati Kapilesvara and restored the Reddi Kingdom of Rajamahendri to its Kapilesvara and restored the Reddi Kingdom of Rajamahendri to its former position. When Ahmad Shah I of Bahamani invaded former position. When Ahmad Shah I of Bahamani invaded Vijayanagar he was driven out. Perhaps it was the danger from Vijayanagar he was driven out. Perhaps it was the danger from Vijayanagar that forced the Bahamani ruler to shift his capital to Vijayanagar that forced the Bahamani ruler to shift his capital to Bidar even when the war was in progress. Devaraya II had to fight Bidar even when the war was in progress. Devaraya II had to fight two wars against Ala – Ud – Din. Both the wars were confined to the two wars against Ala – Ud – Din. Both the wars were confined to the Krishna – Tungabhadra and centered round the forts of Mudgal and Krishna – Tungabhadra and centered round the forts of Mudgal and Raichur. Raichur. A naval expedition under the command of Lakkanna was dispatched A naval expedition under the command of Lakkanna was dispatched against Ceylon and King of that island was forced to pay tribute. against Ceylon and King of that island was forced to pay tribute. During the regime of Devaraya II the Sangama dynasty reached the During the regime of Devaraya II the Sangama dynasty reached the highest watermarks of its glory. Although he was continuously at war highest watermarks of its glory. Although he was continuously at war with the enemies, he found time to patronize men of letters in with the enemies, he found time to patronize men of letters in Sanskrit and vernaculars. He promoted fine arts and adorned his Sanskrit and vernaculars. He promoted fine arts and adorned his capital with new temples. capital with new temples.

Mallikarjuna (1446-1465) Mallikarjuna (1446-1465) was a weak ruler and during his reign the was a weak ruler and during his reign the Gajapatis captured Rajamahendri, Udayagiri and Chandragiri. The Gajapatis captured Rajamahendri, Udayagiri and Chandragiri. The Bahamanis came very near the capital in 1450. These reverses Bahamanis came very near the capital in 1450. These reverses caused the decline in the fortunes of the Sangama dynasty. Taking caused the decline in the fortunes of the Sangama dynasty. Taking advantage of troubled condition in the empire, Virupaksha, the advantage of troubled condition in the empire, Virupaksha, the cousin of Mallikarjuna usurped the throne. cousin of Mallikarjuna usurped the throne. Virupaksha II (1465 – 85) Virupaksha II (1465 – 85) was a weak and unworthy sovereign. He was a weak and unworthy sovereign. He precipitated the disruption of the empire, which was undermined by precipitated the disruption of the empire, which was undermined by the insubordination of the nobles and officers of the state on the one the insubordination of the nobles and officers of the state on the one side and by the in roads of external enemies on the other. Sultan side and by the in roads of external enemies on the other. Sultan Muhammad Shah III sent his Prime Minister Mahamud Gawan to Muhammad Shah III sent his Prime Minister Mahamud Gawan to conquer the whole of the Konkana coast including Goa, Chaul and conquer the whole of the Konkana coast including Goa, Chaul and Dabul. The rule of Virupaksha became unpopular and roused the Dabul. The rule of Virupaksha became unpopular and roused the whole empire to indignation and rebellion. The King was killed in whole empire to indignation and rebellion. The King was killed in 1485 by his own son. The total disruption was averted by Saluva 1485 by his own son. The total disruption was averted by Saluva Narasimha, an able general who ended the rule of the Sangama Narasimha, an able general who ended the rule of the Sangama dynasty. dynasty.

The Saluva Dynasty (1485 – 1505 The Saluva Dynasty (1485 – 1505 A. D.)A. D.)

Saluva Narasimha (1485 – 1491),Saluva Narasimha (1485 – 1491), the saviour of the saviour of Vijayanagara, had begun his career as the Mahamandaleshwara of Chandragiri in Vijayanagara, had begun his career as the Mahamandaleshwara of Chandragiri in about 1452, in the reign of Mallikarjuna. After the death of Mallikarjuna, Narasimha about 1452, in the reign of Mallikarjuna. After the death of Mallikarjuna, Narasimha tried to consolidate his power by conquering Masulipatana, Kondavidu and Udayagiri. tried to consolidate his power by conquering Masulipatana, Kondavidu and Udayagiri. In 1485 he became the first ruler of Saluva Dynasty, with the support of the governors In 1485 he became the first ruler of Saluva Dynasty, with the support of the governors of the empire. of the empire. During the short span of six years Saluva Narasimha tried to restore the empire to its During the short span of six years Saluva Narasimha tried to restore the empire to its past glory; but his success was not complete. Gajapati Kapilendra re – conquered past glory; but his success was not complete. Gajapati Kapilendra re – conquered Udayagiri in 1491. The Chiefs of Ummattur and Srirangapatna remained unsubdued. Udayagiri in 1491. The Chiefs of Ummattur and Srirangapatna remained unsubdued. However, Narasimha improved the condition of cavalry, transformed the peace – However, Narasimha improved the condition of cavalry, transformed the peace – loving farmers of Vijayanagara into a nation of warriors, infused fresh vigour into the loving farmers of Vijayanagara into a nation of warriors, infused fresh vigour into the body politic and rescued the state from destruction. body politic and rescued the state from destruction. At the time of Narasimha’s death his two sons were too young too rule. Therefore, he At the time of Narasimha’s death his two sons were too young too rule. Therefore, he entrusted the Kingdom to the care of his trusted general and minister Tuluva Narasa entrusted the Kingdom to the care of his trusted general and minister Tuluva Narasa Nayaka. Prince Timma was murdered by a minister and Saluva Narasimha II was Nayaka. Prince Timma was murdered by a minister and Saluva Narasimha II was crowned by Narasa Nayaka. When the new King turned hostile to Narasa, he was crowned by Narasa Nayaka. When the new King turned hostile to Narasa, he was removed to Penugonda where he remained in confinement. Narasa Nayaka now removed to Penugonda where he remained in confinement. Narasa Nayaka now ruled Vijayanagara like a sovereign. ruled Vijayanagara like a sovereign.

Narasa Nayaka Narasa Nayaka restored peace and retained the boundaries of the empire. He restored peace and retained the boundaries of the empire. He suppressed many rebellions and pushed the invasion of the Gajapatis back. When suppressed many rebellions and pushed the invasion of the Gajapatis back. When Narasa Nayaka dies in 1503, his son Vira Narasimha succeeded him. In 1505 Saluva Narasa Nayaka dies in 1503, his son Vira Narasimha succeeded him. In 1505 Saluva Narasimha II was murdered and his dynasty came to an end.Narasimha II was murdered and his dynasty came to an end.

The Tuluva Dynasty (1505 – 1567 The Tuluva Dynasty (1505 – 1567 A. D.)A. D.)

Vira Narasimha (1505 – 1509 A. D.) Vira Narasimha (1505 – 1509 A. D.) became the founder of the Tuluva Dynasty when became the founder of the Tuluva Dynasty when he ascended the Vijayanagara throne after the he ascended the Vijayanagara throne after the assassination of Saluva Narasimha II. He had to assassination of Saluva Narasimha II. He had to counteract the incursions of Yusuf Adil Khan who counteract the incursions of Yusuf Adil Khan who tried to conquer Adoni Karnul. He was defeated tried to conquer Adoni Karnul. He was defeated by Aravidu Ramaraja and Timma, the able by Aravidu Ramaraja and Timma, the able generals of Narasimha. Vira Narasimha generals of Narasimha. Vira Narasimha extended the hand of friendship to Portuguese, extended the hand of friendship to Portuguese, increased the strength of the army and attended increased the strength of the army and attended to the welfare of the peasants and agriculturists. to the welfare of the peasants and agriculturists. He was succeeded by his step – brother He was succeeded by his step – brother Krishnadevaraya.Krishnadevaraya.

As a Warrior and General:As a Warrior and General: Krishnadevaraya was always successful in the wars that he waged almost throughout Krishnadevaraya was always successful in the wars that he waged almost throughout his reign. He became famous both as a warrior and general. He firmly believed that his reign. He became famous both as a warrior and general. He firmly believed that the proper place of a monarch on the battlefield was at the head of his forces. the proper place of a monarch on the battlefield was at the head of his forces. Therefore, he used to lead his armies personally. Therefore, he used to lead his armies personally. As a general, Krishnadevaraya knew how to win glorious victories under the most As a general, Krishnadevaraya knew how to win glorious victories under the most difficult and discouraging circumstances. The triumphant forces of Vijayanagara difficult and discouraging circumstances. The triumphant forces of Vijayanagara entered even the capitals of his enemies and planted the boar standard on the entered even the capitals of his enemies and planted the boar standard on the battlements of Cuttack, Bidar, Gulbarga and Bijapur. The uniform success of the Raya battlements of Cuttack, Bidar, Gulbarga and Bijapur. The uniform success of the Raya was due to his tremendous capacity for organisation. was due to his tremendous capacity for organisation. ““He showed amazing resourcefulness in the overcoming obstacles besetting his path. He showed amazing resourcefulness in the overcoming obstacles besetting his path. He smashed rocks and boulders for making a road for his soldiers to reach the fort of He smashed rocks and boulders for making a road for his soldiers to reach the fort of Udayagiri, set up movable wooden platforms around Kondavidu to enable his men to Udayagiri, set up movable wooden platforms around Kondavidu to enable his men to fight on an equal footing with garrison defending the fort and put to the sword his own fight on an equal footing with garrison defending the fort and put to the sword his own soldiers who turned their backs on the enemy at Raichur and converted a disaster soldiers who turned their backs on the enemy at Raichur and converted a disaster into a brilliant victory”.into a brilliant victory”.According to Dr. N. Venkataramanayya, “Krishnadevaraya was accustomed, after the According to Dr. N. Venkataramanayya, “Krishnadevaraya was accustomed, after the conclusion of every battle, to go to the battlefield, looking for the wounded; he would conclusion of every battle, to go to the battlefield, looking for the wounded; he would pick them up and make arrangements for their recovery. Those that specially pick them up and make arrangements for their recovery. Those that specially distinguished themselves in the fight were placed directly under his supervision so distinguished themselves in the fight were placed directly under his supervision so that he might bestow particular attention on them and help them regain their health as that he might bestow particular attention on them and help them regain their health as quickly as possible”. quickly as possible”. As a result of this kind and friendly treatment the military officers and soldiers were As a result of this kind and friendly treatment the military officers and soldiers were prepared to throw themselves into the jaws of death in executing his commands”. prepared to throw themselves into the jaws of death in executing his commands”.

As an Administrator:As an Administrator: Sewe I remarks that Krishnadevaraya was not only a monarch de – jure, but Sewe I remarks that Krishnadevaraya was not only a monarch de – jure, but he was also a de – facto sovereign with extensive powers and strong he was also a de – facto sovereign with extensive powers and strong personal influence. With the active co – operation of Saluva Thimmarasa he personal influence. With the active co – operation of Saluva Thimmarasa he administered the Kingdom well, maintained peace in the land and increased administered the Kingdom well, maintained peace in the land and increased the prosperity of the people. the prosperity of the people. The administration of the empire was carried on along the lines indicated in The administration of the empire was carried on along the lines indicated in his Amuktamalyada. He was the opinion that the King should always rule his Amuktamalyada. He was the opinion that the King should always rule with an eye towards dharma. His concern for the welfare of the people is with an eye towards dharma. His concern for the welfare of the people is amply proved by his extensive annual tours all over the empire, during amply proved by his extensive annual tours all over the empire, during which he studied everything personally and tried to redress the grievances which he studied everything personally and tried to redress the grievances of the people and to punish the evil doers. of the people and to punish the evil doers. The Portuguese Chronicler Domingo Paes praises Krishnadevaraya as, “the The Portuguese Chronicler Domingo Paes praises Krishnadevaraya as, “the most feared and perfect King… a great ruler and a man of much justice”. most feared and perfect King… a great ruler and a man of much justice”. Though a staunch follower of Vaishnavism he showed respect all sects and Though a staunch follower of Vaishnavism he showed respect all sects and petty religious prejudices never influenced him either in granting gifts or in petty religious prejudices never influenced him either in granting gifts or in his choice of companions and officers. According to Barbosa, “The King his choice of companions and officers. According to Barbosa, “The King allows such freedom that every man may come and go live according to his allows such freedom that every man may come and go live according to his own creed, without suffering any annoyance”. own creed, without suffering any annoyance”.

As patron of Arts and Letters:As patron of Arts and Letters:The reign of Krishnadevaraya was also remarkable for the encouragement and The reign of Krishnadevaraya was also remarkable for the encouragement and development of arts and letters. He constructed the famous Vittalaswami and Hazara development of arts and letters. He constructed the famous Vittalaswami and Hazara Ramaswamy temples. A gopuram was added to the Virupaksha temple on the Ramaswamy temples. A gopuram was added to the Virupaksha temple on the occasion of his coronation. He restored many shrines throughout South India. occasion of his coronation. He restored many shrines throughout South India. A number of towns, dams and public buildings were also constructed. Many festivals A number of towns, dams and public buildings were also constructed. Many festivals and ceremonies were held during the period of Krishnadevaraya who encouraged and ceremonies were held during the period of Krishnadevaraya who encouraged many arts like sculpture, painting, dancing and music.many arts like sculpture, painting, dancing and music.The Raya was known as Andhra Bhoja and true to his name; he took a keen interest The Raya was known as Andhra Bhoja and true to his name; he took a keen interest in literary activities. Being himself a great Sanskrit scholar he wrote Madalasa in literary activities. Being himself a great Sanskrit scholar he wrote Madalasa Charita, Jambavati Parinaya and Rasamanjari. Amuktamalyada was his masterpiece Charita, Jambavati Parinaya and Rasamanjari. Amuktamalyada was his masterpiece in Telugu. in Telugu. Eight poets called the Ashta Diggajas adorned the court of Krishnadevaraya. Eight poets called the Ashta Diggajas adorned the court of Krishnadevaraya. According to tradition these poets were Allasani Peddanna, Nandi Timmanna, According to tradition these poets were Allasani Peddanna, Nandi Timmanna, Madayyagari Mallanna, Pingali Sooranna, Ayyalaraju Ramabhadra, Ramaraja Madayyagari Mallanna, Pingali Sooranna, Ayyalaraju Ramabhadra, Ramaraja Bhooshana, Tenali Ramakrishna and Dhoorjati. Bhooshana, Tenali Ramakrishna and Dhoorjati. Besides, many other Sanskrit, Telugu and Kannada poets enjoyed the patronage of Besides, many other Sanskrit, Telugu and Kannada poets enjoyed the patronage of the emperor. the emperor. ““Skilled and successful as a general, courageous and chivalrous as a soldier, Skilled and successful as a general, courageous and chivalrous as a soldier, benevolent and constructive as an administrator, Zealous and tolerant as a religious benevolent and constructive as an administrator, Zealous and tolerant as a religious man, elegant and profound as author, refined and critical as a lover of art, man, elegant and profound as author, refined and critical as a lover of art, Krishnadevaraya has few parallels”. Krishnadevaraya has few parallels”.

Successors of Krishnadevaraya:Successors of Krishnadevaraya:

Krishnadevaraya was succeeded by his step – brother Achyutha Raya (1529 – 1542 Krishnadevaraya was succeeded by his step – brother Achyutha Raya (1529 – 1542 A. D.) who had to face internal disturbances and external aggressions. A. D.) who had to face internal disturbances and external aggressions. In his wars with the Gajapati King and the Sultan of Golkanda, Achyutha was In his wars with the Gajapati King and the Sultan of Golkanda, Achyutha was successful. But he failed to offer effective resistance to the advancing Sultan of successful. But he failed to offer effective resistance to the advancing Sultan of Bijapur as a result of which he lost the forts of Raichur and Mudgal. However, he was Bijapur as a result of which he lost the forts of Raichur and Mudgal. However, he was able to quell the rebellions in the Kanchi area, Kerala and Ummattur. able to quell the rebellions in the Kanchi area, Kerala and Ummattur. After the death of Achyutha Raya in 1542 the succession became disputed. Aravidu After the death of Achyutha Raya in 1542 the succession became disputed. Aravidu Ramaraya, (popularly known as Aliya Ramaraya) the son – in – law of Ramaraya, (popularly known as Aliya Ramaraya) the son – in – law of Krishnadevaraya showed his warlike qualities in ensuring Sadashiva’s succession Krishnadevaraya showed his warlike qualities in ensuring Sadashiva’s succession and thereby his own ascendancy. From 1542 to 1550 he functioned as Regent. and thereby his own ascendancy. From 1542 to 1550 he functioned as Regent. But when Sadashiva came of age and tried to assert himself, Ramaraya imprisoned But when Sadashiva came of age and tried to assert himself, Ramaraya imprisoned him and assuming all powers of the sovereign ruled the empire for next fifteen years him and assuming all powers of the sovereign ruled the empire for next fifteen years (1551 – 1565) as its unquestioned master. He appointed his brothers, Tirumala and (1551 – 1565) as its unquestioned master. He appointed his brothers, Tirumala and Venkatadri as minister and the commander of the army respectively. Venkatadri as minister and the commander of the army respectively. Ramaraya strengthened his hands by removing from office many hereditary loyal Ramaraya strengthened his hands by removing from office many hereditary loyal servants and appointing his own men in their place. He also admitted many Muslims servants and appointing his own men in their place. He also admitted many Muslims into his army, and placed them in responsible offices. He was fond of availing himself into his army, and placed them in responsible offices. He was fond of availing himself of every opportunity to interfere in the relations between the Muslim states of Deccan of every opportunity to interfere in the relations between the Muslim states of Deccan and playing them off one against the other, hoping to keep them weak and to and playing them off one against the other, hoping to keep them weak and to increase his own power. increase his own power. In the beginning Ramaraya joined with Ahmadnagar, Bidar and Golkanda and fought In the beginning Ramaraya joined with Ahmadnagar, Bidar and Golkanda and fought with Bijapur. But after 1558 he changed sides and joining Bijapur attacked the other with Bijapur. But after 1558 he changed sides and joining Bijapur attacked the other powers.powers.

The Battle of Talikota (1565):The Battle of Talikota (1565):

The provocative doings of Aliya Ramaraya led to the organization of The provocative doings of Aliya Ramaraya led to the organization of confederacy of the Sultans of Deccan for the overthrow of confederacy of the Sultans of Deccan for the overthrow of Vijayanagara, towards the close of 1564. Of the five Muslim states, Vijayanagara, towards the close of 1564. Of the five Muslim states, Berar alone stood aloof. Hussain Nizam Shah I of Ahmadnagar Berar alone stood aloof. Hussain Nizam Shah I of Ahmadnagar became the leader of the coalition and played the most conspicuous became the leader of the coalition and played the most conspicuous role in the subsequent battle. role in the subsequent battle. The battle of Talikota (also known as Battle of Rakkasatangadi) was The battle of Talikota (also known as Battle of Rakkasatangadi) was fought in January 1565. Ramaraya and his two brothers Tirumala fought in January 1565. Ramaraya and his two brothers Tirumala and Venkatadri took part in it. In spite of his old age, Ramaraya and Venkatadri took part in it. In spite of his old age, Ramaraya commanded the centre facing the Ahmadnagar forces. The right commanded the centre facing the Ahmadnagar forces. The right wing facing the Golkanda and Bidar forces was led by Venkatadri wing facing the Golkanda and Bidar forces was led by Venkatadri whereas the left wing confronting the Bijapur forces was led by whereas the left wing confronting the Bijapur forces was led by Tirumala. Tirumala. In the beginning it appeared as if Vijayanagara was going to win. In the beginning it appeared as if Vijayanagara was going to win. But a sudden attack from the enemy side led to the imprisonment But a sudden attack from the enemy side led to the imprisonment and killing of Ramaraya. Tirumala withdrew to Vijayanagara, from and killing of Ramaraya. Tirumala withdrew to Vijayanagara, from where he fled to Penugonda with vast treasures and emperor where he fled to Penugonda with vast treasures and emperor Sadashivaraya Sadashivaraya

AHAMAD SHAHI, AHAMAD NAGAR

ADIL SHAHI, BIJAPUR

BARID SHAHI, BIDAR

QUTUB SHAHI, GOLCONDA

The Aravidu DynastyThe Aravidu Dynasty. Tirumala Raya, the sole surviving commander, left Vijayanagara for . Tirumala Raya, the sole surviving commander, left Vijayanagara for Penukonda with vast amounts of treasure on the back of 550 elephants.Penukonda with vast amounts of treasure on the back of 550 elephants.The empire went into a slow decline regionally, although trade with the The empire went into a slow decline regionally, although trade with the Portuguese continued, and the British were given a land grant for the Portuguese continued, and the British were given a land grant for the establishment of Madras.Tirumala Deva Raya was succeeded by his son establishment of Madras.Tirumala Deva Raya was succeeded by his son Sriranga I later followed by Venkata II who made Chandragiri his capital, Sriranga I later followed by Venkata II who made Chandragiri his capital, repulsed the invasion of the Bahmani Sultanate and saved Penukonda from repulsed the invasion of the Bahmani Sultanate and saved Penukonda from being captured. His successor, Ramadeva, took power and ruled till 1632 being captured. His successor, Ramadeva, took power and ruled till 1632 after whose death, Venkata III became king and ruled for about ten years after whose death, Venkata III became king and ruled for about ten years after which Vellore was made the capital. The empire was finally conquered after which Vellore was made the capital. The empire was finally conquered by the Sultanates of Bijapur and Golkonda. The largest feudatories of the by the Sultanates of Bijapur and Golkonda. The largest feudatories of the Vijayanagar empire — the Mysore Kingdom, Keladi Nayaka, Nayaks of Vijayanagar empire — the Mysore Kingdom, Keladi Nayaka, Nayaks of Madurai, Nayaks of Tanjore, Nayakas of Chitradurga and Nayak Kingdom of Madurai, Nayaks of Tanjore, Nayakas of Chitradurga and Nayak Kingdom of Gingee — declared independence and went on to have a significant impact Gingee — declared independence and went on to have a significant impact on the history of South India in the comingon the history of South India in the coming

chandragiri

CULTURAL CONTRIBUTIONCULTURAL CONTRIBUTION

RELIGIONRELIGION

LITERATURELITERATURE

ART & ARCHITECTUREART & ARCHITECTURE

MONUMENTS IN HAMPIMONUMENTS IN HAMPI

SECULAR MONUMENTS.SECULAR MONUMENTS.

NON- SECULAR MONUMENTSNON- SECULAR MONUMENTS

Vijayanagara

A - Elephant Stables (1), B - Great Platform (Mahanavami-dibba) (8) C - Great Tank (2), Stepped Tank (3), D - Hazara Rama Temple (Ramachandra) (8), E - Hundred-Columned Hall, (2), F - Krishna Temple (6), G - Linga Shrine (1), Narasimha Monolith (2), H - Lotus Mahal (5), J - Queen's Bath (2), K - River Walk (8), M - Virupaksha Temple (8), Hemakuta Hill (5), N - Vitthala Temple (19), and - other features (4)

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1. Elephant Stables

Elephant StablesElephant Stables

• The elephant The elephant stables are stables are located just to located just to the east of the the east of the Lotus Mahal Lotus Mahal complex. complex. Beneath each Beneath each dome is a single dome is a single large chamber large chamber with a painted with a painted ceiling. The ceiling. The building is left-building is left-right symmetric right symmetric about its central about its central entrance, entrance, including the including the interior interior decorations. The decorations. The lawn area must lawn area must originally have originally have been a dirt-been a dirt-floored parade floored parade ground. ground.

2. Great PlatformRoyal Center

Great PlatformGreat PlatformRoyal Center, Royal Center,

• The granite platform The granite platform overlooks the royal center overlooks the royal center from its elevation in the from its elevation in the Palace Enclosure. The Palace Enclosure. The platform faces west; its south platform faces west; its south face is shown here. A face is shown here. A staircase ascends to the right; staircase ascends to the right; the main staircases is on the the main staircases is on the west face. The platform was west face. The platform was constructed in stages from constructed in stages from the 14th to the 16th centuries. the 14th to the 16th centuries. It consists of three stacked It consists of three stacked squares, whose dimensions squares, whose dimensions are respectively 38m (127ft), are respectively 38m (127ft), 28m (93ft), and 22m (73ft) on 28m (93ft), and 22m (73ft) on a side. The height of the a side. The height of the platform is about 10m (30ft). platform is about 10m (30ft).

• The platform is traditionally The platform is traditionally identified as the identified as the Mahanavami-dibbaMahanavami-dibba (House (House of Victory) described by 16th-of Victory) described by 16th-century Portuguese visitors. century Portuguese visitors. According to these observers, According to these observers, king Krishnadevaraya would king Krishnadevaraya would ascend the platform during ascend the platform during the the MahanavamiMahanavami festival, festival, where he would perform where he would perform worship and view the parades worship and view the parades of animals, musicians and of animals, musicians and dancers, mock battles, and dancers, mock battles, and fireworks below. fireworks below.

• The two lower courses, which The two lower courses, which were built during the first were built during the first phase of construction, are phase of construction, are inscribed in parallel bands inscribed in parallel bands with scenes of courtly life, with scenes of courtly life, including hunting scenes and including hunting scenes and processions of animals, processions of animals, soldiers, musicians, and soldiers, musicians, and dancers. dancers.

Lower FriezeLower FriezeGreat Platform,Great Platform,

• The west The west end of the end of the south face. south face. From From bottom to bottom to top, we top, we see: 1) the see: 1) the king king reviews a reviews a military military procession; procession; 2) a hunting 2) a hunting scene; scene;

3) 3) horsemen; horsemen;

4) camels, 4) camels, musicians, musicians, and and dancers; dancers; and and

5) 5) elephants elephants

South StaircaseSouth StaircaseGreat Platform, Great Platform,

• The The decoration decoration continues continues the scheme the scheme seen on the seen on the previous previous page, with page, with bands (from bands (from bottom to bottom to top) of top) of hunters, hunters, horsemen, horsemen, camels, and camels, and elephants elephants

BalustradeBalustradeGreat PlatformGreat Platform

• On the second On the second tier of the south tier of the south wall, an wall, an elephant and elephant and lion anchor lion anchor bands of bands of repetitive repetitive smaller smaller carvings. To carvings. To the right of the the right of the lion is a group lion is a group of three figures of three figures which "share" which "share" several arms several arms and legs and legs between them. between them. The join The join between blocks between blocks looks very looks very artificial; the artificial; the restoration restoration here may be here may be incorrect. incorrect.

East StaircaseEast StaircaseGreat PlatformGreat Platform

• At some At some point the point the central central east east entrance entrance was was closed closed off, then off, then these these two two staircasestaircases were s were built, one built, one to either to either side. side. This This appears appears to be the to be the "back "back door" of door" of the the platform platform

West FaceWest FaceGreat PlatformGreat Platform

• A great two-A great two-leveled leveled staircase staircase gives gives access to access to the platform the platform on the west on the west face; clearly face; clearly this was the this was the "main "main entrance" for entrance" for ceremonial ceremonial purposes. purposes. The schist The schist facing is facing is 16th century 16th century and belongs and belongs to the last to the last phase of phase of construction. construction.

DancersDancersGreat PlatformGreat Platform

• The dancers in The dancers in this relief adopt this relief adopt a typically a typically wide-legged wide-legged stance. The stance. The center dancer, center dancer, tapping a tapping a drum, is drum, is thought to be a thought to be a Muslim. These Muslim. These figures, with figures, with beards and beards and turbans or turbans or conical hats, conical hats, appear in appear in several places several places on the platform on the platform (example), (example), reflecting an reflecting an association association between Hindu between Hindu and Muslim and Muslim cultures (see: cultures (see: Lotus Mahal). Lotus Mahal).

South ProspectSouth ProspectGreat PlatformGreat Platform

• Looking Looking to the to the south south from the from the Great Great Platform, Platform, we see: we see: an an aqueducaqueduct, the t, the Stepped Stepped Tank, Tank, and the and the Great Great Tank. Tank.

Great TankGreat TankRoyal Center,Royal Center,

• The large tank The large tank measures 67m x measures 67m x 22m (223ft x 73ft), 22m (223ft x 73ft), about 2/3 the about 2/3 the length of an length of an American football American football field. Water was field. Water was brought in by brought in by aqueduct for aqueduct for special events special events (such as boat (such as boat fights, perhaps), fights, perhaps), then drained out then drained out afterwards. The afterwards. The view faces west; view faces west; a small group of a small group of people on the people on the north side north side provides a sense provides a sense of scale. of scale.

Stepped TankStepped TankRoyal CenterRoyal Center

• This large and This large and geometrically geometrically thrilling tank, thrilling tank, lined in green lined in green diorite, has diorite, has never required never required restoration. It restoration. It has no drain, has no drain, and is fed by and is fed by an aqueduct an aqueduct (top of photo; a (top of photo; a young man, young man, sitting in the sitting in the aqueduct's aqueduct's shadow, gives shadow, gives a sense of the a sense of the tank's size.) tank's size.) Markings on Markings on the blocks (not the blocks (not shown) shown) indicate that indicate that they were cut they were cut elsewhere, elsewhere, before being before being moved to the moved to the site and site and assembled assembled here. here.

West EndWest EndLarge TankLarge Tank

• The west end The west end of the tank is of the tank is overlooked by overlooked by a platform a platform shrine with shrine with four standing four standing columns and columns and pyramidal pyramidal roof. Below, roof. Below, four carved four carved columns line columns line the side of the the side of the tank (a similar tank (a similar group of in-group of in-line columns line columns decorates decorates each side of each side of the tank). To the tank). To the lower right, the lower right, a staircase a staircase descends into descends into the tank the tank

Hundred-Columned Hundred-Columned HallHall

• This structure, which measures This structure, which measures 40m (130ft) on a side, is often 40m (130ft) on a side, is often claimed as an "audience hall." claimed as an "audience hall." However, its floorplan, a square However, its floorplan, a square 10-column by 10-column grid 10-column by 10-column grid without central open space, has without central open space, has led some to question this use. led some to question this use. The footings of the original The footings of the original wooden columns are still visible wooden columns are still visible in the floor (detail). The columns in the floor (detail). The columns were 80 - 85 cm (31.5 - 33.5 were 80 - 85 cm (31.5 - 33.5 inches) on a side. Metal clamps, inches) on a side. Metal clamps, inserted in the socket holes, inserted in the socket holes, fastened the columns to the fastened the columns to the floor. The columns themselves floor. The columns themselves were burnt when the city was were burnt when the city was overrun in 1565. overrun in 1565.

• The concrete floor is a modern The concrete floor is a modern covering; the original floor was covering; the original floor was plastered. To the south in this plastered. To the south in this photo is a large staircase (next photo is a large staircase (next page), which led up to the page), which led up to the second story of the building. In second story of the building. In this, the "secular" part of the this, the "secular" part of the Royal Center, one must imagine Royal Center, one must imagine a great many vanished wooden a great many vanished wooden superstructures, for palaces and superstructures, for palaces and other civil buildings – unlike the other civil buildings – unlike the more permanent and costly more permanent and costly religious structures – were built religious structures – were built of wood, so now only their stone of wood, so now only their stone foundations are left. This made foundations are left. This made sense in an era when kings sense in an era when kings were peripatetic, moving were peripatetic, moving themselves and their capitals themselves and their capitals from place to place as invasion from place to place as invasion and opportunity dictated. and opportunity dictated.

Royal Center,

StaircaseStaircaseHundred-Hundred-

Columned HallColumned Hall

• This grand staircase, This grand staircase, mentioned on the mentioned on the previous page, previous page, originally led up to a originally led up to a second story of the second story of the hall. hall.

Enclosure WallEnclosure Wall("Zenana Enclosure"), ("Zenana Enclosure"),

VijayanagaraVijayanagara

• Enclosure XIV is popularly known as the Enclosure XIV is popularly known as the Zenana (harem) enclosure, but there is no Zenana (harem) enclosure, but there is no evidence for such an association. The wall evidence for such an association. The wall is built like a sandwich: it has an inner and is built like a sandwich: it has an inner and an outer face of smoothed and fitted stone an outer face of smoothed and fitted stone blocks, with an earth and rubble fill blocks, with an earth and rubble fill between them. The outer face is shown between them. The outer face is shown here. The wall was built without mortar, here. The wall was built without mortar, and originally covered with plaster. and originally covered with plaster.

• This is a rather sloppy wall. Perhaps it was This is a rather sloppy wall. Perhaps it was built in haste. The joins between blocks built in haste. The joins between blocks are irregular. Some gaps were filled in with are irregular. Some gaps were filled in with small stone plugs (bottom center), while small stone plugs (bottom center), while others were left open (triangular gap, left others were left open (triangular gap, left center). Closely spaced drill holes, visible center). Closely spaced drill holes, visible on the center block and several other on the center block and several other blocks in this photo, were used to cut the blocks in this photo, were used to cut the stone but then were not smoothed out. stone but then were not smoothed out. Some of the blocks, such as the one in the Some of the blocks, such as the one in the center of the photo, were cut in half, and center of the photo, were cut in half, and then the two halves were replaced on top then the two halves were replaced on top of each other. of each other.

• The stones are larger towards the base, The stones are larger towards the base, and smaller towards the top. Smaller and smaller towards the top. Smaller blocks are easier to lift, and the builders blocks are easier to lift, and the builders might have thought that a mortarless wall might have thought that a mortarless wall built in this way would be more stable than built in this way would be more stable than if all the blocks were of comparable size. if all the blocks were of comparable size.

• Since the wall has been restored, it is not Since the wall has been restored, it is not always possible to know what is original always possible to know what is original construction and what is modern construction and what is modern rearrangement. Whatever the practicalities rearrangement. Whatever the practicalities of the wall's construction might have been, of the wall's construction might have been, its jigsaw-puzzle pattern seems just its jigsaw-puzzle pattern seems just irregular enough to be visually interesting. irregular enough to be visually interesting.

PlatformPlatformEnclosure XIV, Enclosure XIV, Vijayanagara Vijayanagara

• A wooden A wooden superstructsuperstructure was ure was erected on erected on this base, this base, which which would have would have been used been used as a as a viewing viewing platform for platform for military or military or civil civil ceremonies ceremonies

Lotus MahalLotus Mahal• This building, This building,

which has which has been popularly been popularly described as a described as a pleasure pleasure retreat for retreat for Krishna Deva Krishna Deva Raya's queen, Raya's queen, probably probably served as a served as a reception hall reception hall for the king or for the king or his military. his military.

• The Indo-The Indo-Islamic style of Islamic style of the building the building illustrates the illustrates the close close association association between Hindu between Hindu and Muslim and Muslim cultures at this cultures at this time. time.

Lotus MahalLotus Mahal

• The The building is a building is a fascinating fascinating fusion of fusion of Indian and Indian and Islamic Islamic architecturearchitecture. Its arches . Its arches are Islamic, are Islamic, but its but its platform platform and towers and towers are purely are purely Indian. Indian.

Queen's BathQueen's BathRoyal CenterRoyal Center

• The Queen's The Queen's Bath is a 15th Bath is a 15th century bathing century bathing pavilion for pavilion for members of the members of the royal household. royal household. Its balconies Its balconies and domed and domed corridors corridors surround an surround an interior tank. interior tank. The building, The building, which has been which has been heavily restored, heavily restored, shows shows numerous numerous Islamic Islamic influences, influences, including the including the projecting projecting balconies and balconies and pointed arches pointed arches seen here. seen here.

TankTankQueen's BathQueen's Bath

• A stone A stone trough trough (middle) (middle) carries carries water from water from a channel a channel outside outside into the into the tank. The tank. The "spouts" "spouts" on either on either side do side do not carry not carry water; water; they are they are bracket-bracket-like like decorationdecorations which s which end in tiny end in tiny pendant pendant lotus lotus

King's BalanceKing's BalanceRiverside pathRiverside path

• The king, The king, sitting in a sitting in a swing swing suspended suspended from the from the balance, balance, would be would be ceremonially ceremonially weighed weighed against heaps against heaps of precious of precious objects, which objects, which he would then he would then distribute as distribute as gifts. gifts.

Unfinished ColumnsUnfinished ColumnsUnfinished column

GatewayGatewayHemakuta HillHemakuta Hill

•One of several 15th century gateways, with multiple stories, on the way to the summit.

•Food Plates•This is a display of plates recovered on the site. Some have condiment dimples around the edge of the plate, much as in restaurants today.

Tank with heater•This small tank apparently has a heater associated with it – charcoal was found in the square pit behind the tank. What could it be – a space heater, a hot tub, a grill, a sauna? Perhaps water was simply heated over the pit and then poured into the tank .

DoorsRoyal Center, Vijayanagara •These massive, pierced stone doors (their pivots are to the front of the photo) must have been a part of a now lost building or gateway.

Underground ChamberRoyal Center, Vijayanagara •Just south of the Hundred-Columned Hall is the Underground Chamber, probably a treasury and storeroom. Material for the chamber was reused from an earlier (pre-Vijayanagara period) temple. Some distracting shadows have been edited out of the floor of the chamber in this photograph.

Bazaar StreetBazaar StreetHampiHampi

• The buildings The buildings along this street, along this street, once the once the residences of residences of Vijayanagara Vijayanagara aristocrats, are aristocrats, are now occupied by now occupied by laborers and small laborers and small organizations, organizations, including a nursery including a nursery school. A pleasant school. A pleasant river walk begins at river walk begins at the bazaar, and the bazaar, and proceeds east a proceeds east a kilometer or so to kilometer or so to Vitthala temple. Vitthala temple. aristocrats, are aristocrats, are now occupied by now occupied by laborers and small laborers and small organizations, organizations, including a nursery including a nursery school. school.

• A pleasant river A pleasant river walk begins at the walk begins at the bazaar, and bazaar, and proceeds east a proceeds east a kilometer or so to kilometer or so to Vitthala temple. Vitthala temple.

Streets At Streets At Virupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

Streets At Achyutaray Temple

SISTERS MOUNTAINSISTERS MOUNTAIN

Land of the RishisLand of the RishisRiverside pathRiverside path

• This is the land This is the land of the of the rishisrishis (sages), famous (sages), famous in the in the RamayanaRamayana as as the monkey the monkey kingdom of kingdom of Sugriva and his Sugriva and his general, general, HanumanHanuman. .

Small Ganesha TempleSmall Ganesha TempleHemakuta HillHemakuta Hill

•The 15th century "Small Ganesha" temple is located at the base of Hemakuta hill, near the modern village of Hampi.

•This Ganesh is the occupant of the "Small Ganesha" temple, seen on the previous page.

GaneshaHemakuta Hill

Kadale Kalu Ganesha Means Gram seed Ganesha ! The shape of the Ganesha statue is in the form of a gram seed. It’s located at the base of the Hemakuta hill, away from the Jain temples. This is a 5 meter tall monolithic statue installed in an inner sanctum. The pillered hall infront is great with special carvings on.

3. Hajara Ramachandra Temple

Temple Entrance (right Temple Entrance (right side)side)

Ramachandra Temple, Ramachandra Temple, • Ramachandra temple, Ramachandra temple,

also called also called Hazara RamaHazara Rama ("One thousand Ramas"), ("One thousand Ramas"), was built in the 1420s was built in the 1420s (with later additions) as a (with later additions) as a royal chapel dedicated to royal chapel dedicated to the cult of Rama. The the cult of Rama. The temple is the hub of all temple is the hub of all the eastern roads that the eastern roads that lead into the royal center. lead into the royal center. Its sculptural program Its sculptural program centers on the centers on the Ramayana, with friezes Ramayana, with friezes from that epic being from that epic being carried out on the temple carried out on the temple walls. walls.

• This view shows the right-This view shows the right-hand side of the east hand side of the east (front) entrance. A few of (front) entrance. A few of the Ramayana reliefs are the Ramayana reliefs are visible on the facade. The visible on the facade. The scenes are sparsely scenes are sparsely populated, each populated, each consisting of only a few consisting of only a few figures upon a featureless figures upon a featureless background. Each scene background. Each scene occupies its own occupies its own rectangular patch of wall, rectangular patch of wall, following the narrative following the narrative sequence of the story like sequence of the story like the frames of a comic the frames of a comic strip. strip.

Interior Interior

RamachandraTempleRamachandraTemple • The black The black

columns columns are made are made of finely of finely carved carved and and polished polished basalt, basalt, and and display display various various forms of forms of Vishnu Vishnu

Court SceneCourt Scene

• From the From the temple wall. temple wall. This appears This appears to be a court to be a court scene. The scene. The king sits under king sits under a canopy a canopy beside his beside his consort, who consort, who holds a fly-holds a fly-whisk. He is whisk. He is flanked by an flanked by an attendant attendant paying paying homage on the homage on the left, and left, and another another attendant, on attendant, on the right, the right, holding two holding two hard-to-identify hard-to-identify items; perhaps items; perhaps a sword or a sword or staff in his staff in his right hand, and right hand, and a spear or a spear or banner in his banner in his

Baby KrishnaBaby KrishnaRamachandra TempleRamachandra Temple

• Among other Among other images on the images on the temple wall is this temple wall is this well-known relief of well-known relief of baby Krishnababy Krishna

Shrine ExteriorShrine ExteriorRamachandra TempleRamachandra Temple

• The brick tower of The brick tower of the shrine has the shrine has been incompletely been incompletely restored, which restored, which accounts for the accounts for the unfinished look of unfinished look of its upper roof.its upper roof.

North ShrineNorth ShrineRamachandra Temple,Ramachandra Temple,

• This smaller shrine is This smaller shrine is located north and located north and east of the main east of the main temple temple

FriezeFriezeRamachandra TempleRamachandra Temple

• From the From the north north enclosure enclosure wall (outer wall (outer face). face). From top From top to bottom: to bottom: stick-stick-fighting fighting dancers, dancers, soldiers, soldiers, and and horses. horses.

Panel of HanumanPanel of HanumanRamachandra TempleRamachandra Temple• This charming relief This charming relief

of the of the monkey monkey generalgeneral is located is located just outside the just outside the temple enclosure. temple enclosure. Contrary to Contrary to appearances, he is appearances, he is not waving goodbye not waving goodbye to the visitors. His to the visitors. His right hand is right hand is upraised in a gesture upraised in a gesture of smiting of smiting ((Architecture and Art Architecture and Art of Southern Indiaof Southern India, p. , p. 157) while his left 157) while his left hand holds an hand holds an uprooted branch. uprooted branch. The holes drilled into The holes drilled into the panel are for the the panel are for the attachment of attachment of garlands. garlands.

• The slab was cut The slab was cut from another from another location and moved location and moved here; a similar relief here; a similar relief is displayed in the is displayed in the on-site museum. on-site museum.

4. Krishna Temple

Krishna TempleKrishna TempleVijayanagaraVijayanagara

• This partly This partly collapsed collapsed temple, temple, located south located south of Hemakuta of Hemakuta Hill, was built Hill, was built to celebrate a to celebrate a military victory military victory of King of King KrishnadevaraKrishnadevaraya. ya. Monuments of Monuments of India lists a India lists a date of 1513.date of 1513.

Rabbit In The MoonRabbit In The MoonKrishna TempleKrishna Temple

• This unusual image This unusual image from the ceiling from the ceiling (underside of a (underside of a lintel) shows the lintel) shows the Moon, illustrated as Moon, illustrated as a rabbit inside a a rabbit inside a red circle, between red circle, between two two nagasnagas (snakes). Asians (snakes). Asians see a "rabbit in the see a "rabbit in the Moon," in the same Moon," in the same way that way that Europeans see a Europeans see a "man in the Moon." "man in the Moon." The meaning of the The meaning of the nagas in this nagas in this context is unclear, context is unclear, unless it might be a unless it might be a rebus of some sort rebus of some sort ((nagachandranagachandra can can be a person's be a person's name in India name in India

Pillared HallPillared HallKrishna TempleKrishna Temple

• The The decoration decoration of this of this mandapa, mandapa, with its with its detached detached colonettes, colonettes, is similar to is similar to others in others in VijayanagarVijayanagara, including a, including the better-the better-known known Vitthala Vitthala Temple Temple

Interior, Pillared Interior, Pillared HallHall

Krishna Temple,Krishna Temple,

• Looking Looking east from east from the shrine. the shrine.

Rat-headed Rat-headed YaliYali

Krishna TempleKrishna Temple

• This This unusual unusual yaliyali has the has the body of a body of a lion, but lion, but the head of the head of a rat; the a rat; the two front two front limbs are limbs are arranged in arranged in the typical the typical gnawing gnawing posture of posture of a rodent. a rodent.

Huntress with a BowHuntress with a BowKrishna TempleKrishna Temple

• The The surasundari surasundari braces her right braces her right hand on the hand on the head of an head of an attendant, as attendant, as he removes a he removes a thorn from her thorn from her heel. She also heel. She also uses her bow uses her bow to balance to balance herself. A herself. A quiver of quiver of arrows is arrows is carved in carved in shallow relief shallow relief behind her behind her back. back.

Linga ShrineLinga ShrineVijayanagaraVijayanagara

• The flooded The flooded shrine shrine houses a houses a 3m (10ft) 3m (10ft) tall linga, tall linga, which is which is partly under partly under water. The water. The quoted quoted height of height of the linga the linga includes its includes its pedestal pedestal as seen as seen here. here.

Narasimha monolithNarasimha monolithVijayanagaraVijayanagara

• The man-lion The man-lion incarnation of incarnation of Vishnu is seated Vishnu is seated beneath a serpent beneath a serpent canopy in a yoga canopy in a yoga posture. The band posture. The band around his legs around his legs helps him to hold helps him to hold the position for the position for long periods of long periods of time. time.

• This much-This much-photographed photographed statue has been statue has been extensively extensively restored (see next restored (see next page). It was page). It was commissioned in commissioned in 1528 by king 1528 by king Krishnadevaraya, Krishnadevaraya, stands 6.7m (21ft) stands 6.7m (21ft) high, and is located high, and is located just south of the just south of the Krishna temple. Krishna temple.

Narasimha restorationNarasimha restorationVijayanagaraVijayanagara

Narasimha restorationNarasimha restorationVijayanagaraVijayanagara

• Before-and-after photos show the restoration (if you look Before-and-after photos show the restoration (if you look closely, you will see that the "before" photo was printed closely, you will see that the "before" photo was printed in reverse). Of greatest importance was the in reverse). Of greatest importance was the reconstruction of the lion's mouth and other areas of his reconstruction of the lion's mouth and other areas of his face. His torso was smoothed over and refinished, and face. His torso was smoothed over and refinished, and new crossed legs, joined with a yoga band, were new crossed legs, joined with a yoga band, were created. The restorers also carved supports for the legs created. The restorers also carved supports for the legs (right and left, underneath the thighs). They generally did (right and left, underneath the thighs). They generally did not provide arms or feet, except for part of the left rear not provide arms or feet, except for part of the left rear arm and the upper part of the left foot. A figure of arm and the upper part of the left foot. A figure of Lakshmi on the god's lap was too damaged to be Lakshmi on the god's lap was too damaged to be restored. A photograph of an intermediate stage of the restored. A photograph of an intermediate stage of the restoration, including some details of costume (beaded restoration, including some details of costume (beaded necklace and cloth loop on brim of crown) which were necklace and cloth loop on brim of crown) which were later removed, is printed in Hindu Art and Architecture, later removed, is printed in Hindu Art and Architecture, p.173. p.173.

Donor shrineDonor shrineRiverside pathRiverside path

• The banks The banks of the river of the river are replete are replete with with numerous numerous small small shrines. The shrines. The 15th century 15th century carving carving apparently apparently depicts a depicts a donor donor figure, who figure, who is now is now worshiped worshiped in his own in his own right. right.

Tree shrineTree shrineRiverside pathRiverside path

• The modern The modern shrine is shrine is carved from carved from a living tree, a living tree, and and probably probably represents represents Shiva (or his Shiva (or his river-bride river-bride Pampa, if Pampa, if the figure is the figure is female) female) appearing appearing from within from within the linga. the linga.

Ranganatha TempleRanganatha TempleRiverside pathRiverside path

• This small This small temple temple along the along the path is path is dedicated dedicated to to RanganathRanganath, the , the reclining reclining form of form of Vishnu Vishnu

Unfinished GopuraUnfinished GopuraRiverside pathRiverside path

• The brick superstructure of this gopura was never completed, only the stone The brick superstructure of this gopura was never completed, only the stone base remaining base remaining

CourtyardCourtyardVirupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

• Virupaksha Virupaksha temple is an old temple is an old foundation, foundation, rebuilt in 1510 rebuilt in 1510 for the for the coronation of coronation of King King KrishnadevarayKrishnadevaraya. The tall a. The tall eastern gopura eastern gopura and other and other renovations are renovations are 19th century. 19th century.

• Virupaksha is a Virupaksha is a form of Shiva, form of Shiva, as the husband as the husband of the of the personified personified Tungabhadra Tungabhadra river; the river; the sacred sacred marriage is marriage is celebrated in celebrated in an annual an annual festival at the festival at the temple. temple.

View to the northeastView to the northeastHemakuta HillHemakuta Hill

• Seen in this Seen in this view are: a view are: a 15th century 15th century covered covered walkway walkway (photo left (photo left foreground); foreground); a 14th a 14th century, century, triple-triple-shrined shrined Shiva Shiva temple temple (photo right); (photo right); Virupaksha Virupaksha templetemple (with (with tower) in the tower) in the valley; and valley; and the hills the hills across the across the TungabhadrTungabhadra river a river

KitchenKitchenVirupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

• A line A line of of ventilatventilation ion holes holes opens opens just just below below the the roof. roof. These These allow allow for the for the escape escape of of smoke smoke from from the the kitchen kitchen fires. fires.

Column decorationColumn decorationVirupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

• The column at The column at photo left is photo left is covered top to covered top to bottom with cut bottom with cut reliefs in the reliefs in the shape of shape of miniature miniature shrines. Also shrines. Also notable is the notable is the compound compound column at photo column at photo right, which right, which consists of a consists of a square pillar square pillar backing several backing several detached detached colonettes, the colonettes, the whole resting on whole resting on a curved base. In a curved base. In the middle relief the middle relief of the square of the square pillar, a devotee pillar, a devotee worships the worships the lingalinga. .

Column Column decorationdecorationVirupaksha Virupaksha

TempleTemple

• Additional Additional examples of examples of the finely the finely executed executed columns. The columns. The near column near column bears reliefs bears reliefs of Ganesh of Ganesh (top) and a (top) and a surasundari surasundari (bottom), (bottom), with a with a sculpted yali. sculpted yali.

Panel decorationPanel decorationVirupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

• This panel bears This panel bears decoration in the decoration in the typical 15th typical 15th century century Vijayanagara style, Vijayanagara style, most notable in most notable in the "classical" the "classical" isolation of the isolation of the figures. The figures. The middle right panel middle right panel shows a Shiva shows a Shiva devotee putting devotee putting out his eye with an out his eye with an arrow as a arrow as a sacrifice to the sacrifice to the god. god.

Early ShrineEarly ShrineVirupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

This shrine is just outside the temple walls. It is quite early, probably 10th century or before. (The painted mandapa, however, is modern

Three-headed NandiThree-headed Nandi Virupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

•Shiva's mount is depicted here in an Shiva's mount is depicted here in an unusual, three-headedunusual, three-headed

Vitthala TempleVitthala Temple

CourtyardCourtyardVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

•East end of the temple complex (plan), East end of the temple complex (plan), looking west. From front to back we see a looking west. From front to back we see a square platform, the east face (rear) of a square platform, the east face (rear) of a Garuda shrine which faces the temple, and Garuda shrine which faces the temple, and the star-shaped mahamandapa (great pillared the star-shaped mahamandapa (great pillared hall, 1554) of the temple itself. hall, 1554) of the temple itself. •The 16th century temple is dedicated to The 16th century temple is dedicated to Vitthala, a form of Vishnu.Vitthala, a form of Vishnu.

Stone ChariotStone ChariotVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

•Looking northeast. The stone chariot is a Garuda shrine which faces west towards Vishnu's temple (plan). Garuda is the mount of Vishnu, and as usual the mount faces the god. The building north of the shrine is a pillared hall used for religious

Stone ChariotStone ChariotVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• South face of the Garuda shrine. The South face of the Garuda shrine. The stone chariot is drawn by a pair of stone chariot is drawn by a pair of incongruously miniaturized elephants, incongruously miniaturized elephants, which are not original; they date from the which are not original; they date from the 19th century. It is said that the wheels 19th century. It is said that the wheels were once able to turn on their axles, were once able to turn on their axles, although they are currently cemented in although they are currently cemented in place. The shrine had a pyramidal brick place. The shrine had a pyramidal brick tower, visible in early photographs, tower, visible in early photographs, which was removed at the end of the which was removed at the end of the 19th century; the elephants were also 19th century; the elephants were also added at that time. added at that time.

Kalyana MandapaKalyana MandapaVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• The Kalyana Mandapa, or "Marriage Hall" The Kalyana Mandapa, or "Marriage Hall" (plan), was used for ceremonies (plan), was used for ceremonies involving the symbolic marriage of the involving the symbolic marriage of the temple's divinity to his consort. Part of temple's divinity to his consort. Part of the temple and Garuda shrine can also the temple and Garuda shrine can also be seen, in the photo right. be seen, in the photo right.


•Restoration is visible in the form of modern, Restoration is visible in the form of modern, square-bricked pillars supporting some of square-bricked pillars supporting some of the colonettes. the colonettes.


•The Kalyana mandapa is as an open The Kalyana mandapa is as an open pavilion. Its interior, surrounded by pavilion. Its interior, surrounded by impressive columns, contains a platform in impressive columns, contains a platform in the center (very slightly raised circle, inside the center (very slightly raised circle, inside a square) for the performance of sacred a square) for the performance of sacred dances. The building in the background is dances. The building in the background is the mandapa of the main temple. the mandapa of the main temple.


• Massive pillars, decorated with soldiers Massive pillars, decorated with soldiers riding yalis, carry the large brackets and riding yalis, carry the large brackets and roof beams. This is very similar to the roof beams. This is very similar to the pillar and bracket construction inside the pillar and bracket construction inside the main temple itself. The method of main temple itself. The method of construction allowed for impressively construction allowed for impressively large roof spans. large roof spans.

GarudaGarudaKalyana Mandapa Kalyana Mandapa

Vitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• Vishnu's mount Garuda is Vishnu's mount Garuda is shown in his usual shown in his usual worshipful, flying worshipful, flying attitude. The simplicity of attitude. The simplicity of Vijayanagara relief Vijayanagara relief sculpture is in great sculpture is in great contrast to the more contrast to the more ornate style which is so ornate style which is so common in India common in India

Yali and riderYali and rider

Kalyana MandapaKalyana Mandapa

•The pincushion-like turban, worn by this rider, indicates that The pincushion-like turban, worn by this rider, indicates that he is a Muslim in the service of the court. Many buildings such he is a Muslim in the service of the court. Many buildings such as the Queen's Bath in the Royal Center also bear witness to a as the Queen's Bath in the Royal Center also bear witness to a substantial Muslim population at the site. A small section of the substantial Muslim population at the site. A small section of the main temple can be seen in the background. main temple can be seen in the background.

East FaceEast FaceVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• This is the entrance (east face) of the This is the entrance (east face) of the main temple. Considerable restoration is main temple. Considerable restoration is evidentevident

EntranceEntrance

Vitthala TempleVitthala Temple • The full extent of damage The full extent of damage

to the temple can be seen to the temple can be seen in this view from the in this view from the entrance through to the entrance through to the rear shrine area. Once rear shrine area. Once thought to have been thought to have been caused by Muslim caused by Muslim invasion, the damage is invasion, the damage is now considered to be at now considered to be at least partly due to time and least partly due to time and neglect. For example, there neglect. For example, there is no evidence of burning is no evidence of burning inside the building, as inside the building, as would have been expected would have been expected if the damage had been if the damage had been done by invaders. done by invaders.

• In general, it can be said In general, it can be said that when the Muslims that when the Muslims overran the city in 1565: a) overran the city in 1565: a) they burned the palace they burned the palace buildings down to the buildings down to the ground, so that only their ground, so that only their stone platforms are left; b) stone platforms are left; b) they did some partial they did some partial damage to the Hindu damage to the Hindu temples, such as this one; temples, such as this one; and c) they left the Muslim-and c) they left the Muslim-styled buildings, such as styled buildings, such as the Lotus Mahal, pretty the Lotus Mahal, pretty much alone. much alone.

• The weight of the of this The weight of the of this temple's ususually long temple's ususually long and heavy roof beams and and heavy roof beams and ceiling slabs may have ceiling slabs may have been a contributing factor been a contributing factor to the collapse of the to the collapse of the building building

PorticoPorticoVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• This south view of This south view of the entrance the entrance porch illustrates porch illustrates some of the some of the original splendor original splendor of the building. of the building. One thing to One thing to notice here is the notice here is the Chinese-style "S"-Chinese-style "S"-curved roof, which curved roof, which contains stone contains stone loops at the loops at the corners corners (underneath the (underneath the tips of the eves) tips of the eves) for the insertion of for the insertion of flagpoles. Three flagpoles. Three such loops are such loops are visible here, one visible here, one at the upper left at the upper left corner and two at corner and two at the upper right of the upper right of the photo. the photo.

• The curved roof The curved roof profile can also be profile can also be seen to seen to advantage at the advantage at the photo right on a photo right on a previous previous

MahamandapaMahamandapaVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• This view of This view of the temple's the temple's pillared hall, pillared hall, with its corner with its corner piers cut out piers cut out into clusters of into clusters of numerous numerous colonettes, colonettes, illustrates why illustrates why Vitthala Vitthala Temple is Temple is considered the considered the finest of the finest of the Vijayanagara Vijayanagara series. series.

• Apparently the Apparently the colonettes, colonettes, when lightly when lightly tapped by a tapped by a wooden stick, wooden stick, produce produce "musical" "musical" tones.tones.

RingsRings

Horse and RiderHorse and RiderVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• This This elaborately elaborately worked worked column is column is typical of typical of many inside many inside the temple. the temple. The rampant The rampant horse and horse and rider, rider, supported by supported by other animals other animals and figures, is and figures, is a favorite a favorite Vijayanagara-Vijayanagara-era motif. A era motif. A nice additional nice additional touch is the touch is the group of group of ganas ganas supporting the supporting the colonette base colonette base in the lower in the lower photophoto

DrummerDrummerVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• This drummer is one This drummer is one of the statues that of the statues that graces the "Hall of graces the "Hall of Music" inside the Music" inside the temple.temple.

Monkey KingsMonkey KingsVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• The monkey kings The monkey kings appear to be arm-appear to be arm-wrestling. Perhaps wrestling. Perhaps this pair represents this pair represents Vali and Sugriva. Vali and Sugriva. When Vali, king of When Vali, king of the monkeys, the monkeys, exiled his brother exiled his brother Sugriva from the Sugriva from the kingdom, the kingdom, the faithful Hanuman faithful Hanuman followed his friend followed his friend into exile. into exile. Ramayana stories Ramayana stories are especially are especially appropriate at appropriate at Vijayanagara, the Vijayanagara, the legendary site of legendary site of the monkey the monkey kingdom. kingdom.

Hanuman in actionHanuman in actionVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

•The unbeatable The unbeatable Hanuman takes on Hanuman takes on several foes at once in several foes at once in this lively scene. this lively scene. Evidently he is as good Evidently he is as good with his tail (see the with his tail (see the enemies, seized above) enemies, seized above) as with his hands as with his hands (grabbing the victim, (grabbing the victim, photo left, and preparing photo left, and preparing to bash him with his to bash him with his mighty fist, photo right). mighty fist, photo right). •If the much-loved If the much-loved Hanuman story has a Hanuman story has a flaw as literature, it is flaw as literature, it is probably that the probably that the monkey general is so monkey general is so strong that everything is strong that everything is too easy for him. too easy for him.

Basement FriezeBasement FriezeVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

•This scene at the base of the temple displays Portuguese men who are handling horses. The men and animals are posed in a variety of different positions.

Natya mantapNatya mantapVitthala TempleVitthala Temple

• This This picturesque picturesque hall marks hall marks the end of a the end of a chariot road chariot road that runs that runs about 1 km about 1 km (.6 mile) (.6 mile) eastward eastward from the from the temple. temple.

NANDINANDI

ACHYUTARAY TEMPLEACHYUTARAY TEMPLE

Inside View Of Achyutaray TempleInside View Of Achyutaray Temple

Piller hallPiller hall

• Pond infront of Achyutaray Pond infront of Achyutaray TempleTemple

Underground Shiva TempleUnderground Shiva Temple

Purandara Mandapam TungabadraPurandara Mandapam Tungabadra

Group Of Temples At Group Of Temples At Hemakuta HillHemakuta Hill

The Temples Which Are Builted By The Temples Which Are Builted By Vijayanagar Emperors In Other Vijayanagar Emperors In Other

PlacesPlaces

TIRUPATITIRUPATI

SRI KALAHASTISRI KALAHASTI

SRI KALAHASTI

SRIRANGAMSRIRANGAM

Madurai Meenakshi Madurai Meenakshi TempleTemple

Gopuram Chidambaram

kanchipuramkanchipuram

JAI VIRUPAKSHA

Education

Vijayanagar dynasty By Kalyan S Patil