Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Contextual Background: Briefly introduce Krishnadeva Raya and his reign in the Kingdom of Vijayanagar (1509-1529).
- Thesis Statement: State that he was both an accomplished scholar and a significant patron of learning and literature.
2. Body
- Organize this section into clear thematic points.
A. Eminent Scholar
- Literary Contributions:
- Authored works such as Madalasa Charita, Satyavedu Parinaya, Rasamanjari, and Jambavati Kalyana.
- Wrote Amuktamalkyada in Telugu, earning the title Andhrabhoja.
- Multilingual Proficiency: Fluent in various languages, engaging with diverse literary traditions.
B. Patron of Learning and Literature
- Establishment of Ashtadiggajas: The Eight Great Scholars in his court, including:
- Allasani Peddana: Known as the “father of Telugu poetry,” author of Manucharitamu.
- Nandi Thimmanna: Author of Parijathapaharanamu.
- Support for Other Poets:
- Encouraged works by Mallanarya (Kannada) and Chatu Vittalanatha (Tamil).
- Commissioned the completion of the Kannada Mahabharatha by poet Thimmanna.
- Promotion of Performing Arts: Supported Carnatic music and classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi.
3. Conclusion
- Summarize Key Points: Recap Krishnadeva Raya’s dual role as a scholar and patron.
- Significance: Emphasize his lasting impact on the cultural and literary landscape of South India.
Relevant Facts for Use
- Reign: Krishnadeva Raya ruled from 1509 to 1529, considered a peak of Vijayanagar’s prosperity.
- Literary Works:
- Madalasa Charita, Satyavedu Parinaya, Rasamanjari, Jambavati Kalyana (Source: Historical accounts of Vijayanagar).
- Amuktamalkyada earned him the title Andhrabhoja (Source: Scholars of Telugu literature).
- Ashtadiggajas: Included Allasani Peddana and Nandi Thimmanna (Source: “History of Telugu Literature” by J. A. G. B. Rao).
- Cultural Contributions: Supported Carnatic music and classical dance forms (Source: “Vijayanagara: The Never-Ending Empire” by R. S. Sharma).
This roadmap provides a structured approach to answering the question, ensuring clarity and relevance while incorporating factual evidence.
Krishnadeva Raya, the illustrious king of the Vijayanagara Empire (1509-1529 CE), is celebrated not only for his military prowess and administrative acumen but also for his profound contributions to learning and literature.
Scholarly Accomplishments:
Krishnadeva Raya was a polymath and an accomplished scholar himself. He was well-versed in various languages, including Telugu, Kannada, and Sanskrit. His personal literary works, notably the Telugu classic “Amuktamalyada,” are revered for their literary excellence and reflect his deep understanding of religious and philosophical themes.
Patronage of Learning:
Krishnadeva Raya’s patronage of literature and learning was unparalleled. He established a vibrant cultural and intellectual environment at his court, attracting scholars, poets, and artists from across the Indian subcontinent. The king’s court was known for its “Ashtadiggaj” or the eight great scholars, including notable figures such as Allasani Peddana, who contributed significantly to Telugu literature and poetry.
Promotion of Literature:
Under his reign, Telugu literature flourished, and many classical texts were composed or compiled. His support led to the creation of a rich corpus of literary works that celebrated not only the cultural heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire but also advanced regional literary traditions.
In summary, Krishnadeva Raya’s role as a scholar and patron of the arts greatly enriched the cultural and intellectual life of his time, making his reign a golden era for literature and learning in South India.
Model Answer
Introduction
Sri Krishnadeva Raya ruled the Kingdom of Vijayanagar from 1509 to 1529 and is celebrated as one of the greatest statesmen in Indian history. His reign marked a period of prosperity and cultural flourishing in South India, earning him various titles, including “Kannadaraya” and “Kannada Rajya Ramaramana.”
Body
Eminent Scholar
Krishnadeva Raya was not only a ruler but also an accomplished scholar. He authored several literary works, including:
His literary contributions reflect his proficiency in multiple languages, which allowed him to engage with poets and scholars from Sanskrit, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada traditions. His Telugu poem Amuktamalkyada, narrating the tale of Goda Devi and her foster father Vishnuchitta, earned him the title Andhrabhoja.
Patron of Learning and Literature
Krishnadeva Raya established a vibrant literary culture at his court, famously known as the Ashtadiggajas, or the Eight Great Scholars. Notable figures included:
He also commissioned the completion of the Kannada Mahabharatha, originally started by Kumara Vyasa, by poet Thimmanna.
Krishnadeva Raya’s patronage extended to various poets and authors, including:
Additionally, he nurtured the Carnatic musical tradition, supporting musicians like VyasaRaya, a key figure in the Haridasa movement, and encouraged classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi.
Conclusion
Travelers like Domingo Paes and Duarte Barbosa noted in their accounts that Krishnadeva Raya was not only an excellent administrator but also a dedicated scholar and a great patron of art and literature, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the cultural history of India.