The reign of Krishna Deva Raya (1509–1529 AD) was a golden period for the cultural and artistic development of the Vijayanagara Empire. Krishna Deva Raya was not only a powerful military leader but also a great patron of art, literature, music, and architecture. His reign marked the height of the empire’s cultural achievements, with significant contributions to South Indian culture, particularly in the fields of literature, temple architecture, and performing arts.
1. Literature and Language
One of the most significant contributions of Krishna Deva Raya was his patronage of literature. He was a scholar and poet himself, and under his rule, Telugu, Kannada, Sanskrit, and Tamil literature flourished. Krishna Deva Raya’s court attracted many poets, scholars, and writers from different linguistic backgrounds, contributing to a rich cultural exchange.
- Telugu Literature: Krishna Deva Raya was a great patron of Telugu literature, and his court was home to the famous Ashtadiggajas (the “Eight Great Poets”). These eight poets included prominent figures such as Allasani Peddana, Nandi Timmana, Tenali Ramakrishna, and others. Krishna Deva Raya himself composed the Telugu classic “Amuktamalyada”, which is considered one of the greatest works of Telugu literature. In this poetic work, he narrates the story of the Tamil Alvar saint Andal and provides insights into statecraft, governance, and dharma.
- Event: The creation of “Amuktamalyada” is a key event in Krishna Deva Raya’s literary legacy. He composed it in Telugu, although being a ruler of a Kannada-speaking dynasty, showcasing his support for regional languages. The work is known for its devotional content and for expressing the ideals of good governance.
- Kannada Literature: Kannada literature also flourished under Krishna Deva Raya’s patronage. Although he primarily wrote in Telugu, Krishna Deva Raya supported Kannada poets and scholars. Notable Kannada works during this period include the “Jaimini Bharata” by Lakshmisha, which was a retelling of the Mahabharata from Jaimini’s perspective. Krishna Deva Raya’s reign saw a revival in Kannada writing, especially religious and historical poetry.
- Sanskrit Literature: Sanskrit, the classical language of Hinduism and scholarly discourse, also received attention. Krishna Deva Raya was deeply devoted to Sanskrit and supported the creation of numerous works in this language. The “Rasamanjari”, a treatise on aesthetics, was produced during his reign. His court was frequented by scholars and intellectuals who contributed to Sanskrit grammar, philosophy, and poetry.
- Tamil Literature: Tamil literature was equally significant during Krishna Deva Raya’s time, particularly in the religious sphere. His reign saw the continuation of the Bhakti movement, which contributed to the flourishing of devotional Tamil poetry. The works of saints and scholars in this period often revolved around devotion to Hindu gods, temple construction, and pilgrimage.
2. Temple Architecture
Krishna Deva Raya’s contributions to temple architecture were immense. He initiated and supported the construction of several grand temples across South India, particularly in Hampi, the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. His temples are noted for their intricate carvings, massive structures, and stunning aesthetic appeal, contributing significantly to the Dravidian architectural style.
- Virupaksha Temple: One of the most famous temples that saw significant development during Krishna Deva Raya’s reign was the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Krishna Deva Raya undertook extensive renovations and additions to the temple, including the construction of the massive Gopuram (gateway tower). This temple became a major center of worship and pilgrimage during his reign.
- Event: In 1510 AD, Krishna Deva Raya installed a grand statue of Nandi (the bull mount of Lord Shiva) in the Virupaksha Temple, and his contribution to the temple is still commemorated in inscriptions on the temple walls. This temple became a key religious and cultural center during his reign.
- Vithala Temple: Another notable architectural contribution was the expansion of the Vithala Temple complex, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is famous for its stone chariot, an architectural marvel, and the musical pillars that produce musical notes when struck. The Vithala Temple is a testament to the skill of Vijayanagara artisans and the grandeur of Krishna Deva Raya’s architectural vision.
- Event: The construction of the stone chariot at the Vithala Temple during Krishna Deva Raya’s reign is one of the most iconic examples of Vijayanagara architecture. The temple complex became a major cultural and religious center, attracting devotees and travelers from far and wide.
- Tirupati Temple: Krishna Deva Raya was a devout worshiper of Lord Venkateswara at Tirupati and made several contributions to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. He is known to have donated wealth, jewels, and even his own sword to the deity. The emperor also built the Krishna Deva Raya Mandapam, a pillared hall at the temple complex, which still stands as a monument to his devotion.
- Event: In 1513 AD, after his victorious campaigns in the Deccan, Krishna Deva Raya visited the Tirupati Temple to offer thanks to Lord Venkateswara. His donations to the temple and the construction of the mandapam are key events reflecting his religious patronage and cultural contributions.
3. Performing Arts: Music and Dance
Krishna Deva Raya’s reign was a golden period for music and dance, particularly the classical forms that evolved in the Vijayanagara court and temples.
- Carnatic Music: The reign of Krishna Deva Raya witnessed the flourishing of Carnatic music, the classical music tradition of South India. His court was home to many prominent musicians who composed and performed devotional music. The Vijayanagara temples also served as centers of music, with performances held regularly as part of religious rituals and festivals.
- Bharatanatyam: The classical dance form of Bharatanatyam also flourished during Krishna Deva Raya’s reign. Temple dancers, known as Devadasis, performed dance recitals in temples such as the Virupaksha and Vithala Temples. These performances were a form of worship and contributed to the cultural and spiritual life of the empire.
- Event: The Mahanavami Festival (Dussehra) celebrated at the Vijayanagara court during Krishna Deva Raya’s reign was a grand event where musicians, dancers, and artists showcased their talents. This festival served as an important cultural occasion that brought together performers from different parts of the empire.
4. Religious Contributions and Patronage
Krishna Deva Raya was deeply religious and devoted to Hinduism, particularly to Vaishnavism (worship of Lord Vishnu) and Shaivism (worship of Lord Shiva). His religious contributions extended beyond the construction of temples; he also promoted religious discourses, festivals, and patronized Hindu scholars and priests.
- Vaishnavism: Krishna Deva Raya’s devotion to Lord Venkateswara at Tirupati and Lord Vishnu was reflected in his large-scale donations to Vaishnava temples. He supported the establishment of mathas (religious institutions) and encouraged Vaishnava scholars to spread religious teachings and philosophies. His reign saw the growth of the Vishishtadvaita school of thought, which was championed by scholars like Vedanta Desika.
- Shaivism: Though a Vaishnava by personal devotion, Krishna Deva Raya also supported Shaivism. Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva received generous patronage, and Shaiva scholars and priests were given land grants and wealth.
- Religious Tolerance: Although a devout Hindu, Krishna Deva Raya practiced religious tolerance and allowed people of different faiths to practice their religion freely. Muslims, Jains, and Christians all found patronage and protection under his rule. This policy of tolerance contributed to the cultural diversity of his empire.
5. Cultural Diplomacy
Krishna Deva Raya’s cultural contributions were not limited to his empire. He also engaged in cultural diplomacy with other kingdoms, which helped spread the cultural achievements of the Vijayanagara Empire far and wide.
- Relations with the Portuguese: Krishna Deva Raya maintained friendly relations with the Portuguese, who had established themselves in Goa. The exchange of gifts, including art and cultural artifacts, played a role in fostering good relations between the two powers. Portuguese travelers like Domingo Paes and Fernao Nuniz visited the Vijayanagara court and left detailed accounts of its wealth, splendor, and cultural life, which included descriptions of festivals, music, and dance performances.
- Cultural Exchange with Southeast Asia: Trade relations with Southeast Asia also facilitated cultural exchange. Indian culture, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism, had a significant influence on the kingdoms of Southeast Asia. The Vijayanagara Empire played a role in maintaining this cultural connection through diplomacy and trade.
Conclusion
The cultural contributions of Krishna Deva Raya are among the most significant in South Indian history. His patronage of literature, architecture, music, and dance helped shape the rich cultural heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temples, literary works, and art forms that flourished under his reign left a lasting legacy that continues to influence South Indian culture today. His reign was a time of remarkable artistic creativity, religious devotion, and cultural synthesis, making him one of the most celebrated rulers in Indian history.
