UPSC Previous Year Question | Mains GS1 | 2016

Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss. (200 words)

Answer

Introduction

Krishnadeva Raya combined personal literary accomplishment with sustained royal patronage, making the Vijayanagara court a major centre of South Indian culture.

Scholarship

Accomplished ruler

  • He authored Amuktamalyada in Telugu, blending political wisdom, devotion and statecraft.
  • His Sanskrit learning and interest in philosophy reflected the multilingual character of the court.

Patronage

Institutional support

  • The Ashtadiggajas, including Allasani Peddana, enriched Telugu literature.
  • Temples, mathas and scholars received grants; Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada and Tamil traditions flourished.
  • Architecture, sculpture, music and religious debate benefited from imperial resources.

Keywords

Keywords: Tuluva dynasty, Amuktamalyada, Ashtadiggajas, Telugu literature, temple patronage.

Topics: art and culture, krishnadeva raya, medieval india, vijayanagara empire