Vijayanagar dynasty By Kalyan S Patil

1. A
GREAT
HINDU
KINGDOM

JAI VIRUPAKSHA

JAI VIRUPAKSHA

2. History of History of
VijayNagar KingdomVijayNagar Kingdom
Mithun ReddyMithun Reddy

3. SOURCESSOURCES
INSCRIPTIONSINSCRIPTIONS
LITERARY DOCUMENTSLITERARY DOCUMENTS
COINSCOINS
ARCHITECTUREARCHITECTURE

4. Sultan-Allahudeen-GherzaiSultan-Allahudeen-Gherzai

5. YADAVA’S OF YADAVA’S OF
DEVAGIRIDEVAGIRI

6. KAKATIYAYA’S OF KAKATIYAYA’S OF
WARANGALWARANGAL

7. HOYASALA’S OF HOYASALA’S OF
DORASAMUDRADORASAMUDRA

9. The OriginThe Origin
Telugu or Warrangal origin theory .Telugu or Warrangal origin theory .
Kannada origin theory .Kannada origin theory .

12. 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

13. 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.

14. RAICHUR FORTRAICHUR FORT

15. Mudgal fortMudgal fort

16. 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 Vira
Vijaya (1422 - 24) Vijaya (1422 - 24) whose rule was not eventful.whose rule was not eventful.

17. Devaraya II (1424 – 1446Devaraya II (1424 – 1446
Devaraya 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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.

22. 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”.

25. 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”.

26. 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”.

28. 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 increase and playing them off one against the other, hoping to keep them weak and to increase
his own power. 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.

29. 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

30. AHAMAD SHAHI,
AHAMAD NAGAR
ADIL SHAHI,
BIJAPUR
BARID SHAHI,
BIDAR
QUTUB SHAHI,
GOLCONDA

31. 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

32. chandragiri

33. CULTURAL CONTRIBUTIONCULTURAL CONTRIBUTION
RELIGIONRELIGION
LITERATURELITERATURE
ART & ARCHITECTUREART & ARCHITECTURE

34. MONUMENTS IN HAMPIMONUMENTS IN HAMPI
SECULAR MONUMENTS.SECULAR MONUMENTS.
NON- SECULAR MONUMENTSNON- SECULAR MONUMENTS

35. 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)

37. 1. Elephant Stables

38. 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.

39. 2. Great Platform
Royal Center

40. Great PlatformGreat Platform
Royal 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.

41. Lower FriezeLower Frieze
Great 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 see: top, we see:
1) the king 1) the 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

42. South StaircaseSouth Staircase
Great 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

43. BalustradeBalustrade
Great 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.

44. East StaircaseEast Staircase
Great 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
staircasestaircase
s 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

45. West FaceWest Face
Great 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.

46. DancersDancers
Great 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).

47. South ProspectSouth Prospect
Great PlatformGreat Platform
•Looking Looking
to the to the
south south
from the from the
Great Great
Platform, Platform,
we see: we see:
an an
aqueducaqueduc
t, the t, the
Stepped Stepped
Tank, Tank,
and the and the
Great Great
Tank. Tank.

48. Great TankGreat Tank
Royal 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; a view faces west; a
small group of small group of
people on the people on the
north side north side
provides a sense provides a sense
of scale. of scale.

49. Stepped TankStepped Tank
Royal 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.

50. West EndWest End
Large 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 roof. pyramidal roof.
Below, four Below, four
carved carved
columns line columns line
the side of the the side of the
tank (a similar tank (a similar
group of in-line group of in-line
columns 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

51. 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,

52. StaircaseStaircase
Hundred-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.

53. 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.

54. PlatformPlatform
Enclosure XIV, Enclosure XIV,
Vijayanagara Vijayanagara
•A wooden A wooden
superstructsuperstruct
ure 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

55. 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.

56. 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.

57. Queen's BathQueen's Bath
Royal 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.

58. TankTank
Queen'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
decorationdecoration
s which s which
end in tiny end in tiny
pendant pendant
lotus lotus

59. King's BalanceKing's Balance
Riverside 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.

60. Unfinished ColumnsUnfinished Columns
Unfinished column

61. GatewayGateway
Hemakuta HillHemakuta Hill
•One of several 15th century
gateways, with multiple stories, on
the way to the summit.

62. •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.

63. 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 .

64. Doors
Royal 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.

65. Underground Chamber
Royal 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.

67. Bazaar StreetBazaar Street
HampiHampi
•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.

68. Streets At Streets At
Virupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple

69. Streets At Achyutaray Temple

70. SISTERS MOUNTAINSISTERS MOUNTAIN

72. Land of the RishisLand of the Rishis
Riverside 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. .

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

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

75. 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.

76. 3. Hajara Ramachandra Temple

77. 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.

78. 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

79. 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

80. Baby KrishnaBaby Krishna
Ramachandra 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

81. Shrine ExteriorShrine Exterior
Ramachandra 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.

82. North ShrineNorth Shrine
Ramachandra 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

83. FriezeFrieze
Ramachandra 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.

84. Panel of HanumanPanel of Hanuman
Ramachandra 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.

85. 4. Krishna Temple

86. Krishna TempleKrishna Temple
VijayanagaraVijayanagara
•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
KrishnadevaraKrishnadevara
ya. ya.
Monuments of Monuments of
India lists a India lists a
date of 1513.date of 1513.

87. Rabbit In The MoonRabbit In The Moon
Krishna 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

88. Pillared HallPillared Hall
Krishna 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
VijayanagarVijayanagar
a, including a, including
the better-the better-
known known
Vitthala Vitthala
Temple Temple

89. Interior, Pillared Interior, Pillared
HallHall
Krishna Temple,Krishna Temple,
•Looking Looking
east from east from
the shrine. the shrine.

90. 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.

91. Huntress with a BowHuntress with a Bow
Krishna 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.

92. Linga ShrineLinga Shrine
VijayanagaraVijayanagara
•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.

93. Narasimha monolithNarasimha monolith
VijayanagaraVijayanagara
•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.

94. Narasimha restorationNarasimha restoration
VijayanagaraVijayanagara

95. Narasimha restorationNarasimha restoration
VijayanagaraVijayanagara
•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.

96. Donor shrineDonor shrine
Riverside 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.

97. Tree shrineTree shrine
Riverside pathRiverside path
•The modern The modern
shrine is shrine is
carved from carved from
a living tree, a living tree,
and probably and 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.

98. Ranganatha TempleRanganatha Temple
Riverside 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

99. Unfinished GopuraUnfinished Gopura
Riverside 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

101. CourtyardCourtyard
Virupaksha 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
KrishnadevarayKrishnadevaray
a. 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.

102. View to the northeastView to the northeast
Hemakuta 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
TungabhadrTungabhadr
a river a river

103. KitchenKitchen
Virupaksha TempleVirupaksha Temple
•A line A line
of of
ventilatventilat
ion 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.

104. Column decorationColumn decoration
Virupaksha 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. .

105. Column Column
decorationdecoration
Virupaksha 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.

106. Panel decorationPanel decoration
Virupaksha 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.

107. Early ShrineEarly Shrine
Virupaksha 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

108. 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

109. Vitthala TempleVitthala Temple

110. CourtyardCourtyard
Vitthala 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.

111. Stone ChariotStone Chariot
Vitthala 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

112. Stone ChariotStone Chariot
Vitthala 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.

113. Kalyana MandapaKalyana Mandapa
Vitthala 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.

114. Kalyana MandapaKalyana Mandapa
Vitthala TempleVitthala Temple
•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.

115. Kalyana MandapaKalyana Mandapa
Vitthala TempleVitthala Temple
•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 a the center (very slightly raised circle, inside a
square) for the performance of sacred 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.

116. Kalyana MandapaKalyana Mandapa
Vitthala TempleVitthala 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.

117. GarudaGaruda
Kalyana 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

118. 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.

119. East FaceEast Face
Vitthala 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

120. 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

121. PorticoPortico
Vitthala 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

122. MahamandapaMahamandapa
Vitthala 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.

123. RingsRings

124. Horse and RiderHorse and Rider
Vitthala 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

125. DrummerDrummer
Vitthala 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.

126. Monkey KingsMonkey Kings
Vitthala 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.

127. Hanuman in actionHanuman in action
Vitthala 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.

128. Basement FriezeBasement Frieze
Vitthala 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.

129. Natya mantapNatya mantap
Vitthala 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.

130. NANDINANDI

131. ACHYUTARAY TEMPLEACHYUTARAY TEMPLE

132. Inside View Of Achyutaray TempleInside View Of Achyutaray Temple

133. Piller hallPiller hall

134. •Pond infront of Achyutaray Pond infront of Achyutaray
TempleTemple

135. Underground Shiva TempleUnderground Shiva Temple

136. Purandara Mandapam TungabadraPurandara Mandapam Tungabadra

137. Group Of Temples At Group Of Temples At
Hemakuta HillHemakuta Hill

138. The Temples Which Are Builted By The Temples Which Are Builted By
Vijayanagar Emperors In Other Vijayanagar Emperors In Other
PlacesPlaces

139. TIRUPATITIRUPATI

140. SRI KALAHASTISRI KALAHASTI

141. SRI KALAHASTI

142. SRIRANGAMSRIRANGAM

143. Madurai Meenakshi Madurai Meenakshi
TempleTemple

144. Gopuram
Chidambaram

145. kanchipuramkanchipuram

146. 
JAI VIRUPAKSHA