Q2. Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Krishnadeva Raya (1509-1529 CE), the greatest ruler of the Vijayanagar Empire, was renowned for his military achievements, administrative acumen, and cultural contributions. His reign is considered the golden age of Telugu literature and scholarship. Krishnadeva Raya himself was an accomplished scholar and poet, and he actively promoted learning and the arts during his reign.

Body

Krishnadeva Raya as a Scholar:

• Krishnadeva Raya authored the Telugu work Amuktamalyada, a poetic treatise on statecraft and devotion. He was well-versed in multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Telugu, and Kannada.
• He wrote in the form of prabandhas, a style of literature characterised by its narrative structure, drawing from his knowledge of administration, religion, and politics.

Patronage of Telugu Literature:

• His court was home to the Ashtadiggajas, eight famous poets who elevated Telugu literature to new heights. Among them was the celebrated poet Allasani Peddana, known for Manucharitram, which Krishnadeva Raya himself admired.
• Under his patronage, works in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and Sanskrit flourished, reflecting the multicultural fabric of his empire.
• Krishnadeva Raya’s court also encouraged Sanskrit scholars and writers. His reign witnessed the completion of significant works in Sanskrit, including Jambavati Kalyanam and Madhuravijayam.

Support for Sanskrit Literature:

• Krishnadeva Raya’s court also encouraged Sanskrit scholars and writers. His reign witnessed the completion of significant works in Sanskrit, including Jambavati Kalyanam and Madhuravijayam.

Conclusion

‍Krishnadeva Raya was not only a learned monarch but also a visionary patron who nurtured a vibrant intellectual and literary atmosphere in his empire. His support of scholars, poets, and writers across languages ensured a flourishing cultural legacy, making his reign a high point in South Indian literary history.

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