Question

'Vijayanagar empire was characterised by a distinctive architecture and building styles.’ Justify the statement.

Answer 1

1. The city of Vijayanagara was enclosed by massive fortress walls, constructed without mortar or cementing agents, and comprised several lines of forts encircling the city, agricultural hinterland, and forests.
2. Hiriya Canal, built by the kings of the Sangama dynasty, drew water from a dam across the Tungabhadra River and irrigated the cultivated valley, separating the sacred centre from the urban core.
3. Kamalapuram Tank highlighted the city's water management system.
4. The Royal Centre included over 60 temples and around thirty building complexes identified as palaces.
5. Mahanavami Dibba was a high platform with slots for wooden pillars, possibly used for royal gatherings or ceremonies. The "mahanavami dibba" was a massive platform associated with rituals during the Mahanavami festival. It featured relief carvings and may have supported a wooden structure.
6. Lotus Mahal, located in the royal centre, may have served as a council chamber or meeting place for the king and his advisers.
7. Hazara Rama Temple is believed to have been used exclusively by the king and his family. Though the central shrine's images are missing, the sculpted panels on the walls depict scenes from the Ramayana, offering insights into the royal patronage of temple construction.
8. Virupaksa Temple of Virupaksa and Pampadevi underwent significant enlargement during the Vijayanagar Empire. Krishnadeva Raya added a hall in front of the main shrine, adorned with delicately carved pillars, and constructed the eastern gopuram.
9. Vitthala Temple featured various halls used for different purposes, including hosting special programmes of music, dance, and drama and celebrating divine weddings.
10. Nagalarapuram was another remarkable temple complex showcasing Vijayanagara architecture, with intricate carvings and symmetrical layouts reflecting the sophistication of the era.