17 January - Krishnadevaraya birth anniversary

 

Krishnadevaraya, full name Sri Krishnadevaraya, was a powerful and celebrated ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire in South India during the 16th century. His reign, which lasted from 1509 to 1529, is often considered a golden period in the history of the Vijayanagara Empire. Sri Krishnadevaraya was born on  16 January  1471, and he passed away on 17 October 1529.

Here are some key points about Krishnadevaraya:

1. Ascension to the Throne: Krishnadevaraya ascended to the throne in 1509 after the death of his predecessor Tuluva Narasa Nayaka. He belonged to the Tuluva dynasty.

2. Military Achievements: Krishnadevaraya was a skilled military commander and led his forces in numerous successful campaigns. One of his notable military achievements was the conquest of the Gajapati Kingdom of Odisha, leading to the annexation of territories like Udayagiri and Kondavidu.

3. Diplomacy and Alliances: Krishnadevaraya was known for his diplomatic skills and the ability to form strategic alliances. He maintained diplomatic ties with various neighboring states and cultivated friendly relations with the Portuguese.

4. Patronage of Arts and Culture: His reign is often described as a cultural renaissance. Krishnadevaraya was a great patron of arts and literature. The famous Telugu poet Allasani Peddana was one of his eight poets, known as the "Ashtadiggajas," who adorned his court.

5. Vijayanagara Empire's Prosperity: Under Krishnadevaraya's rule, the Vijayanagara Empire reached its zenith in terms of political power, economic prosperity, and cultural achievements. The empire extended from the Deccan Plateau to the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent.

6. Public Works: Krishnadevaraya initiated several public works projects, including the construction of irrigation tanks and the expansion of infrastructure. He paid particular attention to the improvement of the capital city, Hampi.

7. Literary Contributions: Krishnadevaraya himself was a scholar and author. His work "Amuktamalyada" is a notable Telugu literary composition, and he also patronized other poets and writers.

8. Legacy: Krishnadevaraya is remembered as one of the most illustrious rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire. His reign is often referred to as a "golden age" due to the flourishing of arts, culture, and prosperity during that period. After his death in 1529, the Vijayanagara Empire faced challenges, leading to its eventual decline in the later part of the 16th century.