The Vijayanagara Empire: A Grand Synthesis of Dravidian Architecture
The Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled over the whole of South India from 1343 to 1565 CE, created a unique and vibrant style of architecture that was a grand synthesis of the various Dravidian styles that had come before it. Their capital city, Vijayanagara, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to their architectural vision and their patronage of the arts.
A Hybrid Style
The Vijayanagara Architecture style is a combination of the Chalukya, Hoysala, Rashtrakuta, Pallava, Pandya, and Chola styles. The Vijayanagara architects and artisans took the best elements of each of these styles and combined them to create something new and unique.
Key Features of Vijayanagara Architecture
Some of the key features of Vijayanagara architecture include:
- Ornate Pillared Halls: The Vijayanagara temples are famous for their ornate pillared halls, known as Kalyanamantapas (marriage halls) and Vasanthamantapas (open pillared halls). The pillars in these halls are often intricately carved with images of deities, mythological scenes, and floral motifs.
- Yali Columns: A unique contribution of the Vijayanagara architects is the Yali column, which is a pillar with a charging horse. These columns are a common feature in Vijayanagara temples and add to their grandeur and dynamism.
- Rayagopuras: The Vijayanagara rulers also built massive gatehouse towers, known as Rayagopuras. These towers, which are often taller than the main temple tower, are a prominent feature of Vijayanagara architecture.
Notable Vijayanagara Temples
Some of the most famous examples of Vijayanagara architecture include:
- The Vitthala Temple at Hampi: This temple is the best example of the pillared Kalyanamantapa style. Its intricate carvings and musical pillars, which produce different musical notes when struck, are a marvel of engineering and artistry.
- The Hazara Ramaswamy Temple at Hampi: This temple is a modest but perfectly finished example of Vijayanagara architecture. Its walls are covered with intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
- The Prasanna Virupaksha Temple at Hampi: This underground temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is another fine example of Vijayanagara architecture.
The Vijayanagara Empire’s legacy of sculpture, architecture, and painting influenced the development of the arts in South India long after the empire came to an end. Their grand synthesis of Dravidian architectural styles created a unique and enduring legacy that continues to inspire and awe to this day.