Art & architecture of hampi

The Vijaynagar Empire was founded by Harihara and Bukka in AD 1336 and made Hastinavati (Hampi) as the capital city. They ruled over Andhra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and parts of Kerala in southern India. Here, we are giving the gist of cultural history of Vijaynagar Empire that will refine the knowledge about how architecture, art, music and literature developed under this kingdom.

Architecture under vijaynagar empire

1. The temple building activity of the Vijayanagar rulers produced a new style, called the Vijayanagar style. Though often characterized as Dravida Style, it had its own distinct features.

2. The distinct features of the architecture were the pillars and the complicated manner in which they were sculptured.

3. The horse was the most common animal to be depicted on the pillars.

4. The temples had a Mandapam or open pavilion with a raised platform, generally meant for seating the deity on special occasions. It also had a Kalyana Mandapam with elaborately carved pillars. The most magnificent of the temples in this style are in Hampi (Vijayanagar). Vitthalaswamy and the Hazara Ramaswamy temples are the best examples.

5. The Raya Gopurams, towers in commemoration of the visit of emperors in different corners of the empire, are also important examples of architecture of the period.

6. In the Vijayanagar temples the central part was occupied by the Garbhagriha—the sanctum cell where the presiding deity was installed.

7. Amman shrine was meant for the consort of the God

Art under Vijaynagar Empire

1. Music: Vijayanagar period is known for origin of Carnatic music under Purandhar Das period known for origin of Rudraveens.

2. Dance: Bharatanatyam was promoted. Drama Yakshagana was a popular dance drama closely associated with temple walls. 
                                                                           3. Paintings: Themes of Ramayana and Tlahabharta on temple walls.

4. Sculpture: Largest number of portrait sculptures in this period. Portrait sculpture of Krishnadeva Raya and his queens is seen at Tirumala.

In the above ‘Cultural History of Vijayanagar’ deals with the cultural glorious epoch of Vjaynagar Empire. The kings of this empire were great patrons of music, literature and architecture which can see even today also. For example- Someshwar, Vidyashankara, Narasimhaswamy etc.