This Week in History

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CWA # 1439, 11 August 2024
This Week in History
07 August 1509: Coronation of Krishnadevaraya, highlights the golden era of Vijayanagar empire

  Swagathi Annabel

It is widely believed that the coronation of Krishnadevaraya took place on 7 August 1509.  During his rule in the 16th-century, Vijayanagar empire witnessed the golden era of affluence, grandeur, and glory.  Krishnadevaraya, anillustrious monarch was well known for serving as a valiant warrior, great commander, and master military strategist. When the Deccan Sultans invaded the Vijayanagara kingdom in 1565, the empire spanned from the Krishna-Tungabhadra plains in the north to Rameshwaram in the south. The region encompassed the present-day Indian states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Goa, along with portions of Telangana, Maharashtra, and Sri Lanka. After a twenty-one glorious rule from 1509 to 1529 Krishnadevaraya left behind a rich legacy.  

The Coronation of Krishnadevaraya 
In Hampi, the Pampapati temple records Krishnadevaraya's coronation on Sri Krishna Janmashtami. This coronation event also coincides with the coronation of Henry VIII of England, who succeeded the throne on 22 April, according to Nuniz's records. Though both coronations happened in the same year, 1509 (1431 Saka), there is no concrete evidence for the exact day of Krishnadevaraya. With the expiration of the Saka era, if one has to go by the date, it may have happened in August or September (Bhadrapada month of the Hindu Lunar Calendar). 

Folklore narrates how Narasa Nayaka, the father of Krishna Devaraya, while on his death bed, called both his sons, Achuta Deva Raya and Krishnadevaraya and challenged them to take away his signet ring to ascend the throne. With both sons failing, Narasa Nayaka decided to give up on the throne and that was when Krishnadevaraya pulled his dagger out and cut his father’s finger. Rather than experiencing regret, Narasa Nayaka was reportedly filled with pride for his aggressive use of strategy and power, and Krishnadevaraya received the recognition he had promised.  

Dr SR Rao, a renowned archaeologist, conducted extensive research on the monuments at Hampi, including the Virupaksha Temple. One of his significant findings was the discovery of a throne with an inscription dated 7 August 1509, symbolising his coronation 

The Krishnadevaraya Legacy 
In the first decade of his rule, Krishnadevaraya's military operations against all of his enemies was successful. Notably, he defeated the five Deccan Sultanates, acquiring key regions including Raichur and Gulbarga, defeated the Gajapati rulers of Orissa and consolidated his empire's dominance.  

Krishnadevaraya's administrative skill was demonstrated by his excellent rule. He reorganised the administration to promote efficiency and accountability. Land revenue changes were implemented to boost agricultural productivity, which was the foundation of the empire's economy. The implementation of a structured tax collection approach assisted in maintaining a consistent revenue stream. Krishnadevaraya also worked on infrastructure development, including as roads, irrigation systems, and reservoirs, to assist trade and agriculture. His trade system flourished with his ardent support by levying custom duties and other related taxes. Foreign relations were carried out with Arabia, China, Portuguese, Rome etc.  

Krishnadevaraya, the sovereign of the Vijayanagara Empire, forged amicable ties with the Portuguese in Goa at 1510. Krishnadevaraya acquired sophisticated armaments, such a firearms, and Arabian steeds from Portuguese merchants. He employed Portuguese expertise to enhance the water delivery infrastructure in the Vijayanagara capital. 

The period of his rule is commonly known as the "Vijayanagara Renaissance" because of the notable accomplishments in the fields of art, literature, and architecture. Krishnadevaraya was a prominent benefactor of the arts and provided extensive support to numerous poets and scholars. He was a scholar himself, affluent in numerous languages, and wrote the well-known Telugu masterpiece "Amuktamalyada," which is renowned for its poetic beauty and profound philosophical insights. His court was adorned with eight famous poets, known as the Ashtadiggajas, who made significant contributions to Telugu literature.  

The Vitthala Temple and the Hazara Rama Temple at Hampi are outstanding examples of Vijayanagara architecture, featuring intricate carvings and magnificent designs. The Raya Gopuram, a towering gateway in various temples, illustrates his commitment to temple architecture. These temples not only performed religious functions, but also showcased the empire's architectural prowess and artistic inclinations. 

Krishnadevaraya was also known for his generosity. At the time of Vasantotsava every year, he bestowed presents to the poets. Several times he performed the Tulapurushapradhana and weighed himself against gold and pearls, which were later donated. On several occasions, he rewarded his ministers and officers with presents. After the Kalinga war, it is said Krishnadevaraya made Thimmarasa (his mentor) sit on a carpet and bathed him in gold and precious stone. 

Krishnadevaraya's reign was defined by religious tolerance and cooperation. While he was a fervent Vaishnavite, he respected and supported various religious groups. He promoted the construction and maintenance of temples, mosques, and churches, proving his inclusive views to the administration. This religious tolerance contributed to social stability and cultural variety in the empire. 

About the author 
Ms Swagathi Annabel is a PG Teacher at the Sri Chaitanya School, Bengaluru. 

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