<h4>Literary Contributions of Krishnadevaraya</h4><p><strong>Krishnadevaraya</strong>, the eminent ruler of the <strong>Vijayanagar Empire</strong>, was not only a great warrior but also a profound scholar. He authored several significant literary works himself, showcasing his intellectual prowess.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Krishnadevaraya's Authored Works:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Amuktamalyada</strong> (Telugu)</li><li><strong>Madalasa Charita</strong></li><li><strong>Satyavedu Parinaya</strong></li><li><strong>Rasamanjari</strong></li><li><strong>Jambavati Kalyana</strong></li></ul></div><p>He was fluent in multiple languages, demonstrating a broad linguistic aptitude. This proficiency enabled him to appreciate and support literary endeavors across various regional languages.</p><h4>Patronage of Learning and Literature</h4><p><strong>Krishnadevaraya's</strong> court was a vibrant hub for scholars and poets, reflecting his deep commitment to fostering learning. His patronage extended to diverse linguistic traditions, including <strong>Sanskrit</strong>, <strong>Telugu</strong>, <strong>Tamil</strong>, and <strong>Kannada</strong>.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>The Ashtadiggajas:</strong></p><p>His court was famously adorned by the <strong>Ashtadiggajas</strong>, meaning 'eight elephants of literature'. These were eight prominent scholars who significantly enriched Telugu literature during his reign.</p></div><p>Among the <strong>Ashtadiggajas</strong>, <strong>Allasani Peddana</strong> held a pre-eminent position. He was revered as the <strong>Andhra-kavitapitamaha</strong>, or 'Grandfather of Telugu Poetry', and is celebrated for his magnum opus.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Notable Literary Figures and Works:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Allasani Peddana:</strong> Known for <strong>Manucharitamu</strong>.</li><li><strong>Thimmana (Kannada poet):</strong> Completed the <strong>Kannada Mahabharatha</strong>, originally started by <strong>Kumara Vyasa</strong>, at Krishnadevaraya’s request.</li><li><strong>Mallanarya (Kannada poet):</strong> Author of <strong>Veerasivamartha</strong> and <strong>Bhavachintaratna</strong>.</li><li><strong>Chatu Vittalanatha:</strong> Wrote <strong>Bhagvatha</strong>.</li><li><strong>Thimmanna Kavi:</strong> Famous for his eulogy, <strong>Krishnadeva Bharata</strong>.</li><li><strong>Peddanna (Telugu poet):</strong> Honoured for his exceptional proficiency in both <strong>Telugu</strong> and <strong>Sanskrit</strong>.</li></ul></div><h4>Cultural Development and Arts</h4><p>Beyond literature, <strong>Krishnadevaraya</strong> played a pivotal role in the development and promotion of various art forms. His reign saw a flourishing of music and dance traditions, which continue to influence Indian culture today.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Promotion of Performing Arts:</strong></p><ul><li>He significantly nurtured the <strong>Carnatic musical tradition</strong>, providing it with royal patronage and encouragement.</li><li>He actively encouraged classical dance forms, including <strong>Bharatanatyam</strong> and <strong>Kuchipudi</strong>, contributing to their growth and popularity.</li></ul></div><h4>Infrastructural Development and Urban Planning</h4><p><strong>Krishnadevaraya's</strong> contributions were not limited to intellectual and cultural spheres; he also left a lasting legacy in terms of infrastructure and urban development. His reign is marked by significant architectural endeavors.</p><p>He is widely credited with the construction of several magnificent temples. Additionally, he commissioned the addition of impressive <strong>gopurams</strong> (ornate tower gateways) to many important existing temples across South India.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Urban Development:</strong></p><p><strong>Krishnadevaraya</strong> founded a suburban township near the capital city of <strong>Vijayanagar</strong>. This new settlement was named <strong>Nagalapuram</strong>, in honour of his mother.</p></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> The cultural and architectural contributions of <strong>Krishnadevaraya</strong> are frequently asked in <strong>UPSC Prelims</strong> (matching pairs, factual questions) and <strong>Mains GS Paper 1</strong> (Art & Culture section) regarding the <strong>Vijayanagar Empire</strong>.</p></div>