Discovery of Copper Plate Inscriptions at Sri Singeeswarar Temple
Key Points
Vijayanagara Empire
- Foundation: Established in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I in Southern India’s Deccan region.
- Capital: Hampi, a center of architectural magnificence, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Dynasties: Ruled by Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu dynasties.
- Achievements:
- Architectural marvels such as the Virupaksha and Vittala temples.
- Flourishing trade with the Portuguese for spices and military technology.
- Decline: Suffered a critical defeat in the 1565 Battle of Talikota by the Deccan Sultanates, leading to Hampi’s sacking.
Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529 A.D.)
- Achievements: Expanded the empire significantly and strengthened its naval and agricultural systems.
- Cultural Contributions:
- Promoted art and architecture; authored Amuktamalyada.
- Patronized poets and scholars, notably the Ashtadiggajas, a group of eight prominent Telugu poets.
Sri Singeeswarar Temple
- History: Built in 976 AD by Aditya Karikalan II, father of Rajaraja Chola.
- Architecture: Features a five-tier Rajagopuram and a 16-pillar Mandapam, exemplifying the Dravidian style.
- Renovation: Expanded under Krishnadevaraya by viceroy Dalavai Ariyanadha Mudaliar.
Legacy and Importance
The findings at Sri Singeeswarar temple enrich our understanding of the Vijayanagara Empire’s administrative systems, religious traditions, and cultural ethos. These inscriptions bridge gaps in historical records, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage.
Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529 A.D.)
Overview
- Krishnadevaraya was the greatest ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire, hailing from the Tuluva dynasty.
- Described by Portuguese traveler Domingo Paes as “the most feared and perfect king there could be.”
Military Achievements
- Conquered Sivasamudram (1510 A.D.) and Raichur (1512 A.D.).
- In 1523 A.D., he captured Orissa and Warangal, extending his empire.
- His rule stretched from the Krishna River in the north to the Cauvery River in the south, and from the Arabian Sea in the west to the Bay of Bengal in the east.
Administrative and Economic Contributions
- He built large tanks and canals, boosting irrigation.
- Strengthened naval power and promoted overseas trade, particularly with the Portuguese and Arab traders.
Cultural and Scholarly Contributions
- Patron of art, architecture, and literature.
- He authored notable works: Madalasa Charita, Satyavedu Parinaya, Rasamanjari, Jambavati Kalyana, and Amuktamalyada.
- Supported poets in multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada.
- His court hosted the Ashtadiggajas, eight celebrated Telugu poets, including:
- Allasani Peddanna (Manucharitram).
- Nandi Thimmana (Parijathapaharanam).
- Tenali Ramakrishna, famed for his wit.
Sri Singeeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu
Key Highlights
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Mappedu Village, Thiruvallur District.
- It was built in 976 AD by Aditya Karikalan II, father of Rajaraja Chola (creator of the Thanjavur Brihadisvara Temple).
- It was renovated in the 16th century under Krishnadevaraya by his viceroy, Dalavai Ariyanadha Mudaliar.
Architectural Features
- Constructed in Dravidian style, with a 5-tier Rajagopuram (temple tower).
- Houses a slightly larger Shiva Lingam as its primary deity.
- Features a 16-pillar mandapam and an expansive compound wall.
Historical Significance
- Recently, 16th-century copper plate inscriptions were discovered at the temple.
- These inscriptions, written in Sanskrit and Nandinagari script, record a donation made by the Raja of Chandragiri to Brahmins, reflecting the administrative and cultural practices of Krishnadevaraya’s era.
