21 February 2025 : Daily Answer Writing

MAINS MODEL QUESTION: 20th FEBRUARY 2025

Q1) Discuss with examples the key features of Vijayanagara architecture. How did Indo-Islamic elements manifest in their structures? (15 marks, 250 words)

ANSWER

• Vijayanagara architecture represents the distinct style of architecture which flourished during the time period of Vijayanagara Empire and Nayaka Empire. 

• Vijayanagara is known for its numerous temples and palaces, each meticulously designed and showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the era.

KEY FEATURES OF VIJAYANAGARA ARCHITECTURE

1. Building Material: Vijayanagara Architecture primarily uses granite as it is durable while soapstone is used for intricate carving and complex sculptures. For example, the Virupaksha Temple uses these materials.

2. Gopurams and Vimanams: Gopurams are tall ornate gateways that mark entry to the temple while Vimanams are the sanctum towers built directly above the sanctum sanctorum in multi-layered structure. For example, the Virupaksha Temple has Gopuram while Vithala Temple has Vimanams.

3. Mandaps: Elaborately pillared Mandapas known as Kalyana Mandapas also formed a part of Vijayanagara Architecture.

4. Water Tanks: Construction of water tanks was a unique feature of Vijayanagara Empire. For example, a water tank near the Mahanavami  Dibba.

5. Secular Designs: There were several additions to the Temples which were essentially secular structures. For example, Lotus Mahal, Queen’s Bath, etc.

6. Large Stone Idols: Vijayanagara architecture features large monolithic sculptures, which are single stone carvings of deities and other figures. For example, Narasimha idols in temples.

7. Music Pillars: Certain temples feature pillars that produce musical notes when struck. These pillars are crafted to resonate at specific frequencies, showcasing the advanced understanding of acoustics by Vijayanagara architects.

8. Open Air Platforms: The open-air platform in the Krishna Temple complex in Hampi, used for various social and religious functions, features intricate carvings and a robust, airy design.

9. Mythical Creatures: Yali, mythical lion-like creatures, are commonly depicted in Vijayanagara temples.

INDO-ISLAMIC INFLUENCE IN THE STRUCTURE OF VIJAYANAGARA

EMPIRE:

1. Arches: A defining feature of Indo-Islamic architecture can be seen in pointed arches and horse-shoe arches. For example, the “Queen’s Bath” has multi-lobed arched doorways and pointed arches in the interior. The arches resemble those seen in Bahmani Architecture, exemplified by the Jami Masjid in Gulbarga.

2. Domes and Vaults: Domes are a characteristic feature of Islamic architecture, symbolizing the heavens and often crowning important buildings. Vaulted ceilings, commonly found in Islamic architecture, were adopted in Vijayanagara architecture for both aesthetic and structural reasons. For example, the Elephant Stables in Hampi have several domes on their roof while Durbar Hall in Hampi features vaulted ceilings.

3. Geometric Designs: Islamic art is known for its intricate geometric patterns and arabesque, which were incorporated into Vijayanagara decorative elements.

4. Stucco Ornamentation: Both the “Queen’s Bath” and the Elephant Stables are decorated with stucco ornamentation which is essentially Indo- Islamic feature.

5. Jharokhas: Jharokhas are overhanging enclosed balconies that are prominent in Indo-Islamic architecture, often used as viewing galleries. For example, the Lotus Mahal has “Jharokas”.

The Vijayanagara Architecture is seen as an amalgamation of various earlier styles of architecture, including, Nagara, Indo-Islamic and Dravidian architecture.

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