Answer:

Introduction

Vijayanagar literature refers to the literary works that emerged during the Vijayanagar Empire, a prominent South Indian empire that thrived from the 14th to the 17th century. Example- ‘Dharmanathapurana’ of Jain saint poet Madhura.

Body

Significance of Vijayanagara literature in shaping regional culture

• Promotion of Kannada and Telugu language: Kannada poet Kumara Vyasa composed the famous Mahabharata in the 15th century, which became a milestone in Kannada literature.
• Integration of Regional Traditions: Telugu poet Allasani Peddana’s work “Manucharitam” blended local Telugu culture with Sanskrit poetic traditions.
• Literary Patronage: The Vijayanagar rulers actively patronised poets and scholars, fostering a thriving literary culture. Krishnadevaraya patronised Ashtadiggajas like Tenali Ramakrishna.
• Bhakti and Devotional Literature: The Vijayanagara period witnessed a surge in Bhakti literature, focusing on intense devotion and personal experiences of devotees. Works of saint- poets like Purandara Dasa, Kanakadasa, and others expressed their deep devotion to deities, conveying spiritual teachings and moral values.
• Influence on other Works: The epic poem “Srinatha Mahakavyam” by Srinatha, a 15th- century Telugu poet, drew inspiration from the Vijayanagar literary tradition.

Impact of Vijayanagara literature on promoting classical languages and religious harmony

• Preservation and promotion of classical languages: Vijayanagar period is called the Golden period of Telugu literature. The patronage of Vijayanagara rulers to Kannada, Telugu, Sanskrit poets, helped to elevate these languages to a higher literary status. Example- Sayana’s “Vedartha Prakasha”
• Translation of literary works: They encouraged the translation of Sanskrit texts into these languages, making literary and religious knowledge more accessible to the common people.
• Promotion of Ethical and Moral Values: Vijayanagara literature emphasized ethical and moral values in its compositions. Epics, poetry, and other literary works conveyed social and moral principles, promoting ethical behavior, compassion, justice, and virtuous living. Example- “Gadugina Bharata” by Kumara Vyasa.
• Religious inclusivity: The poet-saint Purandara Dasa, who composed in Kannada, is an example of someone who propagated devotion to both Vishnu and Shiva.
• Interfaith dialogues: The Sufi poet Mohammad Shirazi composed a Telugu work called “Rasamanjari” that blended Hindu and Islamic themes, promoting interfaith dialogue.

Conclusion

Overall, Vijayanagar literature not only enriched regional languages but also facilitated the synthesis of diverse cultural elements, leaving an enduring impact on the literary and cultural heritage of South India.