#nayaka dynasties

[pierrotsoup]

anyway I heart medieval and early modern vijayanagar 🙏shoutout to the nayaka and I heart public works and diverse society

[pierrotsloop]

John richards the Mughal empire was decent but he didn't read any of the vernacular languages like ONLY court persian so there was like nothing about normal people or theology or visual art so that was a negative😭 also the economic stuff was SOOOO dry im afraid .. .still good but lowkey some inconsistencies were present .. made me want to read standalone books Abt the marathas and various nayaka like not in relationship to a crumbling imperial giant just what they were up to within their structures yk . Still informative .. I get very invested in wars of succession even though I don't ACTUALLY gaf . made me miss reading abt bhakti saints .. also want to read abt the intermediary period between muhammad shah and the british empire cuz I think intermediary periods are always the most interesting anyway . (Like archaic Greece yum)

[indianencyclopedia]

Shivappa Nayaka is a notable and famous ruler in Nayaka Dynasty in Southern part of India. He belongs to Keladi Nayaka Kingdom. Shivappa Nayaka ruled the entire part of Karnataka from 1645 to 1660. He was popularly known as Keladi Shivappa Nayaka, was a notable ruler of the Keladi Nayaka Kingdom.

[valkyries-things]

CHENNAMMA // QUEEN OF KELADI VEERASHAIVA

“She was queen regnant of Keladi Veerashaiva Kingdom in Karnataka between 1677 and 1696. After her husband’s death, she efficiently handled the administration of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty. During her reign of 25 years, she repelled the advance of the Mughal Army led by Aurangzeb from her military base in the kingdom of Keladi located in Sagara, Karnataka, India. She adopted Basavappa Nayaka, one of her close relatives who succeeded as Hiriya Basappa Nayaka. She also rendered a trade agreement with the Portuguese involving commodities like pepper and rice. Channagiri is named after her.”

[indianetzonecom]

Kanthirava Narasaraja I, a prominent ruler of the Nayaka dynasty in 17th-century South India, left an enduring legacy through his strategic governance and cultural patronage. Ascending to the throne of Mysore in 1638, he ruled until 1659, shaping the region's history during a pivotal era.

[9629256474]

chola history

The Chola dynasty, one of the most illustrious and long-lasting dynasties in the history of South India, left an indelible mark on the region through its rule, art, culture, and maritime influence. In this brief account, I'll summarize the history of the Cholas in 1000 words.

The Chola dynasty's origins can be traced back to around the 9th century CE. The early Cholas established themselves as a minor ruling clan in the fertile Cauvery River delta region, located in what is now Tamil Nadu, India. They gradually expanded their influence by subduing neighboring rulers and emerging as a significant political force in the region.

The Chola dynasty can be divided into three main phases: the Early Cholas (circa 9th to 13th century CE), the Medieval Cholas (circa 13th to 16th century CE), and the Later Cholas (circa 17th to 19th century CE).

Early Cholas (circa 9th to 13th century CE):

The Cholas gained prominence under the rule of Vijayalaya Chola, who, in the 9th century, captured the city of Thanjavur and established it as the capital of the Chola kingdom. His son, Aditya I, extended Chola rule to the north, consolidating power. Raja Raja Chola I, one of the most famous Chola monarchs, ascended the throne in 985 CE. Under his rule, the Chola Empire reached its zenith. He is renowned for constructing the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Raja Raja's son, Rajendra Chola, was an equally illustrious ruler. He expanded the Chola Empire to include Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia, thereby becoming a powerful maritime empire. The Cholas established a prosperous trade network, linking the Deccan, Southeast Asia, and even parts of China. This maritime prowess brought immense wealth and cultural exchange to their kingdom.

Medieval Cholas (circa 13th to 16th century CE):

The Chola Empire began to decline in the 13th century due to various factors, including invasions by the Pandyas and the rise of the Hoysala dynasty. This period marked a transition from the Early Cholas to the Medieval Cholas. Despite facing political challenges, the Cholas continued to play a significant role in the history of South India.

One notable ruler of this period was Rajaraja Chola II, who made efforts to revive the Chola Empire's glory. His patronage of art and literature contributed to the flourishing of Tamil culture. However, the Chola Empire was no longer as powerful as it once was, and their territory continued to shrink.

Later Cholas (circa 17th to 19th century CE):

The Later Cholas, from the 17th century onwards, ruled a much-reduced domain compared to their predecessors. They faced invasions from the Nayaks of Madurai and the Marathas. The British East India Company also exerted influence in the region during this time.

In the late 18th century, the Chola territory became part of the British Madras Presidency, and the direct rule of the Chola dynasty came to an end. The last Chola king, Raja Venkatappa Nayaka, ruled during this period but had little power. The British colonial presence gradually eclipsed the indigenous rulers.

Legacy:

The Chola dynasty's legacy endures through their contributions to art, culture, and architecture. The Brihadeeswara Temple, a masterpiece of Chola architecture, stands as a testament to their architectural prowess. Chola bronze sculptures are celebrated for their artistic excellence.

The Cholas also played a significant role in the development of Tamil literature. The Sangam era, characterized by the creation of classical Tamil poetry, partly coincided with their rule. The Cholas were patrons of poets and scholars, further enriching Tamil literature.

In the realm of administration, they established a well-organized bureaucracy and a strong naval presence, facilitating trade and diplomacy with Southeast Asian kingdoms.

The Cholas' maritime expeditions left a lasting impact on the Indian Ocean region, fostering cultural exchanges with neighboring civilizations. Their influence can be traced as far as Indonesia, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

In summary, the Chola dynasty, with its enduring architectural marvels, literary contributions, and maritime reach, occupies a prominent place in the history of South India and remains a source of cultural and historical pride for the people of the region. While the empire's territorial extent fluctuated over the centuries, its cultural and historical significance continues to be celebrated and studied to this day.

[drkgowthaman-blog]

KOLLUR MOOKAMBIKA TEMPLE This is one among the seven abodes of salvation, in the creation of Parashurama. Mookambika temple is situated in Kollur, Udupi district of Karnataka. This temple is dedicated to knowledge and art and Goddess here worshipped as Lord of speech and letters. Kollur Mookambika temple is believed to be 1200 years old and many kings had faith in this temple. The local kings and the well-kown Kings of Keladi Dynasty, Shankanna Nayaka and Shivappa Nayaka had given many donations for the temple and renovated it. Today PANGUNI-03, MARCH-17, FRIDAY, I Pray, With the blessing of GODDESS MOOKAMBIKA, you, your family and friends will get good health, wealth and peace in your life . #வெல்னஸ்குருஜி #wellnessgurujicamps #wellnessgurujidrgk #wellnessgurujitips #healingmeditationwithwellnessguruji #shreevarmacamps #shreevarmalife #healingmeditationwithguruji #DrGowthaman www.drgowthaman.com (at திருநெல்வேலி) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp4XA17SOy4/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[hinducosmos]

Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple, Thiruparankundram, Tamil Nadu

𝓥𝓲𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱 wrote : Universal God Murugan Temple😍 📍 Thiruparakundram, Madurai.

Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple, Thiruparankundram is a Hindu temple and one of the Six Abodes of Murugan, located at Thiruparankundram. The temple is built in rock-cut architecture and believed to have been built by the Pandyas during the 6th century.

The mandapas which lead to the temple were constructed by the Nayaka dynasty during the 17 and 18th century AD. After paying our obeisance to the deities we moved on. There is another shrine atop the granite hill and to reach that we would have to climb 600 steps.

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple is at a distance of 8km (5 miles) from South Madurai Junction. By road, it is approximately 10km (6.2mi) away, and one can reach there via Madura College Playground-Vasant Nagar-Thiyagarajar-Thiruparankundram.

You can visit Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple from 5 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm every day for devotees.

The best time to visit this temple is during festivals. The most celebrated festivals at Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple are,

Skanda Shashti – It is celebrated between October-November during Tamil month of Aippasi Brahmotsavam – It is celebrated according to Tamil calendar Phaguni.

(via Instagram: 𝓥𝓲𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱 @incognito__explorer)

[obsidian-space]

KNOW ABOUT CLASSICAL "THANJAVUR" PAINTINGS

KNOW ABOUT CLASSICAL "THANJAVUR" OR "TANJORE" PAINTINGS -THE DIVINE ART OF SOUTH INDIA

HERITAGE OF SOUTH INDIA Thanjavur or Tanjore paintings is a classical art of South India which derives its name from the place of its origin, the town of Thanjavur (anglicized as Tanjore). It is an ancient art form that originated during the reign of the Chola dynasty in the 16th century and then later patronized by the Maratha princes, Nayakas of the Vijayanagar empire, Rajus of Tanjore and…

[a-safe-and-quiet-place]

Gandaberunda

The Gandaberunda or Berunda (Sanskrit: गण्डभेरुण्ड gaṇḍabheruṇḍa), is a two-headed mythological bird outside of main Hindu mythology thought to possess magical strength. It is used as the official emblem by the Karnataka government because of its immense strength, capable of dealing with ultimate forces of destruction, and it is seen as an intricately sculptured motif in a Hindu temple.

Depiction

The bird is generally depicted as clutching elephants in its talons and beaks demonstrating its immense strength. In a coin (kasu) found in Madurai, it is shown holding a snake in its beak. All 2-dimensional depictions show a symmetrical image similar to the double-headed eagle other images show the long tail feathers resembling a peacock which is the national bird of India. In the Chennakeshava temple of Belur (1113), Karnataka, Gandaberunda (2-faced bird identified with Vishnu) depiction is a carved scene of "chain of destruction". Initially, a deer is prey to a large python, followed by being lifted by an elephant and a lion attacking the elephant, and the lion shown as devoured by Sharabha. The last scene depicted is of Gandaberunda destroying Sharabha. The Gandaberunda was a physical form displayed by Narasimha, Man-Lion incarnation of Vishnu.

After Narasimha had slain demon Hiranyakashipu, through the taste of blood, Narasimha did not let go of his dreadful form. Demigods were even more afraid of the supreme lord now, than before of the demon. Shiva, the best friend of Vishnu, thus shiva incarnated as Veerabhadra, Rudra and kala bhairava and narasimha slain all " forms of shiva and thus incarnated himself as Sharabha, a part-lion and part-bird beast which was the terror of the lion. Gandaberunda, having two heads, fearful rows of teeth, black in complexion and with wide blazing wings fought with Shiva-Sharabha for eighteen days and finally held it between his two beaks and killed Sharabha but also exploded and got killed in the process.

Usage

A roof sculpture depicting a Gandaberunda is found on the roof of the Rameshwara temple in the temple town of Keladi in Shimoga District, which was the capital of the Keladi Nayakas. The Gandaberunda was also used by the Wodeyar dynasty of Mysore as the royal emblem. The Karnataka Government adopted this symbol as the state symbol and can be found on bus terminals and tickets issued by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation. Coins (gold pagoda or gadyana) from the rule of Achyuta Deva Raya are thought to be the first to use the Gandaberunda on currency. The crest of the Indian navy ship INS Mysore (D60) features a Gandaberunda.

In media

Ganda Berunda is a Kannada film directed by S.V. Rajendrasingh Babu and produced by Vajramuni. The film was released in the year 1984. The music was composed by Sathyam. Bollywood actor Amrish Puri played the antagonist in the film.

[gingerhotelsindia]

GINGER: MANGALORE’S BEST HOTEL

The port city of Mangalore, also known as Mangaluru, is located in the Indian state of Karnataka. Mangalore is located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, some 219 miles west of Bangalore. In Karnataka, the four modes of transportation—air, land, rail, and sea—are only available to Mangalore.

75% of India's coffee and cashew exports are handled by Mangalore, an important industrial centre in the state of Karnataka and the country's seventh-largest vessel harbour. Both the ninth-century Mangaladevi Temple and the bronze statue-adorned Kadri Manjunath Temple are located there.

You can also check out the Catholic sites in Mangalore, like the Milagres Church from the 17th century and the St. Aloysius Chapel, with its abundance of interior portraits. In Mangalore, Tannirbhavi Beach is well known for its breathtaking sunset views.

Mangalore has been ruled by powerful dynasties, including the Vijayanagar Empire, Keladi Nayakas, Kadambas, Alupas, and the Portuguese. The city was the principal point of contention between the British and the monarchs of the Kingdom of Mysore, and in 1799, the British finally annexed it. Mangalore was a part of the Madras Presidency until 1947, when the nation gained its independence. It was merged with Karnataka State in 1956.

Mangalore is also a hub for startups, medicine, business, and education in India. The international airport in Mangalore City is the second busiest airport in Karnataka. Rolling hills, beaches with coconut trees, rivers, and a rich laterite soil make up the city's topography. There is currently a first-of-its-kind 8K resolution 3D planetarium in India in the city of Mangalore.

Therefore, if you decide to go across India, a centre of mountaineering and seascape diversity, you will need a hotel room to stay in. And what could be more satisfying than finding a room in your price range that makes it seem like you're staying in a hotel of the leisure class?

Is it useful?

Without a doubt, it is.

However, where can you find this type of accommodation in Mangalore?

Be relaxed. You may rely on Ginger Mangalore to help.

No matter how you travel to Mangalore, the Ginger Mangalore hotel will always be your first choice because of its close proximity to all modes of transportation. Because the Mangalore bus terminal is so close—only 5 kilometres separate the bus terminal and the Ginger Hotel—travellers can easily check in without having to worry about hauling their luggage for an extended period of time.

There aren't many decent hotels near the Mangalore airport, yet nobody stands in front of Ginger Mangalore.

Searching for good 3-star accommodation in Mangalore can be a daunting task, but don’t worry.

All of your questions about hotel convenience can be answered at the Ginger Branch accommodation in Mangalore.

Ginger Mangalore is one of the best 3-star hotels you'll ever find in Mangalore, with first-rate services and all the newest comforts. The Ginger Mangalore is close to Infosys and Kottara Chowki, making it easier for guests to find the hotel from their own commute facilities. You will always arrive at the Ginger Brand hotel in Mangalore regardless of the mode of transportation you select. All Ginger brand hotels are dispersed among 50 different locations and are close to all forms of public transit, including the airport, bus terminal, and railway station, to make it convenient for visitors to travel about the hotel.

If you're concerned about the services Ginger offers, you should relax. In all 50 properties in 32 different locations in India, Ginger Hotels near Mangalore Airport consistently deliver the most energising service.

Whatever your reason for visiting Mangalore, there are lots of benefits to booking a cheap hotel. Finding accommodation in a 3-star hotel will not only enable you to stay there longer while saving money by keeping you from making unneeded purchases.

In particular, if you are staying at one of the Ginger-owned branch hotels close to the bus terminal in Mangalore, you can not only experience a pleasant stay at a reasonable price but also benefit from excellent quality services that are hard to find at other 3-star hotels in the city within the same price range.

The Ginger Mangalore has 79 nicely decorated twin and queen rooms for guests to select from. The hotel also provides rooms designed specifically for guests with impairments so that they may experience a nice stay. The Ginger Mangalore is one of the best 3-star hotels in Mangalore that is still in your price range and ensures that your stay will be enjoyable.

Although there are many great hotels that can accommodate your needs, employing Ginger Hotel's services will never make you feel at home. Visitors who opt to stay at Ginger receive round-the-clock help and have all of their needs met.

Every passenger request is carefully attended to, and the hotel staff offers guests modern conveniences and services to make the most of their stay at the Ginger Mangalore Hotel.

Ginger Mangalore is ready to help you as soon as possible.

[themilesnsmiles-blog]

Chitradurga Fort, Karnataka | milesnsmilesholidays

Chitradurga Fort is worth stopping to see on the way to Hampi from Bangalore or Mysore. You could easily spend half a day, or even a whole day, exploring its vast area and learning about the many legends associated with it. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear though because there's a lot of climbing and walking involved!

The fort occupies 1,500 acres on a cluster of rocky hills. It was constructed in stages by rulers of various dynasties (including the Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagars, and Nayakas) from the 10th to the 18th centuries. However, most of the fortification work was done by the Nayakas between the 16th and 18th centuries, when they took over Chitradurga after the fall of the Vijayanagar empire. The fort is known as a stone fort, as its ramparts are made from huge blocks of granite, which blend into the landscape's plentiful boulders. In addition to its numerous concentric walls, gateways, and entrances, the fort apparently has 35 secret pathways and four invisible passages. Plus, 2,000 watchtowers! | milesnsmilesholidays

Nevertheless, after repeated attacks on Chitradurga, Hyder Ali (who took the throne from the Wodeyars of Mysore) managed to get control of the fort in 1779. He and his son, Tipu Sultan, put the finishing touches on it, including a mosque. The British killed Tipu Sultan in the Fourth Mysore War in 1799 and garrisoned their troops in the fort. Later, they handed it over to the Mysore government.

Attractions inside the fort include many ancient temples, artillery units, stone carvings and sculptures, grinding stones (powered by buffaloes and used to crush gunpowder), cauldrons for storing oil, water tanks, a majestic teak door, and a peak with panoramic views. Hidimbeshwara temple, dedicated to the powerful demon Hidimba, used to be a Buddhist monastery and is fort's most interesting temple. It contains a tooth of the demon and a drum that belonged to her husband Bhima, one of the Pandavas brothers from the Hindu epic "The Mahabharata." | milesnsmilesholidays

[believersiasacademy]

Indian Paintings Part 1

Indian Paintings

Part 1

Pre-Historic Painting

The subjects of their drawings were human figures, human activities, geometric designs and symbols.

In India the earliest paintings have been reported from the Upper Palaeolithic times.

Humans are represented in stick-like forms.

A long-snouted animal, a fox and a multiple legged lizard are the main animal motifs.

Wavy lines, rectangle-filled geometric designs, and groups of dots can also be seen here

The largest pre-historic paintings discovered in India belongs to the Mesolithic period.

Used minerals for pigments Eg: ochre or geru.

They used minerals in different colours.

Examples: Bhimbetka caves, MP; Jogimara caves, Chattisgarh; Narsingarh, MP

Mural Paintings

Murals are works that are painted on the walls or a solid structure.

The wall paintings in India have existed from the 2nd century BC to Medieval times.

Some of the places where this painting is found include- Ajanta, Bagh, Sittanavasal, Armamalai cave, Ravan Chhaya rock-shelter and Kailashnath temple in Ellora caves.

Majority of the themes in these paintings relates to religion- Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism.

Ajanta paintings

The subject matter of these paintings is almost exclusively Buddhist, excepting decorative patterns on the ceilings and the pillars.

They are mostly associated with the Jataka, collection of stories, recording the previous births of the Lord Buddha.

The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani from cave I is one of the masterpieces of Ajanta Painting executed in the late 6th century CE.

Medium of Paintings: Mineral and vegetable dyes.

The paintings depict human values and social fabric, as well as period styles, clothes, and accessories.

Bagh Cave paintings

The paintings from Bagh caves in Madhya Pradesh in terms of design, execution, and ornamentation, are an extension of the Ajanta school.

The earliest Brahmanical paintings so far known, are the fragments found in Badami caves, in cave No.III belonging to circa 6th century A.D.

The painting of Siva and Parvati is found somewhat well preserved.

Rang Mahal, Cave №4, features exquisite murals on the walls illustrating Buddhist and Jataka tales, similar to those found in Ajanta.

Ellora paintings

A number of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples were excavated from Ellora between the 8th and 10th centuries A.D.

Located nearly 100 Kms away from Ajanta caves in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, it is a group of 34 caves — 17 Brahmanical, 12 Buddhist and 5 Jain.

The most impressive of these, the Kailashnath Temple is a free standing structure which is in fact a monolith which has several fragments of painting on the ceiling of the different parts of this temple.

It was developed under the patronage of Rashtrakuta king Krishna I and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Cave №10 is a Buddhist Chaitya cave known as Vishwakarma Cave or carpenter’s cave wherein Buddha is seated in Vyakhyana Mudra here and Bodhi tree is carved at his back.

Badami cave paintings

Badami was the capital of the early Chalukyan dynasty which ruled the region from 543 to 598 CE.

The inscription in Cave №4 mentions the date 578–579 CE, describes the beauty of the cave and includes the dedication of the image of Vishnu.

The paintings found here are stylistically similar to the ones found in Ajanta.

Vijayanagara Murals

The paintings at Tiruparakunram, near Trichy, done in the fourteenth century represent the early phase of the Vijayanagara style.

In Hampi, the Virupaksha temple has paintings on the ceiling of its mandapa narrating events from dynastic history and episodes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Lines become still but fluid, compositions appear in rectilinear compartments.

Kerala murals

Kerala painters (during the period from the sixteenth to the eighteenth century) evolved a pictorial language and technique of their own while discriminately adopting certain stylistic elements from Nayaka and Vijayanagara schools.

More than sixty sites have been found with mural paintings which include three palaces — Dutch palace in Kochi, Krishnapuram palace in Kayamkulam and Padmanabhapuram palace.

Read More : https://believersias.com/indian-paintings-part-1/

[vgopalakrishnan]

The duo which unraveled Ponniyin Selvan ....

The late Kalki Krishnamurthy's Ponniyin Selvan, a captivating mix of history & imagination about Chozhas enthralled the readers when the historical story first appeared in his magazine Kalki as a weekly feature running into several years. The weekly feature kept the readers in the grip of never ending excitement waiting to grab the next weekly issue of the magazine. His absorbing story telling kept the audience spellbound during the entire period, from the first to the last issue.

For the very first time, through Kalki's descriptive words woven around a few generations of Chozha dynasty. the Tamizh readers could catch the glimpse of the ancient Chozhas' glory which earlier formed part of the rural folklore without much authentication. The accompanying drawings of the characters added more life and colour to the imagination of the author keeping the audience engrossed on the edge of their seats while reading the weekly feature. 

The author's imagination was at its eloquent best to recreate the story through the characters which took place almost a millennium back in the Chozha heartland of Thanjavur. He could vividly take the audience back to the Chozha era in an effortless manner which made the weekly feature, the most successful in his times. The weekly feature which later on became a compiled novel series also became a huge hit with the generations which missed the weekly features of the magazine which appeared in the 1950s. 

The riveting story which was adapted as a movie in 2022 has also created the same kind of excitement even in the modern times leaving the audience awestruck about the Chozha era happenings. Without doubt, there must be something extraordinary about the spectacular presentation of Kalki's portrayal of the events surrounding the royal family of the Chozhas which kept the audience enthralled in every format of its presentation over the last 70 years or so.

Kalki Krishnamurthy took the literary World by storm when his story first appeared in his weekly magazine providing the audience a 'never seen, never heard' story line exquisitely mingled with the Chozha history which was earlier communicated through random oral narrations, generations after generations, based on the hearsay. Many of the heroics of the ancient kings, particularly the Chozhas were always part of the folklore in & around the places where the kings ruled.  

The other reason for the readers to feel excited about the story was the non-existence of written historical experiences about Chozhas during the earlier part of 20th Century, a void effectively filled by Kalki Krishnamurthy through his Ponniyin Selvan.  Audience experienced an authentic narration of Chozha era events for the very first time in a print version.

Sitting in 2022 one would simply refuse to believe the fact that Chozha history & the history about Brahadeeshwara temple, the iconic symbol of Chozha architecture remained in the dark & was largely unknown, unraveled & unveiled for almost nine Centuries till the 20th Century. Despite the Chozha kingdom being ruled by Nayakas & Marathas for several Centuries post Chozha period, the history about Brihadeeswara remained locked in mystery. 

Yes, people till the 20th Century were not even aware about the emperor Raja Raja Chozha or his monumental Brihadeeshwara temple, for which he is been talked about, even after 1000 years since it was completed. The reason being, neither anyone actually cared to translate the inscriptions nor any had the ability to read & figure out the inscriptions which were meticulously recorded by Raja Raja Chozha across the length and breadth of the grandeur structure. 

V Venkayya and Eugen Hultzsch

But destiny had its own plans.  A chance meeting of two important historians in 1886 proved to be a turning point in unraveling the Chozha & Brihadeeswara temple history. V Venkayya, a school teacher turned epigraphist by hobby, met Eugen Hultzsch, a British appointed epigraphist. They both landed in Mamallapuram separately to study the stone inscriptions in the shore temples. Impressed by Venkayya's enthusiasm, Eugen Hultzsch invited him to join the government's epigraphy department to carry out the epigraphy works across various historical sites. Together they undertook an arduous mission to study & unravel the history of the land, particularly the South Indian. 

Over the years, among many sites, the duo also toiled hard and analysed the stone inscriptions of Brihadeeswara temple & finally concluded the ownership of the builder who was none other than the great Raja Raja Chozha. As they say, the rest is history. After their priceless discovery, it was just a matter of time before the entire Chozha history was mapped based on the stone inscriptions identified across various temples and other historical sites. By the turn of 20th Century, the Chozha history was firmly in its due place, thanks to the amazing efforts of Venkayya-Hultzsch. 

Before the duo's discovery of the inscriptions at Brihadeeswara temple, lots of rumours, unsubstantiated myths & imaginary stories surrounded Brihadeeswara temple about its builder & the origins as also the exact period of its construction. The duo effectively sealed those stories by declaring the exact history of the temple & its builder without an iota of doubt.

Their tireless efforts gave rise to further epigraphic and archaeological studies across various historical sites in & around Chozha dynasty, paving way for near completion of the study of Chozhas with authors like Neelakanta Shastri and Sadashiva Pandarathar taking up precise and detailed write ups on Chozha dynasty. And that triggered the enrapturing imagination of the novelists like Kalki Krishnamurthy who penned Ponniyin Selvan, kindling the curiosity of the history loving masses making it a fascinating & an all season compelling read about the Chozha dynasty. 

[travelsmadurai]

madurai tourist places

Meenakshi Amman Temple

The Thirukalyanam Festival, which is quite famous in South India is celebrated over a span of 10 days and attracts over a million devotees.

Temple visiting time: 5:00 am to 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Time spent in temple: 1 – 2 hours

Best time to visit: Early morning or evening, for the aarti

Best months to visit: All Days in Year

Things to remember: As it is a place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully and conservatively

Pudhu Mandapam

Pudhu Mandapam One thing that immediately strikes the visitors is the temple’s architectural magnificence and finesse. You will see 124 pillars and columns intricately carved with Hindu scriptures and scenes from the wedding of the Lord and the Goddess and those of the Nayaka dynasty rulers. The mandapam is almost 330-ft. high and stands on a pedestal.

The temple hosts the popular festivals of Avani Moolam, Theppam, Navarathri, etc. that bring thousands of people from all over Southern India.

Timings: Every day from 9:00 am- 8:30 pm.

Location: E Chitrai Street, Chinnakadai Area, Madurai.

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, It is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan (Kartikeya). Legend has it, this is the very site where Murugan defeated the demon, Surapadman, and was married to Deivayani, the daughter of Lord Indra.

What makes this temple special is its rock-cut architecture which, in popular belief, was built by the Pandyas. People believe that it is auspicious to get married in the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple for a happy and successful married life.

Temple visiting time: 5:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Time spent in temple: 1 – 2 hours

Distance: The temple is situated 8 km away from Madurai are the month of birth and month of death, respectively, of Gandhi

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Koodal Azhagar Temple is the worshippers of Lord Vishnu, Originally built by the Pandyas, the temple is situated right in the middle of the city of Madurai. The temple is surrounded by a granite wall, enclosing all the shrines. Constructed in the Dravidian architecture style, the temple is beautifully sculpted and carved by adding hues of different colours.

Visiting time of the temple: 5:30 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Time spent in the temple: 1 – 2 hours

Entry fee for children : Rs 10

Entry fee for adults : Rs 20

Best time to visit: Early morning or evening, to attend the aarti

Best months to visit: Mid February to mid March to attend the festivals

Things to remember: As it is a place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully and conservatively

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

This palace is a testimony to the perfect blend of Dravidian and Islamic style of architecture. Erected in the year 1635, the palace was a magnificent vision by the king for his royal stay.

Visiting time of the palace: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Time spent in the palace: About 2 hours to explore all the accessible areas

Entry fee : Rs 5 for children

Entry fee : Rs 10 for adults

Entry fee : Rs 50 for foreign nationals

Best time to visit: Mid-afternoon to explore all the accessible areas of the palace and catch the light and sound show.

Alagar Koyil

Alagar Koyil is about 21 km away from Madurai, Alagar Koyil, alternatively known as Azhagar Kovil, is one of the most visited temples of Madurai. Depicting the forms and styles of the early Sangam age, the era that it belongs to, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The presiding deity here is Lord Sundararajan, the brother of Goddess Meenakshi. There are a few shrines to deities like Andal, Sudarshana and Yoga Narasimha in the temple.

Timings: 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Location: Alagar Koyil main road, Tamil Nadu

Pazhamudhir Solai

Pazhamudhir Solai is one of the enchanting tourist places in Madurai. Known to be the smallest abode of Lord Murugan, the Pazhamudhir Solai is surrounded by dense forest with a rich variety of flora. It is located 20 km away from the city of Madurai and sits quietly atop a hill and is close to the Vishnu temple of Azhagar Kovil.

Visiting time of the temple: 5:30 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Time spent in the temple: 1 – 2 hours

Entry fee: There is no entry fee

Best time to visit: Early morning, for good darshan and to avoid queues for the spring water

Best months to visit: March, to witness Panguni Uthiram being celebrated with full grandeur

Things to remember: As it is a place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully and conservatively

Mariamman Teppakulam

Mariamman Teppakulam Built by King Thirumalai Nayak, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is a tank located close to the temple of the same name. Connected to the Vaigai river, the tank is a magnificent structure with a system of underground channels and 12 long, granite steps on all four sides.

Visiting time to the tank: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm

Entry fee: There is no entry fee

Samanar Hills

Samanar Hills beautiful views from the Samanar Hills make them among the top tourist attractions in Madurai. The hill complex is located in the Keelakuilkudi village, about 15 km away from the main city of Madurai. The carvings on the walls give an account of the way of living and the rules that monks followed.

Visiting time of the hills: Sunrise to sunset

Time spent in the temple: Around 2 hours

Things to remember: The trek to reach the top of the hill can take up to 2 hours

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple Referenced in several ancient texts, including works of the Sangam literature, Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple is one of the most interesting places to visit in Madurai. Stretching across 2.3 acres of land, the temple has managed to beautifully preserve the architectural beauty that Madurai boasts of. The temple now falls under the care of the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of Tamil Nadu Government.

Timings: 07:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Location: Thirumohur, Tamil Nadu 625107

Gandhi Museum

Established in the year 1959, this museum is one of the five Gandhi Sangrahalaya (museum) in India.

Museum visiting time: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Time spent in museum: 1- 2 hours

Best month to visit: October to January, as these are the months of birth and month of death of Gandhi.

Kazimar Big Mosque And Maqbara Mosque

Kazimar Big Mosque And Maqbara Mosque Madurai’s oldest mosque, Carrying stellar impression of the ages that the structure has witnessed, it is a frequent haunt for lovers of history, culture and religion.

Timings: 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Location: Kazimar St, Periyar, Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001

St. Mary’s Cathedral Church

With a rich history of over 150 years, the church is an eclectic mix of Roman, European and Continental architecture. One can visit here to pray and attend the Mass or just adore this age-old structure.

Visiting time of the church: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Best time to visit: Between 7:30 am to 6:00 pm

Best months to visit: Mid February to mid March to attend the festivals

Things to remember: As it is a place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully and conservatively

Yanaimalai

Yanaimalai is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Madurai, Home to several ancient sculptures, a Shaivite Temple and a couple of caves, the hill is spans over 3 km of lush green land, and is about 300 ft. high. The structural beauty and historical significance of the hill has earned it a the title of a protected monument under The Ancient And Archaeological Sites And Remains Act. Rooted in various mythological tales and folklore, Yanaimalai is an unmissable place for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Timings: 07:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Location: Narasingam, Tamil Nadu 625104

Vaigai Dam

Vaigai Dam Located about 70 km away from Madurai, Vaigai is a magnificent dam that graces the beautiful Vaigai river. The dam neighbours a lovely little garden known as the ‘Little Brindavan’, a favourite amongst picnickers and kids. If you’re seeking some solitude and peace, Vaigai is the place to be.

Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Location: Guest House Rd, Melmangalam, Tamil Nadu 625562

Goripalayam Dargah

It has a beautiful Islamic-Dravidian architecture that includes ornate arches, stone pillars, and cool marble floors. It even houses a shelter where people of all faiths stay for days and months to seek divine blessings amidst the serene ambience of Quran recitals and the holy azaan.

Timings: Every day from 7:00 am – 7:00 pm.

Meghamalai

Meghamalai, locally known as the ‘High Wavy Mountains’, is a picturesque mountain range and amongst the most beautiful places to visit in Madurai. Nestled amidst lush and fragrant tea, cinnamon, pepper, and cardamom plantations and dotted with green meadows, waterfalls, and wildflower patches, this is the perfect place to escape into the remarkable raw beauty of nature.

Meghamalai has beautiful and rugged nature trails that take one deep into the forests at the local wildlife sanctuary that house hundreds of species of exotic birds like spotted doves, blue robins, and the Great Indian hornbill. Don’t miss to see the beautiful Suruli and Meghamalai waterfalls and visit dams like Manalar, Thekkady, Vanniar, etc. that are stunningly lush enclaves of nature.

[wetarangartsworld]

Tanjore Paintings: Wow Reasons why the Artform Still Fascinates!

Of all the South Indian painting forms, Thanjavur's style of painting is probably one of the most popular and classical forms of art for all the right reasons. Native to Thanjavur, which is also known as Tanjore in Tamil Nadu, this great southern art form took its inspiration way back in time. Its origin is said to be traced back to around 1600 AD. It is said that their dense artistic work along with the vibrancy of the various colors coupled with the rich surface makes these Thanjavur paintings highly distinct from almost all other forms of Indian paintings. It goes without a doubt that Tanjore paintings hold a very rich heritage and was a treasured possession of the Nayakas of Thanjavur and were proudly introduced by the Chola Dynasty in the 16th century, under the supreme reign of Vijayanagar Rayas. Nowadays, these paintings have even become a delicate but dedicated part of the souvenirs held high on several festive occasions. 

But these aren't the only reasons that classify Tanjore paintings as priceless art. They come with so much history, fine intricacy, and soul that the reasons would surely kindly your spirits to purchase one of your own.

Reason #1-The making

The making of the Tanjore painting is from another dimension. The most significant feature of a Tanjore Painting is its 3D property. It is a lesser-known fact that the Tanjore Painting is the only painting to have an embossment on it. That is, the painting comes with areas that are slightly or prominently elevated from the surface. The capacity to which the painting can be diversified is an endless list. The composition of a traditional Tanjore painting can range anywhere between a wooden plank to the pastings made of Arabic gum. Powdered limestone acts as the binding medium which gently coats the canvas evenly and is then left to dry. The artist then begins to add details to the sketch. Semi-precious gemstones and bright vibrant hues are embedded in particular areas, many that of pillars, arches, thrones, etc. Finally to add that pop of color, In those days, most artists used natural colors that were produced out of vegetables and mineral dyes. Another interesting fact about products used is the real gold foil used to stick on the embossed areas of the painting. This prevents it from fading and provides lasting authenticity. 

(Image source: D’source Design gallore)

Reason #2- The detailing

While these paintings are made up of a rich splash of colors along with glittering gold overlaid on it to make it look delicate yet extensive in its working. They are also beautifully embedded with glass beads and tiny intricate pieces of precious gemstones. The dense composition invariably encompasses the surface richness making it stand tall among so many other forms of art. Artists these days have taken this old form and combined it with other art styles to create what is known as mixed media arts. While a Tanjore painting can ideally be designed and created on mirrors, glass, and even empty canvases, this creative idea of applying gold foil is unique to its nature as traditional art and is taken to recreate the same on different mediums.

Reason #3- The diversity

The subjects that these adorable paintings cover mostly revolve around the Hindu gods, goddesses, saints, several episodes from the Hindu mythology; small fairs, certain auspicious ceremonies as well as processions and highly elaborate festivals; The classification of castes, their diverse occupations and style of dressing and lastly the Indian flora and fauna, etc. These paintings are then carefully and meticulously executed by the same Tanjore artists in a style suited to meet the amplified western taste. There are in fact several instances from history that showcased the awe-inspiring subject fascination shown in perfect detail by these paintings especially the Jain, Sikh, Muslim as well as other religions and secular subjects. Nowadays, these Tanjore paintings have the greatest preference among art lovers who fancy adorning their walls with these elaborate paintings. 

Reason #4- The history

The birth and conception of a Tanjore painting can be traced back to when the Marathas invaded Thanjavur. This then led to the migration of several skilled and individual artists to work under the Nayaks of Thanjavur. While the Maratha rule lasted for over two complete centuries, this art form continued to flourish under their patronage in the 16th to 18th century. The RAJUs in Thanjavur and the TRICHY as well as the NAIDUS in Madurai were the two major communities that stood to practice and promote this art.  After the decline of the long-ruling Maratha empire, the Chettiar community patronized these brilliant Tanjore artists. Following all this, the Britishers who had come to Thanjavore found value and potential in these artists and began to support them in producing more paintings. 

Reason #5- The journey

In 2007–08, Thanjavur paintings cam to be recognized and validated as a Geographical indication by the Indian government. Though this great art style is still being practiced and promoted throughout the nation and abroad, the actual virtuosity and rigor of these treasured Indian paintings are still under-appreciated in the present day. however, these artists have kept the art alive by incorporating this conventional form of art and blending it with several modern styles. Today, Thanjavur art is also widely and popularly used on mirrors, glasses, and in so many other artistic places. The idea of having the traditional art of Thanjavur decorated with gold foil is what adds to its uniqueness; therefore the same style is now taken and recreated on other mediums these days.