Introducing hampi: Insights from literary and historical sources

Abstract

The impressive ruins, monuments and built heritage spread across the World Heritage Site of Hampi, the capital of Vijayanagara Dynasty of Karnataka enthral scores of visitors in the present day. However, what is also great interest is the wealth of information from various sources including myths, literary sources, historical accounts and epigraphic records which evoke the grandeur of its past and the vigour of its living traditions. This chapter especially touches upon the rich body of writings, records and oral histories such as those by the illustrious poets, Queen Ganga Devi and Harihara. These give insights into a range of aspects of the royal personalities, the religious milieu and social life and the organization of the living spaces, reinforcing the notion that Hampi was in its time indeed a major metropolis rivalling those in Europe as indicated by travalogues.