How and why did the rulers of Vijayanagara adopt and adapt earlier traditions of ritual architecture?
The rulers of Vijayanagara adopted earlier traditions to legitimize their authority, claiming to rule on behalf of the god Virupaksha. The site of the city was likely chosen due to the existing shrines of Virupaksha and Pampadevi. Royal orders were signed "Shri Virupaksha" and rulers used the title "Hindu Suratrana" to indicate their close links with the gods.
They adapted these traditions to create a distinct imperial culture by integrating diverse influences. For instance, the Vitthala temple introduced the worship of a deity from Maharashtra. They innovated by displaying royal portrait sculpture in temples and treating the king's visits to temples as important state occasions accompanied by the nayakas.
Architecturally, they constructed grand gopurams and mandapas. Rulers like Krishnadeva Raya built halls in front of shrines to mark their accession. These structures served as reminders of the king's power and his ability to command resources and skills.
Explanation
The answer explains that the adoption of traditions was a political strategy for legitimacy (signing orders as Virupaksha), while adaptation involved innovation (royal portraits) and integration of diverse cultural elements (Vitthala worship). It uses specific examples from the text like the title 'Hindu Suratrana' and Krishnadeva Raya's constructions.
Solution Steps
Identify the 'Why': Legitimacy and divine association (Virupaksha, Pampadevi, signing orders).
Identify the 'How' (Adaptation): Creating imperial culture via diverse deities (Vitthala) and innovations (royal portraits, state visits).
Identify the 'How' (Architecture): Building gopurams, mandapas, and halls to display power and resources.