Which of the following statements about Vijayanagara is/are true? [CDS 2016 (I)] 1. Kings ruled on behalf of God Virupaksha. 2. Rulers used title 'Hindu Suratrana'. 3. Orders were signed in Kannada, Sanskrit and Tamil. 4. Royal portrait sculptures were displayed in temples.
A. 4 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1, 2 and 4
Answer: 1, 2 and 4
Option d is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is correct- The kings of the Vijayanagara empire claimed to rule on behalf of the God Virupaksha. This religious association was a significant aspect of their rule, and they sought to legitimize their authority through their connection with the deity.
Statement 2 is correct- Rulers of the Vijayanagara empire used the title 'Hindu Suratrana,' which translates to "Emperor of Hindu Kings." This title emphasized their close links with Hindu gods and symbolized their role as protectors of the Hindu dharma.
Statement 3 is incorrect- Royal oders of court in Vijaynagar Empire were issued primarily in Sanskrit.
Statement 4 is correct- Royal portrait sculpture was indeed displayed in temples during the Vijayanagara empire. This practice reflects the close association between the royal family and religious institutions, as well as the importance of royal patronage of the arts.