The Nayanars were 63 Tamil poet-saints from the 6th to 9th centuries CE, devoted to Lord Shiva and key figures in the Bhakti Movement. They emphasized personal devotion and social equality, challenging caste discrimination. Their hymns, such as Tevaram, became integral to South Indian temple worship and enriched Tamil spiritual literature.
Category: History
Lord Shiva and Shaivism
Lord Shiva is a principal deity in Hinduism, known as the Destroyer and Transformer, and worshiped as the Supreme God in Shaivism. Key features include his roles in the Trimurti, various forms like Nataraja and Ardhanarishvara, and significant scriptures. The Nayanars contributed to Shaivism through poetry and social inclusiveness.
Lord Vishnu and Vaishnavism
Lord Vishnu is one of the three principal deities (Trimurti) of Hinduism, responsible for the preservation and protection of the universe. Vaishnavism is a major sect in Hinduism that primarily worships Vishnu and his avatars like Rama and Krishna. Lord Vishnu – The Preserver of the Universe Basic Information Feature Details Role in Trimurti Preserver […]
Alvars
The Alvars were 12 Tamil poet-saints from the 6th to 9th centuries CE, central to Vaishnavism and the Bhakti movement. Their hymns, compiled as the Divya Prabandham, emphasized devotion to Lord Vishnu and promoted social equality. Notable figures include Nammalvar and Andal, whose works remain vital in Tamil devotional practices.
The Bidar Sultanate was one of the five Deccan Sultanates, established in 1492 CE after breaking away from the Bahmani Sultanate. It was the smallest and weakest among the Deccan Sultanates and was later annexed by Bijapur in 1619 CE. Basic Information Feature Details Sultanate Name Bidar Sultanate Time Period 1492 CE – 1619 CE […]
Berar Sultanate (1490–1574)
The Berar Sultanate, founded in 1490 CE by Fathullah Imad-ul-Mulk, was the smallest and weakest among the Deccan Sultanates. It faced constant threats from rivals and lacked military strength, leading to its annexation by the Ahmadnagar Sultanate in 1574 CE. Cultural influences included Persian architecture and literature.
Ahmednagar Sultanate (1490–1636)
The Ahmednagar Sultanate was one of the five Deccan Sultanates, founded in 1490 CE after breaking away from the Bahmani Sultanate. It was ruled by the Nizam Shahi dynasty and played a significant role in the Deccan politics before being annexed by the Mughal Empire in 1636. Basic Information Feature Details Sultanate Name Ahmednagar Sultanate […]
Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529)
Krishnadevaraya, ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire from 1509 to 1529, is celebrated for expanding the empire to its peak, marked by military triumphs, strong administration, and cultural flourishing. His reign is noted for achievements in literature, including “Amuktamalyada,” and the construction of iconic temples, establishing a legacy of prosperity and tolerance.
Aravidu Dynasty (1570–1650)
The Aravidu Dynasty, founded by Tirumala Deva Raya in 1570 CE, was the last ruling dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire, which post-dated the Battle of Talikota. Ruling until 1650 CE, it struggled with weak leadership, internal conflicts, and persistent attacks from Deccan Sultanates, leading to its eventual decline and collapse.
Tuluva Dynasty (1491–1570)
The Tuluva Dynasty was the third ruling dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire, emerging in 1505 CE and lasting until 1570 CE. It reached its peak under Krishnadevaraya, who expanded the empire and is celebrated as one of India’s greatest rulers. The dynasty was founded by Narasa Nayaka, who became a de facto ruler in 1491 CE. However, after Krishnadevaraya’s death in 1529 CE, weak successors led to instability. The dynasty ultimately fell following the 1565 Battle of Talikota against allied Deccan Sultanates, giving way to the Aravidu Dynasty.