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CDS 2018 (I)

Vijayanagara State Rituals

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Platform used for ritual purposes by Vijayanagara kings:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Ritual architecture was used by Vijayanagara rulers to display their wealth and divine legitimacy. The grandest of these 'stages' was used for state ceremonies.

Explanation The Mahanavami Dibba is a massive 12-meter high granite platform located in the Royal Enclosure of Hampi. It was the 'Stage of Victory' used during the 10-day Mahanavami (Dussehra) festival. Kings sat here to inspect armies, watch wrestling matches, and receive tributes from regional chiefs.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Lotus Mahal was a secular pleasure palace. Hazara Rama and Virupaksha were temples.
Logic 2: Only the Mahanavami Dibba fits the description of a 'ritual platform' specifically designed for public royal displays of power.

Active Recall

Question

What was the theme of the carvings on the Mahanavami Dibba?

Answer

The platform is covered in detailed reliefs depicting everyday life, including hunting scenes, soldiers, dancers, and musicians.

Core Insight

The Mahanavami Dibba was the 'Political Heart' of the empire, where the king reinforced his authority over his military commanders through shared ritual.

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