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Questions and Answers
Which literary form emerged during the Vijayanagara period?
Who wrote the renowned 'Veera-Rāmāyaṇa' during the Vijayanagara period?
Which century saw the arrival of western influences in Kannada literature?
What is the primary medium used for writing and publishing in Kannada literature?
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Which century brought about the establishment of journals, magazines, and publishing houses promoting modern Kannada literature?
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What genre does Kannada literature encompass today?
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What is the official language of the southern Indian state of Karnataka?
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In which century did Kannada literature begin to flourish?
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Which poet was part of the classical period of Kannada literature?
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Which social protest movement emerged during the 11th and 12th centuries in Karnataka?
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During which empire's rule did Kannada literature witness significant development?
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From which script is the Kannada script believed to have developed?
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Study Notes
Kannada: A Journey Through Time
Kannada, a language spoken by over 50 million people worldwide, has a rich history that dates back over two millennia. It is the official language of the southern Indian state of Karnataka and is a member of the Dravidian language family. To appreciate Kannada's current status, let's dive into the facets of its history.
Early Origins
The earliest records of Kannada originate from inscriptions dated to the third century BCE found in Kannada speaking regions. These inscriptions are written in the Kannada script, which is believed to have developed from the ancient Brāhmī script. Kannada literature began to flourish during the 9th century CE, with works like Raghuveda and Kavirājamarga setting the groundwork for the language's future.
The Classical Period (4th-12th Century CE)
The classical period of Kannada literature saw the rise of poets like Pampa, Ranna, and Raghavanka. Their works, particularly Adipurana, Vikramarjuna Vijaya, and Kavirājamarga, continue to be revered and studied today. The 11th and 12th centuries witnessed the emergence of the vachana movement, a social protest movement led by poets like Basava, Akka Mahadevi, and Allama Prabhu, who used Kannada as a tool of social change.
The Vijayanagara Empire (14th-16th Century CE)
The Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled much of Karnataka and south India from the 14th to 16th centuries, played a pivotal role in the development of Kannada literature. The court at Vijayanagara attracted poets like Jagannatha Dasa, who wrote the renowned Veera-Rāmāyaṇa. This period also saw the emergence of new literary forms such as Champū and Rasika-Pravāha.
Modern Times (17th-20th Century CE)
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Kannada literature saw the emergence of great poets like Nammālegula Huśa, Ranna of Bhandalore, and Lakkānā Dēvāguru. The 19th century witnessed the arrival of western influences in Kannada literature, with poets like Gopāla Krishna Adiga and Kuvempu pushing the boundaries of Kannada poetry and prose. The 20th century brought about the establishment of journals, magazines, and publishing houses that promoted the growth of modern Kannada literature.
Kannada Script and Literature Today
At present, Kannada literature is thriving and encompasses a wide range of genres, including poetry, prose, drama, and fiction. The Kannada script, known as Kannada Kāvē (Kannada letters), remains the primary medium used for writing and publishing in Karnataka. Kannada literature continues to be a vehicle for social change, as it was in the 11th and 12th centuries, addressing contemporary social, political, and environmental issues.
In conclusion, Kannada has a rich and diverse history that has seen it evolve from its humble beginnings to a vibrant and dynamic language that continues to enrich the cultural landscape of Karnataka and beyond. Its development can be traced through the works of poets, philosophers, and writers who have made significant contributions to Kannada literature over the centuries.
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Description
Discover the rich history of the Kannada language, from its early origins in the third century BCE to its flourishing classical period and modern development. Learn about influential poets, literary movements, and the evolution of Kannada script and literature over the centuries.
