Kannada Language and Culture Quiz

Kannada: A Rich History and Cultural Heritage

Kannada, a member of the Dravidian language family, is the official language of the state of Karnataka in southern India and is also spoken in the states that border Karnataka. With a literary tradition dating back centuries, Kannada has played a significant role in the history and culture of the region.

Origins and Development

The Kannada script evolved from southern varieties of the Ashokan Brahmi script and is closely related to the Telugu script. Three historical stages are recognized in the development of Kannada:

1. Old Kannada (450-1200 CE)
2. Middle Kannada (1200-1700 CE)
3. Modern Kannada (1700 CE to present)

Literature and Influences

Kannada literature began with the Kavirajamarga of Nripatunga in the 9th century CE and was followed by works in the 16th century, such as the Haridasa movement of vernacular devotional song. The earliest extant grammar is by Nagavarma and dates to the early 12th century, and the grammar of Keshiraja (1260 CE) is still respected. Kannada literature has been influenced by the Lingayat (Virasaiva) and the Haridasa movements.

Classical Music and Dance

The classical music of southern India has a strong connection to Kannada, with a diglossia or dichotomy existing between formal literary varieties and spoken varieties. The Haridasa movement of vernacular devotional song reached its zenith in the 16th century, with the former considered the father of Karnatak music.

Kannada in Modern Times

In the early 21st century, the government of India granted Kannada classical-language status. Today, Kannada is a vibrant and essential part of the culture and history of Karnataka, with a rich literary tradition and a strong presence in the arts and music scene.

Test your knowledge about the rich history, literature, classical music, and modern influence of the Kannada language and its cultural heritage in southern India.