2025

Contributions of women in the historical poetry of Vijayanagaram

Author(s): Dr Lakshmi Vijayan V T

Abstract

The historical poems authored by women during the Vijayanagara Empire serve as a significant testament to their intellectual prowess and literary contributions. Women such as Gangadevi, Ramabhadramba, and Tirumalamba transcended societal expectations by delving into themes of political strategy, societal movements, and military conflicts through their poetic works. These poets not only documented the rich cultural and political landscape of their era but also contributed to the preservation of historical memory through their insightful analyses. Their compositions, including "Madhura Vijayam," "Raghunathabhyudayam," and "Varadambika Parinayam," exemplify their ability to weave together narratives that celebrate valor, romance, and cultural heritage. By deftly navigating traditional poetic forms like Champu Kavya, these women demonstrated their mastery over language and narrative techniques, earning them recognition beyond their contemporary societal roles. Their poems continue to be celebrated for their literary merit and historical significance, challenging perceptions of gender roles in literary and historical documentation within Indian cultural history.