Question

Analyse the importance of Mahanavami Dibba in the Vijayanagara empire.

Answer 1

Importance of Mahanavami Dibba in the Vijayanagara Empire:

1. The Mahanavami Dibba is a large ceremonial platform situated at one of the highest locations in the city of Vijayanagara.
2. It covers nearly 11,000 square feet at its base and rises about 40 feet high, featuring intricate relief carvings.
3. The platform was used during the Mahanavami (Dussehra) festival, an important royal event where kings demonstrated their power and authority.
4. The foreign traveller Paes referred to it as the “House of Victory,” where the ruler displayed royal symbols and performed ceremonial rituals.