How Do You Spell VIJAYANAGAR?

Pronunciation: [vˈɪd͡ʒe͡ɪˌanaɡə] (IPA)

Vijayanagar is a historical city located in present-day Karnataka, India. The spelling of this word is phonetically transcribed as /viʤəjənɑːɡər/. The word is divided into four syllables, with the stress falling on the second syllable (ji). The 'V' is pronounced as a voiced labiodental fricative, the 'j' as a voiced palato-alveolar affricate, and 'n' as a voiced alveolar nasal. The 'a' is pronounced as a short central unrounded vowel, and 'g' as a voiced velar stop.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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VIJAYANAGAR Meaning and Definition

  1. Vijayanagar (also spelled as Vijayanagara) is a historical and cultural term referring to an ancient city and kingdom in South India.

    The term Vijayanagar, when translated, means "City of Victory." It specifically refers to the magnificent capital city of the Vijayanagar Empire, located in present-day Hampi, Karnataka, India. The kingdom itself was established in 1336 AD by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka, who rebelled against the Delhi Sultanate and founded an independent Hindu kingdom.

    Vijayanagar became one of the most powerful and prosperous cities of its time. It was known for its grand architecture, highly developed urban planning, and extensive trading network. The city was a center for art, literature, and music, fostering the growth of a rich cultural heritage.

    The architecture of Vijayanagar was characterized by the construction of large-scale temples, palaces, and civic structures, showcasing intricate carvings, towering gopurams (ornate temple gateways), and magnificent sculptures. The city was also renowned for its military prowess, with a well-organized army that defended its territories against various rival kingdoms.

    Vijayanagar flourished for over two centuries, attracting people from different regions and cultures, resulting in a multicultural society. However, in 1565 AD, the kingdom faced a devastating defeat in the Battle of Talikota against a coalition of Deccan Sultanates, leading to the decline and eventual abandonment of the city.

    Today, the ruins of Vijayanagar serve as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, displaying the remnants of a glorious past and representing an important chapter in Indian history.

Etymology of VIJAYANAGAR

The word "Vijayanagar" has its roots in the Sanskrit language. It is a combination of two words - "Vijaya" and "Nagar".

1. "Vijaya": This word means "victory" or "conquest" in Sanskrit. It derives from the root word "vi-jay", where "vi" denotes intensity and "jay" means "to conquer" or "to prevail".

2. "Nagar": This word means "city" or "town" in Sanskrit. It is a common suffix in many Indian city names.

Therefore, "Vijayanagar" can be translated to mean "City of Victory" or "Conquered City". This name was given to a prominent and prosperous medieval Hindu kingdom in South India, known as the Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1646 CE), which was known for its military successes and cultural achievements.