SOUTH INDIA OR DAKSHINAPATHA

Four modern states of

• Andhra Pradesh
• Karnataka
• Kerala
• Tamil Nadu

Distinctly different from North India

• Geography-- no vast agricultural plains like the North implications on economy, and politics
• Language-- distinct from Indo-Aryan languages, though Sanskritisized
• Society-- Caste system adopted Cross cousin marriages Matrilineal society (Kerala)

Difference also in food, clothing, music
Modern implications

Process of Aryanization

• Begins around early centuries of the Christian era
• Agastya muni
• Caste system becomes rigid and complex
• Concepts of kingship. . .adopting titles like Maharajadhiraja etc. Conforming to Vedic tradition
• Taxes from land (but limited ). . .rural economies, organized by Sabha
• Evolution of distinct literature. . .Sangam literature
• With caste system come reactions
  • Bhakti movement. . . devotional groups of Shaivites and Vaisnavites . . .personal God
  • Philosophical speculation
    • Shankaracharya (advaita)
    • Ramanuja (dvaita)
    • Madhava
  • Other cults. . .Kapilas, Kalamukhas
• Along with Aryanization and a rising elite came the patronage towards the arts, architecture, music, dance
• Growing trade with foreign lands (Southeast Asia)

Important Political Dynasties

• 500-850 A.D.
  • Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas (Deccan)
  • Pallavas (Andhra and Tamil Nadu)
  • Pandyas (South Tamil Nadu)
    • Constant conflict, each dynasty equally powerful
    • Conflicts over land
• 907-late 1200s
  • Cholas - Very powerful. . .naval dynasty, foreign campaigns
• 1335-1565
  • Vijayanagara (Hampi) - Hindu dynasty in conflict with Islamic empires

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Questions or comments? Send e-mail to Chris Sims