How was Hampi in its heyday in the 15-16th centuries? When did it fall into ruin?
In its heyday in the 15-16th centuries Hampi was an important centre of commercial and cultural activities. Moors, which was a name used collectively for Muslim merchants, Chettis and agents of European traders such as the Portuguese, visited the markets of Hampi.
Temples were the hub of cultural activities. Temple dancers known as devadasis performed before the deities, royalty and masses in the many-pillared halls inthe Virupaksha, a form of Shiva, temple. The Mahanavami festival was one of the most important festivals celebrated at Hampi.
Hampi fell into ruin following the defeat of Vijayanagara in 1565 by the Deccani Sultans.
Compare any one of the cities described in this chapter with a town or a village with which you are familiar. Do you notice any similarities or differences?
Find out about the present-day taxes on markets. Who collects these taxes? How are they collected and are they used for?
What purpose did small towns serve? [V. Imp.]
Or
Describe various Junctions of small towns.
Name a few Indian spices which became an important part of European cooking. Ans. Pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, dried ginger, g. 9. What were craftspersons of Bidar famous for?
In what ways was craft production in cities like Calcutta different from that in cities Wee Thanjavur?
Describe the trade activities of the big and small traders belonging to the medieval time.
State whether true or false:
(a) We know the name of the architect of the Rajarajeshvara temple from an inscription.
(b) Merchants preferred to travel individually rather than in caravans.
(c) Kabul was a major centre for trade in elephants.
(d) Surat was an important trading port on the Bay of Bengal.
Fill in the blanks:
(a) The Rajarajeshvara temple was built in ………………..
(b) Ajmer is associated with the Sufi saint…………………
(c) Hampi was the capital of the ………….
(d) The Dutch established a settlement at…………….. in Andhra Pradesh.
How did the system of advances snatch the freedom of the weavers?
OR
How did the Indian Crafts persons lose their independence?