Karnataka

Karnataka is the land of many dynasties and is the eighth largest Indian state covering a total area of 191,791 sq kms. Karnataka is said to have derived its name from the Kannada words karu and nadu which means an elevated land. Located on the Western part of the Deccan Plateau, it shares its boundaries with the states of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. With its showcase of ancient temples, palaces and forts the state attracts a large number of tourists. It is also one of the leading producers of Incense Sticks, arcanut, silk and coffee on a large scale. The Kolar Gold Fields in Karnataka is the only gold mine in the country and it is also the only exporter of Sandalwood. The dynasties which ruled in Karnataka include the Chalukyas, Kadambas, Rastrakutas, Hoysalas, Gangas, Vijaynagar Rajas, Hyder Tippu and the Wodeyars. The contributions of Karnataka to Indian classical music, both the Carnatic and Hindustani music is noteworthy. It has also made significant contributions in the field of literature also and it is the writers in the Kannada language itself who have received the most number of Jnanpith awards in India.

History

The history of Karnataka dates back to the stone ages. There are records that indicate that iron instruments and iron implements were used in 1200 B.C. The rule of Maurya empire were followed by the Chalukyan kings and they were followed by the Hoysalas, Bahamani and the Adil Shahi kings. Further contributions were made by the Sattavahanas, Nandas, Pallavas and Ganga rulers to the culture and history of Karnataka. The whole of Karnataka was integrated into one by the Badami rulers and they constructed architectural splendors in Aihole, Pattadakal and Badami, the ruins of which can still be found. The Hoysala temples in Belur, Halebid and Somnathpur gives a glimpse into the rich cultural history of Karnataka. Under the rule of Krishnadevaraya Vijayanagar flourished in prosperity for a long time till the Wodeyars of Mysore came into the picture. The Wodeyars were dethroned by Haider Ali. Later Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan were defeated by the British who placed the Wodeyar rulers back on throne. The Wodeyars ruled Karnataka until India gained independence.

Culture

People from different culture reside in Karnataka such as the Kannadigas, Tuluvas, Kodavas and Konkanis. Along with these there is also a minor population of Tibetan Buddhists and tribes like the Soligas, Yeravas, Todas and Siddhis who live in Karnataka. The traditional folk arts which depict Karnataka's culture are music, dance, drama, storytelling by itinerant troupes, etc. The major theatrical form of Karnataka is Yakshagana popular in the coastal regions. The culture of Karnataka is also depicted in the Indian classical music. There is both the Carnatic and Hindustani styles which find place in the state. The official language of the state is Kannada.

Festivals

Karnataka is a land of festivals and a number of festivals are celebrated with pomp and gaiety. There is the temple festivals of Paryaya festival, Vairamudi festival, Karaga Festival, Keil Poldu and Lakshadeepotsavam etc. Another important festival which is celebrated for ten days is Dussehra which is usually celebrated in September or October. Some of the other notable festivals celebrated in the state are the Coorg festival, Hampi-Vijayanagar festival and the Hoysala festival.

Cuisines

As is common in the southern part of India rice is the main diet for the people of Karnataka. But what is unique about the Karnataka cuisine is their distinct texture, flavour and taste. The cuisines can vary according to the choice of the people in different areas but the most famous among them are the spicy dishes, Kodava cuisine, Malnad cuisine and Udupi cuisine etc.

Travel

Air: The main airport in the state lies in the capital city Bangalore. There are both national and international flights operating from here. International flights operate to Singapore, Dubai, London, Oman, Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia.

Rail: Bangalore is again the major rail head and trains operate from major cities like Ahmedabad, Cochin, New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Mangalore, Chennai, Mysore, Nagpur, Thiruvananthapuram and Goa.

Road: The state of Karnataka is well connected by a large network of roads.