Kulashekara Alupendra I

Why in news?

• Archaeologist discovers inscription announcing the death of King Kulashekara Alupendra I at Someshwara (Karnataka).

About Kulashekara Alupendra I

• He ruled Tulunadu from 1156-1215 A.D.
• He established new city Kulashekara in Mangaluru.
• He laid down strict rules and regulations for temple administration, which are still followed in all temples in this region.
• He was first ruler to give royal patronage to Tulu language and culture.
• In inscriptions, Alupa emperor was described as “Lokantamanta”, meaning ‘famous in the universe’ in Tulu.
• Someshwara temple was built during his time in honour of Soma and adorned with Nava Durgas.
• Soma cult was founded by one Soma Sharma of Gujarat in the 11th century AD and it spread across the country.

About Alupa Dynasty

• Alupa Dyansty were one of the longest reigning dynasties of Tulu Nadu (in Karnataka). Barkur was the capital city of the royal family.
• The Alupas had shifted their capital to Barkur from Udyavara.
• Tulu has a rich oral literature tradition with folk-song forms like paddana, and traditional folk theatre yakshagana.
• The Halmidi Inscription (Hassan, Karnataka) mentions about a grant recommended by King Pashupati of Alupa and the Chief Commander of Kadamba forces.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following statements regarding Kulashekara Alupendra I:

1. He was first ruler to give royal patronage to Tulu language and culture.
2. He established new city Kulashekara in Mangaluru.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer