Vol. 3, Issue 6, Part S (2017)

Abstract
The kings Karnataka had contributed richly for the growth of literature in Kannada. This contribution was not just confined to the patronizing literature and arts; rather it can be seen in the production of significant body of literature by the kings from the Shatavahanas period onwards. This process continued up to the early the 19th Century. In fact, the Royal families played very responsible role in the cultural space, including literature. The dynasties like Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas of Badami, Rastra Kutas, Chalukyas of Kalyana, Kalachuris, Sevunas, Hoysalas, Vijayangara and Odeyars of Mysore were the major royal families involved in the creation and strengthening of Kannada literature. Even the minor dynasties such as, Keladi, Ikkeri, Swadi, Bijjawara, Mahanadu Prabhus, Hagalavadi, Kalale and Hadinadu also, in their own way enriched Kannada literary culture. However, these contributions have not been recorded in any systematic form. This paper, entitled, “Literary Representations of the Kings of Karnataka: A Critique”, makes a humble attempt to trace them out by way of presenting the details of various literary works of the kings of Karnataka in chorological order. The paper also offers certain critical comments with regard to the available literary histories written be the scholars in Karnataka.