History of Indian and Eastern Architecture v1.c19.19

v1.c19.19

The Muhammadans, led by Malik Kâfûr, conquered Madurâ in 1311, and for about half a century they held the country, till dispossessed by a new line of Pândya princes, who were probably more or less under the supremacy of Vijayanagar. About 1525, however, the Nâyyaks—officers of Vijayanagar—usurped supreme power at Madurâ, and ruled there till 1736. By far the most distinguished prince of the Nâyyak dynasty was Tirumalai Nâyyak, who ruled from 1623 till 1659. This prince adorned the capital city of Madurâ with many splendid edifices, some of which have been drawn by Daniell and others. What more ancient remains there are will not be known till they have been carefully and scientifically surveyed, and the results published.