Question

Which of the following sets of poets is collectively known as the Ratnatraya (Three Gems) of Kannada literature?

• A. Pampa, Ponna, Ranna
• B. Pampa, Ranna, Nripatunga
• C. Ponna, Ranna, Arikesari
• D. Nripatunga, Krishna III, Pampa

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Pampa, Ponna, Ranna

Kannada Literature Kannada literature saw significant growth and development after the 10th century AD. The earliest known literary work in the language is Kavirajamarga, composed by the Rashtrakuta king Nripatunga Amoghavarsha I. The renowned poet Pampa, often referred to as the father of Kannada poetry, made major contributions during this period. He authored two celebrated works — Adi Purana and Vikramarjuna Vijaya — in the 10th century, and served in the court of Chalukya ruler Arikesari. Alongside Pampa, poets Ponna and Ranna rose to prominence under the rule of Rashtrakuta king Krishna III. Ponna wrote the epic Shanti Purana, while Ranna is remembered for Ajitanatha Purana. These three — Pampa, Ponna, and Ranna — are collectively honored with the title Ratnatraya, meaning the three gems of Kannada literature. The literary tradition of Kannada continued to thrive between the 14th and 16th centuries, especially under the patronage of the Vijayanagara rulers.