SPECULATION

If I get a chance to go to the past, I would choose to go to the 16^th century, the period when Sri Krishna Deva Raya ruled. He was the greatest ruler of Vijayanagara dynasty. After the Gupta period, this period is known as the golden age of India. Deva Raya wielded immense power. I want to go there. People used to sell diamonds, pearls, gold, and jewels like vegetables on streets! I would like to take all my pocket money and buy souvenirs for everyone. I know about the kingdom’s future, so I will earn money by foretelling future.

I love Tenali Ramakrishna stories. If I go there, I will have a long chat with him and tell him about future. Though I know only a little bit of Kannada, I can manage. I will also visit all the ancient architectural marvels like Virupaksha Temple, Shrikaras, and Kudure Gombe pillars.

I will also enjoy the fascinating nature. I love nature, but now a days, it is being destroyed. But in past, nature it used to be fantastic. I know a few stories about Timmarasu, a minister under Deva Raya. I want to be a minister in the Raya’s court. I love to advise people. I will also learn horse riding. I think people would help me. In the 1500s, Bharatanatyam was a famous art form. I know Kuchipudi. I think it is similar to Bharatanatyam. I will learn Bharatanatyam. I will visit all the famous places like Hampi, Mysore, and Kanchi, on my horse.

I also am interested in verifying all these old stories that my grandma told me about Vijayanagara. I just adore them. I will absorb the intelligence from great, wise people. I will also become wise. Then, I would be excited to come back to the present and show off my jewellery and intelligence. I guess my friends would be very jealous.

by

Siri Chandana Gattineni

Class VII

Written in September 2023