UPSC CSE Prelims 2018
Statement 2 is correct. Tyagaraja, a prominent composer of Carnatic music, is credited with composing in numerous ragas and is also known for creating several new ragas. His compositions significantly enriched the Carnatic musical tradition.
Statement 4 is correct. Annamacharya (Tallapaka Annamacharya), a 15th-century saint-composer, dedicated his vast collection of kirtanas primarily to Lord Venkateshwara of Tirumala. His compositions are considered foundational to Telugu devotional music.
Statement 1 is incorrect. Most of Tyagaraja's kritis are devotional songs in praise of Lord Rama, not Lord Krishna. He was a devout follower of Lord Rama and expressed his devotion through his musical compositions.
Statement 3 is incorrect. Annamacharya lived from 1408 to 1503, belonging to the 15th century. Tyagaraja lived from 1767 to 1847, belonging to the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Therefore, they were not contemporaries, as there is a gap of several centuries between their lifetimes.