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Ananthasayana Temple

Coordinates: 15°16′41″N 76°24′26″E / 15.27806°N 76.40722°E / 15.27806; 76.40722
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Ananthasayana Temple
Ananthasayana Temple complex is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as The Group of Monuments at Hampi.
Ananthasayana Temple
Religion
AffiliationHinduism
DistrictBellary district
DeityVishnu
Location
LocationHospet
StateKarnataka
CountryIndia
Ananthasayana Temple is located in India
Ananthasayana Temple
Location in Karnataka, India
Ananthasayana Temple is located in Karnataka
Ananthasayana Temple
Ananthasayana Temple (Karnataka)
Geographic coordinates15°16′41″N 76°24′26″E / 15.27806°N 76.40722°E / 15.27806; 76.40722
Architecture
StyleVijayanagara architecture
CreatorKrishnadevaraya
Completed1524 AD
Official nameShri Ananthashayana Temple
Part ofGroup of Monuments at Hampi
CriteriaCultural: 
Reference241bis-001
Inscription1986 (10th Session)
ExtensionsN/A

Ananthasayana temple in Ananthasayanagudi, Bellary district, Karnataka state, India was constructed by King Krishnadeva Raya (1524 AD) of the Vijayanagara Empirein memory of his deceased son.[1]

Etymology

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The temple is known as Shri Ananthashayana, named after the deity Vishnu, who is depicted reclining on the cosmic serpent Ananta.[2]

History

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The temple was erected by the renowned king Krishnadevaraya in 1524. Although the temple is significant, the inscription detailing its history is missing. The temple is believed to be connected to the artistic endeavors of the Vijayanagara Empire. This empire, renowned for its grandeur and achievements, was described by the 15th-century Persian ambassador, Abdur Razzak, as a remarkable place unmatched on earth. Today, the remnants of this once-glorious kingdom, particularly around Hampi in the Bellary district, stand as ruins that echo the empire's past splendor.[3]

Architecture

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The temple is unique in its construction, featuring a large rectangular sanctuary that is accessed through triple doorways. This sanctuary was intended to accommodate a reclining image of Vishnu. The temple's structure is primarily made of plaster-covered brickwork, with only its long granite pedestal currently visible. A striking feature is the vaulted roof, which rises approximately 24 meters above the sanctuary, with semi-circular ends that are still intact, though partially restored. The sanctuary is preceded by a spacious mandapa supported by lofty columns.[2]

Cultural significance

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The temple's architectural design reflects the artistic traditions of the time, particularly in the way it accommodates the deity. A notable legend associated with the temple tells of a guide tasked with transporting the idol of Anantasayana to its intended location, who was instructed not to look back. When he broke this agreement, the idol remained immovable at Holalu, reflecting the challenges faced during that era.[4]

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References

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  1. ^ "Hampi Ruins and Ananthasayana Temple". www.asihampiminicircle.in. Archived from the original on 21 October 2016. Retrieved 6 July 2018.
  2. ^ a b Fritz 2017, p. 112.
  3. ^ "Hampi ruins: Nineteenth century pictures recreate Vijayanagara kingdom grandeur". India Today. 31 July 1988. Retrieved 26 September 2024.
  4. ^ Longhurst 1920, p. 137.

Bibliography

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  • Longhurst, A.H. (1920). Hampi Ruins Described and Illustrated. Calcutta: Government of India, Central Publication Branch.
  • Fritz, John M. (2017). Hampi Vijayanagara. Ahmedabad; London: Jaico Publishing House; Deccan Heritage Foundation. ISBN 978-81-8495-602-3.