Among the many marvels that adorn the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi stands the very modest but, magnificent Badavilinga Temple, a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India. The temple houses the largest Shivalinga in Hampi that stands at a height of 3 meters.
The Badavilinga Temple, adjacent to the Lakshmi Narasimha temple, bears witness to the architectural splendor of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Who built the Badavilinga temple?
Legend has it was built by a poor peasant woman. Hence the name ‘Badavi’ which in the local dialect means ‘Poor’. It is very likely that the present structure developed with the patronage of the royalty.
The temple was built during the reign of King Krishnadevaraya in the 16th century.
How big is the Badavilinga temple?
At the heart of the temple lies the Badavilinga. Carved out of a single block of black stone, this colossal lingam stands tall, towering over its devotees at a height of approximately three meters. The sheer magnitude of the lingam is awe-inspiring, leaving visitors spellbound by its grandeur and majesty.
Three eyes of Lord Shiva?
If you look closely enough, you will notice three eyes of Shiva carved on to the top of the Shiva linga as well!
Mystery of the water surrounding it?
While the Badavilinga Temple exudes an aura of serenity and spirituality, it also shrouds itself in mystery. One of the most intriguing aspects of the temple is the continuous flow of water from the base of the lingam, known as the “jaladhara” (jal = water, dhara = stream). Despite being situated in a dry region, the lingam remains submerged in water throughout the year, adding to its mystique and allure. The source of this perennial flow remains a mystery, leaving visitors in awe of its divine significance.
This is in all probability because there is a channel from the Tungabhadra river upto the temple.
The temple opens up to the sky through a fairly sized duct immediately on top of the Shivalinga.
READ: 6 Must See places in Hampi.
Practical tourist information
Location
The temple is located immediately adjacent to the Lakshmi Narasimha Statue complex.
READ More about Lakshmi Narasimha statue.
Immediately after the Badavilinga is the Krishna temple that was constructed by Krishnadeva Raya after his victory over Utkal (Orissa).
READ More about the Lakshmi Narasimha Statue.
Timing
The temple is open from morning 6 AM to evening 6 PM.
Tickets
No tickets are required to visit. Entry is free here.
Dress code
There is no official dress code. There is a priest who actively maintains the temple. Dress modestly and respectfully. You are not allowed to enter the temple since it is submerged in water. So you will not be required to leave your footwear.
