The Intricate Beauty of
Hazara Rama Temple
BY PATHBEAT.IN
Hampi and Ramayana
Who built the Hazara Rama Temple?
The Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi was built by Devaraya II, a prominent king of the Vijayanagara Empire.
When was the Hazara Rama Temple built?
The Hazara Rama Temple was built in the early 15th century during the reign of Devaraya II, who ruled the Vijayanagara Empire from 1422 to 1446.
Mysteries of Hazara Rama Temple
1. Unfinished Carvings Some parts of the Hazara Rama Temple have unfinished carvings and sculptures, a mystery that sparks speculation about whether work was halted due to invasions, changes in royal patronage, or other unforeseen events affecting the artisans.
2. Secret Passages Legends suggest the existence of secret underground passages connecting the temple to other significant structures in Hampi, particularly the royal enclosure, which were used by the royals for secure and discreet movement.
3. Inscriptions and Symbolism The temple's walls feature inscriptions and symbolic carvings that have puzzled historians and archaeologists, with some believing these symbols may hold esoteric meanings or codes narrating hidden stories or information.
4. Divine Appearances Local folklore includes tales of divine apparitions and miraculous events associated with the temple.
5. Architectural Anomalies The temple's intricate and precise design is remarkable for its time. Its alignment with celestial bodies, similar to other ancient structures, adds to its mystery, prompting scholars to study these aspects to understand the builders' advanced knowledge and techniques.
Why the name - Hazara Rama Temple?
1. Literal Meaning -  A Thousand Ramas "Hazara Rama," meaning "a thousand Ramas" in translation, aptly describes the temple's main feature: the abundance of depictions of Lord Rama and scenes from the Ramayana epic that adorn its walls.
2. Location-Based Interpretation In Telugu, "Hazare" can denote an entrance or audience hall of a palace, fitting well with the Hazara Rama Temple's position within Hampi's royal complex. It's conceivable that the temple functioned as an entryway or audience hall for the royal family, possibly influencing its name.
What to see at the Hazara Rama Temple?
1. Intricate Carvings:  The temple's most striking feature is its extensive collection of bas-relief carvings.
2. Outer Wall Depictions The outer walls of the temple showcase processions of horses, elephants and dancing women.  These depictions are believed to represent the Dasara festival, a grand annual celebration held by the Vijayanagara kings.
3. Sanctum and Empty Pedestal   Inside the temple's sanctum sanctorum (inner sanctum), you'll find an empty pedestal with three holes. This pedestal is believed to have once housed the idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana.
4. Pillared Hall (Mantapa)  Enter the pillared hall and marvel at the elaborately carved pillars, each adorned with unique figures of gods, goddesses, and mythical beings.
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