Achyuta Raya Temple
Temple lost in Hampi's ruins
BY PATHBEAT.IN
Achyuta Deva Raya (r. 1529 - 1542 CE) was an emperor of Vijayanagara who succeeded his older brother, Krishnadevaraya, after the latter's death in 1529 CE. During his reign, Fernao Nuniz, a Portuguese-Jewish traveller, chronicler and horse trader visited India and spent three years in Vijayanagara. His writings have brought to light many interesting details about Vijayanagara at that time, including construction of massive fortification works, watch towers and security walls.
Who built the  Achyuta Raya Temple?
The temple was actually commissioned by  Hiriya Tirumala, Achyuta Raya's brother-in-law and a high-ranking official in the Vijayanagara court.
When was the Achyuta Raya Temple built?
The Achyuta Raya Temple was built in 1534 AD. This marks it as one of the latter grand temple projects undertaken by the Vijayanagara Empire before its decline.
Mysteries around the Achyuta Raya Temple
1. The Name Game The temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Tiruvengalanatha is named after King Achyuta Raya, raising questions about the name's evolution and their respective roles.
2. A Patron's Legacy  Inscriptions reveal that the temple wasn't commissioned by the king himself, but by his brother-in-law, Hiriya Tirumala, a high official.
3. Unexplored Potential  The temple complex is vast and only partially excavated.  Could there be hidden chambers or passageways waiting to be discovered?
4. Lost to Time: The Vijayanagara Empire's decline shrouded much of its history in mystery. Perhaps the temple holds clues or secrets about the empire's final days waiting to be deciphered through further study.
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Destruction of the Achyuta Raya Temple
The Deccan Sultanates' invasion post-Battle of Talikota led to Vijayanagara's decline. Despite severe damage, the temple's core structure remains, showcasing its resilience.
What to see at the Achyuta Raya Temple
1. The Grand Entrance As you approach the Achyuta Raya Temple, you'll be greeted by a towering outer gopuram (gateway), though it remains incomplete.
2. Shrine Devoted to Vishnu The inner sanctum, once likely housing an idol of Lord Vishnu as Tiruvengalanatha, is now bare.
3. Kalyana Mandapa Opposite the main shrine lies the Kalyana Mandapa, a spacious hall with beautifully carved pillars.
4. Shrine for Garuda A small shrine dedicated to Garuda, the sacred bird vehicle of Lord Vishnu, can be found opposite the temple complex.
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Thousand Ramas in Hampi