The Lakshmi Narasimha temple, or the Ugra Narasimha statue as it's also known, was commissioned by Emperor Krishnadevaraya of the Tuluva dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire.
The Lakshmi Narasimha temple was commissioned by Krishnadevaraya in 1528 CE.
When was the Lakshmi Narasimha Statue built?
Important facts & mysteries
1. Largest Monolith in HampiCarved from a single block of granite, the colossal statue of Lord Narasimha stands at an impressive 6.7 meters (22 feet) tall.
2. Ugra Narasimha DepictionThe statue portrays Lord Narasimha in his fierce form, with bulging eyes and sharp claws, representing his role as the vanquisher of the demon king Hiranyakashipu.
3. Goddess Lakshmi's AbsenceOriginally, the statue included a figure of Goddess Lakshmi seated on Narasimha's lap, symbolizing calming influence. Sadly, her figure was destroyed. However, a part of her arm remains a part of the statue.
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The broken statue of Goddess Lakshmi perhaps lies among the broken pieces of the ruins scattered around.
Destruction of the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
2. Missing LakshmiThe destruction of the statue likely happened after the Battle of Talikota in 1565, when the armies of Deccan Sultanates ransacked Hampi.
What to see at the Lakshmi Narasimha Statue
1. Colossal Statue of NarasimhaThis statue was carved out of a gigantic granite boulder, scooping out pieces of granite to build the statue of it!
2. Mandapa with 7-Headed SheshnaagNarasimha is seated on the coil of Sheshnaag, the divine serpent. The 7 hoods of Sheshnaag shelter Narasimha's head.
3. SurroundingsThe statue is located next to the Badavilinga Shiva, that is perpetually submerged in water and the Krishna Temple.
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