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Context

• A portion of the Virupaksha temple in Karnataka collapsed following torrential rains.

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Virupaksha Temple: A Sacred Monument in Hampi

Location and Significance

• The Virupaksha Temple, situated in Hampi within the Vijayanagara district of Karnataka, holds a special place as part of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Dedicated to Sri Virupaksha, it was constructed by Lakkan Dandesha, a chieftain under the rule of Deva Raya II, also known as Prauda Deva Raya, of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Historical Continuity

• With a history tracing back to the 7th century CE, the temple predates the establishment of the Vijayanagara capital in Hampi.
• Despite the city's destruction in 1565, worship at the temple persisted, witnessing renovations and additions over the centuries.

Architectural Marvel

• The temple's architecture is a blend of various influences, with significant contributions from the Vijayanagara period.
• Featuring delicately carved pillars and intricate designs, the main temple comprises a sanctum, ante chambers, pillared halls, and open pillared halls.
• Notable structures include the nine-tiered eastern gateway, known as the largest at 50 meters, and the Kanakagiri gopura leading to the Tungabhadra River.

Mathematical Precision and Patronage

• An intriguing aspect of the temple is its utilization of mathematical concepts, evident in its repeating patterns reminiscent of fractals.
• Krishna Devaraya, a prominent king of the Vijayanagara Empire, played a significant role as a patron, contributing ornate structures such as the central pillared hall and the eastern gopuram.

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SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

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