Lepakshi

An ancient Vijaynagar architectural splendour.

- Renuka Krishnaraja

Lepakshi is an ancient land known for its Vijaynagar architectural splendour. It might not be at the same grand scale as Hampi, yet there is abundance of beauty and esthetics all around. Situated approximately 140 km from Bengaluru in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, this tiny village impresses us with its classic magnificent architecture, mysteries and legends.

As per the legends, after being attacked by the demon Ravana while attempting to rescue Goddess Sita, the divine bird Jatayu fell down in this region. When Lord Rama saw the wounded Jatayu, he said, 'le pakshi,' which means 'rise, oh bird,' and hence the name Lepakshi.

Grandeur In Granite

Upon entering, we could distinguish the three main sections of the temple complex – natyamantapa, ardhamantapa and the garbha griha or the sanctum sanctorum.

With exquisite stone carvings, sculptures and paintings, the interior architecture is overly imposing, to say the least. As I looked around, it felt like every stone had a story to relate and every corner was strikingly photographic. The