Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Andhra Pradesh, Lepakshi temple stands as a beacon of spiritual significance and architectural splendor. This revered site, dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Veerabhadra, is not only renowned for its great history and exquisite artistry but also for its captivating ambiance that grabs the attention of devotees and architecture enthusiasts from across the globe.
Legends behind Lepakshi temple
The origins of Lepakshi are interwoven with a captivating tale from Hindu mythology. Legend has it that Goddess Sati, the daughter of King Daksha, immolated herself in the fire of a yagna, deeply hurt by her father’s disregard for Lord Shiva. Enraged by this act, Lord Shiva unleashed his wrath, giving rise to the powerful deities Veerabhadra and Goddess Kali.
Veerabhadra, revered as the God of Warriors, was admired by kings during ancient times. As a tribute to this revered deity, the brothers Virupana and Veeranna, who served under the Vijayanagara Kings, constructed the magnificent Lepakshi Temple.
Lepakshi temple architecture
Lepakshi Temple is dedicated mainly to the cult god Veerabhadra. There are about 70 pillars in this temple which are rich in architecture and built in Vijayanagara style. Lepakshi temple was built on a hill named Kurmasailam which is called tortoise hill. One of the 70 pillars of this temple is called as Aakaasa Sthamba which is called as Hanging Pillar. It is said that, this pillar doesn’t rest on the ground.
The main attraction of this temple is the giant Nandi which is placed at the entrance of the shrine. This Nandi is 27 ft in length and 15 ft in height. Lepakshi Nandi is notably India’s biggest monolithic statue of Nandi. This temple also has the idols of Shiva, Bhadrakali, Vishnu and Lakshmi. There is also a huge Nagalinga observed inside the temple
One more attracting factor that is observed in this temple is the footprints of Goddesses Sita which were obtained during the battle between Jatayu(bird) and demon king Ravana.
The main temple is divided into three parts, they are: Mukha Mantapa or Natya Mantapa or Ranga Mantapa, Arda Mantapa and the Garbhagriha. There are many paintings inscribed on the walls which depict Hindu mythology. The wall and ceiling carvings and paintings in this temple are seriously mind-blowing.
Celebrations At Lepakshi…
There is a ritual festival which is celebrated in Lepakshi that happens in the month of February. During Mahashivaratri this temple is packed with millions of pilgrims.
Lepakshi Temple located in ???
Lepakshi Temple is located in Lepakshi, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh.
How To Reach???
Lepakshi is easily accessible from Hindupur Railway Station. To travel by road, there are various buses from Hindupur that can take you to Lepakshi. The nearest airport is Sri Sathya Sai Airport in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh.