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Lepakshi Veerabhadra Temple

Lepakshi, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh
Lord Veerabhadra
More in Andhra Pradesh

Type

Hindu Temple

Deity

Lord Veerabhadra

Pincode

515331

A 16th-century Vijayanagara-era temple famous for its extraordinary murals (the largest Vijayanagara fresco in existence), the mysterious 'hanging pillar' (one of 70 pillars that doesn't touch the floor), and the world's largest Nandi (bull) statue carved from a single rock. A spectacular piece of Indian art and architecture.

History & Significance

History

Built in 1530 CE by Virupanna Nayaka, a treasurer of the Vijayanagara Empire. Legend says Virupanna blinded himself (lepakshi = 'look up', as commanded by the king in a dream) when accused of misusing royal funds to build this temple. The actual phrase 'Lepakshi' may refer to a phrase Rama spoke when he saw the dying bird Jatayu here.

Plan Your Circuit

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Closest temples by distance — worth combining into the same trip.

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