UPSC Articles
Hampi Stone Chariot
Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I – Temple and Architecture
In news
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken steps to protect the stone chariot inside Vittala Temple complex at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, Karnataka.
- Tourists can no longer get too close to the iconic stone chariot.
Important value addition
Hampi chariot
- The chariot inside the temple complex is a shrine dedicated to Garuda, but the sculpture of Garuda is now missing.
- The Hampi chariot is one among the three famous stone chariots in India.
- The other two are in Konark (Odisha) and Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu).
- It was built in the 16th century by the orders of King Krishnadevaraya, a Vijayanagara ruler.
- The delicately carved chariot at Hampi reflects skill of temple architecture under the patronage of Vijayanagara rulers who reigned from 14th to 17th century CE.
Vittala Temple
- It was built in the 15th century during the rule of Devaraya II, one of the rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire.
- It is dedicated to Vittala.
- Vittala is said to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
- Dravidian style adorns the built of the complex, which is further enhanced with elaborate carvings.
