Hampi’s Virupaksha temple

Current Context : A Portion of Hampi’s Virupaksha temple  in Karnataka collapsed due to heavy rain.

• The damaged part is temple’s pavilion or the saalu mantap.
• The temple is believed to have its origins in the 7th century.
• It is a nationally protected monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

ABOUT TEMPLE:

• Virupaksha temple gained prominence and underwent extensive expansion in the 14th century during the Vijayanagara Empire (1336 to 1646).
• The temple flourished under the patronage of the Vijayanagara rulers, who were great builders and patrons of art.
• It is a prime example of Dravidian temple architecture, characterised by its grand gopurams (towering gateways), the shikhara towering over the sanctum sanctorum, its intricate carvings and pillared halls.
• Richly adorned with carvings and sculptures, the gopuram depicts various deities, mythological scenes and animals.