LEPAKSHI

THE TEMPLE

It is, according to tradition was established by Agastya himself in the dim past, but historical evidence begins with Virupanna's construction around 1550 A.D. The temple is called Sri Veerabhadreswara Swamy Alayam. It is built on high mount called Kurmasila, because of its resemblance to a tortoise, and hence called Kurmasila kshetra. It has two high prakaras with three entrances on the East, West and North, and are adorned by charming towers. The second prakara contains the rarest sculptural wealth; for here ties the main temple for Veerabhadra, along with many mantapas etc., like spacious Garbagriha, Mahamantapa, Kalyanamantapa, Natyamantapa and several niches for many adorable deities such as Veerabhadra, Sri Rama, Durga, Adisesha, Vinayaka and Gopalaswamy, all appearing in their best and remarkable for its sculptural excellences. As we enter the second prakara, the huge image of Saptaphani Nagendra enshrining a beautiful Sivalinga over a broad panavatta formed by its coiled body, and its out-spread broad hood, greets our sight. The sight feasts the eyes and raises our hands in homage. There is an image of Vinayaka next to it. The Principal Deity - Lord Siva is facing the images of Lord Vishnu and Veerabhadra. These three form a triangle, and are close to one another. The beautiful images of Sri Rama and Durga, and also found here. Such combination of several deities under one roof is rare.

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]