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Rayadurg
- Sri Kodandaramaswamy
Aalayam
The original name of this place was Bhupati
Rayala durga, due to enjoying the rule of
Rhupathi Rayalu, a valorous samanta, serving
the redoubtable Krishnadevaraya of
Vijayanagar empire. Later, popular usage
shortened it 'Rayadurga' for convenience. It
witnessed the rule of enlightened rulers, who
patronized arts and architecture in exemplary
manner. Many temples of great fame
sculpturally came into existence and they
broadcast the glory of the emperors, even
though all are in ruins today. There are many
splendid temples built both atop the hill, and in
the ancient town too. This was also the centre
of Jain religion, and there arc some relics of it
standing in proof of its taking deep roots in this
soil. Among the temple, built on the top of the
hill, kodandaramaswamy aalayam is
visit-worthy. It, architectural design is of high
order and the sculpture reflects exquisite
artistry. On the way to the top, there is an
excellent temple dedicated to
Dasabhujaganapathi - a unique feature never
copied its form earlier. or later says a local
vociferously. This 12 foot-high granite of
Ganapathi with 10 hand, has an exquisitely
chiseled female figure on his lap. It is a miss-trot
item in the itinerary list.
Tthe Kodandarama Aalayam atop the hill is built
according to Vastusastra and contains all the
essential parts. The wall panels bear
well-chiseled figures of adorable divinities in
addition to inscriptions, helpful to fixing the date
of construction and details of the patrons. The
icons of the presiding deities are fine specimens
of superb art. It is impressive in every piece of
architecture embellished by good sculpture.
Having fallen on evil days, as it were, it looks
into the eyes of the viewers piteously to hasten
to taking up renovation to restore its former
glory. The greedy hands of Mammon
worshippers looted its splendour, who willfully
mutilated and dug at several sacred sports to
mine out precious jewels, supposed to have
been hidden here. Wickedness knows no
scruples, not- greediness honours the age-long
tradition.
It lies in Rayadurg of Anantapur district of
Andhra Pradesh commanding bus facilities.
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