INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM
CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
Hampi, located in the Bellary district of Karnataka, India, is a site of immense
historical, cultural, and architectural signi cance. It served as the ourishing capital
of the Vijayanagara Empire from the 14th to the 16th century, one of the most
powerful and wealthy empires in South Indian history. Recognized as a UNESCO
World Heritage Site, Hampi is renowned for its vast and well-preserved ruins, which
provide a unique window into medieval Indian civilization. Spanning over 4,100
hectares, the site features a remarkable collection of monuments including grand
temples, royal complexes, market streets, water tanks, and forti cations. The
architectural style of Hampi is distinguished by a blend of traditional Dravidian
design and in uences from Islamic architecture, re ecting the cultural diversity and
artistic innovation of the period. Among its most famous landmarks are the
Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva; the Vittala Temple, noted for its
musical pillars and the iconic stone chariot; and the Lotus Mahal, an elegant palace
re ecting Indo-Islamic architecture. The city was strategically situated on the banks
of the Tungabhadra River, surrounded by dramatic boulder-strewn hills that not only
provided natural defense but also contributed to the city’s scenic beauty. Hampi’s
ruins narrate stories of political power, religious devotion, trade, and daily life,
making it a vital resource for historians and archaeologists. Today, it attracts visitors
from across the globe who come to explore its captivating history, architectural
marvels, and breathtaking landscapes, preserving the legacy of one of India’s greatest
empires.
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INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM
CHAPTER-2
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
2.1 Origin and Construction
The Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in Hampi,
dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its origins date back to the 7th century, but it was expanded
during the Vijayanagara Empire between the 14th and 16th centuries. The temple
features a tall gopuram (gateway tower), detailed carvings, and large courtyards. It
was the main religious center of the empire and still remains an active place of
worship today, attracting many visitors and pilgrims.
Fig 2.1: Virupaksha Temple
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INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM
The Sasivekalu Ganapathi is a large monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha carved from
a single granite boulder. Built during the Vijayanagara period, the statue is famous
for its distinctive potbelly shape that resembles a mustard seed, which is what
“Sasivekalu” means. This sculpture is a ne example of the empire’s skill in rock-cut
art and shows the strong religious devotion of the people during that time.
Fig 2.2: Sasivekalu Ganapathi
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Together, the Virupaksha Temple and Sasivekalu Ganapathi represent the artistic
excellence and deep spiritual signi cance of Hampi during the Vijayanagara Empire.
These monuments re ect the rulers’ strong commitment to temple construction and
religious devotion, highlighting how faith and art were central to the empire’s
identity and legacy.
2.1 Role During Different Periods
Before 14th Century:
• Hampi was primarily a religious site with the Virupaksha Temple already
established as an important pilgrimage center.
• The region was known for its spiritual signi cance, with early sculptures like the
Sasivekalu Ganapathi highlighting the devotional culture.
14th to 16th Century (Vijayanagara Empire Period):
• Hampi became the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and a major political,
economic, and cultural hub.
• The Virupaksha Temple was expanded and became the central place of worship,
hosting large religious festivals and rituals.
• The Sasivekalu Ganapathi statue symbolized the empire’s devotion to Hindu gods
and artistic excellence.
• The city ourished as a center for trade, arts, and architecture.
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INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM
Post-16th Century (After 1565):
• Following the Battle of Talikota in 1565, Hampi was largely destroyed and
abandoned as the empire collapsed.
• Despite the decline, the Virupaksha Temple remained active and continued to be
used by worshippers.
• Monuments like Sasivekalu Ganapathi survived as important cultural and
religious relics.
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