Introduction
The Veerabhadra Temple, nestled on the southern edge of Lepakshi town in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, is a remarkable historical site perched atop a gentle hillock known as Kurma Saila. This hillock is notable for its expansive granite rock formation, which is said to resemble a tortoise. According to the Skanda Purana, this temple is recognized as “Lepakshya Papanasanah” among the 108 Divya Kshetras, which are revered pilgrimage spots dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is specifically devoted to Virabhadra, a fierce incarnation of Lord Shiva.
Mythological Foundation
Diving into its mythological roots, Virabhadra is thought to have been born from Shiva’s fury and is often portrayed as a warrior with multiple arms, wielding various weapons and adorned with serpents. The temple is also linked to the Ramayana, particularly the tale of Jatayu, the vulture deity. In the epic, during the fierce battle between Jatayu and Ravana, who was trying to abduct Goddess Sita, Jatayu was wounded and fell to the ground. Moved by compassion, Lord Rama reportedly exclaimed “Le Pakshi,” which means “rise, bird” in Telugu, showing his empathy for the fallen Jatayu. Another story suggests that the name Lepakshi comes from Lepa Akshi, translating to “embalmed eye,” which refers to a painting or sculpture found within the temple.
Historical Evolution
The Historical Evolution of this temple is quite fascinating. It’s thought to have been constructed in the 16th century by two brothers, Virupanna and Veeranna. At that time, Virupanna was the royal treasurer for the Vijayanagara Empire under King Achutaraya. Inspired by the ideals of Lord Veerabhadra, he decided to build a temple at this very site. Using funds from the royal treasury, he began the construction while the king was away. When King Achutaraya returned, he was furious to find the treasury empty and the temple built without his approval. In his anger, the king stopped any further work on the temple and punished Virupanna severely. He ordered that Virupanna’s eyes be taken as retribution for his actions. However, rather than endure this punishment, Virupanna chose to take his own life to prove his innocence. In a dramatic act, he threw his own eyes against the wall of the Kalyana Mandapa. Legend has it that the two red spots you see on the wall of the temple’s Kalyana Mandapa are the bloodied remnants of Virupanna’s eyes. This tragic story is why the village is called Lepakshi, which translates to “blinded eye.”
Architectural and Vastu Perspective
This temple showcases the Vijayanagara style of architecture, which beautifully blends both Nagara and Dravidian styles, though it leans more towards Dravidian characteristics. Nestled on a rocky hill shaped like a tortoise, this hill is known as “Kurmasailam,” which translates to “Tortoise Hill.” In Hinduism, the tortoise symbolizes stability, patience, and endurance—qualities that resonate with the fierce and powerful nature of Lord Shiva. The connection between the tortoise and Kurmasailam may symbolically highlight the enduring presence and protective spirit of Veerabhadra at this sacred site. According to Hindu mythology, the tortoise is also seen as an avatar of Lord Vishnu.
On the eastern side of the temple complex, you’ll find a large granite stone adorned with intricate carvings. This carving features a magnificent, 18-foot monolithic Naga-Linga, complete with three coiled serpents and seven hoods, all topped with an umbrella-like cover over a Linga. This imagery holds deep significance in Hindu mythology, representing the protective nature of the divine serpent, often linked to Lord Shiva. The Linga itself symbolizes Shiva’s cosmic energy and creative power, resting beneath the serpent’s protective hood. Serpents, or Nagas, are viewed as guardians of underground water sources like rivers, lakes, and wells, believed to protect their treasures. They are also associated with fertility and abundance, making their presence a sign of prosperity for the land. Meanwhile, the tortoise is revered as a protector of the Earth.
Kurma is often described as having supported Mount Mandara during the churning of the cosmic ocean, playing a crucial role in the creation of the universe. This connection symbolizes Kurma as a protector and supporter of the Earth. While serpents are linked to water, the tortoise represents the Earth or land, and both are seen as guardians in their own realms. This idea resonates with Vastu principles, which highlight the importance of balance and harmony among nature’s various elements. In the context of Kurmasailam and the Lepakshi Temple, these associations may add to the site’s overall significance. Vastu Shastra stresses the need to choose an auspicious location for construction, taking into account the surrounding landscape, topography, and natural features. The hill’s connection to stability and endurance aligns perfectly with Vastu principles, which advocate for a solid and supportive foundation for buildings. The layout and orientation of the Lepakshi temple complex likely reflect Vastu considerations, ensuring a flow of positive energy and auspiciousness.
The main temple is divided into three key sections: Mukha Mandapa, Arda Mandapa, and Garbhagriha. It is surrounded by two main enclosures; the outer one’s act as a boundary wall for the temple complex and feature several gates, while the inner ones are closer to the main temple structure. Additionally, there is a spacious open assembly hall designed to host large gatherings, ceremonies, and other events. The Mukha Mandapa greets you right at the entrance of the sanctum sanctorum, beautifully decorated with sculptures and paintings that depict divine beings, saints, guardians, musicians, dancers, horses, soldiers, and various Avatars of Lord Shiva. This Mandapa features numerous pillars, each topped with unique T-shaped ends. This clever T-shape design not only adds a touch of elegance but also boosts the stability of the pillars, which is especially important in areas prone to earthquakes. While you might not find direct mentions of these T-shaped pillars in ancient texts, their design could carry a deeper meaning. The T-shape might symbolize the trident, a revered emblem of Lord Shiva.
Every side of the Mukha Mandapa is beautifully decorated with various images. For instance, the Northeastern section features Natesha, accompanied by Brahma and a drummer, while the Southwestern area showcases Goddess Parvati alongside Lord Shiva. Over in the Northwestern corner, you’ll find Bhringi and Bhikshantana. The ceiling paintings in each bay of the main Mandapa, as well as in the Antarala and other shrines, highlight the magnificence of Vijayanagara pictorial art. The color palette of these frescoes typically includes natural hues from vegetables and minerals, such as yellow, ochre, black, blue, and green. Notably, the fresco on the ceiling of the Ardha Mandapa is the largest in Asia, measuring an impressive 23 feet by 13 feet. This stunning artwork illustrates the 14 avatars of Lord Shiva, each carrying its own unique significance and symbolism. Some of these avatars include Yogadakshinamurti, Chandes Anugraha Murthy, Bhikshatana, Harihara, Ardhanarishwara, Kalyanasundara, Tripurantaka, Nataraja, Gouriprasadaka, Lingodbhava, and Andhakasurasmahara.
Each avatar of Lord Shiva depicted in the frescoes showcases a unique aspect or manifestation of the deity, highlighting the rich diversity and complexity of Shiva’s character and mythology. These stunning artworks are a testament to the incredible skill of Vijayanagara-era artists, who brilliantly captured the essence of Hindu mythology and religious devotion through their vibrant imagery and meticulous craftsmanship. They stand as a proud reminder of the cultural and artistic legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire, giving visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. When used thoughtfully, frescoes can enhance the overall aesthetics of a space, a principle that aligns with Vastu Shastra. Vastu emphasizes the significance of beauty and visual harmony in architectural design, as these elements contribute to the psychological and emotional well-being of those who inhabit the space. By incorporating auspicious symbols, images of deities, and natural elements into frescoes, positive energies can be evoked. While there isn’t a direct link between frescoes and Vastu Shastra, blending frescoes into architectural design can harmonize with Vastu principles, creating environments that are not only visually stunning but also promote positive energies and holistic well-being.
This temple is famous for its stunning carvings of the Lepakshi Saree design on the pillars, showcasing the incredible artistry of the sculptors and craftsmen from that time.
At the heart of the temple, in the sanctum sanctorum, you’ll find a nearly life-sized image of Veerabhadra, who faces east. He’s depicted as fully armed and adorned with skulls, embodying his fierce nature as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Devotees approach Veerabhadra with deep respect and devotion, hoping to receive his blessings for protection and prosperity. Inside the sanctum, there’s a cave chamber where the sage Agasthya is believed to have lived. According to legend, Sage Agasthya installed the Linga image in this chamber, which adds to the temple’s sanctity and spiritual importance. The temple complex also features a separate chamber dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, while another chamber is devoted to Lord Vishnu. On the right side of the Naga-Linga, you’ll see a massive idol of Lord Ganesha, carved from the same monolithic boulder.
One of the standout features of the temple is a pillar that seems to be hanging or slightly out of place from its base. This intriguing sight has piqued the interest and wonder of visitors for centuries. Even though it looks a bit unstable, the pillar stands firm, seemingly defying gravity as it appears to float in mid-air. There’s a noticeable gap between the bottom of the hanging pillar and the ground, wide enough for cloth and paper to slip through, which really emphasizes how unusual its position is. The fact that the pillar only touches the ground on one side adds to its mystery and allure. This hanging pillar symbolizes the link between our earthly existence and the heavens, perhaps representing the cosmic axis or a bridge connecting Gods and Humans. It not only showcases the incredible architectural ingenuity and engineering prowess of the craftsmen who built the temple but also embodies the temple’s mystical charm and spiritual importance. As a popular attraction, it inspires awe and reflection about the universe’s mysteries and the divine forces believed to dwell within the temple’s sacred grounds.
Just a short stroll of 200 meters from the temple, you’ll find the impressive granite statue of Nandi. Standing tall at 20 feet and stretching 30 feet in length, this magnificent figure is carved from a single block of stone. It’s beautifully decorated with bells and garlands, which enhance its visual charm and spiritual importance. Interestingly, this statue is strategically placed to face the serpent statue located within the temple grounds.
The main entrance of the temple is located in N5, a spot that’s considered auspicious and is under the watchful eye of Kuber devta. This entrance really enhances the spiritual vibe for all the devotees who visit. The Vastu Purusha sculpture found in the Lepakshi Temple is credited to the famous sculptor Amarashilpi Jakanachari, who played a key role in the temple’s construction. According to local legends, as the temple was nearing completion, a misalignment with Vastu principles was discovered. To fix this, Jakanachari carved the striking Vastu Purusha figure beneath one of the pillars. This figure represents a cosmic being lying face down, with his head pointing to the North-East and his feet to the South-West, symbolizing the temple’s alignment according to Vastu Shastra. Legend has it that Jakanachari made the ultimate sacrifice by beheading himself to ensure the temple’s completion and correct the alignment issue. His head is said to have fallen at a place known as “Koneru,” or the sculptor’s pond nearby, where many believe his spirit still lingers. The Vastu Purusha sculpture at Lepakshi not only showcases the incredible talent and commitment of Amarashilpi Jakanachari but also adds to the enchanting atmosphere of the temple complex.
The supposed Vastu flaw in the Lepakshi Temple complex is said to be a cut in the Northeast direction of the temple. In Vastu Shastra, this direction is viewed as particularly auspicious, linked to prosperity, growth, and spirituality. Any disruptions in this area are thought to bring bad luck. This alleged defect has sparked plenty of discussion and speculation, adding to the temple’s mystery and charm. Despite these concerns, the temple is still celebrated for its stunning architecture, deep religious significance, and rich history. One could see the installation of the Vastu Purusha sculpture at Lepakshi Temple as a way to address any perceived Vastu issues, including that cut in the Northeast. In the end, while the true reasons for placing the Vastu Purusha sculpture might be open to interpretation, the stories surrounding it highlight the value placed on Vastu principles in traditional Indian architecture and the care taken to maintain balance and harmony in sacred spaces like temples.
Guest Author
Dr Dinesh Soni