Achyuta Raya Temple
The Achyuta Raya Temple is in Hampi. It was built in 1534 AD. It is one of the major, splendid and awe-inspiring temples of Hampi located between the Matanga hills and Gandhamadana. This magnificent temple depicts the Vijayanagara architecture style of temples in its best and most improved form. This was among the last dazzling temples that were constructed in the celebrated city of Hampi prior to the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Unfortunately, this elegant and striking temple is in ruins as a consequence of the attacks by the monarchs of the Bahamani kingdom. It is greatly affected by the forces of nature over several centuries.
The main idol worshiped in the Achyuta Raya Temple is Lord Tiruvengalanatha which is another form of Vishnu.
The towers, pillars, and walls have exquisite carvings and ornamentation. Major parts of the temple are in a damaged condition. Although it is in ruins, the temple does not fail in grandiosity and its magnificence even today.
History of Achyuta Raya Temple
The Achyuta Raya temple got built during the rule of Achyuta Deva Raya, who was one of the emperors of the Vijayanagara Empire. He came to power by succeeding his elder brother Krishna Deva Raya in the year 1529.
The stunning and heavenly temple is devoted to Lord Tiruvengalanatha; he is a configuration of Lord Vishnu. Thus, this temple was initially known as Tiruvengalanatha Temple. However, later on, it came to be called after the king in whose reign it was built. Hence, it became widely known as the Achyuta Raya temple.
Architecture of Achyuta Raya Temple
The principal shrine of the temple is located in centerntre of a pair of rectangular concentric enclosures. There are pillared verandas on the interior flanks of the two courtyard walls. The outer walkways are in a state of decay, collapse, and disintegration. The temple is distinctly visible from the top of Matanga Hill. It is at the end of the abandoned Courtesan Street.
On entering the inner court one can spot a chamber that is facing the porch leading to the central hall. There is a small shrine chamber that once sanctified an image of Garuda.
The accessible hall has a few extremely lauded sculpted pillars in Hampi. The carvings are done on monolithic blocks of rocks. The statues and sculptures on the pillars reveal themes like lord Vishnu blessing an elephant, lord Krishna practicing his flute while the calves are watching this scene with interest, and infant Krishna dancing with a snake and holding it by the tail.
There is a Mandapa which is a marriage hall of the Gods and the Goddesses for the yearly nuptials.
