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LEPAKSHI It falls between Puttaparthi and
Banglore and known for the Virbhadra Temple. Withe beautiful murals and it's
monolithic navdi which is India's largest 41/2 mts
high and 81/2 mts long.  Lepakshi
has an irrestible attraction to the tourist because of the finest architecture
and paintings found in the temples here. Unlike most of the South Indian
temples, the temple does not have a prominent Vimana on the Sanctum. But it has
many Vimana like structures on top of the temple, indicating several cells of
Gods housed in this temple.
The carvings on stone at
Lepakshi are of such mesmeric quality that one is left wondering at the
mind boggling talent of the sculptors who managed to bring this inanimate
stone to life. The shilpakala (the art of sculpture) of Lepakshi is
indescribable. Lepakshi, which is famous for its rich fine arts and
architectural beauty, is situated in Ananthapur district 120 km. away from
the district headquarters and 12 km. from Hindupur. The history books reveal
that the Skandapuranam says that it is one of the 108 Saiva or Shiva
temples in India. Sri Virupanna, who worked as a Treasury Officer of
Penukonda Fort of Vijayanagara Empire, had taken upon himself the
construction of Lord Veerabhadhra temple at Lepakshi. The "Shikhar"
or the spire of Lord Veerabhadra temple depicts the Hindu epic the Ramayan.
"Antarikshastambham", the hanging pillar is another highlight.
The carvings of man (Vasthupurusha) and woman along with other pictures on
the pillars are very eye-catching and proves beyond measure the talent of
these sculptors. Above all, the 6 ft. height and 8 mt.length monolithic
"Nandi" (the bull) sculpture which is said to be the
biggest monolithic Nandi in India, is synonymous with Lepakshi. The
majestic Shilpakala of Nandi sculpture is inexplicable and it is a feast
for the eyes. Lepakshi is both a tourist
place worth a visit as well as a pilgrimage centre. It is centrally
located between Hindupur and Kodikonda check post. The Andhra Pradesh
State Road Transport Corporation has its services daily from Hindupur. For
lodging, there is a R & B guest house at Hindupur and the
tourists can stay at APTD rest house as well have their lunch. |
