Call Us Now

+91 9606900005 / 04

For Enquiry

legacyiasacademy@gmail.com

About The Simhachalam Temple

Context:

During recent conservation efforts, epigraphists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) uncovered a Telugu inscription on the wall above the statue of Lord Hanuman at the 13th-century Simhachalam temple.

Relevance:

GS I: History

Dimensions of the Article:

  1. Historical Background
  2. Architectural Importance

Historical Background

  • Origins and Cultural Influence: The temple, also known as Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, was originally established in the 11th century by the Gajapati rulers of Odisha.
  • It is dedicated to the incarnation (avatar) of Vishnu known as Narasimha
    (the man-lion).
  • Contributions and Renovations:
    • It was constructed in the 11th century by the Gajapati rulers of Odisha.
    • Kulottunga Chola I from Tamil Nadu made significant endowments around 1087.
    • The temple saw major renovations from the Vengi Chalukyas of Andhra Pradesh during the same period.
    • Further enhancements were made by Narasimha I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty in the early 13th century.
    • Notably, Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire visited and contributed to the temple in 1516.

Architectural Importance

  • Architectural Design: It is of a design combining elements of Kalinga and Dravidian architectural styles, thus making it a monument of a great cultural heritage.
Structural Details:
  • The central sanctum is renowned for its elaborate carvings and the dynamic depiction of Narasimha, blending human and lion forms.
  • An important structure is the stone chariot, beautifully carved denoting celestial transportation.
  • The marriage hall, or Kalyana Mandapa, displays 16 intricately carved pillars that feature various Vishnu incarnations.
  • The exterior walls show the temple having bas-reliefs of a royal figure; it is said to depict King Narasimha in various ceremonial poses.

-Source: The Hindu


December 2024
MTWTFSS
 1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
3031 
Categories

Register For a Free Online Counselling Session Now !

Welcome Pop Up
+91