In this 4th episode of Hampi video series, we are exploring Laksmi Narasimha, Badavi Linga, Queen's Bath, Stepped Tank and Mahanavami Dibba of Hampi. #Hampi #KarnatakaTourism #StepsTogether Lakshmi Narasimha (Ugra Narasimha) Idol We left Krishna temple complex at 4.10 PM and headed towards the popular Lakshmi Narasimha statue. This huge idol is easily noticeable from the main road itself. The iconic monolithic idol is the largest statue in Hampi. The idol is damaged majorly so much so that people often call it as Ugra Narasimha even though it is a representation of Lakshmi Narasimha. The original idol had the image of Goddess Lakshmi sitting on the lap of Narasimha. But, the idol of Lakshmi had been completely demolished during the fall of Vijayanagara dynasty and thus making the impression of Ugra Narasimha. It is said that even now we can see the hand of Goddess Lakshmi idol resting on the back of Narasimha. But, you cannot see this because entry inside the enclosure is restricted. Badavi Linga Next to Lakshmi Narasimha idol, you can find the largest Shiva Linga of Hampi known as Badavi Linga. It is also housed in a small chamber with only one opening at the front. The Shiva Linga is very big and lower portion of the linga is always submerged in water. It is believed to be constructed by a poor woman hence the name Badavi Linga (Badavi means poor lady in Kannada). We left Badavi Linga at 4.30 PM and headed towards Royal Enclosure. Queen’s Bath: After visiting Badavi Linga idol, we headed towards Royal Enclosure. On the Royal Enclosure side of Hampi, the first attraction you will get to see is Queen’s bath. This is the place where queen used to take bath. However, many theories decline this and suggest that it is a place used for recreational activities. Whatever be the case, it is a beautiful structure one cannot miss. It has an empty pond in the middle and a beautiful open pavilion with small windows. There are steps on one side through which one can get to the pond area. We spent time there till 5 PM and headed further towards the Royal Enclosure area. Mahanavami Dibba: The first structure you get to see in the Royal Enclosure is the huge Mahanavami Dibba. Mahanavami Dibba is a large stone platform built by Krishna Devaraya of Vijayanagara dynasty to celebrate his victory over Udayagiri. The structure is more beautiful than you see in the photos. When I Had a look at the photo of this place before visiting, I did not find it interesting at all, but the reality is quite different. You need to climb about 25-30 big steps to reach the top. The side walls of the platform have a well-carved array of sculptures. At the top, there is nothing except a big plain stage. This is from where kings used to watch the march past of the army, cultural celebrations during Dusshera, sword fights, and other cultural activities. Now, if you go on top and have a look, you can find the ruins of the Royal Enclosure. Though it is sad to see the renowned town in such condition, never miss to sit there for some time and imagine the glorious past of the place. At the backside of the platform also, there are steps to climb. You can climb up from the front steps and climb down using the rear steps to cover the structure completely. Stepped Tank: From Mahanavami Dibba, we walked towards the stepped tank which is in the same enclosure. This stepped tank was excavated in the 1980s and is one of the beautiful water tanks. Well maintained by the ASI, the tank has steps in the formation of pyramids next to each other making it look elegant. The water of this tank was believed to be used for religious purposes. Next to this tank is the public tank. This is a bigger and normal looking tank. There is no water in the public tank currently. Apart from these, there is a king’s audience hall in this royal enclosure. -~-~~-~~~-~~-~- Please watch: "Hogenakkal falls coracle ride 2019 | Hogenakkal trip complete details | Tamilnadu Tourism" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scNrG... -~-~~-~~~-~~-~-.
Comments