March 26, 2011

Kings Balance

This 16th century, 5 meter tall stone structure stands at the end of Kampa Bhupa’s Path, to the southwest of the Vittala Temple in Hampi. It is also called as Tula Bhara or Tula Purushadana, It looks like an archway from far, in fact a path passes through this stone structure to Vitala Templa. Artistcally carved granite beam placed is placed on two carved granite pillars which gives it a shape of a balance.

The legend has it that this was used on special days like solar and lunar eclipse, when scales were hung from the transom, and the emperor was ceremonially weighed against gold and precious gems and the treasure was then distributed among the people of his state.

On close observation one can see the loops at the top from which balance was actually hung, also on one of the pillars you can see carving of the king and two queens, possibly Krishnadeva Raya and his consorts. (Image below, extreme left) One can also find carvings depicting people praising the king, on and around this stone balance. (Middle and extreme right)

Curvy

Curvy - A line that deviates from straightness in a smooth, continuous fashion
lush green curvy leaf

March 22, 2011

Jackal

Black-backed Jackal resting after a mid day meal. Photo shot in Mysore Zoo
black backed jackal in mysore zoo

March 15, 2011

March 1, 2011

Kadlekalu Ganesha Hampi

This giant statue of Ganesha (Elephant God) is carved out of a huge boulder and is found at the northeastern slope of the Hemakuta hill in Hampi. The belly of this statue resembles a Bengal gram (Kadalekalu, in local language) and hence the name Kadlekalu Ganesha.
This 4.5 meters (15 feet) tall monolithic statue is one among the largest sculptures in Hampi and dates back 15th century.
Kadlekalu Ganesha in Hampi

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