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Sometimes referred to as the Vishnu Temple this is one of the recommended places to see the carving of the Ananta Sayana aspect of lord Vishnu with great details. That is Vishnu resting on the serpent Ananta. The temple is located at the north end of the Courtesan’s Street facing the Achyut Raya’s temple.
The long rectangular shrine is fashioned with a stepped porch in front. The unlit sanctum is fitted with a metal grille door. However if you are visiting this during the brighter time of the day, it’s not very difficult to make out the images inside the sanctum.
This long image of Vishnu portrayed with four arms is in a reclining posture on the coiled body of the cosmic snake Anantha. The snake with its seven-headed hood forms a canopy over Vishnu’s head.
One of Vishnu’s right hand supports his head. The other right hand holds the Chakra (the discus weapon). Also one of his left hands hold a conch shell named Panchajanya; the second left hand rests by his side.
His two consorts – Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and Bhudevi, the goddess of earth – sits side by side. In fact his feet rests on their laps. One of the goddesses rests her hand on the club wepon of the god kept near his feet.
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Rangatha Temple
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Brahma, the three-headed creator god is seen sitting on a lotus, which sprouts from the navel of Vishnu. The whole image is carved on the vertical face of a rock placed inside the sanctum.
You would naturally pass through this temple courtyard if you walk between the Hampi Bazaar area and Vittala temple via the riverside trek path. The temple is at your right side, facing your path, when you exit the Courtesan’s Street and take a right turn towards the direction of Vittala temple. Look out for this shrine with a few steps just in front.
The temple can easily give you a miss, as it may appear as yet another ruined temple in an area packed with numerous such structures. The plain and humble looking exterior of the temple doesn’t help either.
Admission free.
Photography allowed.
