Context

A team of G-20 delegates visited the Lepakshi Sri Veerabhadraswamy temple.

About Lepakshi Temple:

• Lepakshi temple is located in Andhra Pradesh, built during the era of the Vijayanagara Empire.
• The temple is famous for its three shrines, which are dedicated to-
  • Lord Vishnu
  • Lord Shiva
  • Lord Veerabhadra

• The Veerabhadra Temple was constructed by two brothers, Viranna and Virupanna.
• Architectural style: The temple is built in the Vijayanagar architectural styleand has beautiful sculptures adorning the walls.
• It is one of the finest & oldest temples in India.
• It is situated atop the Kurmasailam (tortoise-shaped) hill.
• There is a huge Nandi bullmade from a single granite stone.
• Lepakshi has many murals from the Vijayanagara Era and the famous sculpture of the snake on the Nagalinga.

The original structure is said to have been built by Sage Agastya and finds mention in the Skanda Purana as one of the 108 Saivaite pilgrimage centres of ancient India.

• The entire temple complex was believed to be rebuilt by Virupanna, and his brother Veerannaunder the rule of Vijayanagara king Achyuta Devaraya.
• The main shrine, the 70-pillared nrutya mantapa, the detailed and beautiful carvings on them depicts gods and artists playing musical instruments and dancers in various poses and mudras.
• The high ceiling is filled with long panels of fresco paintings.
  

About the Archaeological Survey of India:

• The ASI is the premier organization for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of the country.
• The prime objection of ASI is to maintain the archaeological sites, ancient monuments and remains of national importance.
• Its Headquarters is in New Delhi.
• It was established in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham.
• It regulates all archaeological activities as per the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, of 1958.
• It functions under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Culture.
• It also regulates the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, of 1972.