Lepakshi murals in Veerabhadraswamy temple to be key attraction for G-20 delegates

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is making all arrangements to ensure that the proposed hour-long trip of G-20 delegates to the Lepakshi Sri Veerabhadraswamy 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 style and 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 bull made 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 Veeranna under 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.