Hearing the name Hampi might still sound unfamiliar to many of us.
However, Hampi was once a spectacular site during the Vijayanagara Empire in India.
The ruins left behind resemble the Borobudur Temple in Indonesia. Here's an overview of Hampi!
1. The Grandeur of Vijayanagara
Today, Hampi is a small village in the Bellary District, Karnataka, India. Hampi, which means champion in the local language, was once part of the capital of the prosperous Vijayanagara Empire. During the 16th century, Vijayanagara was considered the second-largest city in the world, with a population of about 500,000. The group of monuments in Hampi was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
2. Construction and Architecture
Hampi is an excellent example of ancient Hindu art and architecture that provides a detailed insight into the life of the Hindu kingdom in Vijayanagara. The site is located along the banks of the Tungabhadra River, with hilly terrain and river plains.
The art and architecture of Hampi are primarily based on the Dravidian style, but Indo-Islamic influences are also incorporated, as seen in the Queen’s Bath and the Elephant Stables. Granite, bricks, and lime mortar were the three main construction materials used in building the structures of Hampi.
Some of the famous temple complexes in Hampi include the Krishna Temple Complex, the temple dedicated to the Hindu Lord Narasimha, Ganesa, Shiva, the Vittala Temple Complex, and the Virupaksha Temple with sculptures.
3. Geopolitical Significance
The group of monuments in Hampi bears testimony to the power and geopolitical significance of the Vijayanagara Empire between the 14th and 16th centuries in Southern India. The empire was founded by Harihara and his brother Bukka Raya in 1336.
The Hindu rulers, with their army of 1 million, became famous for their ability to halt the invasions into Southern India for a long period. The Vijayanagara Empire reached its peak of success between 1509 and 1530 under the reign of Krishna Deva Raya. However, the empire’s downfall was triggered by the conquest, marked by the defeat of the Vijayanagara kings at the Battle of Talikota in 1565.
4. Cultural Hub
The rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire were known for their secular and tolerant attitudes, as well as their openness to new learning processes. The empire flourished, evidenced by the large number of advanced arts and architecture from this period. The emperors of this empire patronized the arts, sciences, literature, and architecture, leading to the birth of many scholars, artists, and architects whose works continue to inspire the world today.
5. Preserving Hampi
This World Heritage Site is well-protected by the Government of India under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
The state government of Karnataka is also responsible for preserving these historic relics according to the guidelines of the Karnataka Ancient Monuments and Historical Sites and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1961. A special government unit has been formed with the task of conserving and protecting the structures in Hampi, as well as the repair and maintenance of the Hampi monuments when deemed necessary.
Hampi stands as a remarkable testament to the grandeur and legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire, offering a glimpse into a rich cultural, and architectural history. Its preservation ensures that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from this ancient site, which remains an enduring symbol of India's historical brilliance!
The Ruins of Hampi, Karnataka, India [Amazing Places 4K]
Vidoe by Amazing Places on Our Planet
