Ranga Temple
T
his is yet another temple located within the royal centre, an area otherwise dominated by the courtly structures. The twin shrine temple complex is dedicated to lord Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi. More than anything else, the principal attraction in this temple is the huge slab with the image of Hanuman carved on it. .In this near perfectly preserved slab, Hanuman is portrayed in the characteristic posture with his right hand raised above his head, left fist (partly damaged) on his thigh and his tail making an arch above him. The dagger dragger attached to his decorated waist ornament is interesting. This is the largest ever such slabs found in the Hampi ruins.
The main shrine is decorated with a brick tower. The main hall in front of this contains the Hanuman figure just mentioned. It’s believed based on some inscriptions found at the site that the hall attached to the temple were used for art performances.
The sub shrine nearby, though-tower less, is interesting for the Krishna themes on the walls. The romantic encounters of lord Krishna is portrayed in the carvings of main hall in front of this shrine. You can reach here by taking the axial path in front of the Hazara Rama Temple that goes towards the Yellamma Temple or the path that traces the southern wall of the Zenena Enclosure. Owing to is location at a corner, visitors many not notice and reach this place easily. But it’s a gem worth visiting as far as the Hanuman slab is concerned. .
Admission free & photography allowed
The Hanuman slab inside the Ranga Temple, © 2006 Brad & Dela (image attached with permision) (Visit their blog bradanddela.blogspot.in for more India tour blogs & photo album!!)
The Hanuman slab inside the Ranga Temple, © 2006 Brad & Dela (image attached with permision) (Visit their blog bradanddela.blogspot.in for more India tour blogs & photo album!!)
hanuman-hampi