Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

The Virupaksha Temple stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire in the ancient city of Hampi, India. This majestic Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, has been a continuous center of worship for centuries, making it one of the oldest functioning temples in the country.

Constructed in the 7th century, the Virupaksha Temple has seen successive expansions and additions under the rule of various kings. What started as a modest shrine has transformed into a large complex with a towering gateway, known as a gopuram, which dominates the Hampi Bazaar. The main gopuram, which rises approximately 50 meters above the entrance, is a masterpiece of Vijayanagara architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting mythological stories.

The temple's sanctum sanctorum houses a sacred linga, the universal symbol of Lord Shiva, and is a focal point for pilgrims and tourists alike. The interiors of the temple are adorned with beautifully carved pillars and panels that narrate episodes from the Hindu epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

One of the most intriguing features of the Virupaksha Temple is the pinhole camera effect observed in the temple's dark chamber, where the inverted image of the main gopuram is projected onto a wall through a small hole, mystifying visitors with this ancient optical trick.

The Virupaksha Temple is not only a spiritual haven but also a cultural hotspot during festivals, especially during the annual chariot festival, when the temple's grandeur is showcased in full splendor with processions, rituals, and celebrations.