#ashokasays Did you know 319:
INCREDIBLE BHARATHA
The District of Warangal in Telengana State hosts an amazing collection of attractive places.
The Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamakonda is one such
jewel. Despite being ravaged by Muslim invasions, the temple stands
testimony to the singular architectural styles of the Kakatiyan dynasty
and an important tourist place of Warangal city.
Built under the able supervision of Kakatiya Rudradeva in
1163, the temple is one of the best examples of Kakatiyan architectural
genius. The temple is called as “Sri Rudreshwara Swamy Temple” named
after the Kakatiya Ruler Rudradeva. The entrance gateways, ceilings and
pillars of the structure are all embellished with elaborate and
exquisite carvings. The temple with thousand pillars and the unique star
shape of the temple is an architectural marvel in itself and among the
ancient temples of Telangana and also India. This style of Kaktiyan
Architecture is called as “Trikootalaya”.
The thousand pillars that support the temple structure and
from which it derives its name is perhaps the most interesting thing
that is worth a look. Each of these pillars bears beautiful carvings of
motifs that remind one of the Kakatiyan style. Sculptures representing
the art styles of the by-gone eras grace the walls of this ancient
temple; ornate and exquisite, each wall within the temple is an absolute
poetry in stone.
The temple houses the shrines of Lord Shiva (Rudreshwar),
Lord Vishnu and Lord Surya. In addition to the three presiding deities,
the temple precincts are also strewn with several lingam shrines.
There are many interesting facts about Thousand Pillar
Temple. It’s is still believed that there is an underground route from
Warangal Fort to this temple which was build by Kakatiya ruler and also
beleived that the Kakatiya ruler used this route to visit this temple.
Other interesting fact is the temparature inside the temple
is always cool. One should sit in the temple to feel the cooling effect
even in hot summer. It is beleived that this cooling effect is because
of the special soft wet sand used at the foundation level which is
connected to Bhadrakali Lake through a pipe connection.
Most notable among its sculptures is that of a giant Nandi
that is present within the temple premises. The monolithic structure is
made of black basalt and has a polish that shines brightly even today.
This majestic structure is a strong reminder of the glorious history of
the Kakatiya rulers in their capital city of Warangal.
On your next visit to Warangal, make sure you step into this place.
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