(Hampi)
Hampi is one of India’s most remarkable historical destinations. If the Taj Mahal represents the pinnacle of Mughal art and architecture, then the temples and structures of Hampi stand as another towering achievement of Indian craftsmanship. The city, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built by the Vijayanagar kings, and its ruins continue to narrate stories of grandeur, faith, and artistry.
A Tale That Comes to Life
For many Bengalis, Hampi is not just a name in a history book—it is a place we first encountered through literature. Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay’s novel ‘Tungabhadrar Teere’ introduced young readers to the mystical land of Vijayanagar, while Sunil Gangopadhyay’s ‘Vijayanagarer Hire’ brought the Kakababu-Santu duo on an adventure through its majestic ruins.
For travelers wishing to explore Hampi, the journey begins with a flight to Bangalore, followed by a train ride to Hospet, the closest railway station. From there, a short drive unveils this treasure of ancient India. Alternatively, one can board a direct train from Howrah to Hospet, bypassing Bangalore.
Photostory: Eid-ul-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice in Hyderabad
The Rise of a Mighty Empire
In 1336 AD, the Sangama dynasty was established by Harihara I along the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River. Over time, they expanded their rule, bringing the vast southern territories—including parts of Kalinga, the Yadava and Gajapati dynasties—under their control. The Vijayanagar Empire grew, encompassing present-day Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. At its heart was Hampi, the dazzling capital.
Strategically located in the Tungabhadra-Krishna Doab region, Hampi thrived. Fertile lands made agriculture prosperous, while its position near eastern and western trade routes ensured economic wealth. But beyond its riches, Vijayanagar had a soul deeply rooted in culture and devotion.
An Architectural Dreamscape
The kings of Vijayanagar were passionate patrons of art and architecture. Among the rocky terrain of Hampi, they found an abundance of yellow sandstone, perfect for crafting temples and monuments that would stand the test of time. In a span of two centuries, Hampi transformed into a breathtaking hub of artistic expression.
At its core lies the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex, spread across different elevations, carries legends of divine marriage—where Hara (Shiva) and Parvati are believed to have united. The temple’s ornate corridors and towering gopuram still exude a sense of celestial grandeur.
Hampi’s significance goes even further back. In the epic Ramayana, Anegondi, located across the Tungabhadra River, is considered Kishkindha, the kingdom of the Vanaras. This connection led to the construction of the Hazara Rama Temple, celebrating stories of Lord Rama and his army.
The most iconic structure, however, is the Vijaya Vittala Temple, celebrated worldwide for its astonishing craftsmanship. Its massive stone chariot stands frozen in time, and legend has it that when struck lightly, the temple’s pillars produce musical notes—a marvel of ancient engineering.
Another intriguing architectural aspect of Hampi is its bazaar layout. Unlike markets seen elsewhere, the grand trading streets near temples were designed with stone-pillared pavilions, showcasing a thriving economy where merchants sold precious gems, spices, and textiles under the watchful gaze of temple priests and travelers.
Photo story: Makar Sankranti in Hyderabad
An Empire’s Defense and Decline
Hampi’s location provided natural security. The empire was flanked by the sea on both sides, while the Tungabhadra’s rocky banks formed an impenetrable northern barrier. However, beyond its defenses lay political uncertainty.
In Delhi, the Sultanate era was unfolding, and soon, the sultans of the Deccan rebelled, creating the Bahmani Sultanate. Tensions mounted as the Bahmanis repeatedly launched attacks on Vijayanagar. Despite divisions within their empire, the Vijayanagar rulers held their ground.
Eventually, as the Bahmani Sultanate fragmented into five smaller kingdoms, their combined forces launched the fateful Battle of Talikota in 1565. In a catastrophic turn, Vijayanagar fell to the attack, leading to widespread destruction. The Sultanate army suffered losses too, but the empire never regained its former glory.
Although Vijayanagar continued to exist for another eighty-one years, its internal fractures deepened. Small rulers emerged across South India, while continuous invasions from the Bijapur Sultans weakened its foundation. Finally, in 1646, the entire empire ceased to exist.
Hampi Today
Though the empire faded, its ruins still breathe life into the landscape. Walking through the remnants of Hampi feels like stepping into a grand stage where history whispers through the wind. The temples, markets, and forts remain, standing as silent witnesses to centuries of power, devotion, and artistry.
Even in its ruins, Hampi holds a magical charm—a destination where history meets imagination, and where architecture sings stories from a glorious past.
By day, Amlan Chakraborty a technical architect in IT; by passion, he's an explorer, travel writer and photographer. During his travels, he savors the journey on foot or via public transport, immersing himself in the local culture at street food joints and book corners. Through his lens, he captures and shares the essence of nature, humanity, and cultural and socio-political moments.
