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Badavilinga Temple, Hampi, Krishnapura, Karnataka, India

South of the Krishna temple's exterior are two adjacent shrines, one containing the largest monolithic Shiva Linga and the other with the largest monolithic Yoga-Narasimha avatar of Vishnu in Hampi, India.

The 3 metres (9.8 ft) Shiva Linga stands in water in a cubical chamber and has three eyes sketched on its top.

Shree Badavilinga Gudi seen from southeast

  • The temple is renowned for its impressive monolithic Shivalinga, which stands about 3 meters (10 feet) tall. It is the largest Shivalinga in Hampi.
  • The Shivalinga is housed in a small chamber that is partially submerged in water. A water channel flows through the sanctum, symbolizing the descent of the River Ganga to earth.
  • The temple is believed to have been built during the Vijayanagara Empire in the 15th century. It was commissioned by a poverty-stricken peasant woman, which is reflected in the name "Badavilinga" (Badava meaning poor, and Linga representing Shiva).
  • Despite its historical significance, the temple is small and simple in design. The sanctum has no ceiling, allowing sunlight to illuminate the Shivalinga during the day.
  • The base of the Shivalinga is submerged in water, representing the control of the force of the River Ganga by Lord Shiva. This adds to the temple's spiritual aura and tranquility.
  • The Shree Badavilinga Gudi is a serene and spiritually significant site that attracts devotees and tourists alike.

Badavilinga Temple

«The Badavilinga is located to the north of Lakshmi Narasimha Statue. This shrine contains a huge monolithic Shiva linga with a large circular pedestal (yoni pitha), drawing into a pranala (outlet), all measuring about 3 m in height. The shrine faces east and is built on a plain basement with a single projecting course. The walls are plain, above which rises the brick superstructure which is now in a dilapidated condition. In the interior, corbelled ceiling with the central slabs missing can be observed. The lower part of the linga remains in water throughout the year. The source of water is through a small canal drawn from the Tungabhadra River.»


Shiva linga
Huge monolithic Shiva linga with a large circular pedestal (yoni pitha), drawing into a pranala (outlet), all measuring about 3 m (9.8 ft) in height.

  • The continuous flow of water over the Shivalinga symbolizes the presence of the sacred River Ganga. In Hindu mythology, the river descended from the heavens to the earthly plane and was contained by Lord Shiva in his locks to prevent destruction. The water over the Shivalinga represents purity and the cleansing of the devotee's sins.
  • Water is one of the five essential elements (Pancha Bhoota) and represents life and creation. The immersion of the Shivalinga in water signifies the divine source of life and the nurturing aspect of Shiva as the cosmic creator and sustainer.
  • The static Shivalinga symbolizes the eternal, unchanging reality (Shiva), while the dynamic flow of water represents the ever-changing nature of the material world. This contrast highlights the balance and unity between the unchanging divine presence and the dynamic universe.
  • The flowing water signifies continuous spiritual renewal and the washing away of impurities. Devotees believe that by offering water to the Shivalinga, they receive divine blessings and purification.
  • The presence of water underscores the connection between spirituality and nature. It reminds devotees of the sacredness of natural elements and the importance of living in harmony with the environment.
  • Water is also a symbol of fertility and abundance. The Shivalinga, often associated with cosmic creation and fertility, draws strength from the purifying and life-giving properties of water.

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Location

Location: 8FH5+PJG, Hampi, Krishnapura, Karnataka 583239, India