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Lakshmi Narasimha 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 shrine is for a 6.7 m (22 ft)-high Narasimha — the man-lion avatar of Vishnu — seated in a yoga position. The Narasimha monolith originally had goddess Lakshmi with him, but it shows signs of extensive damage and a carbon-stained floor—evidence of attempts to burn the shrine down.

The statue has been cleaned and parts of the shrine have been restored.

Monolithic Yoga-Narasimha (left) and Monolithic Shiva Linga (right)


Shri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple seen from east

  • The temple is situated on the southern side of the Hemakuta Hill, near the Krishna Temple.
  • The temple is dedicated to Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi.
  • The temple houses a massive monolithic statue of Narasimha, which stands at a height of 6.7 m (22 ft). The statue is intricately carved from a single boulder and depicts Narasimha in a cross-legged Yoga posture atop the coils of the seven-headed serpent, Adishesha1.
  • The temple was built in 1528 CE during the reign of King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is one of the finest examples of Vijayanagara architecture.
  • The statue has a finely chiselled broad chest, a flowing mane, and a headgear. The most striking feature is the bulging eyes of Narasimha, which give the statue an intense and powerful look.
  • The original statue included a figure of Goddess Lakshmi sitting on Narasimha's lap, but it was damaged during a Mughal raid in 1565 CE. Today, only the broken hand of Goddess Lakshmi remains, resting on Narasimha's back.

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple (Narasimha Statue)

«The huge monolithic sculpture of Lakshmi Narasimha is one of the most outstanding works of sculptural art of Vijayanagara. This statue stands to a height of 6.70 m. It was consecrated by priest Krishna Bhatta at the behest of Krishnadevaraya in 1528 CE as per lithic record. Narasimha, the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is found seated in yogic posture with yogapatta on the giant coils of Adishesha, the sacred guardian snake of Vishnu. The figure of Narasimha is set within an architectural frame consisting of seated lions at the base, half pilasters with creeper motif, double-curved capitals and makaras on the sides, and a foliated frame topped with a kirtimukha rising over the seven-hooded naga on top. The four arms of the statue with their various attributes have been broken. The seated figure of his consort Lakshmi on his left lap is missing. The face too has been damaged which misled people into believing that it was the Ugra Narasimha (ferocious Narasimha). But the presence of the right hand of the goddess embracing the lord at the back is proof of it being that of Lakshmi Narasimha.»


Statue of Narasimha
Narasimha was the fourth incarnation of Vishnu.

  • Narasimha represents the fierce protection of the righteous. The avatar was taken to protect Prahlada, a devoted follower of Vishnu, from his demon father Hiranyakashipu. This underscores the belief that divine protection is always available to those with true faith.
  • The narrative of Narasimha slaying Hiranyakashipu symbolizes the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It reminds devotees that dharma (righteousness) will always prevail, no matter how powerful the forces of adharma (unrighteousness) might seem.
  • Narasimha's form—half-man, half-lion—symbolizes the duality in nature and existence. He embodies both the fierce and the compassionate aspects of the divine, showcasing that divine power can be both a source of destruction for evil and protection for the good.
  • The unique form of Narasimha—neither man nor beast—demonstrates the limitless and unbounded nature of divinity. This form also represents the breaking of conventional boundaries and norms to protect dharma.
  • Worship of Narasimha is believed to awaken spiritual wisdom and inner strength among devotees, encouraging them to overcome their fears and challenges with faith and courage.
  • In some traditions, Narasimha is also revered in tantric practices, symbolizing the awakening and control of primal energies within the body.
  • Overall, Narasimha is a powerful symbol of divine intervention, fierce protection, and the triumph of righteousness.

Head of Narasimha
Head of Narasimha covered with a hood of seven serpents, and surmounted by Yali.

  • Narasimha in a yoga position represents the divine in a state of meditation and spiritual contemplation. This posture signifies control over the senses, inner peace, and the ultimate balance between the physical and spiritual realms. It embodies the idea that even a fierce and powerful form like Narasimha seeks harmony and serenity through yoga.
  • The seven-headed serpent, often identified as Adishesha, symbolizes protection, eternal energy, and the Kundalini Shakti (spiritual energy). In Hindu tradition, the serpent is considered a guardian of the divine. The seven heads can represent the seven chakras (energy centers) in the human body, with Narasimha's presence suggesting the awakening and alignment of these spiritual centers.
  • Yali, a mythical creature that is part lion, part elephant, and sometimes part horse, is often seen in South Indian temple architecture. It represents power, strength, and fearlessness. Yali's presence above Narasimha can symbolize the dominance of divine strength over worldly fears and obstacles. It also adds to the awe and majestic nature of the deity.
  • Combining these elements, the image of Narasimha in this form serves as a powerful reminder of the balance between fierce protection and serene spirituality, the awakening of inner spiritual energies, and the transcendence of worldly challenges through divine strength and meditation.
  • This form not only evokes a sense of reverence but also inspires devotees to seek spiritual awakening and courage in their own lives.

Narasimha with yoga belt or yoga strap

  • Physically, the strap helps maintain proper alignment and allows practitioners to safely achieve a deeper stretch. Spiritually, this can be seen as a tool to assist in the alignment of the mind, body, and spirit, promoting balance and harmony.
  • Using a strap can encourage mindfulness and focus on the practice. It serves as a reminder to be present and attentive to one’s body and breath, which are crucial aspects of spiritual growth in yoga.
  • The strap provides support and stability, allowing practitioners to hold poses longer and with better form. Spiritually, it represents the support systems in our lives—be it through community, teachers, or personal discipline—that help us stay grounded and progress on our spiritual path.
  • By using a strap, practitioners can work through physical limitations and gradually improve their flexibility and strength. This symbolizes the process of overcoming mental and emotional barriers, fostering resilience and inner strength.
  • The yoga strap is a simple yet powerful tool that enhances the practice by supporting physical alignment and encouraging spiritual mindfulness and growth.

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Location

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