|
|
The
Hazara Rama Temple temple built within rectangular complex lies at the
heart of the royal centre. Dating from the early 15th century, the hall of
the Hazara Rama Temple has finely carved basalt pillars depicting the
incarnations of Vishnu. Around the exterior walls of the hall are three
rows of sculptures illustrating the main events from the Ramayana.
This temple now unused is situated in the royal enclosure of the city and
was probably the king's private shrine. The enclosure walls of the temple
are exceptional in that they are carved both on the outside and the
inside.
The outer friezes depict horses, elephants, dancing girls and infantry in
procession. The inner panels show scenes from the Hindu epic, the
Ramayana. On the walls of the god's sanctum are two rare depictions of
Vishnu as the Buddha.
Though the temple is small in size, it is a fine example of the skills of
Vijaynagara sculptors, who have very artistically coaxed filigree and lace
out of Deccan stone.
Northeast of the Hazara Rama Temple is the Zenana enclosure, which may
have been, used either by the king or his military commander. Recent
excavations have unearthed remains of places to the west of the Hazara
Rama Temple.