Saasivekaalu Ganesha | Hampi
Hampi, India
- Learn about the history of the Vijayanagara Empire and their devotion to Lord Ganesha
- Marvel at the colossal monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha
- Take photographs of the intricate carvings and the surrounding landscape
Known for:
Description:
Sasivekalu Ganesha is a colossal monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu deity of wisdom and prosperity, located in Hampi, India. The statue stands over 8 feet tall and is carved out of a single boulder. It gets its name from the resemblance of the belly to a mustard seed (sasivekalu in Kannada). The statue is adorned with intricate carvings and is a popular tourist attraction in Hampi.
History:
The Sasivekalu Ganesha statue is believed to have been carved during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 15th century. It was commissioned by a wealthy merchant as an offering to Lord Ganesha. The statue is located near the Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is a testament to the artistic and architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara artisans.