India: Nandi the Bull (mount of Shiva), Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka State

Nandi (Nandin) the Bull was the mythical mount of the god Shiva in Hindu mythology.

The Virupaksha Temple (also known as the Pampapathi Temple) is Hampi's main centre of pilgrimage. It is fully intact among the surrounding ruins and is still used in worship. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Virupaksha, as the consort of the local goddess Pampa who is associated with the Tungabhadra River.

Hampi is a village in northern Karnataka state. It is located within the ruins of Vijayanagara, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Predating the city of Vijayanagara, it continues to be an important religious centre, housing the Virupaksha Temple, as well as several other monuments belonging to the old city.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia