Hampi Excavation: Ancient Alvar Idols Unearthed Near Hazara Rama Temple

Ancient Alvar idols and stone pedestals were discovered during ongoing excavations near the Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi. Archaeologists believe the findings reflect the strong Vaishnavite influence and rich heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire.

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Ancient Idols Discovered During Hampi Excavation

Excavation work carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India near the Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi over the past few days has led to the discovery of two broken ancient Alvar idols and three pedestals believed to have been used for installing idols.

The Alvars were saint-poets associated with the Bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu and are revered in the Vaishnavite tradition. 

Archaeologists believe the findings could provide valuable insights into the religious and cultural history of the Vijayanagara period.

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Beheaded Idols Unearthed During Excavation

Just three days ago, archaeologists discovered stone roof structures and elephant idols during the excavation work in Hampi. The latest findings have now revealed more damaged and beheaded idols from the Vijayanagara period.

Historians say the Vijayanagara Empire suffered a major defeat in the Battle of Talikote in 1565. Following the fall of the empire, several temples and structures were attacked and thousands of idols and statues of deities were reportedly damaged or destroyed during subsequent invasions.

Archaeologists believe the idols currently being unearthed during the ongoing excavations may be linked to that turbulent period in history.

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Alvar Idols Reflect Strong Vaishnavite Influence in Hampi

The idols recently discovered during the excavation are believed to be Alvar idols. The Alvars were a group of 12 revered Vaishnavite saint-poets who played a significant role in spreading the Bhakti movement and devotion to Lord Vishnu across South India.

Historians say the influence of the Vaishnavite tradition was particularly strong in the Hampi region during the Vijayanagara period. 

Great importance was given to the worship of Lord Vishnu, and the devotional hymns composed by the Alvars were widely respected and followed during that era.

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Excavated Relics Reflect Glory of Vijayanagara Empire

Experts say the idols and artefacts discovered during the ongoing excavations offer a glimpse into both the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire and the destruction that followed its downfall.

According to V Virupakshi, State General Secretary of the State Tourist Guides Association, the damaged idols clearly reflect the scale and brutality of the attacks carried out during that period. 

He said the richness, artistic excellence, and cultural glory of the Vijayanagara Empire can be understood from the idols and relics unearthed during the excavation work.