Source-This post is based on the article “PM Modi visits historic temple linked to Ramayana in Lepakshi. Know its significance” published in “India Today” on 17th January 2024.
Why in the News?
PM Modi Visit Veerabhadra temple in Lepakshi, The Prime Minister recently visited the Veerabhadra temple in Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh. He is completing the 11-day special ritual for the consecration of the idol of Lord Ram at the Ayodhya Ram temple.
What is the significance of Lepakshi in the Ramayana?
1) ‘Lepakshi’ in Telugu means ‘Rise, oh bird.’ It is named in honor of Jatayu, the legendary bird that bravely fought Ravan while he was transporting Sita to Lanka on his Pushpaka Vimana after kidnapping her.
2) According to the Ramayana, Lepakshi is believed to be the place where the wounded Jatayu fell during his fight with Ravan.
3) The Lepakshi temple is also believed to have preserved footprints of Goddess Sita.
About Veerabhadra temple, Lepakshi
| Aspect | Details |
| About | It is a Hindu temple situated in Lepakshi, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Built by | Vijayanagara rulers in 1530 AD |
| Features | 1. The temple is dedicated to the Virabhadra, a fierce incarnation of Lord Shiva. 2. The primary deity of the main shrine is Lord Shiva, and there are additional shrines dedicated to Ganesha and Durga. 3. The temple exhibits Vijayanagara-style architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and paintings on nearly every visible surface. 4. The vibrant fresco paintings showcase intricate details in bright colors, depicting scenes from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Puranas. 5. According to the Skanda Purana, the temple is a significant divyakshetra, a pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. |
What are the latest temple visits of PM Modi?
1) Recently, PM Modi also visited Kalaram temple in Panchavati, Nashik (Maharashtra).
2) It is believed that Lord Ram, Sita and Laxman settled here first during their 14-year exile in the forest of which Panchavati was a part.
3) The temple, crafted from black basalt stone, features 14 steps representing Lord Ram’s 14 years of exile. The black idols of Lord Ram, Laxman, and Sita, situated within, depict Lord Ram without a bow and arrow, positioned to convey blessings.
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