2025-05-05 Mon

A #Unesco #world Heritage #Site in #Vijayanagara, #Karnataka, #Hampi is famous for its Group of Monuments. Hampi was one of the four capitals of the Vijayanagara #Empire.

Among Hampi's most prominent attractions is the #StoneChariot, also known as the #Garuda #Shrine Chariot, which is dedicated to Lord #Vishnu. This architectural masterpiece is situated within the #Vittala Temple complex and is designed in the #Dravidian architectural style. The chariot is adorned with intricate carvings depicting mythical battle #scenes.

Commissioned by Emperor #Krishnadevaraya in the 16th century CE, the chariot originally featured two #horses at the front; however, these have since been replaced with a pair of #elephants. Nevertheless, the tails and hind legs of the original horses are still visible behind the elephant sculptures. It is widely believed that the Emperor drew inspiration from the #SunTemple of #Konark and sought to replicate its grandeur in Hampi.

On March 15, 1967, #India Post issued a definitive #stamp featuring this iconic structure, with a face value of 70 paise. Furthermore, the Chariot is also depicted on the Rs. 50 banknotes issued by the #reservebankofindia (#RBI) in 2017.