India is often described as a land of mysteries, where the line between history and legend blurs, and ancient structures hold secrets that modern science still struggles to explain. One such marvel lies in the quiet town of Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh—the Veerabhadra Temple, home to the world-famous Hanging Pillar. This architectural enigma has fascinated travelers, scholars, and devotees for centuries, earning Lepakshi a special place in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

The Veerabhadra Temple: A Jewel of Vijayanagara Architecture

The Lepakshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, was built in the mid-16th century under the patronage of the Vijayanagara rulers. The temple stands as a symbol of Dravidian architectural brilliance, with elaborate sculptures, fresco paintings, and detailed carvings that tell stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.

Highlights of the temple include:

Intricate carvings of dancers, musicians, and mythological figures.

A stunning Kalyana Mandapa (marriage hall) adorned with sculpted pillars.

Massive frescoes on the ceilings—some of the largest in Asia—depicting divine scenes.

A monolithic Nandi statue, one of the largest in India, carved from a single rock.

But among all these wonders, the one that captures the most attention is the mysterious Hanging Pillar.

The Mystery of the Hanging Pillar

Inside the temple hall stands a granite pillar that has baffled experts and devotees alike. Unlike the other pillars firmly rooted to the ground, this one hangs slightly above the floor, leaving a visible gap at its base.

Visitors often perform a simple test: sliding a piece of cloth, a thin stick, or even their fingers under the pillar to prove that it does not touch the ground. This small gap has made the pillar one of India’s most intriguing architectural mysteries.

How Does It Stand?

Historians and engineers have debated this for years.

Architectural Skill: Some believe it was a deliberate feat of engineering by the Vijayanagara builders to showcase their mastery. Balancing such a heavy granite pillar with minimal contact would have been a way to display architectural genius.

Earthquakes and Shifts: Another theory suggests that the pillar may have originally rested on the ground but shifted due to natural causes like earthquakes. Yet, its perfect balance to this day remains remarkable.

Unsolved Enigma: Despite studies, the exact reason behind the pillar’s suspension continues to be a mystery, fueling curiosity and reverence.

Legends and Folklore Surrounding the Pillar

Like many ancient wonders, the Lepakshi pillar is surrounded by fascinating legends:

The British Engineer’s Attempt: Local stories say that during colonial times, a British engineer tried to uncover the secret of the pillar by attempting to dislodge it. However, his efforts disturbed the temple’s balance, causing minor damage. Fearing greater destruction, the experiment was stopped, leaving the pillar as it is today.

Symbol of Good Fortune: Devotees believe that passing cloth or thread under the pillar brings blessings, prosperity, and good luck. This practice continues even today, with many visitors considering it a sacred ritual.

The Legend of Jatayu: Lepakshi also finds mention in the Ramayana. It is believed that the injured bird Jatayu, after fighting Ravana while trying to rescue Sita, fell at this very spot. Lord Rama is said to have blessed the bird with the words “Le Pakshi” (meaning “Rise, O Bird”), giving the town its name.

More Wonders of Lepakshi

Beyond the Hanging Pillar, the temple complex is filled with other marvels worth exploring:

The Monolithic Nandi: Situated about 200 meters from the temple, this colossal sculpture of Nandi (the sacred bull of Lord Shiva) is considered one of the largest monolithic statues in India.

Unfinished Kalyana Mandapa: A hall with beautifully carved pillars, believed to be intended for the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, but left incomplete.

Painted Ceilings: The ceilings of the temple feature large and colorful frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu epics, still vibrant even after centuries.

Visiting Lepakshi

Lepakshi is located in Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, about 120 kilometers from Bengaluru and around 15 kilometers from Hindupur. It is well connected by road, making it a convenient one-day trip.

Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant.

Nearby Attractions: Hindupur town, Penukonda Fort, and Nandi Hills (on the Bengaluru side).

Tips for Visitors:

Carry light footwear, as you’ll need to walk barefoot inside the temple.

Hire a local guide if possible, as they share fascinating myths and lesser-known stories.

Photography is allowed, but always be respectful of temple traditions.

Conclusion

The Hanging Pillar of Lepakshi is not just an architectural curiosity—it is a symbol of the fusion between faith, history, and mystery. Whether you see it as a marvel of engineering skill or a miracle of divine power, the pillar continues to inspire awe in everyone who visits.

Lepakshi invites us to reflect on the brilliance of ancient Indian artisans, who built not just monuments, but experiences that leave us wondering centuries later. Truly, the Hanging Pillar stands as a reminder that India’s heritage is as mystical as it is magnificent.

FAQs About the Hanging Pillar of Lepakshi

1. Where is the Hanging Pillar located?

The Hanging Pillar is inside the Veerabhadra Temple at Lepakshi, a town in Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh.

2. Why is it called the Hanging Pillar?

Because unlike the other pillars, it does not touch the ground completely—leaving a visible gap beneath its base.

3. How many pillars are there in the Lepakshi Temple?

The temple has about 70 intricately carved stone pillars, of which the Hanging Pillar is the most famous.

4. Can visitors pass objects under the Hanging Pillar?

Yes, visitors often slide cloth, sticks, or paper beneath it to see the gap and consider it a ritual for good luck.

5. Who built the Lepakshi Temple?

It was built in the 16th century by brothers Virupanna and Veeranna, governors under the Vijayanagara Empire.

6. Is the Hanging Pillar a result of architectural skill or accident?

Experts are divided—some believe it was intentional engineering brilliance, while others think it may have shifted due to natural causes like earthquakes.

7. What other attractions are there in Lepakshi?

The temple has beautiful frescoes, an unfinished Kalyana Mandapa, and a massive monolithic Nandi statue nearby.

8. What is the myth of Jatayu connected to Lepakshi?

According to the Ramayana, the injured bird Jatayu fell here after fighting Ravana, and Lord Rama blessed it saying “Le Pakshi” (Rise, O Bird).

9. How far is Lepakshi from Bengaluru?

Lepakshi is about 120 km from Bengaluru, making it a popular one-day trip destination.

10. Why should travelers visit Lepakshi?

For its combination of spiritual significance, architectural marvels, ancient frescoes, and the mystery of the Hanging Pillar, making it both a pilgrimage and heritage site.

Summary

The Hanging Pillar of Lepakshi is one of India’s most fascinating architectural mysteries. Found inside the 16th-century Veerabhadra Temple, this granite pillar stands slightly above the ground, defying logic and sparking curiosity for centuries. Surrounded by legends—from the story of Jatayu to tales of British engineers attempting to uncover its secret—the pillar remains a blend of science, faith, and wonder. Alongside this marvel, the Lepakshi Temple offers stunning frescoes, a massive Nandi statue, and rich Vijayanagara artistry.

Whether you visit for devotion, history, or curiosity, Lepakshi promises an unforgettable experience where spirituality meets mystery.