The Thousand Pillar Temple in Warangal, also known as the Rudreswara Temple, is an architectural marvel from the Kakatiya dynasty, built in 1163 CE by King Rudradeva. Dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Surya, the temple showcases intricate carvings, finely sculpted pillars, and a majestic Nandi statue at its entrance. Despite its name, the temple does not actually have a thousand pillars, but rather around 300, each crafted with remarkable precision.
The temple is constructed in the Kakatiya architectural style, heavily influenced by Chalukyan craftsmanship, with beautifully lathe-turned stone pillars, elaborate carvings, and a now-missing shikhara. The sanctum, built in black granite, once featured exquisite sculptures, though many were defaced during muslim invasions.
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1000 pilar Rudreswara temple warangal criling.sid-thewanderer.com |
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1000 pilar Rudreswara temple warangal criling.sid-thewanderer.com |
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Lotus shaped 1000 pillared Rudreshwara temple, warangal, ajeyam.wordpress.com |
Visitors can explore its exterior and appreciate the finely detailed stonework, though photography inside the temple is restricted. Located in the heart of Warangal, the temple is easily accessible from Hyderabad, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark. The interior displays beautiful lathe-turned stone pillars that are impressive to support the roof. The temple is set on a fairly tall platform and is not susceptible to seismic activities.
The ongoing restoration of its structures promises to further enhance its appeal, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Kakatiya era. Despite the damage it has endured, the Thousand Pillar Temple continues to captivate visitors with its timeless artistry and historical significance.
https://ajeyam.wordpress.com/2020/09/30/the-wonder-of-warangal
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thousand_Pillar_Temple
https://www.sid-thewanderer.com/2018/03/thousand-pillar-temple-warangal.html