13th century bas relief of Akkamahadevi found in Chitradurga

13th century bas relief of Akkamahadevi found in Chitradurga

Dr S Y Somashekhar, the Head of Department of Ancient History and Archaeology, Hampi  Kannada University, told Deccan Herald that the bas relief was found on a pillar in Lokeshwara temple at Gunjiganuru, during a field work.

The art depicts Akkamahadevi, with her tresses a ‘Ishtalinga’ in her left hand and a ‘Rudrakshimala’ in her right hand heading for ‘dhyana.’ It also shows Kadalivana (banana plantation) and a deer following her, while a sleeping lion is before Akkamahadevi.

Speaking to Deccan Herald, retired VC of Kannada University, Dr M M Kalburgi said the Lokeshwara temple was constructed by Kumbara Bammanna during the rule of Vikramaditya VI, the Chalukya king. The temple dates back to 1076-1127 AD.