As one approaches Hampi, the terrain transforms into
interesting contrasts of rocks and lush greenery. It’s hard to ignore the precariously placed
heavy boulders while traversing through the mountain rocks. I decided to stay
in Virupapura Gadde, a small village on river Tungabhadra across Hampi town. The
boat ride to reach Hampi every day gave me an opportunity to connect with locals,
though briefly.
Unlike other historical cities and towns where monuments and
buildings are generally tucked away to one corner, the whole of Hampi town looks like a piece
of art. The way intricately carved mandaps, pillars, unfinished statues are strewn
around the place, it makes one believe that stone carving was a favourite pastime
those days. The grandeur of temples and bazaars, finesse of work, intelligent
town planning speak of a bygone era marked by pomp and prosperity, good living
standards and unprecedented achievements in the fields of art and culture. At the
same time, I couldn’t help feeling philosophical about the fact that even a
shining star meets its end. Once a bustling city has now reduced to mere ruins.
Walking through the deserted streets, the eeriness was overwhelming as if
everyone left the town in a hurry.
There’s something for everyone in Hampi. It gives an insight
into the engineering techniques used in building magnificent structures 500 to
700 years ago. One can also get a sneak-peek into the art and culture and
administrative guidelines followed by one of the most successful dynasties in
southern India. And finally, it’s THE place to go if one is seeking tranquillity,
some time to introspect and lose oneself in the serenity.
