The Mighty Sentinel of Lepakshi – Jatayu Sculpture

Lepakshi, a serene village in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district, holds within its bounds layers of mythology, artistry, and emotion. Known for its famed Veerabhadra Temple and exquisite Vijayanagara architecture, Lepakshi also bears witness to one of the most poignant moments from the Ramayana, through a monumental sculpture of the valiant bird, Jatayu.

The Legend Behind the Rock

According to the Ramayana, Jatayu, the mighty vulture-king and a devout friend of Rama's father Dasharatha, confronted Ravana as he abducted Sita in his flying chariot. Jatayu fought valiantly to rescue Sita, but was fatally wounded and fell to the ground. It was at this spot,now called Lepakshi, that Rama and Lakshmana later found the dying Jatayu, who recounted the incident before passing away. Moved by his loyalty and sacrifice, Rama granted him moksha (liberation).

Interestingly, the name Lepakshi is believed to have originated from Rama’s compassionate words to the fallen bird: “Le Pakshi”, meaning “Rise, bird!” in Telugu.

The Statue of Jatayu – A Modern Tribute to Ancient Bravery

This evocative legend is immortalized today through a grand Jatayu sculpture installed atop a rocky hill near the Lepakshi temple complex. This striking statue was inaugurated in 2020, and stands not only as a visual landmark but as a tribute to unsung heroism and unwavering dharma.

Located in Veerabhadra Swamy Temple premises, the statue is clearly visible from a distance, perched high upon a rock formation that itself feels like a natural pedestal. The sculpture captures Jatayu mid-action, with its powerful wings stretched wide, its gaze intense, and its talons firm, ready to defend righteousness, even in the face of certain defeat.

A Closer Look at the Statue

Crafted with remarkable realism and scale, the Jatayu statue is painted in natural brown and white tones to resemble the great eagle. The detailing of its feathers, claws, beak, and eyes reflect both power and grace. Standing atop the rocky terrain surrounded by a safety railing and equipped with night lights, the statue becomes a beacon, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the golden light bathes the outstretched wings of this immortal protector.

Visitors often pause here in awe, not just to admire the craftsmanship, but to reflect on the values of loyalty, sacrifice, and devotion that Jatayu represents.

Though the sculpture appears eagle-like in its grandeur, Jatayu is traditionally revered as a divine vulture in the Ramayana.

Legacy Beyond Stone

This sculpture, though recent, deeply connects the present generation with the epic spirit of Lepakshi. It adds a dramatic visual dimension to the spiritual ambience of the place, standing tall over the centuries-old temple, reminding all who visit that history, myth, and memory often take shape not only in scriptures but also in stone.

Happy travelling.