Lepakshi Temple – Part 3: Iconography and Sanctum of Veerabhadra

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After exploring the origins of Lepakshi and understanding the architectural layout of the Veerabhadra Temple in the first two parts of this series, I now turn my attention to the temple’s spiritual and visual centre, the awe-inspiring sanctum of the presiding deity Veerabhadra and his iconography.

Veerabhadra of Lepakshi – The Fiery Protector in Stone and Spirit

At the heart of the Lepakshi temple complex, within the inner enclosure, stands the sanctum sanctorum that houses Veerabhadra, a fearsome and awe-inspiring form of Shiva. The layout of the shrine itself commands attention;a north-facing garbhagriha, preceded by an antarala, a mukha mandapa, and further flanked by a pillared corridor and the vibrant natyamandapa.

This is no ordinary shrine, and Veerabhadra is no ordinary deity. He is said to have emerged from the wrath of Shiva during the destruction of the Daksha Yagna, a fierce manifestation born of sorrow and rage after the self-immolation of Sati. What one encounters at Lepakshi is a rare sculptural depiction; a nearly life-size standing image of Veerabhadra, fierce in expression and richly ornamented.



Iconography of Veerabhadra

The murti (icon) of Veerabhadra, carved from stone and painted over with intense facial details, embodies both divine fury and cosmic control. His glaring eyes are wide open, not in serenity, but in command. The eyebrows curve upward in aggression, and the protruding mustache and teeth further elevate his martial character.

He is adorned with a grand jata makuta. Skulls and serpents dominate his ornamentation. Around his neck is a garland of skulls, each individually carved. 

His upper arms hold a bow and arrow, while the lower arms hold a khadga (sword) and khetaka (shield). 

What’s most striking is the overall physical energy exuded by this figure. Unlike serene deities of other shrines, Veerabhadra’s stance is dynamic, almost mid-movement, as if his divine rage could erupt again.

Sacred Associations

Inside the sanctum, a small cave chamber can be found, traditionally associated with sage Agastya, who is said to have meditated here and installed the Linga nearby. 

Stay tuned for more episodes.

Happy travelling.

This is the part 3 of my series on Lepakshi Temple. You can read the previous part from the below link:

Part 1 - Lepakshi Temple

Part 2 - Layout of Lepakshi Temple

Location: Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh 515331, India

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