Karnataka: Discovery Of Ancient Vishnu Idol Resembles Ram Lalla, Here Are Its Features

Officials have reported that an idol of Lord Vishnu and a Shivling have been recovered from the Krishna River near the Telangana-Karnataka border, as per NDTV. The figurine is assumed to be centuries old.

The idol and the shivling were discovered during the construction of a bridge in Karnataka's Raichur.

Vishnu Idol Found in Karnataka resembles Ram Lalla

It is believed that they date back to 1,000 years. The idol is in a standing position and depicts 10 avatars. The idols were safely retrieved from the river by the crew who promptly informed the local administration.

"This idol exhibits numerous distinctive features. Crafted on a pedestal with a radiant aura surrounding it, the sculpture accommodates representations of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, including Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and Kalki," said Padmaja Desai, Lecturer, Ancient History and Archaeology, reported India Today.

The Vishnu idol resembles the Ram Lalla idol, which has recently been installed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the newly constructed Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The discovered items were taken into possession by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for their comprehensive study.

Features of the Vishnu Idol Found in Karnataka

Elaboration on the features of the idol reveals that Vishnu is depicted in the standing position with four arms. The two upper hands hold the 'shankha' and 'chakra', while the two lower hands are positioned in granting boons ('kati hasta' and 'varada hasta').

The idol is said to resemble Venkateshwara as mentioned in the scriptures. However, Garuda, which is typically found in Vishnu idols, is not featured in this idol. Instead, there are two fan-bearing women. Since Vishnu is known for adornment, this idol, depicting a smiling Vishnu, is decorated with garlands and ornaments, as reported by India TV.

"This idol must have adorned the sanctum sanctorum of a temple. The statue remains intact except for some damage to its nose. It is speculated that the idol could have been submerged in water to protect it from damage during a (possible) attack on the temple," the explanation suggests. Archaeologists believe that the idol dates back to the 11th or 12th Century AD.