Another beautiful and mysterious piece from ancient Indian history has attracted the attention of netizens. A photo from Shri Veerabhadra Lepakshi Temple, Andhra Pradesh is being widely spread on social networks. Hailed as an ancient optical illusion, this amazing work of art depicts three animals attached to a single animal body. A stone sculpture Three animals are beautifully carved in stone. It includes the head of one animal looking forward, the head of another animal looking down, possibly grazing, and the head of a third animal licking its suckling calf. This architectural wonder has been shared by several social media users. Veerabhadra temple is located in Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh. It was built in the 16th century. Hindus consider it a divya kshetra or important pilgrimage site of Lord Shiva. Veerbhadra is considered the fiery incarnation of Lord Shiva. The name Lepakshi is derived from two words: Lepa meaning mummification and Akshi meaning eyes. Lepakshi means embalmed eyes or painted eyes. UNESCO World Heritage Site In March 2022, the monolithic bull or Nandi of this temple was included in the tentative list of the World Heritage Committee. Another optical illusion from India One of the oldest optical illusions in the world is said to be at the Airavatesvara temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. In it, an elephant and a bull share the same head. This 900 year old sculpture is an example of Chola Architecture. In particular, the bull’s horn is the elephant’s tusk. The eyes have been carved in such a way that no matter which side of the image the animal is on, the eyes are focused forward. Read about optical illusions here
