Udupi: A remarkable metallic doorframe dating back to the Vijayanagara Empire, intricately carved with the Dasavatara—the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu—has been discovered at the Anantapadmanabha Temple in Perduru, Udupi taluk.
According to Prof T Murugeshi, retired associate professor of ancient history and archaeology and founder of Adima Kala Trust, the temple is an important center of the Bhagavata tradition on India’s west coast.
The doorframe, approximately 4.5 feet high and 3.5 feet wide, features Gajalakshmi in the center, flanked by elephants pouring holy water, symbolizing prosperity. The Sun and Moon are sculpted above, reinforcing its sacred symbolism.
The right panel begins with Hanuman in a saluting stance, followed by Vyali, then the avatars Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, and Vamana. On the left, Parashurama, Rama, and Krishna in the iconic cheese ball pose appear, a motif popularized under Krishnadevaraya’s reign. The line ends with a nude Buddha and Kalki, with Garuda also shown in reverence.
An inscription within the temple credits Krishnadevaraya, who, in 1519 AD, donated to the temple and appointed Surappayya as administrator. The doorframe likely dates to this period of Vijayanagara renovation.
Prof Murugeshi acknowledged the support of temple officials, including Sri Pramod Rai Palaje and administrator Gururaj, along with the Adima Kala Trust research team.