Saasivekaalu Ganesha

Excellent history associated to it. You should start your hampi trip with this. Now it is protected going near. Near to carry parking. Must go. Thank you

This is a grand stone statue of Shree Ganesh. What you see now is a restored version of it. Many years back (must be sometime around 2010), I have seen it in it's original form. It was a stone temple back then. When you enter it through the door, it would be completely dark inside. One could only see belly of lord Ganesh and slowly as your eyes get used to the dark, you will see the grand statue. It was a feeling to behold.
Now with restoration all around (mainly due to neglection, nature taking its course and unruly tourist destroying most of the places) the place has lost its charm.

The statue of a small Ganesh, in fact, it is huge, and it has been perfectly preserved.
Nearby there is a temple of the Great Ganesh, the small one seemed much more interesting to me.

This is a giant statue of the Hindu deity Lord Ganesha, it is named so as the belly of the statue is shaped like a mustard seed and Sasivekalu is the local name for a mustard seed. In Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha is notorious for his food habits. One day he ate so much of food that his tummy was almost about to burst, so he just caught a snake and tied it around his tummy as a belt to save his tummy from bursting; hence, giving the sculpture its unique design.

Sasivekalu ganesha seems to be a beautifully carved vara prada ganapathi who blesses us.situated on the back of Matanga hill, also behind the jain temples in hampi, this Ganapathi idol is in an open compound covered with stone pillars around and a roof.

The lord ganapathi os of 8 feet and the place is visible from the main road too while on a drive.the statue is as old as dating back to1500 AD and says that this statue was erected in memory of the king Narasimha II, of the Vijayanagar Empire

the description of gaesha: The Ganesha here can be seen in a half-lotus position with four hands. The right and left hand at the upper side holds a astram and a broken teeth. The top right hand of the statue holds a modakam and the left hand is portrayed with a noose. A large mandapa is covering the statue at the top with a rough wall covering pillars around it.

There is beautiful garden also.

Hampi, a UNESCO world heritage site, is known for its magnificent temples and one such fine specimen is Sasivekalu Ganesha temple. Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple is a huge statue of Lord Ganesha, carved out of a single block of rock. It is one of the major landmarks in Hampi. Sasivekalu Ganesha is about 8 feet (2.5 metres) tall.

History of Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple

According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha is known for his love for food. Once Ganesha consumed a lot of food, due to which his stomach was on the verge of bursting. Finding no other option to stop his stomach from exploding, Ganesha caught hold of a snake and tied it around his stomach in order to prevent it from bursting open. This is the mythological incidence behind the existence of the snake tied around the Ganesha’s stomach, which is visible on the statue.
The inscription on the statue is as old as 1500 AD and says that this statue was erected in memory of the king Narasimha II, of the Vijayanagar Empire. This temple and the statue is indeed one of the finest specimens of Indian sculptures.

Architecture of Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple

The Ganesha is seen in a half-lotus position with four arms. The right and left hand at the upper side holds a goad and a broken tusk. The top right hand of the statue holds a sweet (modak) the left hand is portrayed with a noose. A large mandapa is covering the statue at the top with a rough wall covering pillars around it. The archaeology department has installed a huge sitemap consisting of whereabouts of the place and history of the statue.

One other huge statue in Hampi is the Saasivekalu Ganesha.meaning the stomach of Ganesha in the shape of a mustard seed.carved out of one single block of rock the statue is about 2.5 meters tall and is one of the landmarks in Hampi. The inscription of the statue is as old as 1500 AD erected in the memory of the king Narasimha II of the Vijaynagar empire.this temple stands out as the finest specimens of Indian sculptures even today.a must visit.

The Sasuvekalu Ganesha statue in Hampi is one of the remarkable attractions within the UNESCO World Heritage site.

1. Majestic Statue: The Sasuvekalu Ganesha statue is known for its grandeur and artistic beauty. It depicts Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu deity, in a sitting posture. The statue is approximately 2.4 meters (8 feet) tall and is carved out of a single block of granite. Visitors are often impressed by the craftsmanship and intricate details of the sculpture.

2. Artistic Details: The statue showcases the expertise of the artisans who sculpted it. The intricate carvings on the statue's jewelry, clothing, and various accessories exhibit the mastery of ancient Indian sculpting techniques. Visitors appreciate the fine details and the delicate expressions on the face of Lord Ganesha.

3. Historical and Cultural Significance: The Sasuvekalu Ganesha statue holds historical and cultural significance within the Hampi region. It is believed to date back to the 15th century, during the Vijayanagara Empire. The statue is an important representation of the Hindu deity Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom. Visitors often find the historical context intriguing and gain a deeper understanding of the religious and cultural practices of the time.

4. Scenic Location: The statue is situated amidst the picturesque landscape of Hampi, which adds to its charm. Surrounded by ancient ruins, boulder-strewn hills, and lush greenery, the location provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere for visitors to appreciate the statue and the surrounding natural beauty.

5. Accessibility: The Sasuvekalu Ganesha statue is easily accessible within the Hampi archaeological site. Visitors can explore the area on foot and enjoy the statue along with other nearby attractions. It is advisable to check the site's opening hours and plan the visit accordingly.

6. Photography Opportunities: The impressive size and intricate details of the Sasuvekalu Ganesha statue make it a popular subject for photography enthusiasts. The contrasting textures and the play of light and shadows on the sculpture offer unique opportunities for capturing memorable photographs.

It's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it is always beneficial to have a knowledgeable guide or refer to informative resources to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of the Sasuvekalu Ganesha statue and its context within the wider Hampi site.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, scattered with captivating ruins and awe-inspiring landscapes, offers a mesmerizing journey through history, architecture, and natural beauty.

The first impression of Hampi is its surreal and dramatic setting. The vast boulder-strewn landscape, interspersed with ancient ruins, temples, and monuments, creates a unique and otherworldly atmosphere. The juxtaposition of the rocky terrain against the remnants of a once-thriving city evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity, igniting the imagination.

Exploring the ruins of Hampi is like unraveling a fascinating tale. The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a prominent attraction that showcases intricate carvings, towering gopurams (entrance towers), and a vibrant atmosphere of devotion. The nearby Hampi Bazaar, with its vibrant market stalls and bustling energy, adds a lively and colorful element to the experience.

Venturing further into the ancient city, one encounters the architectural marvels that Hampi is renowned for. The Vijaya Vittala Temple, with its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars, stands as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and engineering prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Lotus Mahal, the Elephant Stables, and the Hazara Rama Temple are among the many other sites that display the architectural grandeur and intricate detailing of the era.

Beyond the architectural wonders, Hampi offers breathtaking natural vistas. The Tungabhadra River flowing through the landscape, the lush paddy fields, and the picturesque sunsets create a captivating backdrop for exploration. Trekking up the Matanga Hill provides panoramic views of the entire Hampi region, allowing visitors to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the surroundings.

Hampi is not just a static historical site; it is a living heritage that comes alive during various festivals and cultural events. The Hampi Utsav, a grand celebration held annually, showcases traditional music, dance performances, and a vibrant display of the region's rich cultural heritage. Participating in such events provides a deeper understanding and connection to the vibrant history and cultural tapestry of Hampi.

The preservation and conservation efforts in Hampi are commendable. The Archaeological Survey of India and various organizations have undertaken initiatives to protect and restore the historical structures, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at this ancient wonder. However, with the influx of tourists, it is essential for visitors to be responsible and respectful of the sites to help maintain their integrity.

In conclusion, Hampi is a captivating destination that offers a remarkable blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and the palpable aura of the past make it an unforgettable experience for travelers. Hampi's significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its cultural vibrancy make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into India's rich historical and architectural heritage.

This temple is also a part of hampi ruins and as like other ruins it's also have some significance which describes the 1500 century.

This is an open pavilion temple of Lord Ganapathi. It's a monolithic structure. A merchant who used to sell mustard seeds got wealthy and built this.

Entry is free and photography is allowed. Located at the bottom of Hemakuta Hill. You will see this as you are approaching Hampi. This and kadalekalu Ganesha are located nearby, a few mins walking distance.

Tip: Plan your visit such a way that, you'll have a chance to view sunset from the hill.

Located near viroopaksha temple. Next to kadlekaalu ganesha. This is the Place where 3 roads meet, towards hampi, towards kadirampura (further hoskote) and towards kamalapura. Lot of Monkeys can be seen. They might damage ur two wheeler seats and capture any personal belongings if left unattended. U can climb hill further after visiting this temple to reach viroopaksha temple from a sunset point.

The story behind is very fascinating. The view is great and is a good start to climb to the hill for view of Virupaksha

Thanks to the resemblance the giant monolithic Ganesha statue is locally called Sasivekalu (mustard seed) Ganesha. This is located on the southern foothill of the Hemakuta Hill.

In Hindu mythology Lord Ganesha (also known as Ganapathi or Vinayaka) is notorious for his food habit. One day he ate so much of food that his tummy almost busted. He just caught a snake and tied it around his tummy as a belt to save his tummy from bursting.

On this statue you can see the snake carved around his tummy. Also he holds the goad, pasha (noose), and his broken tusk. The hand which holds modak (a kind of sweet ball) is broken and not reconstructed. This monolithic statue carved out of a huge boulder measures about 2.4 meters (8 feet). An open pavilion is build around the statue. According to inscriptions found nearby this pavilion was built by a trader from Chandragiri (in present day Andhra Pradesh) in 1506 AD, in memory of one of the Vijayanagara king – Narasimha II (1491-1505 AD)

A bit north of Sasivekalu Ganesha is another giant statue of Ganesha, called The Kadalekalu Ganesha. A bit south of Sasivekalu Ganesha is the Vishnupada shrine. All these are walkable from one to another and can be covered in 30-45 minutes.

Just in front of Sasivekalu Ganesha shrine you can see a huge site map of Hampi installed by the archeology department.

No admission fee & Photography allowed free of cost.

Beautiful big Ganesha temple.
The name Sasuvekaalu comes from the shape of Lord Ganesha's tummy which looks like Sasuve kaalu (mustard seed).

This place is a part of a very well maintained world Heritage site at Hampi and a destination that tells the story of the Great Vijaynagar Empire!

Shri Sasivekalu Ganesha? Temple Situated on the south eastern slopes of the Hemakuta Hillock, This Monolithic Ganesha is four armed and referred to as the sasivekalu (Mustard Seed) Ganesha it is 2.4mtrs High and is enclosed within an open pillared pavilion.

Very nice and Historical place

A giant Ganesha carved from a single rock out in open; there are two giant Ganesha here, one is in open (Saasivekaalu) and the other one is inside a temple (Kadalekalu). This is in the same compound as Virupaksha temple.it is better to walk from temple to here because this place is full of amazing monuments.

Must visit place in hampi.it's good and Monolithic.
This is the only ganapathi.which in female Avatar also.you go back of ganapathi and see.

It is huge. And you can reach easy from hemakunta hills. You have to just climb and get down.

Hampi is no less of magnificent and marvellous stone structures of ancient era. Saasivekaalu Ganesha is one such finest example of stone craftsmanship. A huge statue of Lord Ganesha that you get to see here is carved out of a single block of a rock. What is fascinating about this monolithic statue is you may not notice in first sight that this is actually a Gauri-Ganesha statue, and not just a Ganesha statue. You have to go to the rear side of the statue to actually see that the Lord Ganesha is sitting on the lap of the mother Parvati. A baby Ganesha is shown bigger in size than a mother. Very affectionate and motherly view it is!

On the way to Shri Virupaksh Temple, this Ganesha Temple is road touching place. From here, you can go to Sunset Point so plan your timing accordingly. Try to be here by 5 pm.

Best place for enjoying the sunset in Hampi.be there early as place will get crowded on weekend evenings
About the Ganpati idol, it's huge and sunlight piercing through the mandap pillars makes it more beautiful. Guide said this statue was built by the traders. There is huge ground nearby where the market place ruins could be found. Saasive means mustard seed in kannada.

Yet another magnificent monolithic sculpture, this statue of Lord Ganesha is around 8 feet tall and is kept in an open pavilion. It is said that the stomach of the deity resembles the shape of a mustard seed and hence the name as ‘sasivekalu’ means mustard seed in Kannada. The lower left hand and the trunk of the statue are broken, and the stomach of the statue of the deity is tied with a snake. Legend has it that Lord Ganesha ate too much and hence tied a snake around His belly to prevent it from bursting! The statue is located in the southern part of Hemakuta Hill, not too far from Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple.

Visited in Dec 2021. It is located at the base of the Hemakuta hill / temple complex. Good time to visit would be during sunrise or sunset for excellent pictures. Monolithic statue and very impressive

A magnificant monolithic statue of lord ganesh. This statue has a great history and significance.

Beautiful place. You can see one of the greatest Ganesha Idol here. Which is made from single rock. As per history, A guy who came to sell 'Sasive Kaalu' made a huge profit in this kingdom, so he made this beautiful Ganesha Idol in the memory of the king who ruled at that time. You can visit this place for free and it's right next to main road to Virupaksha temple. Be careful while park your vehicle since it's busy road.

Largest single stone Lord Ganapati’s temple. Place where it is located is very beautiful. History says that some businessmen during Vijayanagar empire gifted this to king, because he is very much happy with the business deal.
We can imagine length and breadth of the business during Vijayanagar empire from this.

Like every other monument in hampi, this one also has a different meaning!

Reason behind its name is so amazing but unfortunately like many other temple, pooje and other rituals are not performing here.

Saasivekaalu Ganesha is just a little platform with a carving of Ganesha on it. A few steps away is the bigger Kadalekalu Ganesha, which is a building you can go inside.

If you can't climb the big Matang hill for sunset view, you may come here. Nice sun set view and 12ft Ganesha Idol to see.

Saasivekaalu Ganesh is located near by Sree Virupaksha Temple. You can go by walk to this place. Kids and family friendly place.

Story behind this statute - this statute is gifted by one of the trader who was trading Rai. In that business he had lots of profit & just to say thank you to king he build this temple.

Saasivekaalu Ganesha is situated at the foot of Hemakuta Hill. Hampi, , Karnataka. Hampi, a UNESCO world heritage site, is known for its magnificent temples and one such fine specimen is Sasivekalu Ganesha temple.

This temple is popular for its 8 ft Ganesha idol that resembles mustard seeds. Owing to its resemblance with mustard seeds, natives have named this idol as Sasivekalu Ganesha.

As per legend, Lord Ganesha is known for his love for food. Once Ganesha consumed a lot of food, due to which his stomach was on the verge of bursting. Finding no other option to stop his stomach from exploding, Ganesha caught hold of a snake and tied it around his stomach in order to prevent it from bursting open. The stomach of the deity resembles the shape of a mustard seed and hence the name as ‘sasivekalu’ means mustard seed in Kannada. This is the mythological incidence behind the existence of the snake tied around the Ganesha’s stomach, which is visible on the statue.

The idol has been carved out of a single boulder. The Ganesha is seen in a half-lotus position with four arms. The right and left hand at the upper side holds a goad and a broken tusk. The top right hand of the statue holds a sweet (modak) the left hand is portrayed with a noose. A large mandapa is covering the statue at the top with a rough wall covering pillars around it. The archaeology department has installed a huge sitemap consisting of whereabouts of the place and history of the statue.

On reaching Sasivekalu Ganesha, one will notice that the idol is surrounded by a large pavilion. As per the information provided by inscriptions, this pavilion was built in 1506 AD by a merchant from Chandragiri. He sculpted this pavilion in honour of King Narasimha II of the Vijayanagara dynasty.
Must have darshan in Hampi.

Hampi is declared as a historical place by UNESCO. So no rituals are done for most of the idols. Do take a guide to explore the details of Hampi. Sasivekaalu Ganesha has a shadow of lord Parvathi on its back. Do observe while you see. Hampi is famously called as Haalu Hampi as the Mughals came and destroi the richness of Hindu culture.

A very nice Ganesha idol made with single stone. Also visit KadleKaalu ganesha when you visit this.

Smaller of the two big ganesha statues in Hampi. A must visit place, it falls on the way to virupaksha temple.

The guide told this information about the Lord Ganesha statue. From the front it looks like Lord Ganesha. But from behind, it looks like a female body, hair knot can be seen from behind, it looks like Goddess Parvati holding her son Lord Ganesha, who is sitting on her lap. This is a must visit place. It would be better to have a guide.

It's in the entrance of vijayanagar empire in hampi. Lord Ganesha welcomes you to the wonderful world of hundreds of monuments.
After narasimha temple visit on the way, you can see this ganesha

Please take guide during visit other wise you won't understand the history of the statue.
This place will very hot during summer.

Must
Single stone carved Ganesha 8 feet idol (Murti)
Its has historical story saying that it was built by Merchant of Hampi

Monolithic statue, the unique feature being, it is ganuesh sitting on Parvati's lap and u only notice this at the back where u see a lady's form and hairdo. Very unique possibly only one in the world

Awesome and quiet place to visit. Huge statue of Lord Ganesha. If you are an art lover, you will definitely enjoy the detailed work. Mind-blowing statute. Worth visiting place.

Monolithic sculpture also known as Mustard ganesh, Surrounded by pillars. Perimeter of the mandapa is guarded so one can not enter or touch it, to avoid further damage to the monument.

Hampi, a UNESCO world heritage site, is known for its magnificent temples and one such fine specimen is Sasivekalu Ganesha temple. Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple is a huge statue of Lord Ganesha, carved out of a single block of rock. It is one of the major landmarks in Hampi. Sasivekalu Ganesha is about 8 feet (2.5 metres) tall.

(Visited in June 2019) - This single rock carved Ganesha idol forms a part of monuments atop Hemakuta Hill. The name refers to Mustard seed in Kannada language. Lord Ganesha is four armed, in lotus seating position and pleasant looking (Prasanna Vadana)
#WorldHeritageSite

This is where your hampi visit should begin. It was built by a trader. From behind, one can see mother Parvati's image. From here, one can walk to the Virupaksha temple. DO HIT THE LIKE BUTTON IF THIS WAS HELPFUL.

Beautiful statue of the elephant headed God. Prettier still is the surrounding. Donot expect much though.nit much remains except for the statue and a raised platform with pillars. This temple is located at the foothills of the hemakuta hills. Its a good idea to proceed onto the hill top to check out the Hemakuta temples and follow the steps downhill which lead to Virupaksha temple.

The temple is in Hemakuta Hills. The idol is huge and beautiful. Lord Ganesha is seen flaunting a huge round belly around which there is a snake tied. The story where Ganesha eats a lot of food and has his stomach burst and then goes on to tie it up with a snake is the back story of this temple. The idol is about 8 feet high.

Saasivekaalu Ganesha is one of the Ganesha temples in Hampi, located near to Virupaksha temple and protected by fences and a bunch of monkey families. There is not much to see only just to climb up to reach on the other side of hill.