Purandaradasa Mantapa

    This place feels like walking into a party hall without an invitation on your vacation! Yes, Purandaradasa Mantapa is a huge party/function/event hall in Hampi that was built in the 16th century and named after the famous saint and composer - Purandara Dasa, he is recognized as the father of Carnatic music. He has composed and sung many devotional songs and hymns and conducted concerts back in the olden days in this location. It is said that he has composed more than 75,000 classics in Kannada alone. The mandapa is simple construction but with beautiful architectural works, there is a platform built next to the mandapa for cultural programs. The atmosphere is so cool and the best spot to get rid of the mid-day sun. The overall pillars in the mantapa are 60 with massive heights. The architecture of this mandapa i.e., the pavilion is the best example of Vijayanagara architecture, this showcases intricate carvings/pillars and typical period architecture.

The interiors and exteriors deserve a standing ovation! The pillar has the image of Purandaradasa carved with a music attire in a Kacche, Peta, Tamburi, and Kartal. It is believed that he spent his last years here singing at Sri Krishnadeveraya's court and composing keertans in this mandapa. Dasa wanted to compose 5 lakh keertans but he could complete 4.75 before he passed away at the age of 80. Legend says that he was born as Vijayadaasa at Cheekalparvi village near Manvi in Raichur district because his style and passion for music were similar to Purandaradasa and, he completed the remaining Keertans.

This mandapa is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River which is a beautiful sync between nature and the musical art. Here many music festivals, classic dance, drama, etc, are conducted during any auspicious days and also celebrate the legacy of Purandara Dasa. This place attracts a lot of music and classical dance lovers. There is an annual music event held at this place between January to February and also during the Dasara and Navarathri. At this event, all forms of traditional art in Karnataka are showcased like - Yakshagana, Bharatanatyam, and Kuchipudi.