Vittala

Vittala, also known as Vithoba or Vitthala, is a form of Vishnu or Krishna worshipped primarily in Maharashtra and Karnataka, famous for its temple in Hampi.

Vittala is a devotional incarnation of Vishnu, gaining prominence in Vaishnavite worship, particularly among the followers of bhakti devotion in Maharashtra and Karnataka. The Vittala Temple in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its extraordinary architecture and carved stone chariots, symbolizing the moving universe. This temple was a significant center for music, dance, and poetry during the Vijayanagara empire, reflecting the fusion of devotion and art. Vittala is often depicted standing on a brick pedestal, holding a conch and a disc, accompanied by his consort, Rukmini.