Nandi Hills

Where history meets the clouds
This painting captures the timeless allure of Nandi Hills, a place where
history and landscape converge to create an enchanting experience.
Once a distant excursion from Bangalore, today’s sprawling city has
brought Nandi Hills within easy reach—a quick getaway that many
eagerly make at dawn to witness its celebrated sunrises. Watching the
early light reveal mist-clad peaks and valleys draws an ever-growing
crowd, filling roads with anticipation (and, as locals know, sometimes
traffic jams as early as 3 a.m.!).
The origins of Nandi Hills trace back to the 11th century, under the
Ganga Dynasty, which established the foundations of architectural
wonders that still echo across its rugged terrain. Over the centuries, it
became a summer sanctuary for figures like Tipu Sultan and, later,
British officials during the colonial period. Nandi Hills became
synonymous with respite and contemplation—a place where rulers
and residents alike found solace in its cool heights.
For those seeking tranquillity, the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple
complex at the foothills offers a profound sense of peace. Dating back
to the 9th or 10th century, this hidden gem spans over two acres,
showcasing architectural achievements from five dynasties: the Banas,
Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara rulers. The temple walls
hold intricate carvings of elephants, mythical yalis, and lions, while
pilasters, turrets, and lattice windows blend artistry with history,
revealing stories of devotion and power.
Through this painting, I hope to convey Nandi Hills as a place where
natural beauty and historic grandeur unite, offering a retreat from
modern life and a reminder of the region’s rich past