Hampi's Vijaya Vittala Temple: Musical Pillars Now Accessible via QR Codes!

As per the latest reports, you will now be able to listen to the music of Vijaya Vittala Temple with just a code. This has become possible with the efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) that has devised a solution to protect and improve the experience of visitors to the Vijaya Vittala Temple. The temple, well-known for its melodic stone pillars, now has QR codes on ten of them. This will allow tourists to virtually experience the unique sounds of the pillars without risking damage to the historic monument. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vijaya Vittala Temple is renowned for its 56 finely carved musical pillars, which are capable of producing melodies when tapped. Earlier, visitors enjoyed this musical experience, which was until 2008, after which the ASI imposed restrictions because of worries about the stones' deterioration. Now, with the new initiative in place, QR codes have been installed on 10 pillars which will enable visitors to scan and listen to 25-second harmonious sound clips, thereby recreating the musical experience digitally. Each pillar has two QR codes, and plans are underway to extend the feature to all 56 pillars. This move aims to avoid crowding at the monument while ensuring the preservation of its heritage. The Karnataka Department of Tourism further intends to create "travellers' nooks" to provide guests with a relaxing and enjoyable exploration experience, these amenities will include drinking water stations, clean restrooms, mother-and-child care centres, and information kiosks.