Vandalized terracotta sculptures on the Hazara Rama Temple at this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka State. Looting is one of the major threats facing archaeological and cultural monuments worldwide, especially in developing regions where protection is inadequate.

The sculpture is a representation of Nandi, known in Hindu mythology as the bull that Shiva rides. Such images often are placed near temples dedicated to this deity. Hampi continues to be an important religious center, echoing its earlier role when the site was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Located in the midst of historic ruins, the fully intact Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to the deity Shiva and still used for religious observances.

Women from the rural community of Anegundi return home after a day’s work. This beautiful hamlet is being developed as a tourism center, involving local people, raising awareness of the area’s rich cultural and natural significance, and providing villagers with new economic opportunities.