A video currently circulating widely on social media shows an Australian content creator questioning established historical narratives after spotting what he claims resembles a telescope carved into a centuries-old Indian temple.
The footage features Liam Richards, an Australian traveller and digital creator, during a recent visit to a Hoysala-era temple in Karnataka. The temples, constructed in the 12th century, are renowned for their intricate stone carvings and architectural brilliance. During his tour, Richards points to a sculpted figure that appears to be holding a long cylindrical object, which he suggests resembles a modern telescope.
In the video, Richards questions conventional historical accounts, noting that the telescope is widely believed to have been invented in the Netherlands in 1608. He argues that if this timeline is accurate, it raises questions about how a similar object could be depicted in a temple built several centuries earlier.
The Historical Context
The Hoysala temples of Karnataka — notably located in Belur and Halebidu — were constructed during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana between 1121 and 1160 CE. These temples are internationally acclaimed for their elaborate soapstone architecture and detailed sculptural artistry. They have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their cultural and architectural significance.
The temples feature thousands of intricately carved panels depicting deities, mythological narratives, dancers, warriors, animals, and scenes from daily life. Experts have long highlighted the artistic sophistication and symbolic richness of Hoysala craftsmanship.
Social Media Reactions
The viral video was shared on Richards’ Instagram account, liamrichards, and has since generated widespread discussion online. While some users have interpreted the carving as evidence of advanced or forgotten ancient knowledge, others have urged caution, noting that artistic representations can be symbolic or open to interpretation.
Historians generally maintain that the first practical telescopes were developed in the early 17th century in Europe. However, the object depicted in the temple carving has not been officially identified as a telescope by academic or archaeological authorities.
The debate underscores the power of social media to amplify historical curiosities, while also highlighting the importance of scholarly verification when interpreting ancient art and artefacts.
As discussions continue online, experts emphasise the need for careful examination of such claims within established archaeological and historical frameworks.
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