Visit to Karnataka without
darshan of Belur and Halebidu is incomplete.
Belur was chosen as the capital
of the Hoysala, after the destruction of their capital Halebidu by the Delhi Sultan.
Belur temple is famous for its
interior carvings where as Halebidu temple is famous for its outer wall
carvings. This temple is 1000 years old made during Hoysala period.
This historical temple at Belur
in Hassan district of Karnataka is a majestic piece reflecting the intricate
carvings and wonderful architecture of Hoysala Dynasty.
According to historical records, it took about 103 years to complete this sculpted masterpiece of Hoysala architecture.
The Chennakeshava temple is
in honor of lord Vishnu. The name translates to handsome Vishnu. This temple is
dedicated to Mohini roop of Lord Vishnu.
An inscription near the
northern entrance of the navaranga states that the deity was originally called
as vijayanarayana and king Vishnuvarthan built the temple.
The Hoysala temples are
characterized by typical star shaped ground plan and are usually set on a
platform. This vast temple is built in the shape of star with 32 spikes
The huge temple complex
enclosed by high walls has a garbha graham and a navaranga mandapa. There are
two gateways ,but only one is crowned by a gopuram.
There is a beautiful gopura
at the entrance of the temple which is of Dravidian architecture. There is a
wonderful garuda statue in front of the temple. At the entrance to the sanctum ,one finds beautifully sculpted dwarapalkas.
Every pillar in the temple is
of different design. The place has amazing carvings on the ceilings. The
depictions are mostly from the Hindu mythology.
Belur temple is very good
example of Indian architecture. This is an awesome and magnificent temple. One
of the magnificent combination of art and culture of ancient history is
depicted on the rocks.
The soapstone for its softness has made possible such
intricate architectural master pieces.
The impeccable narasimha
pillar to south east of navaranga used to rotate on its own axis.
Three of the four figures in
the navaranga are signed with their creators. The two pillars depicting figures
of dancing ladies are noteworthy. Bracelets on the arms of one figure can be
moved up and down while the headdress of the other has a tiny movable ring.
The large navaranga mandapa
is noted for its polished pillars and ceiling.
The unique 42 feet high
pillar is carved out of a single rock and stands on its own weight without any support.
Chenna keshava temple is the
only functional Hoysala temple with pujas being performed both in the morning
and evening.
The complex also has many
smaller shrines, mandapas and other structures.
The temple and its premises are maintained very well by Archeological society of India. Good to hire a guide
who will explain in detail.
A must visit place those who
interested in history and architecture.
It is a perfect place for
someone who loves photography.
