Key Points
- The Belur Chennakesava Temple is a 12th-century Hindu temple in Belur, Karnataka, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- It was commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 CE and took 103 years to build, showcasing Hoysala architecture.
- The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings, including over 80 Madanika sculptures and notable features like the Darpana Sundari.
- It remains an active pilgrimage site and is proposed for UNESCO World Heritage status.
Overview
The Belur Chennakesava Temple, also known as the Chennakeshava Temple, is a significant historical and religious site located in Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka, India. Built over a century, it reflects the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Hoysala Empire.
History
Commissioned in 1117 CE by King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victories, the temple took 103 years to complete, spanning three generations. It has faced damages from wars but was repeatedly restored, maintaining its spiritual and historical importance.
Architecture and Features
The temple features a star-shaped design with detailed carvings on soft soapstone, including bracket figures depicting Puranas and Epics. Notable sculptures include the Darpana Sundari, believed to be modeled after Queen Shantaladevi, and the Gravity Pillar, carved from a single rock.
Visiting Information
Open daily from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM, the temple is 35 km from Hassan and 220 km from Bengaluru. Nearby attractions include Halebeedu and Yagachi Dam, with accommodation options like KSTDC hotel Mayura Velapuri nearby.
Survey Note: Comprehensive Details on Belur Chennakesava Temple
The Belur Chennakesava Temple, also referred to as Keshava, Kesava, or Vijayanarayana Temple, stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Hoysala Empire, located in Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka, India. This 12th-century Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a significant pilgrimage site and a marvel of historical craftsmanship. Below, we explore its history, architecture, and practical visiting information in detail, drawing from multiple reliable sources to provide a thorough understanding.
Historical Context
The temple was commissioned in 1117 CE by King Vishnuvardhana, marking his victories against the Cholas, and was originally named Vijaya Narayana. It took 103 years to build, a project spanning three generations, reflecting the dedication and resources of the Hoysala Empire. Belur, situated on the banks of the Yagachi River, was one of the early capitals of the Hoysalas, historically referred to as Velapur, Velur, and Belahur. The temple has faced repeated damages and plunder during wars but has been restored over time, maintaining its status as an active Hindu temple since inception. It is reverentially described in medieval Hindu texts and remains a key site in Vaishnavism.
The construction was led by master craftsmen Dasoja and Chavana, a father and son duo from Balliganve, a center of Kalyana Chalukya art in Shimoga district. The temple’s historical significance is further highlighted by inscriptions that preserve the history of the Hoysala dynasty, with Belur evolving from Velapura. King Vishnuvardhana’s declaration of independence from the Chalukyas in the 11th century marked the rise of the Hoysalas, leaving a rich heritage of art and culture.
Architectural Marvel
The temple is built using soft soapstone, ideal for intricate carvings, and stands on a platform called Jagati, enclosed by a Prakara with a Gopura in the Vijayanagar style, resembling a huge casket. Its star-shaped design is a hallmark of Hoysala architecture, with the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) featuring zigzag walls that depict 24 forms of Vishnu, creating varying light effects throughout the day. The outer walls are adorned with exquisite artwork, including bracket figures depicting scenes from the Puranas and Epics, and a lower frieze with charging elephants symbolizing courage and horses symbolizing speed.
Inside, a 3.7 m tall image of Lord Vijaya Narayana in black stone is housed, with a prabhavali showing 10 avatars of Lord Vishnu. The temple boasts over 80 Madanika sculptures, celestial nymphs in various poses like dancing and hunting, with four on the Navaranga columns inspired by Queen Shantaladevi’s beauty. Notable sculptures include the Darpana Sundari, believed to be modeled after the queen, and the Gravity Pillar, carved from a single rock where a paper can be swiped across, showcasing the artisans’ skill. The lathe-turned pillars, no two alike, include the rotatable Narasimha Pillar and the Mohini Pillar, the latter featuring a blank space as an artistic challenge.
Surrounding Temples and Additional Features
The temple complex includes other significant structures dedicated to Kappe Chennigaraya, Soumyanayaki, Andal, and other Vaishnava manifestations, enhancing its spiritual ambiance. A Samadhi believed to be of Raghavanka, a 13th-century Kannada poet, is located in Belur, adding to the site’s historical depth. The temple is proposed for UNESCO World Heritage status, recognizing its global cultural significance.
Practical Visiting Information
The temple is open daily from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM, welcoming visitors to explore its architectural wonders. It is located 35 km from Hassan city and about 220 km from Bengaluru, making it accessible for pilgrims and tourists. Nearby attractions include Halebeedu (20 km), Mullayyanagiri Peak (50 km), Shettihalli Church (55 km), Yagachi Dam (4 km), and Sakaleshpura (35 km), offering additional exploration opportunities.
For accessibility, the nearest airport is Mangaluru (155 km), and the nearest railway station is Hasana junction (40 km), with regular bus services and tourist taxis available from Hassan. It is best explored by taxi or personal vehicle. Accommodation options include the KSTDC hotel Mayura Velapuri, located 500 meters from the temple, with additional options in Hasana city (40 km).
Comparative Table of Key Features
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Belur, on the banks of Yagachi River, 38 km from Hassan, Karnataka |
| Historical Context | Commissioned in 1117 CE by King Vishnuvardhana, took 103 years to build |
| Architecture | Star-shaped, soft soapstone, intricate carvings, stellar-shaped Garbhagriha |
| Notable Sculptures | Over 80 Madanikas, Darpana Sundari, Gravity Pillar, lathe-turned pillars |
| Surrounding Temples | Kappe Chennigaraya, Soumyanayaki, Andal, other Vaishnava manifestations |
| UNESCO Status | Proposed for World Heritage Sites |
| Visiting Hours | 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM, daily |
| Accessibility | 220 km from Bengaluru, nearest airport Mangaluru, railway Hasana junction |
| Accommodation | KSTDC Mayura Velapuri (500 m), more in Hasana (40 km) |
This comprehensive overview ensures a deep understanding of the Belur Chennakesava Temple, catering to both casual visitors and those seeking detailed historical and architectural insights.
