The Chennakeshava Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Belur. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vijayanarayana, who is considered to be one of the 24 avatars of Lord Vishnu. It was built in the 12th century by Vishnuvardana who was the king at that time, as a way to celebrate their win over the Cholas in the battle of Talakad. The temple is ornamented with nice sculptures and carvings with portray divine nymphs and a few acts from the Upanishads, Mahabharata, and Ramayana.
The Chennakeshava Temple is a wonderful witness to the Hoysala dynasty’s architectural brilliance and artistic subtlety. This temple is not just a place of worship but a living inheritance site that summarises the rich cultural textile of medieval India. Let’s dive deeper into the complex details and historical significance of this architectural wonder.
History of the Chennakeshava Temple:
The Chennakeshava Temple was built by King Vishnuvardhana of the HoysalaEmpire in the 12th century at the bank of the Yagachi River in Belur which is an early Hoysala Empire capital. The construction of the temple began in 1116 CE under the supervision of the well-known architect Jakanachari and was finished in 1217 CE during the reign of King Veera Ballala II. The temple was constructed over three generations and took a century to complete and this temple is connected with the growth of a new architectural tradition known as the Dravida tradition within the Hoysala Empire. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, particularly to the divinity Chennakeshava who is one of the incarnations of Vishnu.
In the Early 14th century, the Hoysala Empire as well as its capital was attacked and destroyed by Malik Kafur who was a commander of Delhi Sultanate ruler Alauddin Khalji. Soon after the Vijayanagara Empire took control of the territory and repaired the temple.
Architecture of the Chennakeshava Temple:
The temple is an ideal example of Hoysala architecture, described by its complex carvings, subtle sculptures, and star-shaped platform which is known as Jagati. The entire structure is constructed using soapstone, allowing for typical detailing. The temple stands on an elevated platform and includes three main components: The Garbhgriha (sanctum sanctorum), the Mandapa (hall), and the Vimana (tower).
The Garbhagriha: The sanctum sanctorum contains the idol of the Lord Chennakeshava, verged by his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. The idol is an excellence of craftsmanship, with exquisite detailing and expressive features.
Mandapa: The Mandapa, or hall is supported by complexly carved pillars, each portraying mythological narratives, heavenly beings are decorated with geometric patterns and floral motifs, reflecting the Hoysala’s attention to detail.
Vimana: The Vimana or the tower is the most noticeable feature of the temple. It rises elegantly, adorned with complex sculptures of gods, goddesses, heavenly beings, and mythological creatures. The outer walls of the temple are filled with sculptures representing different episodes from Hindu Mythology which include the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Bhagavata Purana.
One of the most significant features of the Chennakeshava is its grand sculpture embellishments. Every inch of the temple’s exterior is decorated with excellently detailed sculptures, reflecting the craftsmanship and artistic prowess of the Hoysala artisans. The sculptures give a picture of gods, goddesses, dancers, musicians, mythical beasts, and everyday life scenes with extreme complexity and beauty.
Mandanikas: One of the highlights of the temple’s sculptures is the existence of the Mandanikas or heavenly fairies. These sculptures also known as Shilabalikas, are well-known for their grace, embellish, and lively beauty. Each Mandika is portrayed in a unique pose, reflecting various emotions and expressions. These sculptures are considered masterpieces of Indian art and have fascinated visitors for centuries.
Spiritual Significance of the Chennakeshava Temple:
Apart from its architectural and artistic splendour, the Chennakeshava temple has deep spiritual significance for devotees and pilgrims. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum treasures the divinity Channakeshava, who is admired as the presiding divinity and the quintessence of divine grace and beauty. Devotees and pilgrims herd to the temple to pursue blessings, offer prayers, and participate in religious ceremonies and festivals.
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Timings of the Chennakeshava Temple:
The doors of the Chennakeshava Temple open at 7:30 AM and close at 7:30 PM and in the afternoon there is a break for lunch. Mangalaarthi is held once every morning and every evening. Darshan and Mangalarathi timings might differ on certain festival days or any other events.
Best Time to visit the Chennakeshava Temple:
The ChennakeshavaTemple is open all year around, but it looks the prettiest during and just after the rainy season, which is from September to February. This is the time when all the sculptures are freshly washed in the rain, the surroundings are filled with lush green and cool breeze.
Places to visit near the Chennakeshava Temple:
The best tourist places to visit near the Chennakeshava Temple are listed below:
- Yagachi Dam
- Lakshmi Devi Temple, Doddagaddavali of Hassan district
- Halebidu
- Chikmagalur
- Sakleshpur
- Manjarabad Fort
- Shravanabelagola
How to Reach the ChennakeshavaTemple:
Chennakeshava temple is located in Belur so all transport routes must go through the town. The other major urban areas located around the temple contain Hassan City.
By Air: The Mangalore Airport is 130 kilometers away from Belur, while the Bengaluru International Airport is 222 kilometers away from Belur. From the airport, the best choice of travel is by road.
By Rail: The closest railway station from the Belur is Chikmagalur Railway Station which is located 22 kilometers away. Another closest railway station is Hassan railway station which is located 32 kilometres away from Belur town. From the railway station, you can book a cab or there are many buses which drop you near the temple.
By Road: Bengaluru city is 220 kilometers from Belur through the NH75. If you are travelling from Mysore, the journey is 155 kilometers long through the SH57. The coastal city of Mangalore is 153 kilometers far away through the NH73. There are frequent buses from Hassan, Chikmagalur, Bengaluru, Mysore, and Mangalore.
Conclusion:
The Chennakeshava Temple in Belur stands as a witness to the creativity, originality, and devotion of the Hoysala artisans who crafted it. As one of the most premium Hoysala architecture, the temple continues to inspire and wonder in all who witness it. Apart from its architectural splendour, the temple symbolizes the spiritual and cultural heritage of India, tending as a holy space where pilgrims and visitors alike can connect with the divine and experience the glory of ancient craftsmanship. In conserving and protecting the Chennakeshava Temple, we safeguard not just a physical structure but a living relic that bridges the past with the present and stimulates future generations to increase the richness of our shared cultural heritage.
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