Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
BOOKMARK
In Hassan District of Karnataka lies the town of Halebidu, which was once the capital of the mighty Hoysala dynasty. The Hoysalas ruled most of present day Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu between the 11th and 14th century CE. Prolific builders, Hoysala art stands out on two counts - they are marked by rich, intricately carved sculptures and the use of a dark hued soap stone that proved ideal, to work on.
Once called ‘Dwarasamudra’ the Hoysala capital was sacked twice, by the marauding army of the Delhi Sultan, Ala-ud-din Khilji under the command of his famed General, Malik Kafur in the 14th century CE. After this the Hoysalas deserted the capital which came to be known as Halebidu, meaning ‘Old Town’. All that survives of the glorious past are a few exquisitely carved temples.
The Hoysaleshwara Temple is known for its detailed carvings and is dedicated to Shiva. It was built by King Vishnuvardhana over a period of 30 years between 1120- 1150 CE. The temple has numerous miniature shrines at the entrance and meshes or Jaali’s called Vyatayanas on the walls to allow the breeze to flow in.
King Vishnuvardhana, the builder of this temple complex in Halebidu converted to Shaivism from Jainism and Hoysaleshwara Temple is a grand tribute to Shiva.
Hoysaleswara Temple is a true testimony of the grandeur of the Hoysalas. This intricately carved temple is considered to be a ‘masterpiece of South Asian Art’ by historians.
Join us on our journey through India & its history, on LHI's YouTube Channel. Please Subscribe Here
Live History India is a first of its kind digital platform aimed at helping you Rediscover the many facets and layers of India’s great history and cultural legacy. Our aim is to bring alive the many stories that make India and get our readers access to the best research and work being done on the subject. If you have any comments or suggestions or you want to reach out to us and be part of our journey across time and geography, do write to us at contactus@livehistoryindia.com
Blue Sparkle Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging
