Artistic Fusion: Hoysala Temples Blending Styles in Karnataka

April 18, 2024 601 0

Introduction

Hoysala architecture is considered intermediate between the Indo-Aryan style and the Dravidian style of temples. Temples were developed in the region of Karnataka under the Hoysala rulers between 1050-1300 AD. The prominent seats of this art were Belur, Halebidu, and Sringeri.

Characteristic features of Hoysala Temples

Hoysala Temples

  • Hoysalas: Succeeding the Cholas and Pandyas, became prominent patrons in South India.
  • Region: In the southern Deccan, approximately a hundred temples have been discovered, with the Hoysaleshvara temple at Halebid, Karnataka, standing out among them. 
  • Importance: Constructed in 1150 CE by the Hoysala king using dark schist stone, it is one of the three most frequently discussed temples, alongside those at Belur and Somnathpuram.
  • Commonality: Temples at Belur, Halebid, and Somnathpuram are characterized by stellate-plan, growing extremely complex with soapstone carvings, feature a unique vesara style, blending dravida and nagara elements.
    • They are made of soapstones instead of sandstones, which enabled the intricate craftsmanship.
    • Star-shaped temples with raised platforms (known as Jagati) and intricate sculptural carvings on the interior and exterior walls.
  • Halebid Temple: Dedicated to Shiva as Nataraja, is a dual structure with a mandapa for music and dance, featuring intricate carvings of animals and deities.
  • Other Temples:
    • Chennakesava temple at Belur: It is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.
    • Chennakesava temple at Somanathapura: Vaishnava Hindu temple on the banks of River Kaveri, dedicated to Lord Krishna in three forms – Janardhana, Keshava and Venugopala.\

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Must Read

Current Affairs Editorial Analysis
Upsc Notes  Upsc Blogs 
NCERT Notes  Free Main Answer Writing

Conclusion

  • Hoysala temples, epitomizing architectural finesse and devotion, remain enduring symbols of South Indian heritage. 
    • Their intricate craftsmanship continues to captivate and inspire admiration among art enthusiasts and historians globally.
Related Articles 
Badami Chalukya Temples and Inscriptions Buddhist Monuments Of South India
Sangam Age – Political History of South India Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE)
Jainism and Buddhism Vedic Period: History Notes

 

THE MOST
LEARNING PLATFORM

Learn From India's Best Faculty

      
Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

<div class="new-fform">







    </div>

    Subscribe our Newsletter
    Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.
    *Promise! We won't spam you.
    Yes! I want to Subscribe.