This is one trip, that one must take up. This is one trip that gives you a high, when u see the exquisitely carved images on stone on the walls of the temple in Belur.And friends, when you do make it to this place, make sure you have a good guide, who’ll not just show you around, but is able to give an explanation in details. Of course, u may have to pay a bit extra, but believe me, it is worth it. Cause these guys know, the extra things, that we’ll not recognise or notice.
The temple in Belur, apparently took around 103 years to build.It was built during the Reign of the Hoysala Dynasty.Typically, as explained by the guide, the Hoysala temples are squat, star shaped and set on a platform. The one at Belur has one temple on the star. The other 2 temples of the era, at halebid and Somnathpur have 2 and 3 temples resply.The sheer intricacy of the sculptures will take your breath away.
The temple of Belur is dedicated to Vishnu, and is called the Chennakeshava temple.The temple commemorates the victory of Hoysala over the Cholas in the great battle of Talakad. The temple of Belur is still in use .This was built by the noted architect of those times called Jakkanna Achari. On the outside walls, there are small sculptures of 650 elephants, each different in some way. There are also, 38 sculptures of female figures in stones (shilabalikas).
The intricacy of each of these figures is a delight to watch. In one for example, the queen, after her bath is drying her hair.There u can see even the droplets carved in stone. exquisite is the word.
Even on the inside, the superb carving is mind blowing. Each pillar has different details.And the narsimha pillar at the centre is awesome.
On the outside, at every entrance you’ll see the sculpture of a man slaying a tiger.This was apparently their king ’Sala’ who slew the tiger barehanded, and is the emblem of the Hoysala dynasty. Also, you;ll see lots of figures showing the Lord Narsimha who was the deity of the dynasty.
The details of textiles, jewelry and hairstyles of the ladies depicted on these temples bears testimony to a wonderfully advanced culture of the Hoysalas.
On the southern side, you’ll find the most striking depictions..
Shiva dancing on a demon , a horribly emaciated dancing Kali, Ravana shaking mount Kailasa , Durga slaying the buffalo demon (Mahisasuramardini), a boar saving the goddess earth . The most impressive and most venerated wall-images are on the two faces of the south-western corner of the shrine: Vishnu slaying king Hiranayakasipu (Narasimha avatara) and Shiva slaying the elephant demon . The details on each of these sculptures are mindboggling.
Also, there is one sculpture, that has a lion, with a rotation ball in its mouth, made from one stone itself. This is however not shown, on account of people fingering it. Inspite of saying so much, it is hardly enough. We were there for only an hour. But friends, to enjoy the sculptures got and spend a couple of days there. It is worth the stay.
Hey I almost did not mention it. There is a pillar there, that is an architectural wonder. Used in olden days to light lamps, this pillar built from one stone, is standing on 3 sides, the fourth side is open..you can slide a paper beneath it. I wonder how it stands just like that.
Do make it a point to go there friends.