Chennakesava Temple, Belur

The Chennakesava Temple at Belur is the main shrine in the temple complex. I have been to this temple several times and still there is so much to discover new here every time I visit this place.

This temple was commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire in 1117 AD. Within the complex, this temple is at the center  facing east, and is flanked by other sub-shrines in the sides. The pillar facing the main temple, the Garuda sthambha was erected in the Vijayanagar period while the pillar on the right, the Deepa sthambha dates from the Hoysala period. 

The temple is built on a platform using soapstone i.e., five feet high, which runs around the temple closely following its contour. The sanctum has beautifully designed star shape, while the hall is like a cross. This plan gives temple tastefully broken font-ages  The outer walls of the navaranga consisting of basement, railing and pierced screens are ornamented with numerous freezes of sculptures.

Each of the basement friezes has its own artistic merit. The lowest contains hundreds of elephants on the march in various moods and postures. There are ornamental scroll bands running around the temple. There are bands of gods, men and animals in various poses; dancers, hunters, musicians and others are carved on a miniature scale.

The temple has three entrances and their doorways have beautifully crafted with various sculptures and are guarded by decorated sculptures called dvarapalaka on either side. 

There are various sculptures all around the temple of various sizes and shapes. The temple is known for the temple plan and exceptional craftsmanship. We will see more of this temple in other post as one post will not do the justice.