A Trikuta (Having Three Sanctum Sanctorum) Hoysala temple tucked inside the KR Pet taluk of Karnataka,the Lakshminarayana Temple at Hosaholalu. This is one of the best places to see the late Hoysala architecture in total peace without any hustle and bustle of the crowds and tourists.The atmosphere is very peaceful and helps in studying the temple and its art.Here the Central Vimana (Tower) having greatest emphasis.Built by Hoysala Ruler Veera Someswara around 1250 AD, this is one of the temples built in the southern regions of the empire during 13th Century as there was a constant fear of invasion on the northern front of the Hoysala empire and Veera Someswara was giving more attention to the politics of Tamil Land.
The Main Deity is having Shankam (Conch) on right hand and Chakra (Discus) on the Left hand which is a rarity.The Original Venugopala idol in one of the sanctum was reported missing in 1935 and a new idol which is different to the original idol has been installed by the authorities.
Built in 13th Century, the temple can be termed as par excellence when it comes late Hoysala architecture. The only contemporary temple which can be termed to be equal in terms of beauty and excellence is Somnathpur and Haranahalli Temple in my view.
The only black spot on this Shinning Sun is the Absurd Porch added in the front during the 17th Century which has eclipsed the original entrance and the lintel. This has also resulted in blockage to the outer prakarams. One have to climb from the side to relish.
As Always I would let the photographs speak for themselves.
(Clicking on the picture redirects to Flickr Page)
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| Sri Rama Vanavasam depicted |
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| Beautiful placed friezes |
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| Sri Krishna Avataram |
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| Samundra Manthan Scene - Kurma Avataram |
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Sri Vishnu entering the Womb of Sri Devaki
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| Sri Varaha Avataram |
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| Shri Beeshma on bed of Arrows |
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| Kalinga Nardhana with Life in River Yamuna Depicted Beautifully |
As Always your feedback is highly solicited !
More at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/swami9 (Hoysala Gems album)
Reference:
Hoysala Architecture by Foekema
