LORD CHENNAKESAVA OF BELUR

THE KESAVA TEMPLE 

It is built in the centre of Velapura, the sanskritized word for Belur, its original name, and is enclosed by a high massive prakara with two entrances; the five-storeyed tower, built in the Dravidian style is facing the east. The temple occupies a vast area measuring 443 by 396 feet, and the main mandir is perched on a three feet high plinth of 178 length by 158 width. It was consecrated in 1117 AD, and is said to have been built under the direct supervision of Dasoja of Balligame and his son Chavana along with other illustrious sculptors like Kenchi Mallianna and Chikka-Hampa. Inscriptions mention many more with their honorific titles. This main mandir is encircled by a railed parapet called Jagati consisting of eight different and distinct sculptured freezes placed one above the other. A row of beautifully decorated elephants form the first row; the second is the cornice of bead work with heads of lions at intervals; the third is devoted to the scroll work; the fourth is a repetition of the second row, but has ornamental niches with images of nymph's and musicians carved in bold relief. 

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]