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Questions and Answers
What is the Hoysaleswara Temple dedicated to?
What is the Hoysaleswara Temple dedicated to?
Which temple is designed in the shape of a chariot?
Which temple is designed in the shape of a chariot?
Which deity is NOT depicted in the Hoysaleswara Temple sculptures?
Which deity is NOT depicted in the Hoysaleswara Temple sculptures?
What organization undertook extensive renovations of the Chennakeshava Temple?
What organization undertook extensive renovations of the Chennakeshava Temple?
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What aspect of Hoysala temple architecture continues to inspire scholars worldwide?
What aspect of Hoysala temple architecture continues to inspire scholars worldwide?
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Which temple underwent conservation work to restore its original beauty?
Which temple underwent conservation work to restore its original beauty?
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What is the main characteristic of Hoysala temple architecture?
What is the main characteristic of Hoysala temple architecture?
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Where were the three most famous Hoysala temples located?
Where were the three most famous Hoysala temples located?
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Which temple is also known as Belur Matha?
Which temple is also known as Belur Matha?
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What carving technique involves using wooden masks to carve intricate designs on harder stones like granite?
What carving technique involves using wooden masks to carve intricate designs on harder stones like granite?
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What does the term Vidagdhana refer to in Hoysala temple architecture?
What does the term Vidagdhana refer to in Hoysala temple architecture?
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Which Hindu deity is the Chennakesava Temple in Belur dedicated to?
Which Hindu deity is the Chennakesava Temple in Belur dedicated to?
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Study Notes
Hoysala Temple Architecture
The Hoysala Empire, which ruled over southern India between the 9th and 14th centuries CE, is known for its unique and distinctive temple architecture. This architectural style was developed by the Hoysalas during their rule of the Indian kingdom headquartered at Halebidu. The three most famous temples of this period are located in Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura.
Characteristics of Hoysala Temples
Hoysala temple architecture is characterized by intricate carvings on stone, many of them depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. These structures are built with precision and accuracy without any mortar, making them remarkable examples of ancient engineering.
Carving Techniques
Three types of carving techniques are used in Hoysala temple architecture: Vidagdhana, Kattigobba, and Makkalu Manege. Vidagdhana refers to carvings made using a tool called sevanige or a large knife, while Kattigobba involves engraving patterns into soft stones like sandstone. Makkalu Manege is a technique where wooden masks are used to carve intricate designs on harder stones like granite.
Famous Hoysala Temples
Chennakesava Temple, Belur
Chennakesava Temple, also known as Belur Matha, is one of the finest examples of Hoysala temple architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Chenna Keshava who is believed to have manifested himself as a cowherd. The temple has a star-shaped plan (Chaturmukha) which is rare among Hindu temples.
Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
Hoysaleswara Temple, also known as Halebidu Temple, is another important example of Hoysala architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by a wall enclosing the entire town. The temple has numerous sculptures depicting various gods and goddesses, including Krishna, Ganesha, and Vishnu.
Channabasavanna Swamy Temple, Somanathapura
Channabasavanna Swamy Temple, also known as Somanathapura Temple, is known for its excellent preservation despite being abandoned for several hundred years. The temple is dedicated to Lord Someshwara and is designed in the shape of a chariot.
Modern Conservation Efforts
In recent times, conservation efforts have been undertaken to preserve these precious pieces of history. For instance, the Archaeological Survey of India undertook extensive renovations of both the Hoysaleswara Temple and the Chennakeshava Temple. Similarly, the Channabasavanna Swamy Temple has undergone conservation work to restore its original beauty.
Hoysala temple architecture continues to inspire scholars and researchers worldwide due to its intricate designs, sophisticated construction techniques, and historical significance. Each Hoysala temple stands as a testament to the artistic skills and craftsmanship of the people of the time.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the unique and intricate temple architecture of the Hoysala Empire from southern India. Explore characteristics, carving techniques, and famous temples like Chennakesava in Belur and Hoysaleswara in Halebidu.
