| Dedicated to Lord Chennakeshava meaning 'handsome Vishnu', this temple is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture.
It was built in 1117 CE by King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Cholas at Talakad. Completed only after 103 years, the the Chennakeshava Temple is decorated with stories from the Puranas, the Upanishads and the epics of Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
The intricate workmanship depicts charging elephants, mythological figures, military scenes, musicians, lions and horses. The Darpana Sundari or 'Lady with the mirror' carving is one of the highlights of this temple.
There are a number of bracket figures portraying celestial nymphs or Madanikas singing, dancing or executing daily chores sculpted on the walls of this temple. These graceful figures are said to have been inspired by the beautiful Shantala Devi, queen of Kind Vishnuvardhana.
The star-shaped temple also has images of the 10 incarnations of Vishnu accompanied by those of his two wives- Bhu (earth) and Lakshmi (goddess of wealth). |
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