Karnataka’s Chennakeshava Temple, where even the stones were given life, what is the secret of its amazing sculpture?

News India Live, Digital Desk: Whenever we talk about India’s glorious history and architecture, we often talk about big palaces. But in Belur in Hassan district of Karnataka, there is a place which is more grand than the palaces, ‘Shri Chennakeshava Swamy Temple’. If you are an art lover, then the sculptures carved on the walls here will speak to you.

A golden glimpse of history
This temple was built about 900 years ago i.e. in 1117 AD by the great king Vishnuvardhan of the Hoysala dynasty. It is said that he built it to celebrate his victory over the Cholas and to dedicate it to Lord Vishnu. A 6 feet high idol of ‘Chennakeshava’ i.e. ‘Beautiful Keshava’ (Vishnu) is installed in the main sanctum of the temple, whose shine remains the same even today.

The craft that makes the world think
In today’s mechanical world, where big buildings die within a few years, this temple has been standing strong for 9 centuries without any cement or modern technology. It is made from ‘soap stone’ (grey stone), which is very soft for carving, but hardens with time.

There are thousands of sculptures of elephants, horses and dancers on the outer walls of the temple. The interesting thing is that none of these statues are alike. The carvings of the ‘Darpan Sundaris’ here are so fine that their ornaments, folds of clothes and even the pupils of the eyes can be seen in detail. Some statues don’t even have space to insert a needle!

Pride of UNESCO
It is not only the choice of Indians, but the world has also recognized its beauty. Recently the temples of the Hoysala dynasty have been included in the UNESCO ‘World Heritage List’, of which the Chennakesava Temple is prominent. Situated on the banks of Yagachi river, this temple is calm and full of positive energy.

Why should you go?
Even if you are not interested in history, the architecture of this temple will win your heart. When you stand under its tall pillars, you understand how great engineers and artists our ancestors were. Every pillar tells a unique story in itself.

If you want to see a unique combination of peace, art and spirituality, then definitely include this ‘stone heaven’ of Karnataka in your travel list.