CHENNAKESAVA TEMPLE

WHY IN NEWS?

Chennakesava, Hoyseleswara and Kesava temples accorded UNESCO status

BACKGROUND

Hoysala architecture is the building style in Hindu temple architecture developed under the rule of the Hoysala Empire between the 11th and 14th centuries, in the region known today as Karnataka, a state of India.

Hoysala influence was at its peak in the 13th century, when it dominated the Southern Deccan Plateau region.

CHENNAKESAVA TEMPLE

• Located on the banks of Yagachi river (a tributary of Hemavati) in Belur
• Dedicated to Vishnu.
• Commissioned by Vishnuvardhana of Hoysala Dynasty in 1117 AD.
• The temple is remarkable for its architecture, sculptures, reliefs, friezes as well its iconography, inscriptions and history.
• The temple artwork depicts scenes of secular life in the 12th century, dancers and musicians, as well as a pictorial narration of Hindu texts such as the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the Puranas through numerous friezes.
• includes many themes from Shaivism and Shaktism, as well as images of a Jina from Jainism and the Buddha from Buddhism. 
• Inside the temple complex there are shrines for alvar saints like Ramanuja, andal etc.