Amrutesvara Temple, Amruthapura

Karnataka , Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru

The Amrutesvara Temple is located in a restful spot near the Bhadra River reservoir, in the Malnad region. It is surrounded by coconut and palm plantations. With the rise of the Hoysalas in the 11th and 12th centuries, Malnad experienced stupendous growth with many new cities being established around the region, and many new temples being built.The Amrutesvara Temple was built during the Hoysala period in 1196. It was built by a commander of the Hoysala Army, Amrutesvara Dandanayaka, of King Veera Ballala II. The famous Hoysala sculptor, Ruvari Mallitamma started his career with this temple.

Legend

Veera Ballala II is an emperior of Hosyala kingdom. His successes against the Yadavas of Devagiri, the Southern Kalachuris, the Pandyas of Madurai and the waning Western Chalukya Empire, and his domination over the diminishing Cholas of Tanjore took the Hoysalas to their peak of power. His architectural legacy includes among numerous ornate temples, the Kedareshwara temple, the Veera Narayana temple and the Amrutesvara temple.

Architecture

This temple, built in the Hoysala style, is exquisite. The outer walls are covered in circular designs. This temple is in the ekakuta style with one vimana. There is a closed mandapa in front of the shrine leading to a big open mandapa. The inner mandapa is supported by shining pillars topped by domes bearing floral designs. On the outside walls of the open mandapa, there are 140 panels depicting scenes from the great Indian epics. On the south wall, 70 panels depict the Ramayana, in a strange anti-clockwise direction. On the South walls scenes are carved in the normal clockwise direction.

Picture courtesy : commons.wikimedia.org

Darsan Info

Temple timings : 6:00 AM To 9:00 PM

Darsan Dresscode

Clean and conservative clothing is preferred.

Culture

Chikmangaluru district is best known for its drama and arti-cuture. There are lots of temples in the area of hystorical importance. The area is very serene and picturesque.