Mukteshwara Temple, Chaudayyadanapura

Karnataka, Haveri, Bengaluru

The Mukteshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, sitting on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, in Haveri district of Karnataka is renowned in the archeological circles and is considered to be the finest of all the temples of Karnataka. This is because history shows that it stands witness to the Kannada language in the 11th and 12th centuries. It also signifies the shift to Veerashaivam from the earlier form of Suddha Shaivam that was being practiced when other idol forms like Nataraja were worshipped.

Legend

The temple was built during the transition period from Kilimukha to Veerashaivam, where other forms of Lord Shiva were eschewed in favor of the Lingam. This movement was spearheaded by Basaveshwara in Karnataka and the earliest scriptures mentioning Basaveshwara are found here in Mukteshwara Temple. His followers called Lingayats practice this form of worship even to this day. There are medieval Kannada inscriptions on the temple walls which mention the Veerashaiva movement for the first time during the year 1191.

Architecture

The Mukteshwara temple is a fine example of the Chalukya architecture. The outer structures of the temple have been wonderfully preserved even after centuries have passed. The exteriors are covered with amazingly detailed sculptures depicting various events form the puranas. The inscriptions in the temple walls show that the Gupta dynasty ruled the region at the time, and that King Chandragupta Vikramaditya ruled from his seat of power in Ujjain. The Mukteshwara temple carries authentic information about the Gupta dynasty.

Picture courtesy : commons.wikimedia.org

Darsan Info

Temple timings : Morning 6:00 A.M Till evening 6:00 P.M

Darsan Dresscode

Clean and conservative clothing is preferred (Avoid shorts).

Culture

Haveri district has a very rich culture and tradition. A core area of Western Chalukya architectural activity, Haveri epitomizes the rich culture and heritage of a bygone era with historical temples surrounded the place. A peacock sanctuary, a black buck sanctuary and old tanks all add up to its rich culture.