A recent incident has brought the historic Lakshmi Devi Temple at Doddagaddavalli, Karnataka into the news. An idol of Goddess Kali from the Hoysala era, housed within the temple, has been found to be damaged.
Lakshmi Devi Temple: An Architectural Wonder
The Lakshmi Devi Temple is a remarkable example of Hoysala architecture. Constructed during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana in 1114 CE, it exhibits unique features that distinguish it from later Hoysala temples. Built using Chloritic schist, also known as soapstone, the temple breaks with tradition by not standing on a jagati, a platform typically seen in other Hoysala structures.
The temple comprises a chatuskuta construction, featuring four shrines and towers designed in the Kadamba nagara style. An open, square mantapa (hall) forms the core of the structure, a design choice necessitated by the presence of shrines on all its four sides. A fifth separate shrine is dedicated to Bhairava, an avatar of Lord Shiva.
In contrast to other Hoysala temples which are commonly dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva or Jains, the primary deity worshipped here is Goddess Lakshmi. The temple holds the distinction of being an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) monument and is among the sites proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
The Distinctiveness of Hoysala Temple Architecture
Hoysala architecture, developed under the rule of the Hoysalas, is predominantly concentrated in southern Karnataka. Often termed as hybrid or Vesara style, this architectural form is a melange of Dravida and Nagara styles. A distinctive star-like ground plan and an abundance of decorative carvings mark these structures.
These temples are unique for their complex structures, comprising multiple shrines grouped around a central pillared hall laid out in an intricately designed star. With each additional angle, the initial square temple plan transforms into a stellar or stellate form, thus earning its name.
Hoysaleshvara Temple at Halebid, Chennakeshava Temple at Somnathpur, and Kesava Temple at Belur are just a few examples of this extraordinary architectural style. Each was erected using dark schist stone, under different Hoysala rulers.
The Rise of the Hoysalas
The 12th and 13th centuries witnessed the growth of the Hoysalas of Karnataka as a significant South Indian patronage, primarily centered at Mysore. They governed most parts of present-day Karnataka, setting up their capital initially at Belur before moving it to Halebidu. This period marks a pivotal phase in the development of art, architecture, and religion in South India.