KARNATAKA
Belur was the second capital of the dynasty, after Sosevur and
before Halebeedu. Popularly referred to as Dakshina Varanasi
(Benares or Varanasi of the south), its other names were Velapuri,
Velur and Belapur.
Located on the banks of the Yagachi river, the Chennakeshava
Temple is the central and most beautiful amongst the cluster of
remnants here. Originally called the Vijayanarayan Temple, it
was consecrated by the then emperor Vishnuvardhana in 1116
to commemorate his victories against the Cholas. The uilding
was completed in 103 years. The father-son duo of Dasoja and
Chavana were the master craftsmen of the temple. The main
deity of the temple is Lord Chennakeshava.
The boundary wall and the gopuram or the ornate entrance
tower came up later, as did many other structures. Other temples
within the compound include those dedicated to Kappe
Chennigaraya, Saumyanayaki, Andal and other Vaishnavi
manifestations.
The temples at Belur also boast finely worked upon
friezes of charging elephants, mythological figures, military
scenes, dancers, musicians, and elaborate decorative motifs.
Capturing one’s imagination are angled bracket figures of
celestial nymphs; these beautiful and expressive nymphs are
depicted singing, dancing or carrying out daily chores. The
detailing in their make-up, jewelry and coiffures showcase the
labour of love of the Hoysala artisans.
September-October 2015 Travel Secrets 69