Hoysala Temples: UNESCO World Heritage Recognition
The Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid, and Somnathapura, renowned for their unique architectural style, have earned a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Historical Significance of Hoysala Temples
These temples, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, are architectural gems that showcase the Hoysala temple style. The Hoysala dynasty, known for their patronage of art and culture, left an indelible mark on Karnataka’s heritage.
Amarashilpi Jakanachari: The Legendary Sculptor
The story of Amarashilpi Jakanachari, a legendary sculptor, is intertwined with these temples. Jakanachari’s dedication to his craft led him to work on iconic temples like Chennakeshava in Belur, Hoysaleshvara in Halebid, and Keshava in Somnathapura, contributing to their grandeur.
UNESCO Recognition: A Long-Awaited Achievement
The Hoysala temples had been on UNESCO’s tentative list since 2014. In 2019, INTACH, in collaboration with the Karnataka government, initiated efforts to secure their inclusion. Finally, on September 18, 2022, these temples received UNESCO World Heritage status.
Architectural Marvels: The Hoysala Style
The Hoysala style of architecture is an amalgamation of various influences, including the Bhumija style, Nagara traditions, and Karnata-Dravida style. The temples feature star-shaped platforms, intricate sculptures, and multi-tiered friezes. The later temples, constructed during the peak of the Hoysala empire, exhibit exquisite soapstone carvings with intricate details and signatures of sculptors.
UNESCO Recognition’s Impact
The UNESCO World Heritage designation brings international recognition, legal protection, and potential funding for conservation efforts. It is expected to boost tourism and revenue, drawing global travelers to these cultural treasures.
Jakanachari’s Mythical Tale
The story of Jakanachari, while legendary, raises questions about its authenticity. Jakanachari’s mythical existence is intertwined with the temples, but scholars suggest he might have represented a guild of artisans rather than an individual. The absence of epigraphic evidence further fuels this speculation.
Exploring the Temples
– Chennakeshava Temple, Belur: Located in a 1.59-hectare complex, this temple is a prime attraction and an active religious site.
– Hoysalesvara Temple, Halebid: Situated on the banks of Dorasamudra tank, this temple complex spans 7 hectares and includes protected and unprotected temples and archaeological ruins.
– Keshava Temple, Somnathapura: Positioned in the center of the village, this temple is surrounded by a multi-celled prakaara and covers an area of 1.88 hectares.
Legacy of Captain Linnaeus Tripe
The grandeur of Hoysala temples was introduced to the Western world through the lens of Captain Linnaeus Tripe, an early official photographer of the East India Company. In 1854, Tripe’s photographic documentation of Halebid and Belur temples led to an exhibition of 56 prints in Chennai, further amplifying their global recognition.
The inclusion of the Hoysala temples in the UNESCO World Heritage List celebrates Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage and offers an opportunity for travelers worldwide to explore these architectural marvels. This recognition serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Hoysala dynasty and their contributions to art and architecture in India.
