Belur Temple

Belur Temple dedicated to Lord Chennakesava Swamy. Belur was the first capital of the Hoysala Empire built on the banks of Yagachi River. Chennakesava is one of the 24 forms of Lord Vishnu.

Belur Temple Architecture

The main shrine of Chennakesava also known as Vijaya Narayana is in the centre of the enclosure on a pedestal. The temple has an arched doorway to the shrine. Idol is of 2 mt height in the sanctum sanctorum, this idol was mutilated by the Muslim invaders. The massive domed ceiling in the centre, supported by the four pillars. Scenes from Ramayana can be seen on the temple walls. 10000 sculptures of 2 – 4′ high, 200 depictions of women hairstyles, and artisanship so fine that you see a fly on a bunch of grapes.

There is a shrine for Kappe Chennigarya within the temple complex which contains the image of Chennakesava. An interesting story associated with this Idol, the great sculptor Jakanacharya who left his native Tumkur well before his son was born. At the time of Idol installation, a young man from the group raised a voice against installation as there was a flaw in the Chennigarya Idol. Jakanacharya challenged the youth, that he will cut off his hand if it was proved. After the clear examination that sandal paste is still wet at the navel portion when they opened the wet portion, they found the frog. As promised Jakanacharya chopped his hand. Later he came to know that it is his none other than his son who challenged the installation. It is said that Jakanacharya that his hand was restored after building a temple at Kridapura.

Belur Temple History

Temple was built in 12th Century by the King Vishnu Vardhana from Hoysala dynasty. Temple was constructed to celebrate the victory over the Cholas at Talakad. He also constructed a temple for Lord Vishnu at Thondanur near Mysore.