Unveiling the legacy: genesis and relevance
The Somnathpur Temple, the Chennakesava Temple, dates back to 1268 CE and was commissioned by Soma, an army commander for the Hoysala king Narasimha III. The Kesava Temple signifies the crowning glory of the Hoysala dynasty's art patronage, publicising the dynasty's support to culture and religion. Unlike many temples that have been repeatedly enlarged over centuries, Somnathpur Temple is still in its original design, thus providing a pure look at the creative vision behind the period of the Hoysala Dynasty.
This temple is also known as Chennakesava which means the beautiful Kesava and hence has beauty on its name itself. The Hoysala architectural style came to its pinnacle during the temple construction, which was distinguished by the 5-tier star-shaped platform, detailed carvings, and significant religious iconography.
Architectural marvel
The temple is a star-shaped one and has a platform or a mandapa which is a unique feature of the Hoysala style of architecture. Instead of just remaining an ordinary façade, this design not only makes the temple more attractive but also enables the display of a huge number of sculptures and carvings as well.
The whole temple was decorated in detail from every square inch, showing various deities, celestial beings, mythological scenes, and how people lived every day. There is vertical banding on the wall; the bands are filled with amazingly intricate sculptures, which reveal the undeniable skill and creativity of its artisans.
The temple has a distinctive design with a trikuta (three sanctums) arrangement with separate shrines dedicated to Lord Keshava, Venugopala, and Janardhana. The artistically-designed sanctums with the amazingly carved idols of the deities spread a divine sense of serenity for the visitors.
The temple roofs and columns are examples of the skill of craftsmen - they have carved complex flowers, geometric designs and iconographic details. The central hall is crowned on the ceiling by a luxurious and decorative carved medallion in lotus style, which is what catches the eye of the visitor.
