20 Sep Hoysala Sacred Ensembles
This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the Topic details “Hoysala Sacred Ensembles”. This Topic has relevance in the Art Culture section of the UPSC CSE exam.
For Prelims:
About the Hoysala Dynasty?
Prominent Hoysala Sacred Complexes?
For Mains:
GS 1: Art and Culture
Architectural Characteristics of Hoysala Architecture?
Why in the news:
The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
About Hoysala Dynasty
- Early Emergence: The Hoysala dynasty is thought to have been established around the 10th century by Nripa Kama I, initially serving as vassals under the Western Ganga dynasty.
- They governed from their capital, which was initially in Dwarasamudra (present-day Halebidu) but was later relocated to Belur.
- The Hoysalas held strong devotion to both Vaishnavism and Shaivism, two prominent sects within Hinduism, and their enthusiastic support for temples and artistic endeavors reflected their deep religious commitment.
- Emergence as a Major Force: The Hoysalas rose to prominence during the rule of King Vishnuvardhana, who reigned from approximately 1110 to 1152 CE. Under his leadership, the Hoysalas transitioned into an independent kingdom, relocating their capital from Belur to Halebidu (Dwarasamudra). This period witnessed a significant upsurge in prosperity and cultural development.
- Cultural Apex: The Hoysala dynasty reached its cultural zenith during the reign of King Ballala II, who ruled from around 1173 to 1220 CE. This era witnessed the construction of some of South India’s most magnificent temples and monuments.
- Gradual Decline: In the late 13th century, the Hoysalas encountered invasions from the Delhi Sultanate and other neighboring powers, leading to a gradual erosion of their authority. By the early 14th century, the dynasty had substantially diminished in power and influence.
Architectural Characteristics of Hoysala Architecture:
The architectural style of Hoysala sacred complexes is celebrated for its distinctive blend of North Indian Nagara and South Indian Dravidian influences, enriched with unique Hoysala elements. Here are the key architectural attributes:
- Stellate Ground Plans: Hoysala temples are renowned for their star-shaped ground plans, known as “stellate.” These designs feature multiple projecting points, and some of the most famous instances can be observed in the Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu.
- Exquisite Sculptural Artistry: Among the most remarkable aspects of Hoysala temples are their intricate and finely detailed sculptures. These sculptures grace the exterior walls and depict a wide range of subjects, including scenes from Hindu mythology, everyday life, and the Hoysala royal court. The craftsmanship is truly exceptional, characterized by delicate filigree work and lifelike expressions.
- Turned and Polished Pillars: Hoysala temples are distinguished by their lathe-turned pillars, which are meticulously polished and exhibit diverse designs. Each pillar is a unique work of art that contributes to the overall interior aesthetics of the temple.
- Deity Representations: The primary sanctum of Hoysala temples often houses a deity, and the vimana (tower) above it is intricately adorned with depictions of the presiding deity or relevant mythological narratives. These vimanas possess a pyramid-like shape and are adorned with miniature shrines on their surfaces.
- Elaborate Entrances: The entrances of Hoysala temples showcase ornate door frames adorned with intricate carvings of deities, celestial beings, and floral motifs. These doorways are considered as masterpieces of Hoysala artistry.
Prominent Hoysala Sacred Complexes:
- Chennakesava Temple in Belur: This temple, devoted to Lord Vishnu, stands as an exemplary masterpiece of Hoysala architecture. It is renowned for its breathtaking sculptures, especially the bracket figures that depict various dance poses.
- Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is celebrated for its intricate wall panel sculptures that narrate tales from the epics, Puranas, and Hindu mythology.
- Kesava Temple in Somanathapura: Situated near Mysore, this temple is another splendid representation of Hoysala architecture. It is acclaimed for its exquisitely detailed and symmetrically arranged sculptures.
- Kedareshwara Temple in Halebidu: This temple showcases a distinctive architectural style known as “Vesara,” a harmonious fusion of Nagara and Dravidian influences. Notably, it features twin sanctums and finely detailed carvings.
Download plutus ias current affairs eng med 20th Sep 2023
Q.1 Consider the following statements regarding Hoysala architecture:
- Hoysala temples are primarily characterised by their Vesara architectural style.
- They used a distinct star-shaped ground plan.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q.2 Consider the following:
- Chennakesava Temple
- Hoysaleswara Temple
- Brihadishwara Temple
- Meenakshi Temple
How many of the above Temples were built by the Hoysala dynasty?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
Q.3 “Examine the distinctive features of Hoysala architecture and its cultural significance in the context of Indian art and heritage. How did Hoysala temples contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of South India?”
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