K’taka’s Hoysala Temples Added To UNESCO’s World Heritage Site List
Mumbai: Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, the group of Hoysala temples in Karnataka, have made it to the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Hoysala architecture was a building style of the Hoysala empire in the 12th and 13th centuries.
The Hoysala Temples of Belur, Halebid, and Somnathapura in Karnataka were officially nominated for the World Heritage List for the years 2022–2023 by the Union Culture Ministry last year. The preservation and acknowledgment of India’s rich historical and cultural heritage have reached a significant turning point as a result of this recognition.
By exhibiting their architectural genius and cultural significance, the “Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala” serve as a striking tribute to the history of the Hoysala dynasty. For their exquisite architectural design and the profound symbolism they embody, these temples have long been admired.
The Hoysaleswara temple, sometimes called the “Halebidu” temple, is a spectacular example of 12th-century architecture honoring Lord Shiva, the God of Destruction.
The greatest monument in Halebidu, a charming town in Karnataka that historically served as the Hoysala Empire’s capital, is hailed as this architectural marvel. King Vishnuvardhana generously provided funding for the temple, demonstrating the dynasty’s strong commitment to its aesthetic and spiritual pursuits.
Halebidu eventually declined and was neglected as a result of the raiding invasions of northern invaders from the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century.
A shining example of the syncretic traditions that have developed in India is the Hoysaleswara temple. Although it has its roots in Shaivism, it smoothly combines Vaishnavism with Shaktism. The beautiful carvings and sculptures of the temple also show Jain influences, adding to its complex cultural tapestry. These fascinating sculptures provide visitors with a visual story of Indian epics like the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Bhagavata Purana. The nearby Belur Kesava temple emphasizes the area’s importance in India’s architectural legacy.
The Hoysala temples are recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as protected monuments. The ASI is in charge of their preservation and upkeep, ensuring that magnificent works of architectural genius inspire future generations.
The temples showcase the incredible skill of Hoysala craftsmen and include a peculiar fusion of Dravidian architectural style with strong influences from the “Bhumija” style prevalent in central India and the “Nagara” traditions from northern and western India.
The temples’ elevation in prominence due to UNESCO recognition also serves as a painful reminder of India’s ongoing dedication to protecting its extensive cultural legacy.
Follow us on Twitter, Google News, and Instagram, and like us on Facebook for the latest updates and exciting stories.
