November 22, 2008

Carved columns of Hoysala Temple, Halibidu, India

Location: Halibidu, Karnataka, India (13° 10′ 12″ N, 75° 52′ 12″ E)
Date: 1 December 2005; 8.50am
Camera: Canon 300D with kit lens

Halibidu was the capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century. It is home to a temple complex that includes the ornate Hindu temples, Hoysaleshawara and Kedareshwara. The temples are dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. The sculptures in this temple are very intricate and diverse in nature, varying from the customary mythological figures narrating episodes from epics such as Ramayana to animals, birds and beautiful dancing figures (Shilabalikas). Everywhere- doors, columns, inner and outer walls are covered with exquisite quality sculptures- some of the best I have seen in India. Apparently no tow sculptures in the temple are the same.

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