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 222
km from Bangalore, 39 km from Hassan and 149 km from
Mysore is Belur famous for its exquisite Temples.
Belur is known as the Dakshina Varanasi or
Southern Banaras. The serenity of Belur is
attributed to the celebrated temple of Channakeshava,
built by the Hoysala Kind Vishnuvardhana in 1117 A.D.
to commemorate his conversion from Jainism to
Vaishnavism.
The main structure of the temple , which is star
shaped, is a homogenous architectural unit on a raised
platform. Everything is carved in black stone, looking
like metal.
Facing the temple, at the entrance, stands the winged
figure of Garuda, Lord Vishnu's carrier. The 650
charging elephants on frieze around the walls outside
are all different from each other.
 The
exotic bracket figures (Madanikas) on the walls of
this temple are secrene, playful and amorous;
enhancing the overall effect of this pinnacle of
architectural . Inside, even in the darkness, you can
see the Hand Lathefurned shining pillars, each unique
in its own splendour. On the smooth circular platform
in front of the shrine, you can see the beautiful
Shantala Devi, queen of Kind Vishnuvardhana.
The Spotlight is now on the four famous bracket
figures on the ornate ceiling. All these figures have
been inspired by Shantala Devi's voluptuous beauty.
Sculpted limbs undulate in lyrical lines. One
sculpated beauty communicates with a pet parrot whose
tail is peacock like, another wrings water from her
long hair and you can see the drops collected on
hair-ends.
The delicacy and attention to the finest details here
are incredible.
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