Hiremagalur Kodandarama Temple, Karnataka

Address

Hiremagalur Kodandarama Temple, Hiremagalur, Karnataka 577102

Diety

Lord Rama (Vishnu)

Introduction

Kodandarama Temple is a dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in , an outskirt of Chikkamagaluru City in Chikkamagaluru District, in the Indian state of Karnataka.

Puranic Significance

According to legend, it is believed that nine siddhas (spiritual adepts) undertook penance near a pond in the village, which eventually became known as Siddha Pushkarini. The temple’s construction is said to have occurred in three stages, reflecting different historical periods and architectural styles.

The sanctum and Sukhanasi structures were constructed during the Hoysala era, showcasing the intricate Hoysala architectural features. Subsequently, in the 14th century CE, the navaranga was added to the temple, representing the architectural elements of that period. Following this, in the 16th century CE, the Mukha Mandapa was incorporated into the temple’s design, reflecting the architectural styles of that time. Furthermore, a projection of the vestibule appears to have been added to the temple during the 17th century CE. These incremental additions and modifications over the centuries contribute to the temple’s historical and architectural diversity, making it a significant cultural and religious site.

Special Features

This east-facing temple is adorned with a five-tiered Rajagopuram (entrance tower). The temple’s Sanctum Sanctorum consists of the Sanctum, Antrala, Navaranga, and Mukha Mandapa. While the Sanctum and Antrala are constructed in the Hoysala architectural style, the Sukanasi (tower) over the Antrala, as well as the Navaranga and Mukha Mandapa, appear to have been added in a later period.

The outer walls of the Navaranga and Mukha Mandapa are built using brick and mortar, suggesting later modifications to the temple’s original structure. The Sanctum and Antrala were built upon a square basement featuring six cornices. Within the sanctum, there are idols of Lord Rama, his consort Sita, and his brother Lakshmana, all placed on a Hanuman pedestal. Lord Rama and Lakshmana are depicted holding arrows in their right hands and strung bows in their left hands, while Mother Sita is positioned to the right of Lord Rama, following the tradition observed in marriage ceremonies. The style of these idols suggests that they may have been added at a later date and are not from the original Hoysala period. The temple was once situated near a pond, but this pond has since dried up, changing the landscape surrounding the temple over time.