Keladi Rameshwara Temple – Karnataka

Address

Keladi Rameshwara Temple – Karnataka

Keladi, Shivamogga district

Karnataka 577430

Moolavar

Rameshwara

Introduction

Keladi Rameshwara temple in Sagar, Shivamogga district is also known as a twin temple to Ikkeri Temple which is a few miles away from the Keladi temple. Carvings of a woman paying homage to the deity Ganesh on a 24 feet high pillar in the backyard are believed to be of Keladi queen Chennamma who bravely fought Sultan Aurangzeb. Popularly known as Rameshwara Temple, the temple showcases the glorious past of the empire depicting the rich heritage, culture, and art from the era.

Puranic Significance 

Keladi was the first capital of the eminent Keladi Nayakas. The capital later was shifted to Ikkeri under Chandrappa Nayaka (A.D 1499-1544).The premises, the main temple boasts of a Garbhagriha with Mukhamandapa and Mahamandapa. A Nandi in front of Rameshwara temple facing the lord Shiva. These mandapa are common for both Rameshwara as well as lord Veerabhadra. The temple is sited on an elevated platform with a tall Dwajasthambam just outside the Veerabhadra temple. Nandi, the vehicle of Lord Shiva sits on this Dwajasthambam.

The inside structure of the Veerabhadra temple has some astonishing works of craftsmanship with structures of various animals like lions, tigers, elephants, horses, and many other birds. The sanctum ceiling has a beautifully carved Gandaberunda. Gandaberunda is a two-headed bird symbolizing strength and power and was a symbol of Vijayanagara Kings, Wadiyars of Mysore, and the Keladi Empire. This Gandaberunda is a symbol carried on most of the heritage buildings and monuments in Karnataka. Although the temple is still active, it is maintained and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Century/Period

A.D 1499-1544

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India.

Nearest Bus Station

Keladi 

Nearest Railway Station

Shivamogga

Nearest Airport

Mangaluru. 

Location on Map

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