Pattadakal Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka

Address

Pattadakal Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal, Pattadakal Group of Monuments, Karnataka 587201

Deity

Shiva

Introduction

The Virupaksha Temple in Pattadakal, Karnataka, is indeed a remarkable architectural and historical site.

Architectural Significance:

The Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the Pattadakal Group of Monuments, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the significant temples within this group.

Sponsorship and Dating:

The temple was commissioned by Queen Lokmahadevi and dates back to approximately 740 CE. Its construction was sponsored by the queen, making it a royal patronage temple.

Inspirational Sources:

The Virupaksha Temple is known to have influenced the design of the famous Kailasha temple at the Ellora Caves. It’s interesting to note that the Virupaksha Temple itself took inspiration from the Kailasanatha Temple at Kanchipuram. This exchange of architectural ideas and influences is a fascinating aspect of temple construction during this era.

Archaeological Significance:

The temple is considered a protected monument under Indian law and is under the care and management of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This legal protection ensures its preservation for future generations.

Architectural Style:

The temple follows a common architectural style seen in the region, with an east-facing layout. The central square garbha griha houses the Shiva Linga. It also features a covered circumambulatory path (pradakshina patha) around the sanctum.
The temple complex includes an antarala (vestibule) in front of the sanctum with two small shrines inside. These shrines house images of Ganesha and Parvati in her Durga aspect as Mahishasuramardini.

Nandi Pavilion:

An external Nandi pavilion is part of the temple complex. It is aligned on an east-west axis, similar to the orientation of the mandapa and antechamber.

Carvings and Iconography:

The temple’s walls are adorned with intricate carvings that depict deities and themes from various traditions, including Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism. Notable deities and themes represented include Narasimha, Varaha, Bhairava, Nataraja, Harihara, Lakulisa, Brahma, Durga, Saraswathi, Lakshmi, and more.

Historical Inscriptions:

The temple boasts historically significant inscriptions that provide insights into the society and culture of 8th-century India. These inscriptions reveal details about the temple’s construction and the successful military campaigns of King Vikramaditya II against the Pallavas, which led to its construction.

Craftsmanship:

The temple’s artwork is of the highest quality, with each panel showcasing expert craftsmanship. Notably, the names of the artists responsible for the carvings are inscribed beneath their respective works, giving credit to the skilled craftsmen.

The Virupaksha Temple is a masterpiece of Chalukyan architecture and serves as a valuable historical and cultural treasure that continues to attract visitors and researchers interested in India’s rich architectural and artistic heritage.