Haveri Siddhesvara Temple, Karnataka

Address

Haveri Siddhesvara Temple Haveri, Haveri district, Haveri Railway Station Rd, Netaji Nagar, Karnataka 581110

Diety

Siddhesvara

Introduction

The Siddhesvara Temple, also known as Purada Siddeshwara, located in Haveri, Karnataka, is an exquisite example of 12th-century Western Chalukyan art and architecture.

Location and Orientation:

The Siddhesvara Temple is situated in Haveri, a town in Haveri district, Karnataka, India.
It is well-known for its west-facing orientation, which is unique since most Chalukyan temples typically face east, toward the rising sun.

Architectural Characteristics:

The temple is constructed using soapstone, a common material for many historic temples in the region.
It features a unique architectural style and intricate craftsmanship that is characteristic of Western Chalukyan temples.

Historical Significance:

Haveri, originally known as Nalapuri, has a long history as one of the oldest agraharas (centers of learning) in Karnataka. An inscription from 1067 CE mentions the grant of the village to 400 Brahmins.

Religious History:

The original consecration and deity of the Siddhesvara Temple are subjects of uncertainty among historians. The temple has seen various phases of worship by different religious communities over the years.
It is believed that the temple might have been initially consecrated as a Vaishnava temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu) and later taken over by Jains who may have removed some of the original images. Eventually, it became a Shaiva temple under the worship of Lord Shiva.

Sculptural Treasures:

The temple’s open mantapa (hall) is adorned with sculptures that depict various deities, including Uma Maheshvara (Shiva and Parvati), Vishnu and Lakshmi, the Sun God Surya, Naga-Nagini (snake deities), Ganapati, and Kartikeya (the sons of Shiva).
The four-armed image of Shiva holds his attributes: the damaru (drum), aksamala (beads), and the trishul (trident) in three of his hands.
An intriguing niche in the temple houses a unique male figure with six hands, holding lingas and a chakra.

The Siddhesvara Temple, with its rich history and stunning artwork, stands as a testament to the cultural and religious diversity that has evolved over the centuries in the region.