Lakkundi Kasivisvesvara Temple, Karnataka

Address

Lakkundi Kasivisvesvara Temple, Lakkundi, Karnataka 582115

Diety

Kasivisvesvara

Introduction

The Kasivisvesvara Temple, also known as the Kashivishveshvara Temple, is situated in Lakkundi, Gadag, and it held a prominent place as a center of activity and cultural development during the Western Chalukya Empire. The temple is located on the banks of the River Tungabhadra, a region known for its rich historical heritage and numerous medieval monuments. These monuments are notable for their Dravidian temple architecture.

While the Kasivisvesvara Temple is now in a state of ruins, it remains one of the most ornate temples in the Karnataka region. The temple’s beams contain inscriptions dating back to 1087 CE, indicating that it has witnessed various modifications and renovations over the centuries under different rulers, from the Cholas to the Chalukyas.

The temple is characterized as a dual shrine or dvikuta, with one shrine facing east dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a linga, and the other shrine facing west dedicated to the Sun god. This dual-shrine structure is a unique feature of the temple and adds to its historical and architectural significance.