Pattadakal Sri Galaganatha Temple, Karnataka

Address

Sri Galaganatha Temple, Pattadakal Group of Monuments Bagalkot district, Karnataka 587201, India

Diety

Galaganathar

Introduction

Galaganatha Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Pattadakal in Bagalkot District of Karnataka, India. This temple is part of Pattadakal Group of Monuments, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Puranic Significance

Estimated by ASI and Michell to have been complete between mid7th and early 8th century, respectively.

Special Features

The Jambulingeshwara Temple is constructed with a square-shaped sanctum sanctorum (garbha griha), and its outer walls are adorned with intricate devakoshtha, which are decorative niches. Within these niches, you can find images of deities. Vishnu is situated in the northern niche, Surya (the Sun god) in the western niche, and Lakulisha in the southern niche.

This temple also features an architectural experiment where a sukanasa, a spire-like projection, extends from the shikhara (tower) in front, over the mandapa (hall). The temple’s orientation is towards the east, symbolically welcoming the sunrise. In front of the temple, there is a raised platform for the Nandi (the divine bull and the vehicle of Lord Shiva). Unfortunately, this platform is now in a state of disrepair, and the Nandi image itself shows signs of erosion over time.

A particularly well-preserved sculpture within the temple showcases Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form, dancing with Parvati by his side and Nandi accompanying them on the frontal arch sukanasa. Architecturally, the temple is characterized by the northern rekha-nagara style, featuring a curvilinear profile with a series of diminishing squares as they ascend toward the sky. However, it’s important to note that the amalaka (crowning ornament) and kalasha (pot-like finial) in the northern style are currently damaged and missing.

The entrance of the Jambulingeshwara Temple’s mandapa is adorned with three shakhas (architectural components), each having purnakumbhas (pots filled with auspicious substances) beneath their capitals. A frieze with a swan theme covers the passageway, although the carvings of swans, kutas, and salas have faded over time. Overall, the Jambulingeshwara Temple is an architectural gem that combines intricate carvings, unique design elements, and religious symbolism, making it a significant monument within the Pattadakal complex.