Pattadakal Sri Jambulingeshwara Temple- Karnataka

Address

Pattadakal Sri Jambulingeshwara Temple, Pattadakal groups of monuments Bagalkot district, Karnataka 587201, India

Diety

Jambulingeshwarar

Introduction

The Pattadakal monuments are located in the Indian state of Karnataka, about 165 kilometres southeast of Belgaum, The Jambulingeshwara temple, also called the Jambulinga temple, is variously estimated by ASI and Michell to have been complete between mid7th and early 8th century, respectively.

Special Features

The Jambulingeshwara Temple at Pattadakal is an architectural marvel that showcases several unique features:

Square Garbhagriha: The temple is constructed around a square garbhagriha, which is the sacred sanctum. The outer walls of this sanctum are adorned with intricate devakoshtha, which are linteled niches featuring beautifully decorated frames embellished with motifs like Hamsa (swan) and mythical makaras.
Deity Images: Inside these frames, you can find images of deities. Vishnu is depicted in the north, Surya (the Sun god) in the west, and Lakulisha in the south niche.
Sukanasa Projection: An interesting architectural experiment in this temple involves the sukanasa, a spire-like projection, extending from the shikhara (tower) in front, over the mandapa (hall). This feature adds a distinctive element to the temple’s design.
Orientation: The temple is oriented to the east, symbolically welcoming the sunrise and greeting the new day.
Nandi Platform: In front of the temple, there is a raised platform for the Nandi (the divine bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva). However, this platform is now in ruins, and the Nandi image shows signs of erosion over time.
Sculptures: The frontal arch of the sukanasa displays a well-preserved sculpture of Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form, dancing alongside Parvati with Nandi by their side. This artwork is a notable highlight of the temple.
Architectural Style: The temple’s architectural style is classified as northern rekha-nagara. It features 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 have been damaged and are no longer in place.
Entrance Decoration: The entrance to the Jambulingeshwara Temple’s mandapa is adorned with three shakhas (architectural components) with purnakumbhas (pots filled with auspicious substances) below their capitals. A frieze with a swan theme covers the passageway, although the carvings of swans have faded with time.

The Jambulingeshwara Temple is a fine example of the artistic and architectural excellence of the Chalukya period. Its unique features, intricate carvings, and architectural experiments make it a significant monument within the Pattadakal complex, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region.