Belur
is known as the Dakshina Varanasi or Southern Banaras. The serenity of
Belur is attributed to the celebrated temple of Chennakeshava, built by
the Hoysala Kind Vishnuvardhana in 1117 A.D. to commemorate his conversion
from Jainism to Vaishnavism. The main structure of the temple , which
is star shaped, is a homogenous architectural unit on a raised platform.
Everything is carved in black stone, looking like metal. Facing the temple,
at the entrance, stands the winged figure of Garuda, Lord Vishnu's carrier.
The 650 charging elephants on frieze around the walls outside are all
different from each other.The exotic bracket figures (Madanikas) on the walls of this temple are secrene, playful and amorous; enhancing the overall effect of this pinnacle of architectural . Inside, even in the darkness, you can see the Hand Lathefurned shining pillars, each unique in its own splendour. On the smooth circular platform in front of the shrine, you can see the beautiful Shantala Devi, queen of Kind Vishnuvardhana. The Spotlight is now on the four famous bracket figures on the ornate ceiling.
All these figures have been inspired by Shantala Devi's voluptuous beauty. Sculpted limbs undulate in lyrical lines. One sculpated beauty communicates with a pet parrot whose tail is peacock like, another wrings water from her long hair and you can see the drops collected on hair-ends. The delicacy and attention to the finest details here are incredible.
