![]() History of Kamala Narayana Temple In ancient India, temple building was the forte of the Kadambas who were famed for their unique style. Mayurasharma was the founder of this dynasty who established it in 4th century AD. Belgaum district and Halasi served as their second capital which house a few temples constructed by the Kadamba rulers out of which the Kamala Narayana Temple in Devgram is much renowned. The beauty of the temple is also believed to have impressed the Hoyosalas which inspired them to use similar architectural style in their temples. Architecture of Kamala Narayana Temple The Kadamba style of architecture is characterized by the tapering terraced tower forming a perfect pyramid and dynamic line of each terrace, prominent from even a long distance. Kamala Narayana Temple is believed to exhibit the pinnacle of perfection of this style. ![]() Cells of Kamala Narayana Temple The three cells of the temple shelter different images of deities. The first cell has an image of Narayana. The second one has the idol of Lakshmi-Narayana along with Lakshmi, seated on the lap of Lord Vishnu. On either side of this idol stand Garuda and Maruti. The third cell of the temple contains image of Kamala and two attendants on its either side. Walls of Kamala Narayana Temple The walls of the temple are profusely decorated with plastered niche which are further surmounted by terraced pyramidal towers exhibiting Kadamba style crowning with a Kalasha on the parapets that surround the Mukhamandapa. Several friezes have been made for ornamentation. Prominent friezes show beautiful scroll work, pillars with roaring lions between them and pyramidal towers over the pillars with dancing girls in varied poses. |