Kasivisvesvara Temple

Kasivisvesvara Temple is one of the most ornate temples in the Indian state of Karnataka. According to the inscription of 1087A.D. the temple had a simple construction and decoration was added later on. Hoyslala King Veera Ballala II annexed Lakkundi from the Senas of Devagiri and made it the capital of his kingdom around 1193 CE. There is a possibility that the temple may have been renovated during his rule.

This temple has two shrines one facing east and the other one faces the west. The one facing the east is dedicated to Kasivisvesvara or Lord Shiva whose symbol, a linga, is three feet tall that is in the sanctum. The one facing the main shrine is dedicated to Lord Surya that is known as Suryanarayana. This shrine faces west. This temple also epitomizes the shift in Chalukyan artistic achievements. Mouldings, arches and decorations on door jambs and lintels have been done with special attention.

The architecture has been inspired by the architecture of northern India. Several decorative miniature towers of the Sekhari and Bhumija types, supported on plasters are features of this temple. Sculptural depictions of deities were discreet and the pillar bodies appeared as wall decorations are the other features of this temple.

The sculpture of Kasivisvesvara Temple was one of the earliest architectural buildings to define the Karnataka dravida tradition. Kasivisvesvara Temple is a double shrined temple or `dwikuta.` There are two shrines within the temple complex. The principle shrine faces east and the presiding deity is Kasivisvesvara or Lord Shiva. The other shrine is dedicated to the sun god, Surya. The sculpture of Kasivisvesvara Temple reflects a shift in style of the Chalukyan art and architecture. In this temple the stone work is sharper and crisper. Four inner bands of scrolls decorate the southern doorway.

The lintel of the doorway is adorned with the sculpted image of Gaja-Lakshmi with elephants presented on either side. Above the lower cornice the entablature comprises smaller carved figures. The decoration of the eastern doorway lacks the grandeur of the southern one. Above the cornice the sculpted figures of a procession of men and animals are to be found. The three Hindu gods, Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara, are placed above the men and animals.

Inside the temple the lathe-turned pillars are sculpted with bracketed figures. These bracketed figures comprise little lions, kirthimukhas (demon faces) and scrolls. Sculptural depictions of deities were less.