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Sculpture of Dodda Basappa Temple
Sculpture of Dodda Basappa Temple, Dambal is a fine specimen of 12th century Western Chalukya architecture.

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Sculpture of Dodda Basappa Temple, Dambal, Indian SculptureSculpture of Dodda Basappa Temple stands as a symbol of development in the Chalukya architecture. Almost all the features of Western Chalukya sculptures and architectures are to be found in this Shaiva temple. The temple drifts away from the conventional form of Dravidian art and sculpture. The sculpture of Dodda Basappa Temple mirrors the Karnata dravida architectural tradition.

Dodda Basappa Temple is known for its multigonal stellar shape. The pillars in this temple too have been carved out of stone. These are well defined and there are sculptures that adorn them. The entrance of the Dodda Basappa Temple has decorative mouldings above it. There were images in between the decorations. The spaces are still visible but the images are missing. On the either side of the temple elaborate and intricate sculptures are to be found. Apart from the foliage sculptures there are carved figures of miyhuna couple, dancers and musicians. The main mantapa has three images of Hindu deities: a five headed Brahma, his vahana, goose and two images of the sun god, Surya. The lintel of the east doorframe was once beautifully engraved with fine decorations.

An important feature of this temple is the large stone carving of Nandi which faces the inner chamber. This has been created on a pillared extension of the main mandapa. The place where the Nandi resides is similar to the open hall (mandapa).

The sculpture of Dodda Basappa Temple also includes kirtimukhas that are found in the recesses. Sculpted pilasters with various figures and the Dravida styled miniature towers add to the beauty and sculpture and architecture of Dodda Basappa Temple.

The entrance to the shrine has above it a decorative architrave with space for images which are now missing of the Hindu Gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The entrance is elaborately decorated on either side with designs that are floral containing tiny images of dancers, musicians and even a mithuna couple.

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