Shri Channakeshava Swamy Temple - Belur Hassan
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🛕 Temple Info
Shri Channakeshava Swamy Temple is located in Belur, a heritage town situated on the banks of the Yagachi River in Hassan District, Karnataka. Belur was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire and is famous for its architectural legacy and spiritual depth.
The Shri Channakeshava Temple is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture, dedicated to Lord Channakeshava—a form of Lord Vishnu. Constructed entirely out of chloritic schist (soapstone), the temple is known for its intricate carvings, sculpted friezes, mythological reliefs, and breathtaking sculptural art.
It features a star-shaped platform (jagati) with a richly detailed mandapa (hall) and a garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) that houses the beautifully adorned idol of Lord Channakeshava in tribhanga posture. The temple includes:
- Over 644 unique elephant carvings at its base
- 40 Madanika (shilabalika) sculptures, each depicting women in various graceful forms
- Stunning stone screens (jalis) carved with geometric and narrative scenes
- Intricately carved pillars, including the famous Narashimha and Mohini pillars
- A sanctified pushkarini (tank) and lamp tower (Deepasthambha) in its premises
The temple exudes a sense of devotion, grandeur, and spiritual tranquility, making it one of the most celebrated temple complexes in South India.
Rathotsava (Chariot Festival): The temple’s grand annual celebration, attracting thousands of devotees. Lord Channakeshava is placed in a beautifully decorated chariot and paraded through the streets with devotional songs and Vedic chants.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi: A sacred day for Vishnu devotees, marked by special pujas, abhisheka, and all-night bhajans.
Brahmotsavam: Multi-day festival involving temple rituals, Vahana processions, and cultural programs.
Krishna Janmashtami: Celebrated with grandeur, as Channakeshava is seen as a manifestation of Krishna.
Kumbhabhisheka & Panchamrutha Abhisheka: Held periodically, with ritual bathing of the deity in sacred substances.
During festivals, devotees believe that just having darshan (glimpse) of Lord Channakeshava liberates one from the cycle of rebirth.
💫 Importance
Spiritual Significance: Believed to bestow moksha (liberation) on devotees who worship Lord Channakeshava here with sincerity and devotion.
Belief: Bathing in the Vishnu Sea Lake within the temple premises is said to cure skin ailments and purify sins.
Sacred Idol: The deity is referred to as Kappe Channakeshava (Frog Vishnu) due to a historical legend involving the discovery of a flaw in the idol—later replaced with a flawless one.
Artistic Brilliance: The temple stands as a pinnacle of Indian temple craftsmanship, drawing historians, artists, devotees, and tourists alike.
📜History
Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 AD after his victory over the Cholas at Talakad.
Originally named Vijayanarayana Temple, built to honor Vishnu’s blessing and to commemorate the king's religious transformation from Jainism to Vaishnavism, inspired by Ramanujacharya.
The main idol is believed to be inspired by the queen Shantaladevi, known for her beauty and devotion.
The temple’s construction was led by legendary sculptors Dasoja and Chavana of Balliganve.
A touching legend surrounds sculptor Jakanachari, who chopped off his hand in remorse after his son pointed out a flaw in the original idol. This tale is remembered at the adjacent Kappe Channakeshava Shrine.
Received patronage from later rulers, including the Vijayanagara kings and Wodeyars of Mysore.
Currently on the UNESCO Tentative List for World Heritage Sites.
🪔 Pooja Timings
Morning: 07:30 AM – 01:00 PM IST
Evening: 01:30 PM – 07:30 PM IST
🚌 Transfort Options
By Road: Well-connected via NH75 from Bangalore and Hassan
By Rail: Hassan Railway Station is the closest major railhead
By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore; Bangalore International Airport is around 220 km away
Local Transport: Autos, buses, and taxis are available from Hassan to Bel
🏙️Near By Cities
- Hassan
- KR Pete
- Chikka mangalore
- Mudigere
- Sakaleshpura
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