August 21, 2008
August 15, 2008
August 5, 2008
Enchanting Somnathpur and Brindavan Gardens
As we reached Somnathpur, a small village on the banks of the river Cauvery that was founded by the commander of the Hoyasala army, Somnath. The temple was consecrated in 1268 AD and is dedicated to Lord Keshava. As we entered the beautifully maintained lawn which held some of the stone sculptures was most welcoming. Amidst the lasting rural serenity I could see the Kesava temple, one of the grandest of the Hoysala monuments standing high in pride!
The Kesava temple at Somnathpur, resting 45 km from
This splendid temple has been built in the Hoyasala style of architecture . The Hoysalas were a mighty martial race who ruled large parts of present day Karnataka between 1100 and 1320 AD.
The temple is famous for its elaborate and intricate sculpturing and is built on an elevated star shaped platform. The sides of the raised platform are decorated with richly carved friezes, portraying rows of cavalry, elephants and scenes from the epics. The rows above have sculptures of Gods mainly Vishnu in various forms. The shrine has three shrines and three sanctums. The temple has three intricately carved pinnacles and a common Navranga. The northern sanctum has the idol of Lord Janardhana and the southern sanctum has the idol of Lord Venugopala. The main hall has exquisitely turned pillars and ceiling panels. The image of Lord Keshava that once adorned the main hall is missing today, but the other two still adorn the sanctums in their original form.
The temple is an example of the grand and glorious temples built by the Hoysala rulers. The names of the sculptors are inscribed on their works, which was a common practice during the reign of the Hoysalas. This Hoysala temple at Somnathpur, is truly unique in design, perfect in proportion and the stone carvings are striking marvels in stone! One can feel an eternal stillness and freshness in the air as if the place is if saying eternity grows here …
The Brindavan garden is located about 19kms from the heart of
The gardens were designed by Sir Mirza Ismail another important and progressive Diwan of
The best time to visit the gardens is after sunset when all the bright colourful fountains come alive and seem to dance with joy to the accompanying music. This is a sight worth beholding as the entire garden is transformed into a fairyland. Well we wished we could stay back till then hmm… not all in life happens as per your wish :)