Harihareshwara Temple of Harihar, Karnataka: A fine example of Hoysala architectural brilliance

Harihareshwara  temple, Harhar, KA en.wikipedia.org

Harihareshwara temple Harihar, KA .astroved.com

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Harihareshwara Temple, of Harihar in Karnataka, is an outstanding Hoysala-era Hindu temple constructed around 1223–1224 CE by Polalva, a commander and minister under King Vira Narasimha II of the Hoysala Empire. In 1268 CE, further additions were made by Soma, a commander under King Narasimha III. The temple dedicated to Harihara, is a unique composite deity representing a vertical fusion of Lord Vishnu (Hari) on the left and Lord Shiva (Hara) on the right. This divine form symbolizes the unity of Vaishnavism and Shaivism. The deity holds the attributes of Shiva in the right hand and those of Vishnu in the left, reflecting theological harmony.

Harihareshwara temple Harihar,itslife.in

Harihareshwara temple Harihar, thetempleguru.com

Above images: Harihareshwara temple Harihar. Lathe-turned well polished pillars. These pillars and other features are made from soapstone available in the nearby areas. Also known  as steatite or (soap rock), it is a talc-schist, which is a type of metamorphic rock. It is composed largely of the magnesium-rich mineral talc. Rock of  this type, because  of their low hardness can  be easily carved, chiseled into good looking objects. In most of the Hoysala and Chalukaya temples, etc.,  soapstone rocks are extensively  used  for decorative and aesthetic  purposes.........

Harihareshwara temple, KA thetempleguru.com

Above image: Note the roof eaves all around the structure. The overhanging  edges of a roof  serve both  practical  and aesthetic purposes.  The overhanging edges of a roof that extend outward, provide shelter from rain and sun, and also contribute significantly to the temple's visual appeal. The eaves in some temple, carry decorative elements  of cultural and  religious significance.........

Harihareshwara temple Harhar, KA thetempleguru.com

According to legend, a demon named Guha, who ruled over a large region around Harihar, performed severe penance to please Brahma and was granted a boon that made him invincible to either Vishnu or Shiva alone. Empowered by this, Guha became a menace to both gods and mortals. To end his tyranny, Vishnu and Shiva fused into one form—Harihara—and destroyed him. The site of this divine incarnation is believed to be at Kudalur, near the confluence of the Tungabhadra and Haridra rivers.

Ornate ceiling and walls. Harihareshwara temple 
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Richly ornate Tower, Harihareshwara temple Harhar 
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The temple exemplifies Hoysala architectural brilliance, featuring a staggered square plan for the mantapa (hall), creating multiple projections and recesses on its exterior. The open mantapa has ornate ceilings with lotus motifs, supported by lathe-turned soapstone pillars. The parapet walls bear half-pillars that support the cornices, contributing to the intricate design. Though the original stone tower (vimana) over the sanctum is lost, it has been replaced with a brick and mortar structure in recent times. Several old-Kannada inscriptions and hero stones remain within the temple complex, providing valuable historical insight. The temple continues to be a site of religious significance and architectural heritage

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harihareshwara_Temple

https://www.astroved.com/astropedia/en/temples/south-india/harihareshwara-temple

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