The Kalamukha temples in Karnataka are associated with the Lakulashaiva movement especially the beliefs and practices of the Kalamukha Shaivites and the jakkanacari style of temples in Karnataka. This volume is a study of two of the best examples of Kalamukha shrines in the region. It focuses on the Somanatheshvara temple at Haralahalli and Kadambeshvara temple at Rattihalli, splendid examples of conversion of single-cell shrines into triple sancta. With numrous illustrations of the temples including their plans and sculptures and referring to and quoting from the Agamas, the Puranas and other ancient works, it studies the architecture of the temples along with their history, the general plans of the temples, their interior including pillars, lintel and entrances, their external structure, and their iconography, particularly the main deities in the temples. It makes a unique effort to study the inscriptions associated with the temples which are in Kannada interlaced with Sanskrit verses and containing Sanskrit words, presenting their Roman transliteration and translation into English. The inscriptions include one on renovation of Someshvara temple by King Joma (ce 1181), one on the foundation of a temple of Daseshvara laid by Dasiraja (ce 1188) and one that eulogises the Kadambas and minister Soma (ce 1144).
The volume, with extensive notes that explain terms in a simple manner, will prove invaluable to scholars and students of Indology, especially those interested in early medieval religion, culture and architecture in South India.
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