Unique Architectures of Bhoganandishwara Temple

Southern India is like a goldmine of ancient wonders that stand proudly for ages. Think of stunning temples with different styles, each holds its own story. Some are known for their religious importance, others for their impressive architecture, while some carry both significance beautifully. From big Dravidian structures to detailed designs from the Vijayanagara time, these temples have fancy pillars and carvings that must take you to the past. One such temple is Karnataka’s Bhoganandishwara Temple.

Though the temple is mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva, it also represents Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and Vedic deities. The entire temple complex has more than one shrine that represents different stages of Lord Shiva’s life. Apart from this, here you can also witness the harmonious blend of architectural styles from at least five dynasties.

Location and History of Bhoganandishwara Temple: 

The temple complex is situated in Nandi village, found at the foothills of Nandi Hills (Nandidurga), in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. 

More than a thousand years old Bhoganandishwara Temple follows the remarkable Dravidian architecture.

Furthermore, the temple and the entire temple complex got its present structure through the contributions of various dynasties. Initially, Bana queen Ratnavali started the construction, around the 9th century CE. Later, it underwent expansions by different dynasties like the Ganga, Chola, Hoysala, Pallava, and Vijayanagara.   

The Temple Complex and Architecture:

Though the temple is widely known as Bhoganandishwara Temple, the complex also includes its twin temple called Arunachaleswara Temple. The large temple complex has its entrance in the north perimeter wall; while the access to the main temple gains through an unfinished gateway. Apart from these twin temples, the complex consists of various other attractions as well, such as Shringeri Teertha, carved stone umbrella, temple chariot, and many more. 

The Twin Temples:

 The two temples are recognized as twin temples due to their identical size and construction. But, they are the constructions of different dynasties. Among those, the Bhoganandishwara temple is the oldest one and was initially built by the Banas. However, the roof was added later by the Cholas. The Arunachaleswara, on the other hand, was constructed in the later century, by the Gangas of Talakad. They share a large courtyard and a Mukha Mandapa. Additionally, both have an individual garbhagriha, a sukanasi, and a four-pillared navaranga. Each garbhagriha enshrines a large Shiva Lingam and forms Dravidian style Vimana. Besides, there are two Nandi mandapas, each facing the individual shrine. 

The temples are beautifully decorated with various sculptures. Perforated stone screens, called Jali, adorn the vestibule and hall. The outer walls also feature pilasters and perforated decorative stone windows. For example, the window on the southern wall of the Arunachaleswara temple depicts the Shiva in dancing form. And the window on the northern wall of Bhoganandishwara temple depicts Maa Durga, standing on a buffalo head. 

Notably, the two temples represent two different stages of Shiva’s life. The Arunachaleswara represents the childhood of Lord Shiva; while the Bhoganandishwara represents his youth. As the youth is meant for joy and celebration, the Bhoganandishwara temple organizes various festivals throughout the year. 

Uma Maheshwara Shrine:

 In the middle of the twin temples, there is another small shrine, called Uma-Maheshwara shrine. Most probably, this place represents the married phase of Lord Shiva. A marriage altar, named Kalyana Mandapa, lies in front of the Uma-Maheshwara shrines. The Kalyana mandapa is supported by four decorated black stone pillars. Each pillar displays the divine couples like Shiva – Parvati, Brahma – Saraswathi, Vishnu – Laxmi, and the Vedic god Agni Deva – Swaha Devi. Apart from these, the mandapa also depicts the decorative figures of various birds and creepers. 

However, this structure is a later addition to the temple complex. Most probably, it was included during the post-Vijayanagara rule of the Gowdas of the Yelahanka dynasty. Interestingly, the clever construction of a wall that connects the twin temples makes it indistinguishable from the originals.

Shringeri Teertha and Its Mythological Story:

 This is one of the most beautiful sites of the entire temple complex. The Shringeri Teertha is a large stepped temple tank surrounded by a walkway on all sides. The place lies in a completely separate compound within the complex. On the festival days, the tank becomes adorned with lamps, offering an even more breathtaking view. 

Additionally, the tank holds a mythological story about its origin. Once, the heavenly bull Nandi used his horn to bring water from the sacred Ganga by plunging it into the ground. According to the legends, that was the time when the tank was created. Further, the Shringeri Teertha is also believed to be the source of the South Pennar (South Pinakini) River. 

Some Other Important Structures:

 Apart from the mentioned constructions, the temple complex consists of various other structures, with impressive artworks. Among those, an intricately carved stone umbrella is the most stunning one. Probably, it is placed in front of the Bhoganandishwara shrine. Further, step through the northern doorway of the twin temple courtyard, here is another smaller compound, enclosed by colonnades. This compound has two decorative structures, named Tulabhara Mandapa and Navaranga Mandapa. Additionally, within the complex, there is an ornately carved wooden temple chariot, which also deserves a closer look. The artworks on the chariot especially depict the scenes of people being trampled by rearing horses. 

Notably, the entire site including the twin temples is now safeguarded by the Archaeological Survey of India due to its national importance. Apart from its religious significance, the temple also attracts tourists with its impressive artwork.