Lost temples of Karnataka: Kaidala & Seebi

 

Overview:
Kaidala: Introducing the little known village in Tumkur District- Kaidala. This village is known to be the birth place of the great architect of the Hoysalas, Jakanachari. Jakanachari started his art work from the ChennaKeshava temple at Somnathpura, Mysore district. The sculptures were crafted by the Jakanacheri under the Hoysala king Narasimha and commander Soma. Impressed by his amazing craftsmanship, he won several contracts to be built under the Hoysalas in Hassan district, Chikamagalur district and Mandya district; the remains of which can be seen and admired today. One of the biggest pieces of his excellence came when he was involved in the contruction of the majestic Chennakeshava temple in Belur. It was during this construction of the Belur temple when Jakanachari's son Dankanachari, alleges that the main idol in the temple is defective. Jakanachari, clearly not impressed with this, challenges his son that if he is proved correct, he would cut off his right hand. On inspection of the idol, it was indeed found that the idol had a small cavity which was occupied by a frog and wet mud. Disappointed with his negligence, as promised, he cuts off his right hand. Dankanachari, on getting this news, immediately decides to work with his father on installation of a Chennakeshava temple in Kaidala, his native place. Jakanachari sculpts the idol with his left hand, and miraculously his right hand is restored. Hence the name of the place, which was initially Kridapura, was named Kaidala, 'Kai' means 'Hand' in Kannada.
The temple has a simple look as opposed to other temples of his times. But inside the temple is the breath taking idol of Chennakeshava which is far more impressive than the other temples. The intricate carvings make it look absolutely stunning. Also there is a hole on the wall through which the sunlight comes and directly hits the idol on certain days which is just amazing. No wonder a movie is also based on the life of Jakanachari.
Next to this temple is another temple belonging to the Hoysala era, the Gangadheeshwara temple which was locked from outside. We just peeped inside through the grilled doors, we could only see some pillars with carvings.
                  

Seebi: Another 32 kms North west of Kaidala is the temple of Narasimha Swamy at Seebi. This place is known for its paintings on the beams and ceilings of this temple. The paintings depict the avatars of Vishnu and instances from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Kaidala Narsimhaswamy temple is widely known and it is believed that the wishes are fulfilled by the God if asked with dedication. Food is also served in the temple premises. Photography is restricted within the temple though.
       
     
How to reach: Take the NH4 to Tumkur, before reching Tumkur, watch out for a left turn towards Shimoga and Gubbi. Turn left and continue for around 7 kms before taking a left turn towards Gulur. Kaidala is around 2 kms from Gulur.
Seebi is situated on the National Highway 4. To reach there from Kaidala, drive back towards Gulur, from there head towards Tumkur town and proceed towards NH4 towards Sira. Watch out for boards on the left side showing directions for Seebi Narasimhaswamy temple. The temple is also visible from the highway on the right side while coming from Tumkur.
Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amarashilpi_Jakanachari
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEEBI
Map:
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Comments

  1. It Seems great That You are Doing The Work which has To Be Done By Archaeological Department Of India.

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  2. the temples are really beautiful, thanks for sharing ^_^

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