Chennakeshava is a manifestation of Bhagvan Vishnu and in
this form the deity is widely worshipped in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and
Telangana. Chenna Keshava literally means the ‘handsome Keshava’. Keshava is
one among the numerous names of Vishnu.
The most famous temple dedicated to Chennakeshava is located
in Belur in Karnataka. The other temples dedicated to the deity are found in K
Bitragunta, Karimnagar, Kadapa, Anekal, Bagur, Sullia, Udupi, Hullekere, and
Tumkur.
In Murti form Chennakeshava is in the Chaturbhuja form –
four armed. The deity is usually made of black stone. The upper right hand
holds conch; the upper left hand holds discus, lower right hand holds lotus,
and lower left hand holds mace.
Chennakeshava is flanked by his consorts Sridevi and
Bhudevi.
The deity is lavishly dressed with fine clothes and jewelry.
The concept of Chennakeshava is based on the Supreme Being
taking the most handsome form to give darshan to his devotees. A devotee wants
to see his Lord in the most wonderful form. This is a form of Bhakti that is
widely practiced today.