Both Belur and Halebidu (Halebid or Halebeedu) are crucial for understanding the Hoysala dynasty's architectural and cultural achievements, they offer distinct experiences. Belur’s active religious life and festivals contrast with Halebidu’s focus on historical exploration and architectural study. Both sites together provide a comprehensive picture of the Hoysala era’s glory and legacy.
Historical Significance
Belur:
- Chennakesava Temple: The Chennakesava Temple in Belur was built by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire in 1117 AD to commemorate his victory over the Cholas at the Battle of Talakad.
- Spiritual Hub: Belur was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire and is considered a significant spiritual center for Vaishnavites, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Cultural Flourishing: The town reflects the Hoysala period's cultural and artistic zenith, marked by patronage of literature, music, and dance.
Halebidu:
- Hoysaleswara Temple: Halebidu, initially called Dwarasamudra, houses the Hoysaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, built around the same period as Belur’s Chennakesava Temple.
- Political Importance: Halebidu was the second capital of the Hoysala Empire after Belur and faced repeated invasions by the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century, leading to its decline.
- Architectural Marvel: Known for its intricate detailing and magnificent craftsmanship, Halebidu’s temples are exemplary models of Hoysala architecture.
Architectural Style
Belur:
- Star-shaped Platform: The temples in Belur, especially the Chennakesava Temple, are built on a star-shaped platform, which is characteristic of Hoysala architecture.
- Sculptural Detailing: The Chennakesava Temple boasts detailed sculptures depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Puranas. Each pillar in the temple is intricately carved, and no two pillars are identical.
- Hoysala Emblem: The emblem of the Hoysala dynasty, a warrior stabbing a lion, is prominently displayed, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Halebidu:
- Soapstone Usage: The temples are constructed from soapstone, allowing for minute and elaborate carvings.
- Double Shrine: The Hoysaleswara Temple is unique with its dvikuta (two shrines), each with its sanctum. One is dedicated to Hoysaleswara (Shiva), and the other to Shantaleswara (named after Queen Shantala Devi).
- Friezes and Panels: The walls of the temples are adorned with friezes and panels depicting episodes from Hindu mythology, animals, birds, and deities, showcasing exceptional detail and craftsmanship.
Religious and Cultural Practices
Belur:
- Annual Festivals: Belur hosts several annual festivals, including the Chennakesava Car Festival, drawing thousands of devotees.
- Yakshagana Performances: The traditional Yakshagana dance-drama, which narrates stories from epics and mythology, is an integral part of the cultural fabric.
- Active Worship: The Chennakesava Temple is an active place of worship, maintaining its religious significance over centuries.
Halebidu:
- Less Active Worship: While still a site of historical and architectural interest, Halebidu’s temples are not as active in daily worship as Belur’s.
- Tourist Attraction: Halebidu is more frequented by tourists and scholars interested in its architectural beauty and historical context rather than for religious activities.
- Research and Preservation: The site is a focus of ongoing archaeological research and conservation efforts to preserve its heritage.
Lesser Known Facts
Belur:
- Artistic Patronage: Belur was a center for artistic patronage, attracting artisans from various parts of India, leading to a fusion of styles.
- Sthambha (Pillars): The Narasimha Pillar in the Chennakesava Temple was designed to rotate on its ball bearings, a testament to the advanced engineering skills of Hoysala artisans.
- Temple Structure: The Chennakesava Temple has 48 carved pillars in the main hall, each with unique and elaborate designs, including the famous Mohini Pillar depicting Vishnu in his Mohini avatar.
Halebidu:
- Underground Drainage: Halebidu had a sophisticated underground drainage system, reflecting advanced urban planning during the Hoysala period.
- Museum: The Archaeological Museum at Halebidu houses numerous sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts excavated from the site, providing insight into Hoysala history and culture.
- Incomplete Structures: Many of Halebidu's temples remain incomplete, likely due to the repeated invasions and subsequent decline of the Hoysala Empire.
Importance
Belur:
- Living Heritage: Belur is a living heritage site with ongoing religious activities, festivals, and traditions that connect the present with the past.
- Cultural Continuity: The continuation of traditional arts and crafts, such as intricate sandalwood carvings and silk weaving, links Belur’s past to its present.
Halebidu:
- Architectural Education: Halebidu serves as an open-air museum for students of architecture and history, providing tangible lessons in Hoysala architecture and urban planning.
- Heritage Conservation: The site underscores the importance of heritage conservation, highlighting the need to protect and preserve ancient monuments for future generations.