BENGALURU: The present book by the Filliozats is part of their continuing study of Saiva temples in Karnataka. It focuses on two temples, the Somanathesvara temple at Haralahalli and Kadambesvara temple at Rattihalli.
This book helps you to learn about the two best examples of Kalamukha shrines in the region. It focuses on the Somanatheshwara Temple at Haralahalli and Kadambeshwara Temple at Rattihalli, splendid examples of conversion of single-cell shrines into triple sancta.
The book opens with an introduction that explains trikuta temples, mythology of Sadasiva manifestation and dance pose of Natesa portrayed on both the temples.
With beautiful illustrations of the temples including their plans, 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 Someshwara Temple by King Joma (Ce 1181), one on the foundation of a temple of Daseshwara laid by Dasiraja (ce 1188) and one that eulogises the Kadambas and Minister Soma (Ce 1144).
The book, with extensive notes explains terms in a simple manner, which will prove invaluable to scholars and students of Indology, especially those interested in early medieval religion, culture and architecture in Karnataka.