The Chennakeshava Temple on the banks of
River Kaveri at Somanathapura, Karnataka, is a Vaishnava Hindu temple . The temple was
consecrated in 1258 CE by Somanatha Dandanayaka, a general of the Hoysala
King Narasimha III. The Kesava temple was badly damaged, according to 15th
century inscriptions. It was repaired in 16th century with financial support
and grants by the Vijayanagara Empire kings. The repairs are
evidenced by the different color of stones and quality of work in the veranda
and parts of the northern tower and platform of the main temple. The repaired
temple was damaged in 19th century, and then repaired again in early 20th
century by the colonial era Mysore government.
The main temple faces the east. The ASI which manages the
temple has added a wooden door to the temple. Inside the door is the Navaranga
with the usual nine squares suggested by ancient Hindu texts on temple design.
The square format is stretched towards the east by providing three ankanas and
jagali platforms for the visiting devotees to sit. The architects have brought
in light by integrating perforated screens on the wall.
The most characteristic feature of this temple is its 16
different ceilings in the Navaranga squares, nine in the sabha mandapa and the
remaining seven in the extension near the eastern entrance. These are well
carved, each different with nature motifs and Hindu theology symbolism
embedded. These decorations include different stages of lotus opening, blooming
banana bud motifs, stepped ponds and endless (ananta) knots symbolizing
karma and samsara.
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