The
small town of Banavasi
is well-known for the renowned Madhukeshwara temple. Dedicated to the Lord
Shiva, the temple derives its name from the honey-coloured lingam kept in the
inner sanctum.
Facing the lingam is a large, striking statue of
Nandi. Of special interest is the intricately carved stone cot built around
1500 years ago, which was actually used by the ruling kings of Banavasi.
Banavasi being the capital city of the Kadamba
kings, the MadhukeshwaraTemple also provides the
earliest evidence of the architectural styles that evolved during the period of
the Kadamba dynasty. Over centuries, the initial structure of the temple was
modified by various ruling dynasties; as a result the MadhukeshwaraTemple
imbibed their different architectural hallmarks.
The Sankalpa mantapa in front reveals the
influence of the Chalukyan style, while the Nritya mantapa or the dancing hall
with exquisite carving on the pillars and the ceiling was added during the
Hoysala period. There are also beautifully carved monolithic structures,
credited to Sonda rulers.
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