| This temple deserves to be included in the list of monuments of National importance.
This dwikuta temple with two garbhagrihas, standing side by side and both facing east was
constructed in two periods. The earlier one is dedicated Shankara and the later to Narayana.
The temple belongs to 12th century AD, the later Chalukyan, whereas the Narayana temple
belongs to 14th century AD. The beauty of the temple is that the two are combined into one
by common sabhamantapa. Here also the Sabhamantapa portion infront of
the Shankara temple is of the 12th century, and one in front of the Narayana temple is of
14th century. Infact these portions are navarangas of respective temples, but merged with
each other. While making these changes in 14th century, they have given utmost care to
see that all the characteristic features of the earlier one is not obliterated in any manner.
In fact, the added portion that is the Narayana temple merges beautifully with the earlier
one and gives an impression that it is single temple with two garbhagrihas. Another interesting
aspect is that there is no antarala to any one of the temples. Instead there is a narrow
common passage in front of the two garbhagrihas running north to south to the width of
the Sabhamantapa. The screen between Sabhamantapa and passage is beautifully carved with
bas-reliefs of sculptures.
Mention may be made of Saraswathi,
anthropomorphic nandi, shalabhanjika, ananthsayi
Vishnu, Rathi-Manmatha are given very prominent
position in this temple. Here also, in the panel
of dashavatara Jaina Teerthankara is represented
instead of Buddha. The central bay of the Sabhamantapa
in front of the Shankara temple is decorated with
bhuvaneswari or domical ceiling. This is beautifully
carved and eight projections on eight directions
in the domical ceiling are carved with ashtadikpalas.
Sabhamantapa as a whole is provided with kakshasanas.
Condition of the Temple
The temple, especially the sabhamantapa is in worst condition. The sabhamantapa with double-
roof is leaking profusely. The flooring slabs are disturbed. The architectural members of
the kakshasana have gone out of their original positions in many places. Therefore,
whole roof of the sabhamantapa will have to be dismantled and reset as per the original.
The flooring will have to be reconditioned. The kakshawnas will have to be reset as per
the original plan. The stone slabs of the courtyard will have to be dismantled dressed and
re-laid. Very good arrangement should be made for the easy flow of rainwater from
the premises.
Fortunately, the foundation seems to be in good condition, except for disturbances in
a few places. Therefore, strengthening of the foundation in such places is required. |
