Heragu - Kali Kamateshwara Temple

Heragu-Kali Kamateshwara Temple

Here comes a historic temple from hoysala period Kali Kamateshwara temple which is at Heragu, Hassan. The temple is in ekakuta style and built in 1159 A.D. by Sovanathimmayya, a chief of Heragu village under Hoysala King Narasimha. The temple consists of a garbhagriha, sukhanasi, central hall and a porch which is similar to other hoysala temples in architecture.

This temple is located behind Keertinarayana temple at a walkable distance. The temple needs to be rejuvenated in order to attract visitors. Inside the temple it has got well carved idols. Present maintenance and cleanliness is highly appreciable.

Stone inscription

Adjoining to the temple, a stone inscription can be found. The inscription translation states that the temple is a gift by the Sovanathimmayya, the chief of Heragu on behalf of his King Narasimha. Though there is no signs in the outer structure to Hoysala architecture, the only evidence remaining is inscription.

Sukhanasi lintel

The central hall has non-turned pillars. The sukhanasi lintel has carvings of Gajalakshmi. To the right side there is a Shiva-Parvati idol, and to the left Kalabhairava idols can be found. As you can observe images, the carvings are chiseled with beautiful workmanship.

Shiva Parvati

In the above image, Shiva is sitting over Nandi and Parvati is sitting on the lap of shiva. The four handed shiva is holding trishula in right rear hand and rudraskshi mala in right front hand. Damaruga in his left rear hand and left front hand on the shoulder of parvati. The prabhavali is decorated with trailing plant.

Kalabhairava

Shivalinga

The garbhagriha has beautiful shivalinga. As you can see the inside premises and idols are maintained very well and I encourage other visitors to maintain the same discipline. The sukhanasi entrance walls are pierced for ventilation and air circulation. Since the entire temple is completely enclosed. 

Pierced wall

Exit view

The temple is currently under the maintenance and responsibility on a single family who is looking after it by performing daily rituals. The temple requires reconstruction and a trust or committee to be established to overcome the present scenario.

The latest information as on 31-08-2020 from Vedantha Deshikachar is that a new temple is being constructed at the village. Idols will be shifted to new location upon completion. Soon a new temple will come into light.

Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/k6gYWTA24g9Jjt8L9

Other places at a walkable distance - Keerthinaryana Temple, Chenna Parswanatha Basadi

Nearby places - Harihareshwara temple, Yoga Narasimha temple, Omkareshwara temple