VEERAGALLU

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Context:

A 13th-century stone inscription, also known as a "Veeragallu", was discovered in the Davanagere district (Karnataka) during the renovation of the ancient Kalleshwar temple.

About Veeragallu

The stone inscription provides an important understanding of the history of the region, particularly relating to the Sevuna dynasty, also called the Devagiri Yadavas.

The inscription (1283 AD) is made of charcoal stone and measures about 4 feet long and 2.5 feet wide.

It includes a five-line inscription that honours Ramachandra Chakravarti, a ruler from the Sevuna dynasty, who was known by the title Yadava Narayana Bhujbala Praudhapratapa Chakravarti.

The inscription depicts the bravery of local heroes

According to archaeologists, the lower part of the stone shows two brothers, Bhoja Narayana and Vambhava, in the heat of battle. One brother is depicted beheading an enemy, while another enemy lies defeated. Carvings of cows nearby symbolize the cattle they were defending.

In the central area of the stone, the brothers are shown on a journey to Kailasa, the divine home of Lord Shiva. Here, heavenly spirits lift a vimana (celestial chariot), while musicians follow, celebrating the brothers' bravery. This part of the inscription highlights their journey to a divine kingdom, honouring their sacrifice.

At the top of the stone, the scene changes to Shivaloka, where the brothers are depicted in Anjalimudra (a pose of respect) worshipping a Shivalinga. This image suggests peace and glory, with the sun and moon in the background, symbolizing that their fame will last as long as these celestial bodies exist.    

About Sevuna dynasty

Archaeologists explained that the Sevuna dynasty was a Kannada-speaking kingdom that stretched across parts of present-day Karnataka and Maharashtra.

Initially, they served the Kalyana Chalukyas before becoming independent in the 12th century.

Ramachandra Chakravarti, the hero of the newly discovered inscription, ruled from 1271 to 1312 AD. He was known for his military victories and support of culture. During his rule, he built the Lakshmi Narayan temple near the Harihareshwar temple in Harihara to celebrate his achievements.

About Kalleshwar Temple

It is a historical and architectural site located in the village of Bagali, near Harpanahalli in the Vijayanagara district of Karnataka.

The temple’s construction spans the rule of two prominent Kannada dynasties:

• Rashtrakuta Dynasty: The initial construction began during the mid-10th century.
• Western Chalukya Empire: The temple was developed around 987 AD during the reign of King Tailapa II (also known as Ahava Malla).

The Kalleshwar Temple is famous for its intricate architecture

• Main Shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, the main shrine (garbhagriha) faces east and includes a vestibule (antarala) and a closed hall (maha mantapa) with entrances on the south and east.
• Open Hall (Sabhamandapa) is a large gathering hall featuring fifty highly ornate lathe-turned pillars supporting a decorative ceiling.
• There are eight smaller shrines surrounding the main shrine, including a shrine for the Sun god Surya and another for the deity Narasimha.

The temple is a masterpiece of Chalukyan art, characterized by:

• The main building material used is soapstone, known for its durability and ease of carving.
• The pillars and ceilings are intricately carved with various motifs and figures.
• The doorways, especially the eastern one facing the Nandi (bull), are richly decorated with carvings.

The temple premises have yielded thirty-six old Kannada inscriptions from the 10th and 11th centuries, detailing donations and other historical events. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the temple’s history and the socio-cultural context of the time.

The Kalleshwar Temple is protected as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Source: 

Hindustan Times

Wikipedia