Halasuru Someshwara Temple, Bangalore

Halasuru Someshwara Temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Someshwara Temple in Ulsoor area is one of the oldest monuments of IT city. The temple was built during the Chola period in the 12th and 13th centuries and is now maintained by a department of the Government of Karnataka. Apart from the main temple, the complex is dotted with smaller shrines of other deities including Kamakshamma, Arunachaleswara, Bhimeshwara, Nanjundeshwara and Panchalingeshwara. The temple has many exquisite sculptures, including a gopuram with carvings of deities.

Most mesmerizing are the elaborate sculptures of Ravana, where he is holding Mount Kailash to please Lord Shiva, giant images of the Saptarishis, marriage scenes of Shiva and Parvati to name a few. It is the best place to visit during Shivratri and many believe that the Hindu Gods Brahma and Vishnu were also worshiped in this temple.

Halasuru Someshwara Temple is built in Vijayanagara style of architecture. The temple has a square sanctum surrounded by a narrow passage. The sanctum sanctorum is connected by a closed mandapa whose walls are decorated with murals and sculptures. The entrance to the temple, at the top of which is a beautifully carved pyramidal tower.

1. The pillars of the temple are very beautifully carved with various mythological characters.
2. This temple appears to have been built during the time of Vijayanagara as its carvings depict Vijayanagara architecture.
3. The temple had a beautiful ornate pillar hall where we can see fine carvings of deities, dancers, birds and animals.
4. The temple has a square sanctum (sanctum) surrounded by a narrow passage. And it has a mandapam with 48 uniquely carved pillars.
5. Apart from the main temple, there are smaller temples of Kamakshamma, Arunachaleswara, Bhimeshwara, Nanjundeshwara Panchalingeshwara and Navagraha in the vicinity.
6. Other notable works of art include sculptures that depict King Ravana lifting Mount Kailash to please Lord Shiva.

📅 Last update: 2023-10-21 || ✍ Author: Sandhya Chauhan

Meet Sandhya, exploring India with curiosity and wonder. She shares info and tips in simple language, inviting you to join the journey. She is graduated in tourism and writes about the places of India.