Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Nuggehalli, Hindu temple in Hassan district, India
The Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is a shrine in Hassan with three sanctums arranged around a central closed mantapa supported by four round pillars with domed ceilings. The structure shows carefully planned room and column arrangement that creates a dignified prayer space.
The shrine was built in 1246 by the military commander Bommanna Dandanayaka, who served under King Vira Someshwara during the Hoysala Empire. This foundation reflects religious patronage by local military leaders and the architectural development of that era.
The walls display 120 carved panels showing scenes from the Bhagavatha, with detailed depictions of Hindu deities and their attendants along the lower eaves. These artistic details tell religious stories and show the craftsmanship of the period.
The shrine is located roughly 50 kilometers from Hassan and about 30 kilometers from Shravanabelagola and is open daily without entrance charges. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes to explore the rooms comfortably and view the stone details.
The shrine displays a special trikutachala design with the western sanctum containing images of Durga, Saraswati, and Harihara in three separate niches. This unusual arrangement brings together multiple deities in one space, which is uncommon in temple architecture of that period.
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