Chandalingeshwara Temple

Chandragiri village is located 30 km from Kushtagi, situated a top a hill. The prominent temple here is the Chandalingeshwara Temple, built in the Kalyana Chalukya style during the 12th century, facing westward. The temple comprises the following structures: Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum), Antarala (Ante-chamber), Sabhamantapa (Assembly Hall), Mukhamantapa (Front Hall), Nandimantapa (Pavilion for Nandi). At the center of the Garbhagriha, there is a 2-foot-tall Shiva Linga. The doorframe of the sanctum features half-pillars (Ardhakambhas). Inside the antarala, there are two devakoshtas (Niches for deities), while the ceiling (Bhuvaneshwari) is adorned with a beautifully carved lotus motif. The entrance of the Antarala has jali windows (perforated stone screens) on both sides. The Sabhamantapa houses twelve pillars and the central ceiling features a fully bloomed lotus carving. The pillars come in square, circular, Ghantasala (bell-shaped) and bodige (moulded) designs. Above the lintel of the Sabhamantapa entrance, there is a bas-relief sculpture of Lord Ganesha, while Shaiva Dwarapalas (guardians of Lord Shiva) stand on either side of the doorway. A parapet wall has been constructed around the Mantapa for protection from rain. The temple walls are smooth and plain, while the Garbhagriha is covered by a three-tiered roof. Above the sanctum, the Dravidian-style Shikhara (Tower) is built in a two-tiered Vimana pattern, entirely made of stone. Daily worship rituals are still performed in the temple today.

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