In a historic decision, UNESCO, the global custodian of cultural heritage, has officially inscribed Karnataka’s Sacred Ensembles of Hoysalas into the esteemed World Heritage list. This accolade culminates a long journey, as the site had been part of UNESCO’s Tentative list since 2014. The Hoysala temples, gracing the heart of Karnataka, have now joined the illustrious ranks of world-renowned heritage sites, earning admiration and pride from across the globe.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi enthusiastically shared this momentous news with the nation through his official handle, underlining the enduring beauty and intricate craftsmanship epitomized by the Hoysala temples. He expressed, “More pride for India! The magnificent Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The timeless beauty and intricate details of the Hoysala temples are a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and the exceptional craftsmanship of our ancestors.”
The significance of this achievement is underscored by UNESCO’s description of the Sacred Ensembles of Hoysalas as a “serial property” encompassing three paramount examples of Hoysala-style temple complexes in southern India. Dating from the 12th to 13th centuries, these temples represent a unique blend of contemporary and historical temple features, forging a distinctive identity from neighboring kingdoms. Their distinguishing features include hyper-real sculptures, comprehensive stone carvings adorning every architectural facet, a circumambulatory platform, an expansive sculptural gallery, a multi-tiered frieze, and depictions of the Sala legend. UNESCO rightly acknowledges that the artistic excellence showcased by these temple complexes signifies a significant milestone in the evolutionary journey of Hindu temple architecture.
The Sacred Ensembles of Hoysala temples, primarily located in Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka, stand as resplendent examples of architectural prowess and intricate stone carvings. They pay homage to the Hoysala dynasty, whose rule over the region spanned from the 10th to the 14th centuries. Among these temples, the Chennakesava Temple, constructed by King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century to commemorate his triumph over the Cholas, reigns supreme. While relatively smaller in size, the Kappe Chennigaraya Temple, Veeranarayana Temple, and Ranganayaki Temple, collectively forming the Sacred Ensembles of Hoysala, are celebrated for their architectural marvel.
Further south, in Halebid, the Sacred Ensembles of Hoysala temples continue to mesmerize visitors with intricate carvings, finely detailed sculptures, and star-shaped architectural layouts. The primary Hoysaleswara temple, constructed during King Vishnuvardhana’s reign in the 12th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands as a testament to devotion and artistry. Additionally, the second Kedareshwara Temple in Halebid showcases exceptional Hoysala architecture and stone carvings, contributing to the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
This inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage list affirms Karnataka’s cultural legacy and India’s global standing in preserving and celebrating its rich heritage. The Sacred Ensembles of Hoysalas are a living testament to the artistic and architectural brilliance of ancient India, captivating the imagination of generations to come.
