18 July 2015
Kolar was ruled by Gangas in 3rd century AD who were
succeeded by Cholas followed by Hoysalas and Vijayanagara rulers. Today, two
old Temples stand as a testimony to those kingdoms. One of them is Kolaramma
Temple situated at the outskirts of the town.
The Temple has two shrines in Dravidian architecture. Both
share a common pillared Mantapa. The mahadwara (main door) has several nice
carvings.
Inside the temple are
the images of Saptamatrikas and Kolaramma, in the form of Mahishasuramardhini
with eight hands and a demon under the feet.
It is interesting that the temple does not have a super
structure.
Apart from the
carvings at the door, the temple is quite simple in structure. There are
inscriptions of Rajendra Chola.
I could not get information on the exact period of
construction. Considering the Gangas style, it must be one of the oldest temples
in Karnataka.
Labels: Hoysala, Kolar, Temples, travel