New manuscript submissions are currently closed and will reopen in early 2027

IKS V2

This Book is a part of the series Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) : Volume 2

Read about Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Project

Title of the Monograph: A Masterpiece of Hoysala Architecture, Karnataka, India: Chennakesava Temple, Belur

Kindle:

ASIN: B0HDM532ZC

Language: ‎ English

Text-to-Speech: ‎ Enabled

Volume: 2, Language: English

ISBN: 978-93-91413-81-1 (Paperback)

ISBN: 978-93-91413-82-8 (Electronic)

Date of publication: 15 August 2026

Publisher: The Native Tribe

Location: Global (Multiple countries)

URL: https://www.thenativetribe.org/book/iks/iks-v2

Author (s):

Surjit Singha, Ph.D.

Ranjit Singha (Ph.D.)

Kindle Edition

Paperback Edition

PRELIMINARIES

Bio of the Authors

Book Overview

CHAPTER 1 (P 1-3)

Introduction to the Chennakesava Temple

CHAPTER 2 (P 4-9)

The Hoysala Dynasty: Rise of an Architectural Legacy

Introduction

Origins of the Hoysala Dynasty

Political Expansion and Consolidation

Capitals of the Hoysala Empire

Religion and Cultural Patronage

The Emergence of Hoysala Architecture

Royal Patronage of Art and Sculpture

Decline of the Hoysala Dynasty

Enduring Legacy

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 3 (P 10-17)

Belur: The Historic Capital of the Hoysalas

Introduction

Geographic Setting

Belur Before the Hoysalas

Belur as the First Hoysala Capital

Urban Planning and Civic Development

A Centre of Religion and Pilgrimage

Artistic and Cultural Flourishing

Economic Importance

Belur in Historical Records

Belur During Later Periods

Belur in Contemporary India

Significance of Belur in Indian Cultural History

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 4 (P 18-26)

Foundation and Historical Evolution of the Chennakesava Temple

Introduction

Historical Background

Foundation of the Temple

King Vishnuvardhana: The Visionary Patron

Construction Process

Master Sculptors and Artisans

Architectural Development Through Time

Temple Administration and Endowments

Religious Continuity

Challenges During Later Centuries

Archaeological Conservation

UNESCO Recognition

Historical Significance

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 5 (P 27-38)

Religious Significance and Dedication to Lord Chennakesava

Introduction

Lord Chennakesava: The Presiding Deity

Vishnu in Hindu Philosophy

Royal Devotion and Temple Foundation

The Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha)

Symbolism of the Deity

Vaishnavism and Bhakti Tradition

Religious Symbolism in Temple Architecture

Daily Worship and Temple Rituals

Major Religious Festivals

Religious Harmony During the Hoysala Period

Pilgrimage and Spiritual Experience

Contemporary Religious Importance

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 6 (P 39-49)

Architectural Planning and Temple Layout

Introduction

Principles of Hoysala Temple Planning

Site Selection and Orientation

The Jagati: Elevated Temple Platform

Stellate (Star-Shaped) Ground Plan

The Temple Entrance

The Navaranga (Assembly Hall)

The Sukhanasi

The Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum)

Circumambulatory Path

Subsidiary Shrines and Temple Complex

Engineering Excellence

Spatial Symbolism

Integration of Architecture and Sculpture

Architectural Influence

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 7 (P 50-60)

Hoysala Architecture: Design Principles and Innovations

Introduction

Evolution of Hoysala Architecture

Guiding Principles of Hoysala Architecture

Stellate (Star-Shaped) Temple Plans

Elevated Platform (Jagati)

Use of Soapstone

Integration of Architecture and Sculpture

Lathe-Turned Pillars

Horizontal Sculptural Friezes

Narrative Sculpture

Architectural Ornamentation

Engineering Innovations

Vastu Shastra and Shilpa Shastra

Comparison with Earlier Temple Styles

Influence on Later Architecture

Global Recognition

Architectural Legacy

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 8 (P 61-81)

Sculptural Excellence: Carvings, Friezes, and Iconography

Introduction

The Hoysala Sculptural Tradition

Soapstone as an Artistic Medium

Organization of Sculptural Decoration

Horizontal Friezes

Narrative Sculptures

Dashavatara Panels

Sculptures of Hindu Deities

Celestial Figures

Human Figures and Daily Life

Animal Sculptures

Decorative Ornamentation

Symbolism in Sculptural Art

Artistic Techniques

Named Sculptors

Preservation of Sculptural Heritage

Universal Artistic Significance

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 9 (P 82-93)

Pillars, Ceilings, and the Navaranga Hall

Introduction

The Navaranga Hall

Architectural Layout of the Hall

The Famous Lathe-Turned Pillars

Manufacturing Techniques

Structural Function of the Pillars

Decorative Features of the Pillars

Bracket Figures (Madanikas)

Ceiling Architecture

The Lotus Ceiling

Ceiling Panels and Iconography

Lighting Within the Hall

Acoustic Design

Symbolism of Interior Space

Engineering Excellence

Artistic Legacy

Conservation and Preservation

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 10 (P 94-103)

The Madanikas (Shilabalikas): Art, Symbolism, and Aesthetics

Introduction

Meaning of Madanika and Shilabalika

Historical Background

Queen Shantala Devi and Artistic Patronage

Location Within the Temple

Artistic Characteristics

Famous Madanikas of the Chennakesava Temple

Jewellery and Costume

Hairstyles and Personal Adornment

Symbolism of the Madanikas

Influence of Classical Dance

Sculptural Techniques

Cultural Significance

Artistic Legacy

Conservation of the Madanikas

Global Recognition

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 11 (P 104-115)

Temple Inscriptions and Epigraphical Records

Introduction

Epigraphy: The Study of Inscriptions

Historical Development of Epigraphy in Karnataka

Languages and Scripts

Foundation Inscriptions

Royal Genealogies

Temple Endowments

Administrative Records

Religious and Ritual Practices

Contributions of Queens, Nobles, and Devotees

Sculptors and Artisans in the Inscriptions

Economic Insights from the Inscriptions

Social and Cultural Information

Artistic Features of the Inscriptions

Preservation and Documentation

Importance for Historical Research

Global Heritage Significance

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 12 (P 116-126)

Construction Techniques and Stone Craftsmanship

Introduction

Planning and Architectural Design

Selection of Building Material

Quarrying of Soapstone

Transportation of Stone

Preparation of Stone Blocks

Tools Used by Hoysala Craftsmen

Stone Carving Techniques

Lathe-Turned Stone Pillars

Precision Stone Joinery

Structural Engineering

Construction Sequence

Role of Master Craftsmen

Surface Finishing and Polishing

Challenges Faced During Construction

Conservation of Stone Craftsmanship

Legacy of Hoysala Stone Craftsmanship

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 13 (P 127-138)

Rituals, Festivals, and Living Traditions

Introduction

The Temple as a Living Heritage Site

The Presiding Deity: Lord Chennakesava

Daily Worship (Nitya Seva)

Role of the Temple Priests

Vaishnava Religious Traditions

Major Annual Festivals

The Annual Temple Car Festival (Rathotsava)

Music and Dance Traditions

Sacred Recitations

Pilgrimage Tradition

Community Participation

Living Traditions and Cultural Continuity

Heritage Conservation and Religious Practice

The Temple in Contemporary Society

Intangible Cultural Heritage

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 14 (P 139-149)

The Chennakesava Temple in Art, Literature, and Culture

Introduction

The Temple as an Artistic Masterpiece

Influence on Sculpture

Inspiration for Classical Dance

Influence on Music

Literary References

The Temple in Kannada Literature

Representation in Modern Scholarship

Photography and Visual Arts

Cultural Identity of Karnataka

Influence on Contemporary Architecture

The Temple in Heritage Education

Tourism and Cultural Exchange

UNESCO World Heritage Recognition

The Temple in Popular Culture

Preserving Cultural Legacy

Global Significance

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 15 (P 150-161)

Comparison with Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu and Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

Introduction

Historical Background

Geographic Location

Patronage and Religious Dedication

Architectural Planning

Construction Materials

Sculptural Style

Religious Iconography

Pillars and Interior Design

Exterior Ornamentation

Engineering Innovations

Artistic Evolution

Comparative Architectural Features

Cultural and Religious Importance

UNESCO World Heritage Recognition

Lessons from the Comparative Study

Enduring Legacy

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 16 (P 162-173)

Conservation, Restoration, and Heritage Management

Introduction

Understanding Heritage Conservation

Historical Background of Conservation

Legal and Institutional Framework

Principles of Conservation

Structural Conservation

Conservation of Stone Sculptures

Preservation of Inscriptions

Environmental Challenges

Visitor Management

Balancing Worship and Conservation

Documentation and Digital Preservation

Disaster Risk Management

Community Participation

Education and Public Awareness

Sustainable Heritage Tourism

Future Directions

Universal Heritage Value

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 17 (P 174-184)

UNESCO World Heritage Recognition and Global Significance

Introduction

UNESCO and the World Heritage Convention

The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas

Journey Toward World Heritage Inscription

Outstanding Universal Value (OUV)

UNESCO Criteria for Inscription

Authenticity

Integrity

Architectural Significance

Artistic Significance

Living Religious Heritage

Contribution to World Heritage Research

Conservation Benefits

Tourism and Sustainable Development

Cultural Diplomacy and International Recognition

Responsibilities of World Heritage Status

Global Legacy of the Chennakesava Temple

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 18 (P 185-197)

Tourism, Visitor Experience, and Sustainable Heritage Preservation

Introduction

Heritage Tourism and Cultural Significance

Tourism Growth after UNESCO Recognition

Categories of Visitors

Visitor Experience

Visitor Facilities

Guided Interpretation

Cultural Festivals and Tourism

Economic Contributions of Tourism

Challenges of Heritage Tourism

Sustainable Heritage Tourism

Visitor Management Strategies

Community Participation in Tourism

Digital Technologies and Visitor Engagement

Accessibility and Inclusive Tourism

Environmental Sustainability

Future Directions for Heritage Tourism

The Chennakesava Temple as a Global Cultural Destination

Chapter Summary

CHAPTER 19 (P 198-209)

Architectural Glossary and Terminology

Introduction

A-Z

CHAPTER 20 (P 210-219)

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Chennakesava Temple

Introduction

A Monument of Architectural Genius

Excellence in Sculpture and Craftsmanship

Religious and Spiritual Continuity

Historical Importance

Contribution to Indian Art and Architecture

Educational and Scholarly Value

UNESCO World Heritage Recognition

Conservation and Collective Responsibility

Sustainable Heritage for Future Generations

Lessons from the Chennakesava Temple

The Temple in the Twenty-First Century

Reflections on the Hoysala Legacy

A Heritage Shared by Humanity

Final Reflections

Concluding Remarks

EPILOGUE (P 220)

Appendices (P 221-232)

Appendix A: Timeline of the Hoysala Dynasty
Appendix B: Temple Plan and Architectural Drawings
Appendix C: Selected Inscriptions (Translation and Interpretation)
Appendix D: Glossary of Sanskrit and Kannada Terms
Appendix E: Bibliography

To cite this Book

Singha, S., & Singha, R. (2026). A masterpiece of Hoysala architecture, Karnataka, India: Chennakesava Temple, Belur (Vol. 2). The Native Tribe. https://www.thenativetribe.org/book/iks/iks-v2

BIO OF THE AUTHORS

Surjit Singha, Ph.D

Associate Professor, Ph.D. Research Guide & Research Faculty
Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, India

Dr. Surjit Singha is an Associate Professor, PhD Research Guide, and Research Faculty at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, India. With over 16 years of academic, research, and professional experience, he has established himself as a leading scholar in the fields of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), sustainability, entrepreneurship, organizational behaviour, workforce diversity, public policy, business analytics, and interdisciplinary research.

An accomplished researcher, Dr. Singha has published over 160 scholarly works, including 133 Scopus-indexed research papers, book chapters, textbooks, and edited volumes with reputed international publishers. His research integrates rigorous academic inquiry with practical relevance, contributing to policy formulation, sustainable development, business innovation, and societal transformation. His work has been widely recognized for advancing evidence-based knowledge across commerce, management, and the social sciences.

Dr. Singha actively serves the global academic community as an editor, editorial board member, reviewer, and peer reviewer for several prestigious international journals published by Taylor & Francis, Springer Nature, Wiley, MDPI, and IGI Global, among others. He has reviewed more than 170 manuscripts for leading Scopus and Web of Science indexed journals and regularly contributes to improving the quality of international scholarly publications.

He has authored and edited 26+ internationally published books and edited volumes, holds two U.S. copyrights and two patents, and has successfully completed fully funded research projects. As a committed academic mentor, he has guided numerous students, research scholars, and young faculty members in research methodology, academic writing, publication strategies, and interdisciplinary research.

Dr. Singha's academic qualifications include a Ph.D., M.Phil., and MBA (Distinction) from CHRIST (Deemed to be University), M.Com. and BBM from Kristu Jayanti College (Bangalore University), and a Post Graduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDHE) from IGNOU. He has also completed advanced academic certifications from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the University of Pennsylvania, is UGC-NET (Commerce) qualified, and serves as an Examiner for the International Baccalaureate (IB).

Beyond teaching and research, Dr. Singha contributes significantly to academic governance through curriculum development, research advisory committees, editorial leadership, conference organization, faculty development programmes, institutional branding, website and social media management, and research capacity building. His interdisciplinary and collaborative approach has enabled partnerships with scholars and institutions across India and abroad.

Driven by a passion for academic excellence and societal impact, Dr. Singha continues to promote innovative, ethical, and sustainable research that addresses contemporary global challenges. He welcomes international research collaborations, interdisciplinary projects, visiting scholar opportunities, joint publications, and academic mobility initiatives.

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5730-8677

Email: surjit.research@gmail.com

Website: www.surjitsingha.com

Scopus ID: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57219215365

Ranjit Singha, (Ph.D.)

Ranjit Singha is a Doctoral Research Fellow at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, India, and a distinguished member of the American Psychological Association (APA). His research interests encompass a broad range of interdisciplinary fields, including Mindfulness, Compassion, Addiction Psychology, Women's Empowerment, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Data Science, Cognitive Psychology, Neuropsychology, Behavioural Science, and Public Health.

Mr. Singha has pursued extensive professional education and advanced training from internationally renowned universities and institutions across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and India. His certifications include Cognitively-Based Compassion Training (CBCT®) from Emory University (USA), Mindfulness from the University of Oxford Mindfulness Centre (UK), SEE Learning® (Social, Emotional and Ethical Learning) from Emory University, Mindfulness and Well-being from both the University of British Columbia (Canada) and Rice University (USA), and professional certifications from IBM, Microsoft, Google, Harvard Medical School, Penn Medicine – University of Pennsylvania Health System, and the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

His specialised training includes Addressing Tobacco Dependence Treatment in the General Population, The Bucket Approach Interventions, Tobacco Use and Dependence: A Review of Treatments, Opioid Use Disorder and Treatment: The Genetics of Addiction, Addiction Care and Treatment, Managing Concurrent Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders in Youth, Supporting Children and Youth Who Use Substances, Clinical Care for Autistic Adults, Ethics and Regulation of Social and Behavioral Research, Team-Based Care in Healthcare, Decision-Making Capacity Assessment, Dementia Care, Interprofessional Healthcare Competencies, and numerous evidence-based interventions in addiction medicine, behavioural health, and integrated clinical care.

His expertise further extends to Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Clinical and Non-Clinical Settings, Cognitive Analytic Therapy, Suicide Prevention, Preventing Tobacco Use, Facilitating Grief Support Groups, Career Guidance and Counselling, Self-Development and Well-being, and Multimedia Applications in Teaching and Learning, through professional training at NIMHANS, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), and the Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD).

Professionally, he is a Certified Microsoft Innovative Educator, Licensed Yoga Professional, Certified Mindfulness Teacher, Certified Mendeley Advisor, Certified Peer Reviewer (Elsevier), Six Sigma Green Belt Certified, and holds certification in the Foundations of Project Management from Google. These multidisciplinary qualifications reflect his commitment to lifelong learning and evidence-based professional practice.

Academically, Mr. Singha holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (General Management), MBA in International Business, M.Sc. in Counselling Psychology, and a Senior Diploma in Tabla (Indian Classical Percussion), demonstrating a unique combination of expertise across psychology, management, education, and the performing arts.

As a researcher and educator, his work primarily focuses on mindfulness- and compassion-based interventions, addiction behaviour, behavioural change mechanisms, mindfulness assessment, professional mindfulness training, mindfulness ethics, cognitive and neuropsychology, addiction psychology, public mental health, and high-risk behavioural interventions. His interdisciplinary research integrates psychological science with public health, education, technology, and sustainable development.

Mr. Singha has established an outstanding scholarly record, having authored 113 Scopus-indexed research publications, along with four authored books and five edited books. His publications have significantly contributed to psychology, behavioural sciences, addiction research, public health, education, and interdisciplinary research, earning recognition within the international academic community.

Beyond research, he possesses extensive teaching experience across diverse academic disciplines, including Forensic Psychology, Positive Psychology, Psychometric Assessment, Counselling Skills, Organisational Planning, Strategic Management, Business Planning, Business Law, Auditing, Disaster Management, and Basic Computer Science. He has successfully supervised and mentored numerous undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations, promoting research excellence and scientific inquiry among students.

Professionally, Mr. Singha serves as an Ad Hoc Reviewer for the International Journal of Cyber Behavior, Psychology and Learning (IJCBPL), a Reviewer and Author for IGI Global, an Editor and Reviewer at TNT Publication, and a Certified Peer Reviewer (Elsevier). These responsibilities reflect his active engagement in scholarly publishing and his dedication to maintaining rigorous academic and ethical standards in research.

Outside academia, Mr. Singha actively provides psychological counselling, mindfulness-based guidance, addiction counselling, and mental health awareness programmes, reflecting his commitment to community service, holistic well-being, and the promotion of evidence-based mental healthcare. His contributions to research, teaching, professional training, mentorship, and community engagement have established him as a respected scholar and practitioner in the fields of psychology, mindfulness, behavioural science, addiction studies, and public health.

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-1925-6587

Email: ranjitsingharesearch@gmail.com

Website: www.ranjitsingha.com

Scopus ID: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=58989478000