Kolaramma Temple – A very old temple in Kolar

posted in: Asia, India, Karnataka, Western Gangas | 5

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. Other being Somehswara Temple (link here)

 

 

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.

 

5 Responses

  1. Sarita Banerjee

    Hi Aravind GJ
    The Kolar temple gave me a peep into the rule of Hoysala’s.I have always been a History buff. So the pictures of the temple really made me feel as if I am actually there. The simplicity of the stone architecture has been captured very well by you.

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