After visiting Galageshwara temple at Galaganatha, we proceeded towards Haralahalli. Though the distance was about 11 km, it took us about 30 minutes to cover this stretch in our car. The primary reason was the bad condition of the road. The temple was about 200 meters from the main road, and the road leading to it was even worse.
All those hardships vanished when we saw the stunning Someshwara temple. Surrounded by a garden, it was a welcome respite from the dusty surroundings. The trikuta (Temple with three shrines) constructed during the 12th century had the architecture patterns of Chalukyas and Hoysalas.
The temple consists of three garbhagruhas and antharala (passage between garbhagruha and the mantapa) and a common Sabhamantapa (congregation hall). It also has a common Muka mantapa (Porch constructed in front of the doorway). As we entered the muka matapa, we could not stop appreciating the carvings on the ceiling.
The caretaker was an old and talkative person, but he had a lot of knowledge about the temple. He took us inside and explained about various sculptures. I was sad that he did not allow me to take photos inside the temple, but I did not argue. Anyway, there was enough opportunities outside the temple.
The caretaker showed us a miniature sculpture of Ganesha next to the doorway. The thumb-sized carving was a good testimony to the skills of the artists in those days. Unfortunately, people touch it and give their offerings, gradually degrading the sculpture.
A notable part of the intricately carved exterior of the temple was the presence of erotic art. You could see such sculptures in the temples built by Chalukyas, Hoysalas and Vijayanagar. It showed the open-minded approach of the people during those days. But India later turned into a conservative society. I wondered the reason behind this transformation. Incidentally, it coincides with the invasion from foreign forces!!
There were two more temples in the complex. It looked simple without much artistic value. The tamarind tree opposite these temples provided some shade to rest. The weather was pleasant, with clear skies and a moderate temperature.
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