Why is it in the news?
- Recent excavation in Mudimanikyam village, Telangana, revealed two ancient temples and a label inscription.
- These temples date back to a significant period between 543 AD and 750 AD, belonging to the Badami Chalukya dynasty.
Temple Artifacts
- In one temple, archaeologists found a Panavattam, the base of a Shiva Lingam, indicating its previous existence.
- The other temple contained a Vishnu idol placed inside, suggesting its role as a place of worship.
- Notably, a label inscription reading ‘Gandaloranru‘ from the 8th or 9th Century AD was discovered on a pillar in a group of five temples known as Panchakuta in the village.
- Additionally, another inscription dating to 1673 AD was found on two sides of a pillar in the Rama temple of Mudimanikyam, shedding light on the historical significance of the site.
Architectural Features
- These temples showcase a fascinating fusion of architectural styles, blending influences from the Badami Chalukyan and Kadamba Nagara styles.
- A notable feature is the incorporation of Rekha nagara architecture, characterized by a northern Indian shikhara with a slightly curved tower having four sides of equal length, indicating cultural assimilation and architectural evolution over time.
| About Chalukya Dynasty
· The Chalukya dynasty, a prominent Hindu dynasty, wielded power over large parts of southern and central India from the 6th to 12th centuries. · It consisted of three distinct yet related dynasties: the Badami Chalukyas, the Eastern Chalukyas, and the Western Chalukyas. · The Badami Chalukyas, ruling from Vatapi (modern Badami), rose to prominence during the reign of Pulakeshin II and asserted their independence during the decline of the Kadamba kingdom. · Subsequently, the Eastern Chalukyas established an independent kingdom in the eastern Deccan, ruling from Vengi until the 11th century. · The Western Chalukyas, revived by descendants in the late 10th century, ruled from Kalyani (modern Basavakalyan) until the end of the 12th century, contributing significantly to the cultural and architectural heritage of the region.
Architecture of Badami Chalukya: · The Chalukyan architecture, also known as Karnata Dravida architecture, reflects a distinctive style characterized by temple building activities concentrated in Aihole, Badami, Pattadakal, and Mahakuta in Karnataka. · Utilizing locally available reddish-golden Sandstone, the Chalukya temples evolved through three distinct phases: 1) The first phase witnessed the construction of cave temples at Aihole and Badami. 2) The second phase saw the development of standalone temples like the Lad Khan Temple, the Meguti Jain Temple, etc. 3) The third and mature phase featured grand temples like the Sangamesvara Temple, Virupaksha Temple, and Papanatha temple, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and architectural finesse.
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