The Chalukyas of Kalyani and Their Amazing Temples.
Often, it’s the folklore surrounding historical figures that truly elevates their legacy, sometimes even more than the history itself.
According to a story attributed to Bilhana, Indra asked Brahma to create a ruler, and a great warrior emerged from Brahma's hands, marking the beginning of the Chalukya dynasty. These tales, which became popular from the 10th century onwards, combine mythology with local history to bolster the Chalukyas' legacy.
The Chalukyas of Kalyani, also known as the Western Chalukyas, came to power by overthrowing the Rashtrakutas in 973 AD. They set up their capital at Kalyana and ruled over large areas in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and beyond. The Chalukyas left behind many inscriptions that give us important historical information.
Kalyani is the former name of Basavakalyana, a city in the Bidar district of Karnataka, India.
Did you know?
Basavakalyana is home to the world's tallest Basavanna statue, which is 108 feet (33 m) high. Basavanna loved to use simple, everyday language in his poems, called vachanas, so everyone could understand his teachings! He believed that wisdom should be accessible to all, not just the educated. Because of this, his vachanas are still popular and loved by people today!
Tailapa II
Tailapa II was the founder of the Chalukyas of Kalyani and a brave king who established his dynasty in the 10th century. He was not only a strong leader but also a patron of literature and arts. Tailapa II encouraged poets and writers, which led to a flourishing of Kannada literature during his reign. Notable poets like Allama Prabhu, known for his vachanas (poetic verses), thrived during this time. His support helped create many important works, making the Chalukyan period a golden age for culture and creativity!
Fun Activity: Discover Allama Prabhu's wisdom by learning and discussing one of his vachanas!
Vikramaditya VI
Vikramaditya VI was one of the most famous rulers of the Chalukyas of Kalyani. He ruled during the 11th century and was known for his excellent leadership. Vikramaditya VI promoted art, literature, and culture, making his kingdom a vibrant place for creativity. He invited poets like Rudrabhatta, who wrote works in Sanskrit, and Akalaṅka, known for his philosophical writings. Vikramaditya VI built many beautiful temples and was respected for his fairness and wisdom. People loved him for making their lives better!
Art and Architecture
The Chalukyas of Kalyana, also known as the Later Chalukyas, built many temples in the Gadag district of Karnataka, India, including:
Trikuteshwar Temple
Built between 1050 and 1200, this temple is known for its intricate carvings, including statues of dancing Ganapathi, Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu, and more. The temple also has a main shrine with three Shiva Lingas representing the Trimurthis, and a shrine to the Goddess of Learning, Saraswathi.
Kasivisvesvara Temple
This temple is considered a prime example of the Kalyana Chalukya style of Hindu architecture. It features two sanctums, one for Shiva and one for Surya, and integrates the Nagara, Vesara, and Dravida styles of Hindu temple architecture.
Nannesvara Temple
This 11th century temple is considered the earliest known imperial-style temple of the Kalyana Chalukyas. It is influenced by both North Indian and South Indian schools of Hindu architecture.
The Gadag art style marked by ornate columns originated during the period of the Kalyani Chalukya king Someswara I, and it flourished for a period of 150 years (1050 to 1200 CE) during which about 50 temples were built.
Have you ever wondered how South Indian dynasties adopted North Indian architectural styles?
The Chalukyas connected with North Indian cultures through trade routes that facilitated the exchange of architectural ideas and artistic styles. Marriages with North Indian royalty fostered cultural sharing, while pilgrimage sites attracted visitors, promoting connections through shared worship of deities like Shiva. They also invited North Indian artists to enrich their temple designs.
The Chalukyas of Kalyani left a remarkable legacy through their captivating temples and vibrant stories, enriching the cultural landscape of India.
Source
https://www.karnataka.com/history/about-history/
https://archive.org/details/sgw.chalukyasofkalya0000brgo/page/n19/mode/2up?view=theater