Nageshvara-Chennakeshava Temple, Mosale

After spending almost two hours in Shettihalli Rosary Church, we moved to the next destination in our circuit. Mosale, a quaint village situated around 10 kilometers from Hassan city. GPS came up with three options, and like wise people we settled for the shortest route. Even though it was mid afternoon the wintry climate was pleasant, Wind was blowing breezily as we passed through dry fields. The road narrowed as we went ahead signing us to take a deviation at mud path. This is where we always stuck to our standard rules. "When in doubt just deflect the GPS and continue with better road". It reroutes for you and you follow that path. It is risky sometimes as we may end up in the same road only to travel few kilometers more, but that never happened so far. We took almost 45 minutes to reach the place because of scarcity of roads. Adaptation skill is one of the best characteristic features of Indians (read us), hence we can survive anywhere with just basics. We digress.

Near the bus stop of Mosale we asked for directions just to be sure we were on the right tract, but they were clueless about the place. However, they directed us to go to "Mosaleyamma" temple, which we assumed is quite popular. Mosale means crocodile in Kannada, so we gathered maybe because of the above mentioned temple, the village got its peculiar name.  Once we reached, we parked the vehicle a little afar as bullock carts were blocking the road that leads to the temple complex.

As expected the temple was isolated much to our delight except for a caretaker. Both the temples were locked, but the caretaker, mostly employed by ASI readily agreed to show us around. He requested us not to take any photographs inside the temple because of a recent theft.

Info: The Nageshvara-Chennakeshava temple was built in 1200 A.D. under the command of Hoysala King Veera Ballala II. Now the temple complex is protected and maintained by Archaeological Survey of India. Standing adjacent to one another, these temples are the perfect example of identical twin. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Nageshwara temple is in the south wherein Chennakeshava temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu stays in the north. It tells a lot about the perfect balance between Shaivites and Vaishnavites of that time. 

Hoysala architecture used soap stones widely, hence withering is slow. Both temples have a porch entrance leading to the square enclosure (mantapa) further directing towards the sanctum (garbagudi). The bay ceilings are supported by shining pillars. The Shikara (tower) of both temples is built in Vesara style. As it is a norm in Hoysala architecture the inner and outer walls are adorned with intricate carvings. We were proud and humble at the same time seeing the craftsmanship of these artisans. Words fall short to describe the sheer beauty of this architecture.

We couldn't help wondering who were these artisans, what their life was like, where were they trained to accomplish such a gifted skill? There is no answer. We spent almost two hours appreciating, discussing, and introspecting. we were elated to discover these unique temples. It is definitely worth a visit for history and architecture enthusiastic like us.

Tips

How to Reach: Bangalore-Nelamangala-Kunigal-Yadiyur-Channarayapattana-Hassan-Mosale. And please don't get confused with another Mosale in Arsikere. This temple we are talking about is Mosale, Hosahalli, Hassan District. It is better to give GPS destination as "The Nageshvara-Chennakeshava temple complex before nearing Hassan.

If you more than three days you can club it with Belur, Halebidu, Shettihalli Church, Belavadi, Shravanabelagola.

Where to Stay: Hassan offers many small and big budget hotels.