Lakkundi, a serene hamlet on the Hubli-Hospet highway
(NH-63) in Karnataka, lies just 12 km southeast of Gadag town and around 100 km
west of the renowned tourist destination Hampi. This quaint village astonishes
visitors with its remarkable temples crafted from soapstone. Lakkundi, also
historically known as Lokkigundi or Lokkugundi, is home to as many as 20
exquisite temples, numerous stepwells, and a significant number of
inscriptions. This historic town boasts magnificent temples, both Jain and
Hindu, showcasing the architectural brilliance of our ancestors. Immerse
yourself in the intricate details and stepwells brimming with water, testaments
to both artistic expression and scientific ingenuity.
History of Lakkundi
Lakkundi’s rich history is chronicled in various
inscriptions from the Kalyani Chalukya or Western Chalukya period, around 973
CE. The Kalyani Chalukyas, whose capital was Kalyani (modern-day Basavakalyan),
rose to prominence after the decline of the Rashtrakuta Empire in 972 CE. In
1191 CE, Hoysala King Veera Ballala II took control of Lakkundi, making it his
capital. The royal mint during the Chalukya period was located here, indicating
the town’s historical significance.
Temples of Lakkundi
Lakkundi’s temples, primarily built from greenish-blue
chloritic schist (soapstone), epitomize the Vesara style of architecture—a
blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles. The 11th and 12th centuries marked the
zenith of Lakkundi’s temple art, featuring intricate Kirtimukha sculptures and
elaborate ornamentation.
Brahma Jinalaya Temple
Constructed in 1007 CE, the Brahma Jinalaya Temple is the
oldest in Lakkundi. It comprises a garbhagriha (sanctum), an antarala
(antechamber), a closed navaranga mandapa (hall), and an open pillared mukha
mandapam with a sloped roof. The two-tiered Dravida vimana with a sukanasi
(ornamented feature over the entrance) crowns the sanctum. The temple’s deity,
Neminatha, a Jain Tirthankara, is depicted in a kayotsarga posture.
Nanneshwara Temple
The Nanneshwara Temple stands on a raised platform (jagati)
and shares structural similarities with the Brahma Jinalaya Temple. It features
decorated door jambs, pilastered exterior walls, and devakosthas (niches
resembling small temples) adorned with a prominent Kirtimukha motif.
Kashi Vishveshwara and Sun Temple
This double shrine temple (dvikuta) features two sanctums
facing each other on a raised platform. The eastern shrine, dedicated to Kashi
Vishveshwara, houses a three-foot Shiva lingam, while the opposite shrine is
dedicated to Surya, the Sun god. Noteworthy sculptures on the walls depict
scenes from Hindu mythology, including Shiva slaying Gajasura and Ravana
lifting Mount Kailash.
Naganatha Temple
The Naganatha Temple’s sanctum houses a Shiva lingam and a
pedestal depicting a snake with seven hoods. The temple’s exterior is adorned
with pilasters and devakosthas, consistent with Lakkundi’s architectural style.
Manikeshwara Temple
A 12th-century Trikutachala style temple, Manikeshwara
features three shrines arranged around a central hall. The bell-shaped pillars
and jaali (perforated stone work) on either side of the door enhance its
architectural beauty.
The nearby Muskukina Bavi stepwell, dating back to the
11th century, is another attraction with flights of steps on three sides
leading to the water.
Other Significant Temples
Other notable temples in Lakkundi include the Virupaksha and
Mallikarjuna Temples, each showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and
historical significance of the region.
Lakkundi’s temples are not only architectural marvels but
also a testament to the region’s rich cultural and religious history. The blend
of Hindu and Jain heritage, exemplified through the exquisite temple structures
and inscriptions, makes Lakkundi a must-visit for both Hindus and Jains.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene beauty and historical grandeur of
this hidden gem in Karnataka.