The journey of Devadasis in Hoysala Architecture

Sculpture of Huntress in Chennakeshava Temple, Belur

The Hoysala rulers were ardent promoters of art and architecture. There are 124 temples associated with the Hoysala period, 103 of which are in Karnataka. Apart from the famous Chennakeshava temple, other notable structures include the Veera Narayana temple in Belur, the Kesava temple in Somanathapur, and the Hoysaleswara temple in Halebidu.

The Hoysala temples highlight Devadasis’ historical significance and how they were an important part of society at the time. In the temples, there are 38 magnificent dance genres performed by female performers. The Hoysala temples are a collection of holy constructions in the Hassan and Mysuru districts of Karnataka, India, that were erected between the 11th and 14th century.

South Indian temple dancers are known as Devadasis. They’ve existed for thousands of years and are well-known around the globe. The Devadasi, or God’s maid, was a popular name in ancient India. Because of their relationship with South Indian temple culture, they gained prominence in the 11th century. This art form flourished in the states of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The subject of who the Devadasis are is always brought up.

Temple dwellers known as Devadasis were lauded by emperors. For their commitment to religion and prayer, some of them have been revered as Lord Krishna’s wives since the 10th century.

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