Sangameshwara Temple, Kudalasangama – The Temple Complex

Sangameshwara Temple, Kudalasangama – The Temple Complex

This temple is facing towards east and follows Chalukya style of architecture. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and navaranga with entrance porches on northern and eastern side. The navaranga is supported by four intricately carved central pillars. Idols of Basaveshwara, Neelamma, twin Nandi and Ganapati can be found in the navaranga. The door frame of the sanctum is richly carved with floral designs and animal figures.

The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Sangameshwara / Sangamanatha in the form of Shiva Linga. Lord is a Swayambhu Moorthy (self-manifested). The deity is called as Sangameshwara as the temple is situated at the confluence of Krishna and Malaprabha rivers. There was a Marakata Linga found beneath the main Shivalinga while moving the temple from the original site.

There is a small shrine of Lord Venkateswara on the left side of the main entrance. There is a big Nandi mandapa opposite to the temple. There is a pillar near Nandi mandapa with inscriptions. There are several inscriptions on the pillars of the temple. The Aikiya Mandapa enshrines the holy samadhi of Basavanna, the founder of Lingayat sect of Hindu religion. A Udhbhava Linga is said to have installed over the samadhi of Basavanna.

The Aikiya Mandapa is situated in the midst of the river protected by a massive circular wall to prevent it from submersion. There is a shrine for Neelamma on the eastern side across the river Krishna. This shrine is also protected by a massive circular wall to prevent it from submersion.  There is also a museum in the ashram of the temple. It has collection of ancient stone & bronze sculptures, inscriptions and architectural fragments.