The Mahadeva temple in Itagi is a marvel in stone and a fine example of Western Chalukyan architecture. It boasts splendid sculptures and intricate carvings. The inscription in the Itagi Mahadeva temple rightly states that it is ‘the emperor among temples’. It is located in Itagi town in Yelburga taluk in the Koppal district of Karnataka.
Itagi Mahadeva Temple History
The Mahadeva temple in Itagi, dedicated to Lord Shiva, was built by Mahadeva, a military commander of King Vikramaditya VI of the Western Chalukyan dynasty in 1112 CE. Constructed in line with the Amruteshwara temple of Annigeri, the temple is a glorious example of Chalukyan architecture. Art historian Henry Cousens said the temple is the “finest in Kannada country after Halebidu.” The temple is under the care of The Archeological Survey of India.
Mahadeva temple, Itagi architecture
The Itagi Mahadeva temple faces the east. It consists of a sanctum sanctorum connecting to a closed mantapa or hall. Furthermore, the closed mantapa opens into an open pillared mantapa. There are doorways leading to the sanctum and the open pillared mantapa from the closed mantapa. The ceiling of the open mantapa sports beautiful fretted stonework. Also, the open mantapa boasts 64 pillars, of which 24 rise from the floor and touch the ceiling. The remaining are dwarf pillars that start from the parapet wall that surround the mantapa. These pillars support the sloping eaves.
In the sanctum, Lord Shiva graces in the form of a linga. Thirteen small shrines with lingas surround the main shrine. Also, there are shrines for Murthi Narayana and Chandraleshwari, the parents of the one who built the temple. The ceiling, pillars, and sculptures in the temple boast excellent intricate carvings.
How to reach the Itagi Mahadeva temple
The Mahadeva temple in Itagi is 26.2 km from Koppal, 45 km from Gadag, 73 km from Hampi, and 103 km from Hubli.
By Air
The nearest airport to reach the Mahadeva Temple in Itagi is the Jindal Vijayanagar Airport, around 96 KM from the temple. Hubli Airport is around 107 KM from the temple.
By Train
The nearest railway station to the Mahadeva Temple, Itagi, is Bannikoppa Railway Station, which is approximately 8.9 km away. The Koppal Railway Station is approximately 25 km away.
By Road
Buses and private transport can reach Itagi from Koppal, Gadag, Hampi and Hubli.
The best time to visit the Mahadeva temple in Itagi
Anytime between July and March, visiting the Mahadeva temple in Itagi is ideal.
To conclude, the Mahadeva temple in Itagi is an architectural wonder and is undoubtedly worthy of a visit.