Ikkeri Aghoreshwara Temple - Shiva Temple

Much like Keladi, Ikkeri was once under the control of Keladi Nayakas and as the second capital for them. In Kannada, Ikkeri refers to ‘two streets’. The village is famous for this Shiva temple built in a typical Hoysala-Dravidian style with some Vijayanagar touches too. Built using granite as the core material, the temple is in a rectangular complex and is on a slightly elevated level. Ikkeri Aghoreshwara Temple is huge, making an impression before entering itself. The arches of the Nandi’s (Bull) pavilion are done in typical Indo-Islamic style, indicating the influence of contemporary architecture in the country in the 16th century. There are figures carved all around the temple, on temple walls, on the ceilings and on pillars that support the temple. The temple is flooded with figures of Hindu deities, common people, dancing girls, imaginary animals etc.

The colours of the statues are distinct with a mix of red, brown and green. There is an interesting myth of one craving on the left side of the outer wall. There is one scorpio and two lizards engraved in the ceiling. The lizards are separated by a thin line. It is said that when the lizards come in contact crossing the lines, that is the time for the world to stop functioning. Though it is a stone that makes us less worried, the sculpting is very raw and natural. The main deity Lord Shiva is in the form of Linga and his consort Akhilandeshwari shrine present within the complex. The intricate carvings on the walls of the temple showcase the excellent engineering and craftsmanship. The temple is under the maintenance of the Archaeological Survey of India.