Lakshmi Narsimha Temple, Hassan, Karnataka India

The Lakshmi Narasimha temple was built in the year 1246. It lies in the town of Nuggehali in the Hassan district. The district of Nuggehali is home to intricately carved Hoysala temples which include the Lakshminarasimha temple and the Sadasiva temple. It was built during the rule of the Hoysalas by the King Virasomeshwara. King Vishnuvardhana patronised the temples built during his era.

The temple was built in the year 1911. It is a beautifully decorated Hoysala temple. It has three towers, the vimana which has intricately carved wall sculptures. Soapstone is the material that was used for building the temple.

Lord Narasimha is an avatar of Lord Krishna. As per Hindu scriptures, Upanishads and Puranas, Vishnu took the form of Narasimha for destroying the demon. Narasimha is visualised as half lion and half man. The upper is in the form of a lion with claws. The lower is human form. The Lakshmi Narasimha temple has Lord Narasimha with Goddess Lakshmi who is the wife of Lord Vishnu.

The art and architecture of the Lakshmi Narasimha temple boasts of the Hoysala culture and tradition. The idol of Lakshmi Narasimha temple is made of intricately carved stone. This temple was built by Bommanna Dandanayaka, a commander in the court of King Vira Someshwara during 1246 AD. One gets to see lathe turned pillars at the Lakshmi Narasimha temple and at most of the temples built during the Hoyasala rule.