Harihareshwar Temple – A Temple with both Shiva and Vishnu as Single Idol !!

We have heard of few temples where both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva can be worshipped in a single temple. But, have you ever imagined of a temple where both Shiva and Vishnu can be seen together as a single idol in the main Sanctum of the temple? Yes, Harihareshwar Temple is the one that stands as the best example to establish that both Vishnu and Shiva are One and the Same.

Yes, Harihareshwar temple is one such temple. This beautiful temple is located in a place called Harihara in Davangere Dist., Karnataka. The temple has been built in 1223 – 1224 CE by Polalva who was the minister of the Hoysala King, Vira Narasimha II.

The unique feature of Harihareshwara temple is that the main deity of the temple is the rare and powerful combination of Lord Vishnu (Hari) and Lord Shiva (Hara). Hence the name Lord Harihareshwara.

The deity is the fusion of the right vertical half of Lord Shiva and left vertical half of Lord Vishnu. The image holds the attributes or the features of Lord Shiva on the right hand and that of Lord Vishnu on the Left hand. On the right-hand side, one can see Shiva’s Trishul and the hair styled as an ascetic. But on the left side of the idol, we can see Lord Vishnu with His Discus and the head covered with a crown.

As per the Hindu Mythology, the demon named Guha did penance to please Lord Brahmma and he was blessed with a boon. According to the boon, both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu would not able to destroy him single-handedly. Having this boon, the demon Guha started tormenting the humans, Rishis and the Devas.  In order to destroy the demon Guha, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva together took the form of Harihara (a fusion), came down to earth and killed the demon.  This unique incarnation is said to have taken place near Kudalur, at the confluence of the rivers Haridra and Tungabhadra.

Harihareshwara Temple has been constructed in a square hall, which is a true representation of Hoysala architecture. The temple is made up of soapstone and the ceiling has exquisite artistic carvings on it and is held up by the polished full pillars. The temple is truly a representation of architectural proficiency and inimitable craftsmanship of the Hoysala artists.