Madanikas, Belur - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

Inspired by Shantala Devi, Queen of King Vishnuvardhana, there are 42 Bracket Figures called as Madanikas (or Celestial Nymphs) carved out of soap stone placed in different corners of the Chennakesava Temple. All Madanikas are found in different postures of Bharata Natyam and carved to the minute detail.

Among these, four bracket figures placed inside the temple's ornate ceiling have become very famous and represent the true beauty of Hoysala's sculpture work. These four madanikas are known as Darpana Sundari - The Beauty with a mirror, The lady with the parrot, The Huntress and The Bhasma Mohini. There are 38 bracket figures placed on the outer walls which are the highlight of the temple's magnificent architecture. All the sculptures are carved with utmost care and clinical precision.

Note: This place is inside Chennakesava Temple complex