The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has utterly neglected two of the Protected Monuments of Hubballi. The protected monuments we are referring to here are Chandramouleshawara Temple at Unkal and Banashankari Temple at Amargol.
Both the temples are located around 600m from the HDBRTS Corridor. But there are no Signboards to show directions to the temples. Even the approach road to the temples is in a pathetic state. Visitors have to rely on locals for directions to the temples.
The approach road towards the Chandramouleshawara Temple is very narrow. Visitors may have to park their vehicles at a distance to visit the temple. There is only a single signboard, but for the next few turns, visitors have to rely on locals for directions.
The situation at Banashankari Temple is worse, there are no Signboards to guide you towards the temple. The road towards the temple (Navanagar to Amminabhavi Road) is in a pathetic state. But fortunately, it is getting repaired, not sure if they are asphalting it or concreting it.
Brief Introduction of Chandramouleshawara Temple
Chandramouleshawara Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located near the Unkal area of Hubballi City. The temple facing East has a Garbhagriha with a Pradikshana Patha. It is dateable to Twelfth Century. Originally it had the image of Chaturmukha Linga, which is now kept on the Western side of Mantapa.
The outer walls of the temple are carved with the sculpture of various deities. Some of the important sculptures are of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva in their different forms. The Adhistana portion contains sculptures of Horses and Elephants.
Brief Introduction of Banashankari Temple
Banashankari Temple at Amargol is dedicated to goddess Banashankari and Lord Shiva. It is located in the Amargol area of Hubballi City. The sand stone-built temple facing East is dateable to Eleventh-Twelfth century AD. The temple has a Dwikuta structure and has two Garbhagrihas facing East and South.
One Garbhagriha houses the image of Bhairavi installed on a pedestal whereas another houses Shivalinga. The pillars have sculptures of Vishnu, Nataraja, Ganapati, Bhairavi, Bhairava, Shiva, UgraNarasimha, etc. An inscription dated back to 1120 AD found at the site mentions that Saudhore Jakkarasa built the temple for Keshava and Bhairava at Amargol.
Many are unaware of the beautiful temples in our vicinity. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has to maintain and promote our heritage. Approach Roads have to be improved and Signboards have to be provided until the temple. Preserving our Heritage and History is in our hands.
For the record, The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is an Indian Government agency attached to the Ministry of Culture that is responsible for Archaeological Research and the Conservation and Preservation of Cultural Monuments in the country.
Both the temples have been declared to be of National Importance under The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. Those who destroy, alter, or defaces the monument are punishable with Imprisonment of 2 years or a Fine of ₹ 1 Lakh or Both.