Historian laments the neglect of Hoysala art

Historian Srivathsa Vati said, the governments so far have failed to identify, recognise and publicise the rich heritage of comprehensive Hoysala art and sculptures.

He was speaking after inaugurating the taluk-level celebration of Hoysala Utsav at S K Karim Khan podium, at the Government School Grounds, in the town, on Tuesday.

Pointing out that Hoysala style of sculptures are not restricted to Halebeedu, Belur and Somanathapura, he said, rich art and sculptures were found in abundance in parts of Mudigere, in Chikkamagaluru district; Sakleshpur, Arsikere and Javagal taluks in Hassan district; and Mandya and K R Pet taluks in Mandya district.

“Neglect of these treasures and promotion of only Halebeedu and Belur as tourist destinations is due to the flawed policy of the subsequent governments. The calligraphy in the inscriptions of Hoysala rulers is unique. It should be showcased for future generations. From the point of view of development also Hoysalas have contributed a lot. They are the ones, only after the Ganga rulers, who have constructed the largest network of lakes and ponds for irrigation purpose,” he said.

President of District Janapada Parishat Hampanahalli Thimmegowda said, resumption of Hoysala Utsav — after a gap of eight years — was a tribute to the benevolent rulers. “During the 300-year rule of the Hoysala kings, 39 major poets from Shaiva, Vaishnava, Jain and Brahmin communities emerged. Their encouragement to various streams of education like Mathematics, Science and paintings is also noteworthy,” he said.
MLA H K Kumaraswamy, Town Municipal Council president Santhosh Kumar and others were present.

Earlier, a procession of tableaus depicting the rich art and culture of the Hoysala kingdom, along with various folk art troupes was taken out in the main streets of the town.