On 1st May, my father took me to a small village Amritapura 9 kilometers away from Tarikere town in North East direction which is in Shimoga District (I think so). We left Bangalore early morning so that we can reach place early. It took nearly 4 hours to reach the place.
It houses a unique and beautiful temple of Amriteshwara (a.k.a. Amriteswar or Amruteshwar) Ishwaralinga of Hoysala period. This temple was built by Amiteya Dandanayaka, a miliary leader in 1196 CE. Amiteya or Amrita Nayaka was a General (Dandanayaka) of Hoysala King Veera Ballala II (1173-1220 CE). In an inscription he is described as the right hand man of the king. He belonged to Chaturtha Kula or IVth caste, a Shudra. It only proves that caste was no bar in military, and merit and bravery decided the worth in ancient times as well. Amiteya Nayaka was rich enough to build a majestic temple and dedicate it to public.
The same temple has idol of Goddess Saraswati (Sharadamba) which is very beautiful.
I enjoyed the trip as I was accompanied by my cousins Prahas and Anirudh.
I have attached some photos.
