KOTIPURA ( Kubetoor )
Many locals know about Kubetoor for its famous son of the soil, the ex CM Mr Bangarappa. We enquired about this destination since the place was not listed on map or tourist circuit. A ray of hope came about, when I read a blog with minimal details mentioning Kubetoor as a museum of temples. When we enquired around when we reached the destination through Jade from Banavasi we were disappointed and found some statues lying scattered around. When we asked for temple they guided us to some new concrete structure. On further probing with a school teacher she guided us to Kotipura, which was supposed to belong to Badami Chalukyan heritage. It is 3 kms away from Kubetoor on the state highway proceeding towards Balligave. Basically there are 3 routes to reach this destination. One is from Balligavi up north around 25 kms, Next is via Jade towards Annavati via Kubetoor village on to the state highway towards Balligavi 15 kms. Next is obviously via Annavati or togarshi from NH 4.
The complex of temples at Kotipura reminds of Chalukyan style of construction. Just as one enters the complex, one the left lies a small temple below the ground level maybe a small pond must have been created for devotees to wash their feet before entering the main complex.
Apart from the main temple complex which is filled with pillared structure to keep the roof from collapsing. Considering heavy rainfall in the region, it must have been a real challenge to build a temple which would not crumble due to leakage. ASI seems to have resurrected some portions of the temple to prevent collapse.
The layout of the temple complex seems to be well laid out by ASI, with numerous small mantaps which may have been salvaged from nearby area to protect against vandalism. The Chalukyan temple complex with only skelton presense of Pillars and walls is quite superb sight.
Keladi dynasty seems to be associated with construction of this temple at later stages.
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