Chalukya Splendours In and Around Gadag and Lakkundi - Amita Kanekar and Anirudh Kanisetti

Embark on a spectacular visual journey of Karnataka's temple heritage and explore the breathtaking architectural marvels of the Western Chalukya dynasty.

In Chalukya Splendours In and Around Gadag and Lakkundi, acclaimed writers Amita Kanekar and historian Anirudh Kanisetti join forces with master photographer Surendra Kumar to deliver an unparalleled look into the rich cultural landscape of northern Karnataka. While the Early Chalukyas of Badami and Aihole are widely celebrated, this brilliant volume turns its spotlight onto the equally magnificent but often overlooked Western Chalukya (Kalyani Chalukya) empire. Centered around the historic towns of Gadag and Lakkundi, this region boasts a stunning profusion of Hindu and Jain monuments that mark the zenith of ornate stone craftsmanship, innovative structural design, and artistic genius in the Deccan.

The book acts as an immersive guide and cultural chronicle, tracing the evolution of temple art from simple rock-cut forms into the dizzyingly intricate, star-shaped soapstone structures that define the Later Chalukyan style. Readers are treated to deep historical essays and narrative insights that bring the political, spiritual, and social world of ancient Karnataka to life. Complementing the authoritative text are dozens of splendid, high-resolution photographs by Surendra Kumar, capturing the delicate filigree carvings, massive stepwells (Kalyanis), and imposing temple facades in situ. Whether you are a dedicated history buff, an architecture student, or a heritage traveler mapping out a journey across Karnataka, this volume is an indispensable treasury of one of India's greatest artistic golden ages.