Kalyani Chalukyas

 

Introduction

The Kalyani Chalukyas, also known as the Western Chalukyas, ruled over the Deccan Plateau between the 10th and 12th centuries CE. Recently, archaeologists discovered 900-year-old Kannada inscriptions from this era in Kankal village, Vikarabad district, Telangana. These inscriptions, dating 1129-1132 CE, highlight temple construction and land donations during the reign of Emperor Someswara III Bhulokamalladeva.

Who Were the Kalyani Chalukyas?

The Kalyani Chalukyas were a major dynasty that controlled present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. They succeeded the Rashtrakutas and were instrumental in shaping Deccan culture, administration, and temple architecture.

Dynastic Lineage and Origin

The Chalukyan dynasty is divided into three main branches:

1. Chalukyas of Badami (6th-8th century CE)
2. Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi (7th-12th century CE)
3. Western Chalukyas (Kalyani Chalukyas) (10th-12th century CE)

The Kalyani Chalukya dynasty was founded by Tailapa II (973 CE) after he defeated the Rashtrakutas. They made Kalyani (modern-day Bidar, Karnataka) their capital, from which they ruled over a vast region.

Major Rulers of Kalyani Chalukyas

1. Vikramaditya VI (1076-1126 CE) –
   • Greatest ruler of the dynasty.
   • Introduced the Chalukya Vikrama era in 1076 CE.
   • Expanded the empire through military conquests.
2. Someswara I & Someswara III –
   • Known for territorial expansion and cultural growth.
   • Someswara III authored Manasollasa, an encyclopedia on various topics.
3. Jayasimha II –
   • Stabilized the empire after Rashtrakuta decline.
   • Strengthened administrative policies.

Religious & Cultural Contributions

The Kalyani Chalukyas were patrons of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Jainism. They contributed significantly to temple-building and cultural developments.

Architectural Contributions

The Kalyani Chalukyas developed the Vesara (Karnata-Dravida) style of temple architecture. Their architectural style is seen in:

1. Mahadeva Temple (Itagi, Koppal, Karnataka)
   • Known as the “Emperor among temples”.
   • Intricate carvings, symmetrical design, and grandiosity.
2. Kasivisvesvara Temple (Lakkundi, Gadag, Karnataka)
   • A fine example of symmetrical Western Chalukya architecture.
3. Sarasvati Temple (Gadag, Karnataka)
   • Showcases elaborate stone carvings and stepped wells.
4. Dodda Basappa Temple (Dambal, Gadag, Karnataka)
   • Unique star-shaped plan and intricate sculptures.

Their temples and inscriptions significantly influenced later architectural developments, including Vijayanagara and Hoysala styles.

Recent Archaeological Discovery: 900-Year-Old Inscriptions

Key Highlights of the Inscriptions Found in Telangana:

• Date: 1129-1132 CE
• Location: Kankal village, Vikarabad district, Telangana
• Language: Kannada
• Significance:
  • Mentions temple construction and land grants during the reign of Someswara III Bhulokamalladeva.
  • Provides insights into social, political, and religious life during the Western Chalukya period.

Decline of Kalyani Chalukyas

The decline of the dynasty began in the late 12th century due to:

1. Frequent Wars – Continuous battles weakened the kingdom.
2. Rise of Hoysalas & Yadavas – These emerging powers eroded Chalukyan influence.
3. Internal Conflicts – Struggles among regional feudal lords led to instability.

By the end of the 12th century, the Hoysalas, Seuna Yadavas, and Kalachuris took over their territories, marking the end of Kalyani Chalukya rule.

Conclusion

The Kalyani Chalukyas played a crucial role in shaping medieval Deccan history. Their contributions to art, architecture, and literature left a lasting legacy. The recent discovery of 900-year-old inscriptions in Telangana highlights their continued relevance in historical research.

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MCQs on Kalyani Chalukyas

1. Who founded the Kalyani Chalukya dynasty?

A) Vikramaditya VI
B) Tailapa II
C) Someswara III
D) Jayasimha II
Answer: B) Tailapa II

2. Which temple is known as the “Emperor among temples”?

A) Sarasvati Temple, Gadag
B) Kasivisvesvara Temple, Lakkundi
C) Mahadeva Temple, Itagi
D) Dodda Basappa Temple, Dambal
Answer: C) Mahadeva Temple, Itagi

3. What was the capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas?

A) Badami
B) Lakkundi
C) Kalyani (modern Bidar)
D) Pattadakal
Answer: C) Kalyani (modern Bidar)

4. Which of the following rulers introduced the Chalukya Vikrama era?

A) Someswara I
B) Vikramaditya VI
C) Jayasimha II
D) Pulakeshin II
Answer: B) Vikramaditya VI

5. The recently discovered 900-year-old inscriptions in Telangana belong to which period?

A) Eastern Chalukyas
B) Rashtrakutas
C) Kalyani Chalukyas
D) Vijayanagara Empire
Answer: C) Kalyani Chalukyas

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Mains Question:

Q: Discuss the contributions of the Kalyani Chalukyas to temple architecture and administration. How did their rule influence medieval Deccan politics? (250 words)