If the pyramids and parthenon represent the architectures of Egypt and Greece, temples at Belur and HaleBeedu represent the fine sculpture of Indian Architecture. Built by the well known sculptor Jakkanna Chari, these temples rev present some of the most delicate and intricate carvings reminiscent of Hoysala dynasty. "Poetry in Stone" is the exclamation of many, for these temples are indeed a challenge to the most skilled sculptor.

Located in the Hassan district (which today boasts of Master Control Facility for the most modern Communication Satellites), these temples are dedicated to Vishnu, the chief deity of the Hoysala dynasty. The sculptor Jakkanna tried out the Channa Keshava temple at Belur as an experiment to build the larger and more exquisite temple at Hale'beedu. The history and the joy of building them are brought out in "Shantala," a book written by Ta.Ra.Su (T.R. Subba Rao) of our times.

In the novel, the king Harshavardhana brings his wife to the temple site to model the dance postures of Shantala, which though made in stone comes alive to them through the sheer beauty of Jakkanna's imagination.

Often, Karnataka is represented by the "Shilabaalike" (girl in stone) which has so many artistic poses in Belur. Women, the world over study and redo the hairstyles, dances, reliving the feminine charm these statues have always stood for.

While the temple at Belur is still in use, the bigger and more exquisite temple at Hale'beedu was partly destroyed by the Mughal invaders who pillaged and destroyed this region. However, most of the artifacts and the temple itself is still open to tourists, to study and admire.