Situated on the left bank of the
Tungabhadra River in
Alampur, Nava Brahma is a temple complex of nine shrines dating back to the 7th century. Nava Brahma temples include
Taraka Brahma,
Swarga Brahma, Padma Brahma,
Bala Brahma,
Garuda Brahma,
Kumara Brahma, Arka Brahma, Vira Brahma and Viswa Brahma. Built by the Badami
Chalukyas, these temples are enclosed in a courtyard and depict various manifestations of
Lord Shiva.
The principal shrine in the temple complex is Bala Brahma temple, which dates back to 702. Taraka Brahma temple bears inscriptions dating back to the 6th-7th century. Swarga Brahma temple with its imposing tower testifies the quality of Chalukyan architecture and sculpture. Padma Brahma temple enshrines a shivling of clear stone with mirror-like finish. Viswa Brahma temple is noted for its sculptural work depicting scenes from the epic.
