Frozen in stone
A rare exhibition of photographs of some of the renowned ancient temples was held in Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat.
Written by Geetha GM
A rare exhibition of photographs of some of the renowned ancient temples was held in Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat, Bengaluru recently. As the state is basking in the achievement of having three Hoysala temples recognized in the UNESCO world heritage list, this exhibition seems to have come at the right time.
The photographs by T. Kempanna brought out the exuberance and sheer marvel on stones standing the test of time for centuries. Mr. Kempanna is a retired photography and film officer from the state government and has carried forward his love for rustic life and ancient temples. He started his work of capturing the ancient temples of Karnataka in the last ten years and wants to keep his passion alive by bringing out some of the hidden treasures of the state.
His more than 1,500 photographs have been exhibited at national and international exhibitions fetching him more than 50 awards across categories.
London Royal Photographic Society, ARPS Federation of Indian Photography FFIP, Federation of International Arts Photography Society, and Photography Society of America have honored him for his immense contribution.
“I am interested in capturing ancient temples and the temple sculptors whose works are mostly forgotten,” Mr. Kempanna said.
His vast range of photographs includes Chitradurga Palegara temples, Kadamba temples, Talakadu Ganga temples, Hoysala temples, Kalyana Chalukya temples, Vijayanagara temples, Keladi Nayakas temples, and more. He has captured photographs from the Kadambad to the Vijayanagara kingdom temples, which are from around the 4th century to the 17th century.
It is heartening to see people like Kempanna who have done yeomen service to preserve and cherish the ancient temples in his photographs. Exhibitions like these should have greater support from the government and the citizens as they remind us of a glorious past which is to be protected for our future generations as well.
