Centuries-old Channakeshava idol found during sand extraction in Karnataka’s Sakleshpur taluk

An idol resembling the famous Channakeshava of Hoysala temple at Belur was found during sand extraction at Hale Belur in Sakleshpur taluk recently. The local people noticed the idol while extracting sand on the bank of river Hemavathi on Tuesday.
 
The idol is about 4.5 ft tall and said to be of the 12th century, the period when famous Hoysala temples were built.
 
Kumar H.C, the curator of the Archaeology Museum in Hassan, told the media, “Barring minor dents, the idol is in good condition. I will submit a report to the Director of Museums about the idol and seek his directions for preserving it.”