Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Description: The Sri Parvati Temple and Sri Kumaraswamy Temple at Krouncha Giri, located near Sandur in the Bellary district, Karnataka, are significant historical and mythological sites. The twin temples are excellent pieces of art; the place is 12 km. from Sandur town. One of the hill ranges has the attractive Kumaraswamy temple and also the Parvati temple. Krouncha Giri is an elliptical-shaped mountain with a narrow pass, linked to the legend of Lord Kartikeya defeating the demon Tarakasura. As per the legend, Kartikeya used his spear, known as Vel, to pierce the mountain and slay the demons hiding within. These temples are remarkable examples of early South Indian architecture and have deep connections to Hindu mythology. 

The Sri Kumaraswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Shanmukha, The Parvati temple perhaps was the original Kumaraswamy temple of Chalukya times which now houses a recent Parvati figure and the Shanmukha Kumaraswamy. The temple is a Rashtrakuta structure with a modern image. The Sri Parvati Temple, built in the 7th to 8th century, showcases the middle phase of Badami Chalukya architecture, recognized as the Mesara style. This temple is notable for lacking a mandapa, a common feature in Hindu temples, a decorative element above the entrance to the sanctum. The vimana, or temple tower, displays a unique design characterized by a mix of bulging and compressed horizontal layers. The site is also associated with sages Agastya and Parashurama. The mountain is mentioned in several Hindu texts, including the Mahabharata, Skanda Purana, and Kalidasa's Megha Sandesha, highlighting its cultural significance.