Architecture of Kalleshvara Temple The original temple structure, which was once based over the shrine is no longer existent today. The shrine facing towards the eastern direction possesses a 'garbhagriha' or the sanctum sanctorum and a vestibule or 'antarala' or antechamber which contains a tower called 'sukhanasi'. The sukhanasi bridges the garbhagriha and the 'sabhamandapa' or the gathering hall, which is present close to the 'mukhamandapa' or the main hall. Projections have been built on the walls of the shrine and also the sabhamantapa. Carvings were present on the recesses which are adorned with turrets in 'vesara' style, which is a unique fusion of northern Indian and southern Indian style of architecture. Beautiful, decorative patterns beautify the antechamber and the doorjamb of the sanctum sanctorum while Goddess Lakshmi is portrayed on the lintel of the doorway, being surrounded by elephants on Her both sides. The square bases of the temple pillars of mukhamantapa and sabhamantapa depict representations of various Hindu deities including Goddess Durga, Lord Surya and Bhairava (incarnation of Lord Shiva). This article is a stub. You can enrich by adding more information to it. Send your Write Up to content@indianetzone.com |