Built in South Indian style of architecture, the Chattarpur Mandir complex in New Delhi is spread over a large area with manicured lawns and gardens. Though devotees visit the temple throughout the year, during the Navratri months, people flock from far and near; special bus services are made available due to the rush hour. The cluster includes other shrines of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh.
Impressionistic of a modern architecture, the Chattarpur Mandir is build entirely out of marble. It is believed that tying a thread around a tree located inside the temple premises, will grant the desired wishes of the faithful. The South Indian style of masonry is evident in the development of the `Dravida Desam`. The `Vimana`-a tall pyramidal tower consisting of several progressively smaller storeys that stands on a square base, and the `Gopurams` bear proof of the distinctiveness of the temple`s architecture. The Gopuram has two storeys separated by a horizontal moulding. The `Prakara` or the outer wall, envelops the main shrine as well as the other smaller shrines and the tank. The Pallavas, the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagar rulers and the Nayaks-all contributed to the southern style of temples.
