Sculpture of Ramappa Temple

The sculpture of Ramappa Temple dates back to the Kakatiya times. Built in 1213 AD this temple is also known as Ramalingeswara temple (near Warangal). Ramappa Temple was constructed by a General Recherla Rudra, under the reign of King Ganapati Deva. The presiding deity here is Lord Ramalingeswara.

The architecture of Ramappa Temple is well planned and it follows the traditional temple building idiom. This is evident from its star shape raised platform. The temple has a grabhagriha, mandapa, pillars and well carved stone sculptures. One notable feature about of Ramappa Temple is that it is built with bricks. In fact these bricks are so light that they will even float on water. A sculpted vimana accompany the garbhagriha or the inner chamber. The mandapa is situated in front of the mandapa or hall.

The mandapa comprises elegantly designed pillars that support the ceiling. The ceiling, in turn, has been adorned with well carved figurines. The main motifs of the sculpture have their roots in Hindu mythologies, such as, Ramayana and Mahabharata. Foliage sculptures and poised figures have been displayed on the chiselled pillars and ceilings. The outer walls of the temples, too, are decorated with intricate designs.

Besides the primary temple there are two sub shrines. Both the shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Another conspicuous feature of the sculpture of Ramappa Temple is the sculpted image of Nandi that faces the sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha). With time, however, Ramappa Temple has suffered the loss of remarkable sculptures.