Structural Temples of Gujarat

SR No.: 006728
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Kantilal F Sompura
Publisher: Gujarat University Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1968
Total Pages: 868
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 31 MB

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The Development of the Regional Phases of the Temple (i) The early Chalukyan Phase (c. 725 A. D.-c. 740 A. D.)
There are several examples of the Dravidian style of temple at Aihole, as for instance that numbered 53, and the Jain temple no. 39, as well as the Meguti temple bearing a date equivalent to A. D. 634; in each case the tower is in a state of ruin. So for a very early example of the Dravidian style in this region, it is necessary to turn to the town of Badami, situated some twenty-four Kms. from Aihole, and the seat of Chalukyan dynasty at a slightly later date. 3 2
There is a temple of Mahakuteśvara, at Badami which from inscriptional evidence appears to have been built before A. D. 600. It is a small and almost insignificant edifice, but it is instructive because the tower is complete, with an octagonal domical finial, and surrounded by tiers of miniature shrines, all illustrative of an early phase in the evolution of the Dravidian Śikhara. But a larger and slightly more developed structure of much the same type, although undoubtedly of somewhat later date (i. e. c. A. D. 700 ) is Malegitti Śivalaya. It consists of three compartments-cella, assembly hall, and porch, the two former square in plan. Its heavy monolithic pillars, ponderous capitals, broad string-courses and over hanging roll-cornices, are all suggestive of rock-cut tradition. 3 8
At Pattadakal the temples of the Dravidian style are six jn number. They are Samgameśvara (c. 725), Virupaksa (c. 740), Mallikarjuna (c. 740) Galānātha (c. 740 ) Sunmeśvara and a Jain temple.34 Of this group the Virupākṣa temple is striking. It is a comprehensive scheme, as it consists not only of the central structure, but of a detached Nandi pavilion in front and is contained within a walled enclousure entered by an appropriate gateway, It measures 36 meters 32. JABH p. p. 81 33. IABH p. p. 81-82 plt. LI Fig. 1. 34. IABH p. p. 83.