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

Page 582

Appendix A
527
In front of the mandapa is constucted a group of combined compartments (Cokis ) each having four pillars at the conjunctional points. Some of these compartments have carved ceilings out of which two deserve special notice. One, just near the entrance has a carving of bands of musicians and a women dancing amidst them, the other ceiling has a panel of 16 warriors with swords in their hands arranged in circular manner like the spokes of the wheel. 53
The garbhagriha does not retain the original door frame, but the entrance door ( 1.8 x 0.8 ms.) on north has beautiful and ornate door frame consisting recessed and projecting niches for gods, goddesses and dancing damsels. Over the door lintel there is a panel of Navagrahas. The threshold also contains beautiful carvings.
There is also a peice of some door frame now fixed in the southern wall of the temple. It is similar in design and sculptures to that of the entrance door.
Valam.*
The Ranchhodji temple at Valam, facing north has been vaguely noticed by the Archaeological Department of the former Baroda State.8 3
The temple is dedicated to Ranchhodji at present but the image is not an old one.84
52. These ceilings have been noticed by Burgess, in the description of Vadanager, AANG. pp. 83-85, but he does not mention their exact site. Here figs. 187, 209, 210. * Nearly 6.4 Kms. S. V. of Visnagar (Dist. Mehsana ). $3. Vide 'ARAB' 38 p. 12. 54. The image is of black stone and is about a meter in height. On local inquiry it is learnt that the image was consecrated nearly 150 years ago.