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 584

Appendix A
529 has no lateral projections it has, therefore, no vertical chases but horizontally it has Jādambo, Grāsa, Gajathara, Narathara, Andhāri, Devathara, Janghā, Bharaṇi and Chajja superimposing one over the other. The Janghā along with the panels of other demigods has in the centre huge figure of Laxmi-nārāyan on south, Narasinha on west, and Varaha on the east.
The two incriptions found there are dated V. S. 1732 and 1733, but the arrangment of the temple structure, its carvings and other sculptures found on the exterior walls of the temple and in the interior of the shrine proper and a kirtitoraṇa before the temple indicate the site to be much earlier.
The pītha and maņdovara mouldings of this temple have some novel features. The vedikā mouldings of the maņdapa runs arround the sanctum too, and, instead of usual mouldings of maņdovara, we see here, above the gajathara moulding of pitha, the moulding of āvaranadevatās and a number of figures such as mithuns etc. on stambhikā and vyālas in the recesses. The sculptures adorning the janghā moulding of the maņdovara are separated by the vase-and-foliage type of pillar like mouldings. The space between these pillars forming ringpilastered niches adorned with llikalavaņs has been filled up by figure sculptures. Thus it gives an effect of a strange sort of Japghā,56 The original superstructure above the kūtachadya is extinct and is now replaced by a modern Sikhara of briks.
The next important temple site is one dedicated to Süleśvari mātā temple. The temple consists of usual component parts. In its vicinity there is one more old shrine dedicated to śiva. Both these temples are enclosed by a compound wall.
The spire over Suleśvari temple is of Ekāndi type. The enclosed manqapa has vedikā, dwarf pillars and kakşāsanas. Pillars are carved in gatapallava motif and grāsa moulding. The
56. CSTG. plt. XIV.