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 590

Appendix A
535 are covered with perforated stone latice. The pillars are highly carved in the fashion of those in the Jain temples at Mt. Abu. The ceiling of the antarāla is a beautiful piece of sculpture.68
Just near this temple there are three more small temples dedicated to Hindu divinities-siva, Lakşminārāyaṇa-and Sakati. The group includes a pair of small temples locally known as those of the Sasu and the Vanu.6 4 They too, are in almost dilapidated condition. A little far from the Lākhenā temple on the dam of river Harnava there is ruined Sun temple of considerable big size. It is said that it had a Sun image of nearly 2 meters in height which is along with other images, disappeared. 68 Asatika Pancāyatana Kenyātā Mahādeva
The temple complex consists of a principal temple surrounded by four small temples, each at a corner. The principal temple consists of a garbhagriha and a mandapa in front of it. It is badly ruined. The extant mandovara contains several noteworthy sculptures, among which the sculptures of Siva in the tāndava pose and Varāha are best preserved. The mandapa preserves some of the pillars and kaksāsanas but its superstructure is lost. The Sikhara over the garbhagriha also is extinct. The four small shrines too are in dilapidated condition.
There is a Kirtitoraņa in front of the temple. It is in a good condition, though some of its components especially the arches below and above the lintel are extinct. The bases of the shafts and capitals of the pillars are highly carved, similarly the lintel also is adorned with several niches for gods and goddesses. This toraņa adds itself to the few available toraņas of Gujarat. 66 63. Images of this deserted temple are now preserved at Himatnagar. Here Figs. 176-180. 64. This reminds us of the name of Sāsa-bahu temple at Gwalior as well as of the two Sāsa-bahu temples at Kavi in the Broach district. 65. Vide Nutan Gujarat' dated 24-6-62. 66. Vide 'Nutan Gujarat' dated 27-5-62.