Historical
Monuments » Kalayanamandapam
Vijayanagar temples became very elaborate both in structure and organisation.
In this period, South Indian art attained rich expression. Even the old temples
were amplified by the addition of pillared halls, pavilions and other subordinate
structures. The most characteristic addition is the Kalayana Mandapam, generally
put on the left in the courtyard of the temple as we enter it from the east.
The temple at Vellore is also adorned with the Kalayana Mandapam.
It is a grand piece of stone architecture in Vellore which is considered to
be the most beautiful structure or its kind in South India. Some noticeable
figures of soldiers in leather jerkins fastened with buttons and loops armed
with swords represents Vijayanagar infantry. The mandapa is perhaps the richest
and most beautiful structure of its kind and one of the best specimens of Dravidian
style of architecture. The cornice running round the roof is the most magnificent
of its kind. All the five pillars and four joining panels are carved out of
a single stone.
It is quite marvelous how the work could have been executed without fracture.
Each pillar has upon its faces, figures from one to two feet in height, well
proportioned and magnificently chiseled. The ornamental roof represents the
circles of parrots hanging, heads downwards, holding in their beaks and claws
the open petals of lotus flowers. Each one is carved from one large stone, indeed
a marvel of Indian art. Several figures of animals, such as simhas or lions,
elephants, roaring up and in various postures in several tiers one over the
other are also available. The very ornate pillared pavilion with a raised central
platform is for the reception of the deity and his consort at the annual celebration
of their marriage and it is also unique in character engraved with sculptures.
The inner pillars are of different designs and highly artistic. It is a blend
of Dravidan architecture and Chalukyan style of architecture.
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