The Intricacies Of A Doorway Of A Nagara Style Temple

Nagara Temple Doorway

The doorway of a classical Nagara style temple is probably the highest expression of art achieved in Bharat. Each and every element of the doorway including the threshold is intricately decorated. The doorway is comprised of numerous elements. Lets have a look at each element.

Lalatabimba

This part of the doorway is called the Lalatabimba. A miniature form of the deity present inside the Garbagriha is depicted here.

Uttaranga

On top of the Lalatabimba is an element what is known as Uttaranga. It is where usually Brahma, Vishnu, Maheshwara & sometimes even Skanda along with their respective devis are depicted.

Dwara Shaka

Then comes Dwara Shakas. These are offsets surrounding the doorjamb . They are usually 1,3,5 or 7 in number. There are various types of Shakas depending on what is depicted. If it depicts lions, its called Simha shaka. Likewise there are Gandharva, Mituna & Patra(floral) shaka.

Dwarapala

Then we have the Dwarapalas guarding the Garbagriha on either side of the doorway. It could be Jaya - Vijaya, Ganga-Yamuna depending on the principal deity inside the Garbagriha.

Mandaraka

This element is called the Mandaraka. The name comes from the Mandara mountain which was used during the Samudra manthan to obtain Amrutha. Sometimes the event is depicted here.

Udumbara

Below the Mandaraka is the Udumbara, which is the lowest element among all. It is the threshold. It is unfortunately not visible in the original photo as it is buried beneath the mud. This is an equivalent example from the Suryanarayana temple at Osian.

Mithuna Shaka

An excellent example of Mithuna Shaka from Ashapuri Temple. Nagara architecture reached its peak crescendo in Madhya Pradesh area. The development of architecture came to an abrupt end following the invasions. Sadly we'll never know to what newer heights it would have reached.

Vishvanatha temple, Khajuraho. Under the patronage of the Chandelas of Jejakabhukti, Nagara architecture reached its very peak. Especially the gateway elements leading up to the Garbagriha. Just have a look at each element. So intricate, aesthetic, classy & so graceful.

Have written another post on "Structural elements of a Pallava monolithic rock cut Ratha type Temple" that can be read HERE

REFERENCE

Encyclopedia of Hindu Temple Architecture by MA Dhaky