Pallava Architecture, Part I (MASI 17) c2.107

c2.107

On plan (Plate X), the second storey consists of a large pillared hall 28 feet in width and about 50 feet in length with a little empty rock-cut shrine cell about 12 feet square at the southern end and an oblong sanctuary at the northern end containing the colossal image of Anantasayana mentioned above. The central hall contains four rows of massive square pillars of the usual kind and similar to those belonging to the first storey. Their cubical portions are decorated with lotus medallions, floral designs and a few Vaishnava figures. The bases of two of the pillars of the facade are decorated with little figures of lions. The latter are represented with one fore paw raised, erect heads and gaily carried lashing tails. The bases of some of the other pillars are decorated with a vase ornament similar to that illustrated in Plate VII (2). The lions and vase ornament are similar in style to those appearing on certain coins which have been attributed to the Pallavas (vide Vincent Smith's Early History of India, Plate I, No. 16). The back wall of the central hall is decorated with the Vaishnava Alvārs and other figures already mentioned. But there are also a number of Saiva figures portrayed showing that both deities were venerated in the same temple.