Manasara Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Manasara-Shilpashastra; III. Manasara on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Manasara: Translation; V. Architecture of Manasara: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v2.c16.285

v2.c16.285

"The shrines and *maṇḍapas* are *square*, and only slightly modified by additions to the walls of parallel projections, which in the earlier examples, were thin; the walls were raised on a moulded plinth (*pīṭha*) of some height, over which was a deep base [*adhishṭhāna*], the two together rising, roughly, to about half the height of the walls; over this is the paralleled face of the wall, usually of less proportionate height than in the Chālukyan style, and though devoted to figure sculptures in compartments, the tall thin pilasters of the southern style have disappeared, over this is the many-membered architrave, and cornice, above which rise the spire and roof. The spires follow the vertical lines of the wall, and present no trace of division into storeys, but vary in details with the age. In the earlier examples the summit was crowned by a large fluted, circular block called *amala* (pure, shining)-*śilā*, probably mistaken for *Amalaka* (Phyllanthus Emblica) The finial over this is of the shape of a vase, known as the *Kalaśa* or *Karaka*." "One of the most striking features of the style is the richly carved domes over their *maṇḍapas* or porches. (Nothing can exceed the elaboration and delicacy of details in the sculptured vaults of the temples at Abu and Nāgdā). These, with the diversified arrangement of variously placed and highly ornamented pillars supporting them, produce a most pleasing impression of symmetry and beauty."\1