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) v6.c40.s14: Chapter XLVII: The Theatre (Madhyaraṅga-vidhāna)
Mānasāra Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Mānasāra-Śilpaśāstra; III. Mānasāra on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Mānasāra: Translation; V. Architecture of Mānasāra: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v6.c40.s14
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Chapter XLVII: The Theatre (Madhyaraṅga-vidhāna)
v6.c40.s14.2
In the first verse we meet with the expression *mukta-prapāṅga*, which appears to be used in the same sense as *madhya-raṅga*. It is provided with dwarf pillars or pilasters (*aṅghri-pāda*), and consists of various other members (*masūraka*, *vedi*, *mañcha*, *kuṭṭima*, *upapīṭha*, etc.), and is decorated with *uttaras*, *vājanas*, *mushṭi-bandhas* and *lupās*. It should be furnished with four *bhadras* (or with one *bhadra*) and with eight or sixteen *kshudra-nāsīs*. The upper portion is adorned with figures of leogryphs (*vyāli*) and crocodiles (*makara*). From the last but one verse of the chapter it is evident that there must be a close connexion between the *mukta-pārapṅga*, on the one hand, and the *siṁhāsana*, the *makara-toraṇa* and the *kalpa-vṛiksha*, on the other hand, the latter three subjects being discussed in the two immediately preceding and the following chapters.
v6.c40.s14.3
From this verse it will be seen that the materials to be used for the *mukta-prapāṅga*, etc., are wood, stone, brick (terra-cotta?) and various kinds of metal (*loha*, literally iron).
v6.c40.s14.4
The Ornamental Trees (*Kalpa-vṛiksha-vidhāna*)
v6.c40.s14.5
The name of the chapter is *Kalpa-vṛiksha*, which literally means a mythical tree granting all wishes or, in other words, an all-productive tree. But here it is undoubtedly a decorative device surmounting a seat (*āsana*) or throne. It is also mentioned in connexion with the *mukta-prapāṅga*, the *maṇḍapa*, and the *makara-toraṇa*.
v6.c40.s14.6
The minute description and measurement of the various parts of the tree are given. Its trunk (*pāda*) is wound with a serpent, with expanded five-fold hood. The measurements of the snake, of its hood, and of its tail are described in detail. The number of branches as well as their size varies according to the special purpose of the throne, for the decoration of which the tree is meant. The tree is beautifully decorated with creepers, leaves, and flowers of various colours and forms. Jewels and garlands of pearls are inserted in suitable places. The figures of deities, *siddhas*, *vidyādharas*, monkeys, etc., are placed in the intervals between the branches.
v6.c40.s14.7
Many other particulars regarding this ornamental tree are left to the discretion of the artist.