Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c23.20

c23.20

As with all the rock productions of the Pallavas, the rathas are of no great size, the largest measuring only 42 feet long, the widest 35 feet, and the tallest is but 40 feet high. They number eight in all,∗ and, with one exception, are derived from the two types of structure hitherto attributed to the Buddhists, the vihara or monastery, and the chaitya hall or temple. The exception is that known as Draupadi's ratha, the smallest of the series, as well as being the simplest and most finished. This example is merely a cell or *pansala*, and the shape of the roof indicates plainly that it was a copy of a thatched structure, most probably a form of portable shrine belonging to a village community, as shown by its sub-structure. For its base is supported by figures of animals, a lion alternating with an elephant, their attitudes suggesting that they are bearers of a heavy burden. Such an idea is occasionally represented in Indian architecture of the temples and shrines borne along by supernatural creatures, or supported on poles by grotesque human beings, thus implying that these religious constructions were sometimes not fixtures, but could be carried in procession or moved about from place to place. The portable shrine represented by Draupadi’s ratha may have some connection with certain models of tabernacles depicted on the gable ends of the remaining rathas, to be referred to hereafter. (Plate LX)