Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c23.42

c23.42

Apart from the main structure of this temple there are certain arrangements in connexion with the entrance to the courtyard which are noteworthy. This part appears to have been produced under the direction of Mahendravarman III, and evidently marks a deviation from the original plan. In place of what should have been the main gateway, a large subsidiary chapel has been introduced, complete with cella, vestibule and stairway approach, the actual doorways into the courtyard being relegated to openings on either side. Although a place of worship, the Mahendravarmanesvara shrine is built in such a manner, as, with its accompaniments, to suggest the beginnings of the gopuram, or entrance pylon. That the masons were by this time realizing the importance of selection in the matter of their building materials is shown by the fact that in the Kailasanatha, while the foundations of the temple are of granite, the upper portions are of sandstone, thus providing a hard and firm sub-structure to carry its weight and a more plastic substance for the sculpture. Unfortunately at a somewhat distant date repairs to the latter became necessary, when these were effected rather ruthlessly by means of concrete.