Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c26.3

c26.3

Some of the changes in the character of the religious architecture at this time are due to changes that were taking place in the structure of the creed. The elaboration of the ceremonial observances, brought about partly by the more pronounced anthropomorphic attributions of the deity, produced a corresponding elaboration in the temple system by increasing the number of buildings within the temple enclosure, and also to a certain extent altering their intention. In addition to the main temple in the middle, there are separate shrines, pillared halls, pavilions and other annexes, each having its special purpose and each occupying its appointed position in the scheme. One of these is the Amman shrine, a subsidiary temple usually situated to the north west of the main building and slightly behind it; in it is enshrined an image of the consort of the deity to whom the temple is dedicated, he himself occupying the cella of the central structure. Another and even more important building, generally placed towards the left and front of the east entrance, is the Kalyan mandapa, not infrequently the most ornate structure of the entire group. This is an open pillared pavilion, with a raised platform for a throne in the centre for the reception of the deity and his consort on the annual celebration of their marriage ceremony.