Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c28.35

c28.35

There is one other factor in the design of the Rajarani temple, which is a further indication that this example is a departure from all the others of the group. It will be seen that the plan of the sanctuary, although in its general configuration is in the shape of a square, has both its exterior and interior surfaces so elaborately recessed that it becomes almost circular in appearance. Moreover the plan is not aligned so that its sides are in the same plane as the rest of the building, but the whole structure is placed diagonal to it. Such an arrangement is an exception in the plans of the Orissan temples, where the sides of all the buildings are in the same alignment. But, as will be shown later, this setting of the plan of the sanctuary diagonally to the plan of the hall in front of it was not infrequently adopted in the temples of other parts of the country, and one which was speedily developed as it produced an added variety and contrast of effect in the elevational appearance of the structure as a whole. The Rajarani temple was an early example of the diagonal treatment in its plan, and may have pointed the way to the employment of the same principle in the other regional styles.