Mediaeval Temples of the Dakhan c10.s7.1

c10.s7.1

The temples at these two places are fair examples of the later temples which may be more correctly called "Hemadpanti" than most of those already described, built subsequently to the middle of the thirteenth century. They are conspicuous by the absence of image sculpture on the outside of their walls, the decoration being confined to mouldings in string courses and geometrical designs. As already surmised, this may be due to want of funds for a more elaborate building, or to the presence of the Muhammadans in the country, who were sworn enemies to all forms of idolatry. Images displayed openly upon the exterior would only excite their fanaticism and be an invitation to their iconoclastic tendencies. The Hindus were beginning to find that their idols were safer stowed away within their shrines.