Mediaeval Temples of the Dakhan c11.s1.1

c11.s1.1

THE Sātārā District has a very poor lot of old temples. At Katāv, some twenty-five miles east of Sātārā, are a few old examples of the " Hemadpanti " class, the most complete among them being that of Nāganātha across the stream bed upon the north-west of the town. It occupies a conspicuous position upon high ground, having an open front with a neatly decorated façade. It is a small building, measuring no more than 60 by 30 feet, and consists of a plain square hall, antechamber and shrine. Four pillars support the central ceiling, and two more the eaves and cornice of the open front. The pillars are of the later Chālukyan type. Ganapati presides above the shrine doorway, and, within, is the linga. The śikhara, or spire, has disappeared. Without, facing the shrine, is the bull Nandi. (Plates LXXXVIII and LXXXIX.)