Mediaeval Temples of the Dakhan c7.s1.3

c7.s1.3

At the back of the temple, the stream is dammed up at this point to form a long deep pool, and, upon its still surface, fringed with reeds and boulders, are reflected the old gnarled branches of the trees that overhang its grassy banks, and the lights and shadows of the fretted temple in the background. The flaming blossoms of the scarlet palasa stand out in gorgeous contrast with the purplish-black masonry of the shrine. The temple being in ruins, and well-nigh deserted by human beings, it is a peaceful spot whose quiet is broken only by the busy mainas in the trees above or the occasional splash of a solitary kingfisher in the pool. From the walls of the temple rows of sleepy-eyed deities look down complacently upon the comings and goings of the infrequent pilgrim or casual visitor as they have ever done during the long, long centuries and still they hold their own counsel. Could we but see all their stoney eyes have looked upon through those ages, what a strange panorama of life would unfold itself!