The Hindu Temple v2.c11.s8.32

v2.c11.s8.32

In South Indian temples where the shape of the Āmalaka is unknown, the cupola of the High Temple (vimāna ; harmya) takes its place.¹⁸⁰ In this connection, the High ‘little temple’ (harmikā; hammikā or ‘little palace’) on top of the Buddhist Stūpa has its particular significance. In name and position this Harmya is identical to the domed High Temple on top of the Bhūmis of the South Indian Prāsāda. Its shape too, where it is shown to be a chapel with a vaulted roof¹⁸¹ is cognate with that of the South Indian High Temple and its cupola. On other stūpas however no such chapel is shown within its square railing and surmounted by successive tiers of slabs, increasing in area. Instead, the square railing has the shape of a closed casket with a railing pattern for its sides; on which rest the tiers of slabs, successively increasing in area.¹⁸²