This is fifteenth in the series on the rich cultural heritage of ancient temples in India. Today we will see sculptures on the external walls or pillars of the temple.
The Brihadeswara Temple of Gangaikondacholapuram built in 1020-1029 AD has magnificent carvings on their external walls. One of the sculpture shown above is the true masterpiece. Here Lord Shiva seated on a throne with Uma Parameswari by his side. Lord in his four arms carries axe and antelope in his upper arms; towards the bottom the Lord is seen crowning Chandesa with a garland of flowers. Chandesa is none other than King Rajendra Chola is the embodiment of devotion and piety and the place he attained is considered the highest, a devotee of Siva is privileged with.
The Airavateswarar Temple at Darasuram, which abounds in architectural and rare sculptural specimens of workmanship. Here is one of the walls of the temple which is beautifully carved.
The Ranganathswamy Temple at Srirangam is beautifully done. The Kalayanmantap with pillars with warriors is exceptionally carved.
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The Brihadeswara Temple of Gangaikondacholapuram built in 1020-1029 AD has magnificent carvings on their external walls. One of the sculpture shown above is the true masterpiece. Here Lord Shiva seated on a throne with Uma Parameswari by his side. Lord in his four arms carries axe and antelope in his upper arms; towards the bottom the Lord is seen crowning Chandesa with a garland of flowers. Chandesa is none other than King Rajendra Chola is the embodiment of devotion and piety and the place he attained is considered the highest, a devotee of Siva is privileged with.
The Airavateswarar Temple at Darasuram, which abounds in architectural and rare sculptural specimens of workmanship. Here is one of the walls of the temple which is beautifully carved.
Prev 14 Next 16
Wow! Amazing sculptures ~ India is rich with history ~ wonderful Mosaic header you have ^_^
ReplyDeletebariya
ReplyDeleteBeautifully captured!
ReplyDeleteVery nice. The sculpture in the first photo is quite interesting.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful...
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pics. Makes one feel like visiting this temple.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful temple and the carvings are so wonderful. I really like the pillar warriors. Great shots!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! Truly Poetry in Stone.
ReplyDelete'Poetry in Stone' is a perfect description for these beautiful carvings. They're magnificent.
ReplyDeleteWow! Amazing capture... esp. the first one is a brilliant piece of depiction.
ReplyDeleteWhat a place! Love the sculptures - especially in the first photo!
ReplyDeleteThis is even more intricate and amazing than ever! As always. I'm in awe. Thank you for explaining the story too.
ReplyDeleteWow! Those are lovely temples which are less known!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful tour you've taken us on -- as always, Rajesh! Incredible sculptures! Superb captures! Hope you have a great week!
ReplyDeleteWow...amazing shots and beautiful sculptures.
ReplyDeleteStunning carvings!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
ReplyDeleteMore fantastic photography of your beautiful ~ country ~ for OWT ^_^
ReplyDeleteThe attention to detail is amazingly beautiful.
ReplyDeleteGreat captures.
ReplyDeleteLoved you blog..May I suggest you to add Subscribe via email please?
ReplyDeleteWow - so graceful and utterly gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteTerrific detail and the word (name) for the letter G is "gargantuian.
ReplyDeleteTruly beautiful.
ReplyDeletehow do you PRONOUNCE that?
ReplyDeleteROG, ABC Wednesday team
The poetry in stone is fantastic.
ReplyDeleteYes, some beautiful photos, excellent sculptures.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for appreciating this master craftsmanship.
ReplyDeleteGreat pics Rajesh!
ReplyDeletehttp://amitaag.blogspot.in/2013/02/grey-and-green.html
When n India many years ago I was very impressed with all the carved images and elaborate sculptures. Kate ABC Team
ReplyDeleteI am wondering how long it took for these beauties to complete.
ReplyDeleteRose, ABC Wednesday Team.
The sculptures on the walls as well as inside the temples in India are all work of superb craftsmanship. Some beautiful pictures.
ReplyDeleteWonderful sculptures the first looks as though it could come alive at any moment.
ReplyDeletei like the bottom left pic the best
ReplyDeletemy g post for this week:
gripping girdle limerick
I know the same horse, somwhere else. Good lord, I do'nt remember name.
ReplyDeleteThe first sculpture is simply perfect !
ReplyDeleteAmazing photos :)
ReplyDelete