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Modehra sun temple architecture
The temple complex you described is a fine example of the Māru-Gurjara (Chaulukya) architectural style, characterized by intricate carvings and detailed ornamentation, particularly in the mandapas and shikhara. Here's a breakdown of the key architectural features:
General Layout:
Axially aligned components: The temple has three main components: the garbhagriha (sanctum), gudhamandapa (hall), and sabhamandapa (assembly hall), all aligned on a central axis.
Sabhamandapa placement: Uniquely, the sabhamandapa is not directly attached to the gudhamandapa but is slightly separated, built on a raised platform. Both structures are no longer roofed but retain impressive architectural details.
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Modehra sun temple, GJ en.wikipedia.org
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Gudhamandapa (Hall) and Garbhagriha (Sanctum):
Dimensions: The gudhamandapa measures 51 feet 9 inches by 25 feet 8 inches, and it is divided into the main hall and the garbhagriha. The sanctum is 11 feet square.
Design: The outer walls feature projections with windows, although some are now in ruins or missing. Perforated stone screens would have provided both ventilation and light. The garbhagriha has an inner sanctum where the deity’s image once resided, now missing its upper cell.
Sunlight alignment: The garbhagriha was designed so that sunlight would illuminate the deity's image during the solar equinoxes and on the summer solstice, when the sun would be directly overhead.
Carvings and symbolism: The walls of the gudhamandapa are adorned with various decorative panels, including images of Surya (the sun god) in prominent places, along with dancers and mythological figures.
Exterior and Base Moldings:
Pitha or Adhisthana: The temple's base features a sequence of moldings, including the padma (inverted lotus), antarita (fillet with sharp edges), and gajathara (elephant carvings). Above these are carvings of human figures in different postures.
Mandovara (Wall Moldings): The walls are detailed with several bands, including chaitya-windows and carvings of Surya. The sun god appears in various panels, representing his importance, as this is a temple dedicated to him.
Sabhamandapa (Assembly Hall):
Structure and Pillars: The sabhamandapa is known for its star-like exterior with recessed corners and contains 52 intricately carved pillars, showcasing some of the finest stonework. Each pillar is richly detailed with dancers, gods, and floral patterns.
Roof and Ceiling: Though the roof no longer exists, the interior features a walnut-shaped ceiling rising in concentric tiers, supported by eight central pillars. The ceiling's intricate floral girdles and concentric layers suggest an artistic attention to detail.
Toranas: The hall is also adorned with decorative toranas (arches), both semicircular and triangular, which emerge from the pillars and connect to the lintels. These arches are richly carved but damaged over time.
Pillars:
Tall and Short Pillars: The temple contains two types of pillars. The tall pillars are highly decorative, with bands depicting dancers, warriors, and mythical creatures. The short pillars support the roof and are similarly adorned, adding grandeur to the space.
Kirtimukha: Many of the pillars feature kirtimukha, a decorative motif representing a fierce, protective face, often used in Hindu temple architecture.
Summary:
This temple complex showcases the hallmark features of the Māru-Gurjara style, with its emphasis on fine stone carvings, symbolic solar alignment, and detailed ornamentation from the base to the uppermost parts of the temple. Though much of the structure is now in ruins, the surviving elements reflect the grandeur of its original construction.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_Temple,_Modhera
https://www.navrangindia.in/2018/09/mind-blowing-sun-temple-modhera-gujarat.html
