Incredible
it sounds that there exist here and there a few temples with topless
garbhagrihas. This constructional style is a deliberate deviation from the norms
set down in the Vastusastra; yet they are luring a steady influx of bhaktas and
paryatakas throughout the year. Normally, Dravidian architectural, pattern
insists on a tall tower over mahadwar and another lesser in height over the
garbhagriha - sanctum sanctorum. Of course, Orissan counterparts differ in this
and the mahadwaras surmount comparatively smaller ones and are totally eclipsed
by the gigantic, majestic and splendid curve linear ones built over garbhagriha
visible for miles. Some other styles of construction, like Vijayanagara, Yadava
etc., have their own models, but no where the garbhagrihas are bereft of towers.
Some
towers have fantastic tales and have long legends. The Ananda Nilaya - the
glittering gold plated tower surmounting, the garbhagriha of the Balaji temple
at Tirumala has been casting irresistible attraction since its construction.
Its sanctity draws and rivets the attention of every visitor and makes him feel
that his trip for Balaji's darsan reaches consummation point with that only.
Visitors to every temple miss not seeing the tower over garbhagriha. But, if the
top of the garbhagriha is not adorned with a tower, mystery beckons attention.
|