Kalinga Architecture

Introduction

Kalinga architecture is one of the notable sub-schools of Nagara style of Hindu temple architecture that developed in the Kalinga region (in modern-day Odisha, West Bengal and northern Andhra Pradesh) between the 6th and the 13th centuries CE under the patronage of such dynasties as Somavamshis and Eastern Gangas. It has a distinctive style that is characterized by architectural grandeur, elaborate carvings, and certain structural features.

Key Components of a Kalinga Temple

Kalinga temples generally follow a square ground plan and are laid out in the axial pattern, that is, generally east-west. The entire complex may consist of:

• Deula (or Vimana/ Shikhara): The central sanctuary or sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) in which is placed the deity of the shrine. It is the tallest structure.
• Jagamohana: This is the hall or porch, which is right in front of the Deula and which is utilized by the devotees to assemble and conduct their rituals.
• Natamandira: A dance hall, which is a later addition in larger temples to perform rituals.
• Bhogamandapa: A hall of offerings (bhoga) is another subsequent addition.

Vertical Divisions of the Temple

The Kalinga temple structure is vertical and is segmented into three major divisions:

• Bada (The Wall): This is the vertical portion of the wall which is built up of the platform (pitha). It is also divided in to five horizontal divisions of mature temples Pabhaga, Tala Jangha, Bandhana, Upara Jangha and Baranda.
• Gandi (The Spire): The tower-shaped (in a Rekha Deula) or the pyramid-shaped (in a Pidha Deula), which is built above the bada. Miniature replicas of shrines (angashikharas) usually cover it.
• Mastaka (The Crowning Element): The final area at the top and is normally a beki (neck), an amla (large ribbed stone disk), a khapuri (skull/pot), a kalasa (pot finial) and ayudha (weapon or symbol of the deity).

Types of Kalinga Deulas

There are three major categories of the style depending on the shape of the deula/shikhara:

• Rekha Deula: This style is defined by a tall and curvilinear spire almost straight at the top and then turns abruptly inwards. It is the place of the sanctum sanctorum and usually linked to the temples of Shiva, Vishnu, and Surya (e.g., Lingaraja Temple, Jagannath Temple main deul).
• Pidha Deula: This has a square plan with pyramidal roof, which is recessed with horizontal levels or platforms (pidhas). These are normally applied to the assembly halls (Jagamohanas).
• Khakhara Deula: This is known by its rectangular outline and a barrel shaped or wagon vaulted roof like the Dravidian gopuram. Such style is commonly connected with the temples of fierce goddesses (e.g., Vaital Deula in Bhubaneswar).

Sculptural Features and Symbolism

Kalinga temples are famous by the rich and extensive sculptural decoration.

• Iconography: Exterior walls are decorated with elaborate carvings of mythological tales, godly figures (nayikas), animals and floral patterns. The outer walls of the sanctum have subsidiary deities (parshva devatas) in niches.
• Motifs: The elements that are commonly used in decoration are Kirtimukha (mask of fierce guardians), Vyala (mythical creatures that look like lions), and Navagrahas (nine planets) carved above the entrance lintels.
• Symbolism: The tall shikhara refers to the fictional Mount Meru, which is the place of the gods. The majority of temples have an east orientation in order to receive the first rays of the rising sun which symbolize purity and divine power.

Prominent Examples

• Konark Sun Temple: This is a UNESCO world heritage site, and is a colossal stone chariot of the Sun God having 24 intricately carved wheels (sundials).
• Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar: A great specimen of the mature Kalinga style, devoted to Harihara (a form of the deity Shiva and Vishnu united in one).
• Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar: The temple is notable because of its elegant proportions and sensuous nayika, a feature not typical of other temples that are dedicated to a particular deity.
• Mukteshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar: This is known as the Gem of Odishi architecture, and is also famous due to its magnificent arched gateway (torana).

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