Papanath Temple, Pattadakal
Karnataka
This temple is noted for its novel mixture of Dravida, and Nagara, Hindu temple styles. The unusual layout of the temple is possibly due to its construction, which occurred in three stages, but there is a lack of epigraphical evidence to support this hypothesis. Its architectural and sculptural details do show a consistent and unified theme, indicative of a plan.
This east facing temple has on plain Garbha Griha, Ardha Mandapam, Sabha Mandapam and Mukha Mandapam provided with Kakshasana. Curiously the eastern half of the Sabha Mandapam accommodates a huge monolithic Nandi instead of a separate Nandi Mandapam. The wall above is relieved with a large Kudu type of Deva Kostas at regular intervals accommodating Shaiva and Vaishnava deities and perches sheltering stone windows. The ceiling and walls of this temple are Richly carved.
@Mandir
