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| temple passage Kakathiya temple Hanamakonda, S.India |
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| Traditional Hindu temple pillar design in.pinterest.com |
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| Hindu temple stone pillar widening shaft and capital .adobe.com/ |
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| .Hindu temple pillar and eaves vrogue.co/post/ |
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| Hindu temple pillar and standing stone carved Yali, exoticindica.com |
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| Srirangam temple Shesharaya hall TN talesofanomad.com |
Base (Adhishthana): The base of the pillar is often a square or rectangular plinth that provides a sturdy foundation. It may be adorned with carvings or inscriptions.
Shaft (Stambha): The shaft of the pillar is typically tall and cylindrical, tapering slightly as it rises. It can be intricately carved with motifs like floral patterns, mythological scenes, or deities.
Capital (Kapitela): The top part of the pillar, known as the capital, is often wider than the shaft and elaborately decorated. It features carvings of mythical creatures like Yalis, which are lion-like figures with the body of a lion and the head of other animals. In some cases, the capital includes human or divine figures carved in a standing posture, appearing to support the structure above.
Corbels (Pothyal): At the upper part of the pillar, there are corbels that project outwards. These stone projections help distribute the weight of the ceiling and roof. Corbelling is also used as a decorative element, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the temple.
Roof Support: The pillars support thick granite slabs that form the ceiling. These slabs can be quite heavy, and the corbels help in distributing the downward stress. Rows of pillars are aligned on both sides of pathways or corridors, providing structural support to wide areas.
Drainage Features: The corbelling technique is also designed to drain water from the outer walls, preventing water accumulation and damage.
Mandapam (Hall): In larger halls or mandapams, multiple rows of pillars are used to support the expansive roof. Each pillar helps in bearing the load and maintaining the structural integrity of the building.
Illustration Here is a conceptual illustration to visualize the description:
Explanation Base: The plinth provides stability and may have carvings depicting stories or symbols. Shaft: The The main vertical part of the pillar, decorated with intricate carvings. Capital: wider top part, often featuring Yalis or other figures to symbolize support. Corbels: Projecting stones at the top to distribute the weight of the ceiling. Rows of Pillars: Essential for supporting large roof structures in corridors and halls.
This description and illustration cover the essential elements of a traditional Dravidian temple pillar, highlighting both its structural and decorative aspects.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corbel
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