Image title: Figure 5. Nurkal Mandapam [Mandapa]

31. Can you repeat once again the Mandapams in the temple?

A. After the Rajagopuram [Rajagopura] is the Dhvaja Stambha Mandapam [Mandapa]. After this is the AccutaBhupala Mandapam [Mandapa]. To the right of AccutaBhupala Mandapam [Mandapa] is the Unjal Mandapam [Mandapa]. Thereafter is the Prakaram [Prakara] around the Garbha Graha. Then we find the Dhvaja Stambha for Komalavalli Tayar. In front of the Mulavar is the Tirumamani Mandapam [Mandapa] -there are 12 pillars there.

Gallery information:

Kumbakonam is considered as one of the holiest places in Tamil Nadu and is known for its temples and Mathas (monasteries which were centres of Brahmanical learning). These photographs depict the connection between the sculptures in the temples and Natya Shastra and related texts dealing with iconography.