Significance of Mandapa
Synonyms: Pavilion, Portico, Hall, Verandah, Structure, Pillared hall
In Dutch: Mandapa; In Finnish: Mandapa; In Spanish: Mandapa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Mandapa'
Mandapa in Hinduism refers to a versatile pavilion or hall within temple architecture, serving as a sacred space for worship, ceremonies, and gatherings, often recognized for its elaborate design and structural significance.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A pavilion or assembly hall where important religious events occur, significant in the context of Punyanidhi's interactions with Vishnu.[1] (2) Pavilion or hall used for various spiritual purposes, each bestowing specific benefits.[2] (3) A ceremonial hall or pavilion, intricately designed by Vishvakarman and adorned with gems and artistic features, serving as the venue for the marriage celebration.[3] (4) The bridal pavilion or altar that is to be established as part of the wedding festivities according to customary practices.[4] (5) A divine hall adorned with gems and jewels, described as magnificent and splendid.[5]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The space or platform where the horse endowed with attributes is placed during the performance of the rite.[6] (2) A sacred space or pavilion where rituals and ceremonies take place.[7] (3) A ceremonial structure typically adorned with decorative features, used for important events.[8] (4) The ceremonial structure where the Linga is installed and worshipped.[9] (5) A raised platform erected in a holy spot during auspicious occasions for performing sacred rituals.[10]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A structure or pavilion used for rituals, typically representing a sacred space for worship.[11] (2) The sacred space or structure where rites are performed; it serves as a setting for worship and rituals with disciples.[12] (3) A sacred pavilion or hall used for worship and spiritual practice, where rituals are performed.[13]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Halls built of a thousand pillars that serve various purposes, including the Shringara Mandapa, Mukti Mandapa, Jnana Mandapa, and Ekanta Mandapa.[14] (2) An assigned room or designated space where the Diksha is conducted and worship is performed.[15]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) A pavilion or open hall in temple architecture, categorized into different forms based on the number of pillars.[16]
From: Kashyapa Shilpa-shastra (study)
(1) An architectural component that acts as a hall or pavilion within the temple structure, often used for gathering and worship.[17] (2) A pillared hall or pavilion typically found in south Indian temple architecture.[18] (3) A structure for gatherings or ceremonies, can refer to various specific types of mandapas as prescribed in the text.[19] (4) Elaborate architectural structures discussed in the Shaivagamas as part of temple and palace design.[20] (5) A type of structure used for various purposes in temple architecture, characterized by specific designs, measurements, and features.[21]
From: Vishnudharmottara Purana (Art and Architecture)
(1) A pillared outdoor hall or pavilion that may form part of a Hindu temple.[22] (2) An integral part of the temple; the sarvatobhadra type should include four mandapas, each with three doors.[23] (3) Pavilions or halls associated with temple structures, as seen in the Kamakhya temple.[24] (4) A pavilion under which the Sanskrit drama is performed, with specific size dimensions outlined.[25] (5) The pavilion structure of a temple, typically featuring a specific height and supported by multiple pillars.[26]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) A type of pavilion or hall in Indian temple architecture, typically located at the entrance or center of a courtyard.[27] (2) A pavilion-like structure that can be built within the corridor space, as per architectural instructions.[28]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) A pillared hall or pavilion in Hindu temple architecture, used for congregation and rituals.[29] (2) A pillared hall typical in Pallava architecture, commonly found in the Mahendra and Mamalla groups.[30] (3) A family shrine or pavilion structure traditionally found in palatial complexes for religious and ceremonial purposes.[31] (4) An accessory structure associated with a temple, often in front of the entrance, serving as a gathering place for devotees.[32] (5) An assembly hall within a temple, part of the structural design present in the Khajuraho temples.[33]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) A pavilion or hall within the temple complex, designed to be twice the dimensions of the Prasada.[34]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A pavilion or structure associated with the ceremonial aspects of worship, often incorporated in temple design.[35]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A type of canopy, awning, or structure used for protection, particularly in religious or cultural settings.[36]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Another example of a rudha word, referring to 'pavilion,' understood conventionally without considering its etymological parts.[37]
The concept of Mandapa in local and regional sources
Mandapa is a significant architectural feature in Indian temples, acting as a transitional space. It serves as a porch or hall for gatherings and rituals, leading worshippers into the sacred shrine area.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A pillared hall or veranda in a Hindu temple where worship and gatherings take place, relevant to the architectural focus of the Vijayanagara era.[38] (2) A porch or hall in Indian temples that serves as a transitional space leading into the shrine, often used for gatherings and rituals.[39]