The Architecture and the Symbolic Perspective of Gajaprishtha Temples: With Special Reference to Thrissur District, Kerala

Abstract

According to Percy Brown, “Architecture is the matrix of civilisation”, which thoroughly indicates that it is the fundamental foundation of a society. The architectural aspects of a society or dynasty reflect a great deal of the cultural and intellectual ideas of the people, the influences the region experienced and even the environmental and geographical features. Kerala is renowned for its architectural beauty and uniqueness. The temple architecture of the region epitomises the architectural and artistic knowledge of the people and the influences of the contemporary dynasties on it. This paper explores the temple architecture of Kerala, with a particular focus on the Gajaprishtha (apsidal) style temples found in Thrissur district. This architectural form has been practised across the Indian subcontinent since the time of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The study briefly traces the evolution of this architectural style and explores the symbolic meanings behind its design and construction. As part of the research, a field survey was carried out, during which four previously undocumented apsidal temples were recorded in Thrissur district.