|
The
idol of Sudarsanamoorthy features four arms, each carrying a
different object: a conch shell, a chakra (discus), a gadha
(mace) and a lotus bloom.
|
|
|
The
foreground of the temple is spacious and paved with rough-hewn
granite slabs. The Namaskaramandapam is also fittingly large and
impressive. On the ceiling of this Mandapam are exquisitely carved
figures of Ashtadikpalakas (guardians of the eight directions) with
Lord Brahma in the middle.
|
|
|
A
characteristic feature of Kerala temple architecture is that many
Sreekovils contain more than one chamber. The large, circular
Sreekovil contains three enclosures. Two circumambulatory paths go
around the Garbhagriha. On one of them are some tall, granite
pillars. A casual observer may not see the Dwarapalas (entrace
guards) at first. They are installed within the veranda
adjoining the Sreekovil.
|
|
|
The
outer walls of the Sreekovil are profusely adorned with intricately
sculpted woodwork. One of the very interesting sculptures is that of
Devi breastfeeding Ganapathy. Depictions of this nature are
very rare. Sculptures of Devi astride the Nandi with a bell in her
hand, Ganapathy depicted in different rows and a frozen
dance-and-music extravaganza are some of the visual treats here. On
either side of a narrow doorway (which looks like a window),
one can see miniature figures of an entourage of servant-gods.
|
|
|
The
gold-plated flagmast on the eastern side of the Sudarsanamoorthy
temple is taller than its counterpart for the Narasima temple.
|
|
|
For
the rituals and pooja offerings, the well and the kitchen in the
Sudarsanamoorthy premises are shared by the two temples.
|
|
