Wednesday, April 8, 2015

Vidyashankar Temple, Sringeri

A user's photo.Vidyashankar Temple, Sringeri
Built: 1342 CE
The temple can be regarded as the epitome of ancient astronomical engineering prevalent in Bharat. The main temple ...hall features 12 pillars designated for the 12 signs of the zodiac. Windows and doors along the temple walls are arranged such that equinoxes sunrise views reach the deity. The twelve pillars in the Vidyashankar temple are popularly known as Rashistambhas (zodiacal pillars). Symbols of the twelve divisions of the zodiac are engraved on these pillars. The temple is an architectural marvel. Among the many delicate carvings, lions that are engraved in biped positions on the pillars may be mentioned. There are stone balls inside the growling faces of the lions and they can be moved inside their mouths. It is said that the design of the pillars involved certain astronomical concepts. For example, the first rays of the rising sun fall on specific pillars with the zodiacal symbol on the pillar corresponding to the position of the sun.
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rodHDQCjBtw

 

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