The Mahalaksmi temple complex belongs, architecturally, to the Chalukya empire and probably built around 700AD. The Chalukyan empire ruled the central and southern part of India. What is interesting though is that the architectural style of the temple is not Dravidian, which is so characteristic of temples in the southern part of the country.
The above structure is located in the vicinity of the temple complex. I am not certain what the building is being used as. But one does get a feeling of being in a time warp.
This is a close-up of a gate in the vicinity of the temple complex. Don't miss the modern sign next to the traditional architecture.
This is a view from the other side. There is a clock on the facade and it actually works! It was indeed a little after 3PM that afternoon.
This is one of entrances into the temple complex. There are stores here selling ritualistic stuff and offerings to the Goddess. I was highly amused to see these two women sit right at the entrance and gossip.
The guy in the foreground is selling flowers to offer to the Goddess. He had a beautiful garland of lotuses.
The complex is strewn with tiny shops like these. I particularly loved the way this vendor had displayed his wares.
The pillar in the background holds oil lamps. When lit in the evening the sight must be spectacular.
This group of pillars also hold oil lamps.
The temple building. I totally dislike how they have painted the spires called "shikhar" in Sanskrit. It takes away the natural beauty of the building and its massing.
Another view of the temple structure and its vicinity.
5 comments:
When we were Belgaum, we used to buy lot of Kolhapuri slippers!:)
Loved all the photos, makes you want to take a trip to India. Hope you are enjoying your break!:)
Wonderful photos! I always love seeing different types of architecture.
nice pictures. lots of colors on the streets
I second Asha, I love Kolhapuri Chapplals. Thanks for sharing beautiful images of Kolhapur with us...so many hues and architecture.
How have you been? I just got back from Pakistan...it was a fun trip :)
Stay Beautiful..!!
Those are wonderful pics, Sai. I especially love imagining what those pillars look like once they're all lit up. What was the rest of your trip like? We are going to India in August...can't wait!
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