A Hindu temple is not a structure but a passage to the divine; an interface between the human and the eternal. The fact of high complexity of structure of a Hindu temple speaks about continuity of the traditions of architectural art and numerous meanings that have been inherited by generations. Every aspect of a hindu temple architecture, including the huge entrance tower, the outer courtyard and the inner shrine, has its own symbolism and use.

The Outer Courtyard (Prakaram):

The entrance into the temple structure starts with the outer enclosure known as the prakaram. This space is usually surrounded by sculptures, carvings or water fountains to make the place to look beautiful and welcoming. The prakaram is another world for the temple where people can wash themselves – in a mental way and physically too before actually entering the temple structure. It may also contain shrines of other gods and goddesses or gods and goddesses that are related to the god or goddess of the temple.

The Gopuram (Tower):

Among these, the most prominent architectural feature of a hindu temple layout is the gopuram, a large tower like structure over the entrance to the inner shrine. The gopuram is usually decorated with beautiful detailed carvings and images on arches that tell stories from Hindu mythology and scriptures. A gopuram can contain multiple stories although this is not always the case, especially where the complex is that of a large temple. Thus, the gopuram serves not only as a symbol of magnificence but also as the entrance to the gods’ abode.

The Mandapam (Hall):

The Mandapam or the hall is where the devotees assemble for prayer, ceremonies and festivals. This is usually expressed through the use of features such as an open roofed and columned environment designed to admit light and air. As mentioned above, the mandapam may be split into numerous parts, each of which has a particular function. For instance, there might be a section where devotees are expected to dance or perform some cultural troupes, a section where offers prayers and another section where devotees sit.

The Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum):

One of the important component of the temple is the garbhagriha or sanctum sanctorum. This known as the Garbha griha or the sanctum sanctorum of the hindu temple layout as it houses the principal deity. The Garbhagriha is usually a dark inconspicuous room whose placement is at the back of the temple. People perform puja and show their respects by making offerings to the deity in the sanctum sanctorum. Those who enter the sanctum have a quiet and pious air about them.

Symbolism in Hindu Temple Architecture:

Thus the over all planning of a Hindu temple is highly symbolic in nature. For instance, the gopuram, which is the towers at the entrance of every temple has specific meanings such as the journey of the soul to the divine. While the mandapam is referred to the world the garbhagriha symbolises the divine or the spiritual plane. The artwork in the form of carving and sculpture adorning the temple is in the form of narratives from the Hindu mythology that depict the message of the religion.

Conclusion:

Hindu temple layout is a good example in the field of architecture and symbolism of work. Thus it is a space which encourages reflection, endless commitment and thus the link with the transcendental. Therefore, based on the various aspects of the temple and the role, meaning, and importance of each of them, the devotees can further enhance their understanding of this place as well as themselves.

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