The grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya is a well-thought-out, scientifically executed and marvellous projection of Indian traditional heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the 'pran-pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, marking the consecration of the 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla. . It was designed by celebrated architect Chandrakant B Sompura, with the help of his son Ashish, and incorporated his vision, which he outlined 30 years back. Once complete, the temple complex will be the world’s third largest Hindu shrine.
Key Features of Ram Mandir Architecture
1. Nagara Style Construction
Nagara style temple architecture
The Nagara style of temple architecture, originating during the Gupta period in 5th century AD in North India, gained prominence in Northern, Western, and Eastern regions (excluding Bengal). It found favour particularly in areas like Malwa, Rajputana, and Kalinga.
Characteristic of this style is its construction upon a simple stone platform with steps leading to the temple. The key features include:
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1.Sikharas: The garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is consistently positioned directly beneath the highest Sikhara. A Kalash (Amalaka) is installed atop the Shikhara, which may have a rectangular or square base, with variable height and width.
Types of Shikaras: Nagara architecture encompasses diverse Shikara types such as Rekha-Prasad or Latina (as seen in the Sri Jagannath Temple of Odisha), Shekari (exemplified by the Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadev Temple), Valabhi (notable in the Teli ka Mandir), and Phamsana (witnessed in the Jagmohan of the Konark Temple).
2.Mandapas: These are assembly halls situated in front of the principal shrine. Unlike South Indian counterparts, Nagara-style Mandapas typically lack elaborate boundary walls or gateways.
3.Amalak: The vertical termination of the Shikara concludes with a horizontal fluted disc. Atop this, a spherical structure known as a kalash is placed.
4.Vahana: The mount of the main deity is usually positioned in the line of sight from the Garbhagriha.
5.Examples of Nagara-style temples in India include the Sun Temple in Konark and the Sun Temple in Modhera, Gujarat.
This architectural style reflects the cultural and historical richness of the regions it encompasses, with its distinctive elements showcased in iconic temples across the country.
2. Dimensions
Situated on 2.7 acres of land in the sacred temple town, the temple stands tall at 161 feet, with a width of 250 feet and a total length of 380 feet.
The built-up area of the temple is nearly 57,000 square feet and is a three-floor structure. The height of the temple is about 70% of that of the Qutab Minar.
3. Architectural Elements
Supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors, the Mandir is three-storied, with each floor being 20 feet tall. The pillars and walls showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods and goddesses.
4. Features of temple
- The temple stands proudly on a raised plinth, featuring a sanctum sanctorum, known as 'garbha griha,' atop which the tallest shikhara, resembling a mountain peak, graces the third floor. Five such shikharas adorn the temple, each constructed over one of the five mandapas.
- The five halls include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap.
- Within the main sanctum sanctorum resides the divine form of Bhagwan Shri Ram, specifically his childhood manifestation known as Shri Ram Lalla. The interior of the sanctum sanctorum is adorned with Makrana marble, the same exquisite stone employed in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
- On the first floor, a Shri Ram Darbar is prominently featured.
- Surrounding the compound are four Mandirs dedicated to Surya Dev, Devi Bhagwati, Ganesh Bhagwan, and Bhagwan Shiv, positioned at the four corners. Additionally, a Mandir of Maa Annapurna is situated in the northern arm, while a Mandir of Hanuman ji graces the southern arm.
- A noteworthy aspect of the temple's construction involves the integration of nearly two lakh bricks, each inscribed with the name of Lord Ram in various languages. These bricks, collected over a span of 30 years, contribute to the spiritual essence of the temple.
5. Construction Materials
No steel or iron was used
- The temple, emerging during the Gupta Period when the Nagara style originated, abstained from using iron or steel in its construction.
- Instead, granite, sandstone, and marble were employed, ensuring longevity and a lifespan of up to 1,000 years.
- Notably, no cement or mortar was used in the construction process.
Foundation and Protective Measures
- The foundation consists of a robust 14-metre-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete.
- A protective measure against ground moisture includes a 21-foot-high granite plinth.
Stone Selection
- Bansi Paharpur Pink Sandstone from Rajasthan’s Bharatpur district forms the main temple structure, ensuring strength and durability.
- Granite stones were chosen for the plinths, contributing to the temple's resilience.
- White Makrana marble and colored marble were intricately used for the temple's inlay work, adding a touch of artistry to the structure.
Special Bricks - "Ram Shilas"
- Special bricks known as "Ram Shilas" were employed, featuring the inscription "Shri Ram" on them.
- These bricks, with their symbolic inscriptions, contribute to the spiritual and cultural significance of the temple.
Architecture Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Chief Architects | Chandrakant Sompura, Nikhil Sompura, Ashish Sompura |
| Design Advisors | IIT Guwahati, IIT Chennai, IIT Bombay, NIT Surat, CBRI Roorkee, NGRI Hyderabad, NIRM |
| Construction Company | Larsen and Toubro (L&T) |
| Project Management Company | Tata Consulting Engineers Limited (TCEL) |
| Sculptors | Arun Yogiraaj (Mysore), Ganesh Bhatt, Satyanarayan Pandey |
| Total Area | 70 Acres (70% Green Area) |
| Temple Area | 2.77 Acres |
| Temple Dimensions | Length: 380 Ft., Width: 250 Ft., Height: 161 Ft. |
| Architectural Style | Indian Nagar Style |
| Architectural Highlights | 3 Stories, 392 Pillars, 44 Doors |
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