Within 10 chapters of the book, the author disseminated the meaning of many technical terms besides stating essential aspects illustrated in his own way for easy understanding of the subject.
In the preliminary chapters, the author tries to introduce readers into the prerequisites of temple construction project followed by various stages, from tilling of land (Karshana) to erection of the finial (Kalasa). Chapter five mirriors the actual process of consecration of the main Idol (Mulabera) in the Sanctum Sanctorum and the indispensable role played by the Silpins.
In the subsequent chapters, the author highlights the relationship between the Layout of Temple and the human body, ritualistic worship of the Idols, Panchayatana, Panchasuddhi, Shodashopacharas, Ragas to be recited and sequence of Utsavas. Her training received from his father K.V. Govindeswara Sarma and Padma Shri awardee Ganapathi Sthapati and his studies at Tirumala Vedapathasala enabled him in unfolding many technical issues codified in the traditional treatises.
ADVERTISEMENT
Throughout the book the author unfolds many secrets hidden in the manuscripts available with a few silpins and Agama Pandits. Brahmacharya opened the fist of secrecy and facilitates the readers to be conversant with both Silpa and Agama Sastras, a much-awaited subject matter. A good number of drawings and photographs compliment his endeavour and adds value to the book.
In the end, the author enlists the successful events of Hindu Devalaya Parirakshana Samiti in addition to dos and don’ts inside the Temples. Brahmacharya brought out this book with plethora of information on ritualistic Practices and can be called as a mini encyclopaedia on Temple Traditions with special reference to South India, a book worth to keep by both the practicing Sthapaties and Sthanacharyas of temples.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Author: Kandukuri Venkatasatya Brahmacharya,
Published by: Hindu Devalaya Pratisthana Peetham,
1-7-145/13, Srinivasa Nagar Colony,
Musheerabad, Hyderabad-500020,
Price: Rs. 250