In Hindu temple architecture, particularly within the Nagara style, the terms Amalasara and Amalasari hold specific and significant meanings. The Nagara style is distinguished by its curvilinear towers and is predominantly found in North and Northeast India.
Amalaka
The crown of a Nagara style temple is known as an amalaka, which derives its name from its resemblance to the amalaka fruit (also known as myrobalan or Indian gooseberry). The amalaka is a solid stone ring with a cogged or ribbed rim, symbolizing a lotus or the sun, both of which are sacred symbols in Hinduism. It forms the uppermost part of the temple's main shikhara (spire or dome) and can also be found on subsidiary shikharas, serving both a decorative and a symbolic function. The amalaka sits atop the structure and is believed to represent the celestial abode or a divine umbrella providing protection and sanctity to the temple below.
Amalasara and Amalasari
When there are two amalkas stacked upon each other on the shikhara, the larger, lower one is referred to as the amalasara, while the smaller, upper one is called the amalasari. This hierarchical placement enhances the visual and symbolic impact of the temple's pinnacle, often reflecting a multi-tiered cosmological symbolism. The presence of both amalasara and amalasari emphasizes the temple’s connection to the heavens and reinforces the idea of ascending sacredness as one moves higher up the structure.
Symbolism and Significance
- Symbol of the Universe: The amalaka, with its circular form and radial symmetry, is often interpreted as a symbol of the universe and its cyclical nature.
- Connection to Divinity: Placing the amalaka atop the shikhara signifies the temple's connection to divine realms, suggesting that the deity housed within the sanctum is under divine protection.
- Architectural Balance: The structural role of the amalaka, amalasara, and amalasari also lies in balancing the vertical thrust of the shikhara, helping to stabilize the tall and slender towers typical of Nagara temples.
Absence in Dravidian Architecture
The Dravidian style of South Indian temples does not incorporate the amalaka or its variations. Instead, Dravidian temples feature a different set of architectural elements, including the prominent gopurams (gateway towers), pyramidal vimanas (temple towers), and ornate sculptures. The divergence in architectural styles underscores the regional variations and the evolution of temple design across India.
In essence, the amalasara and amalasari are not just ornamental features but are deeply embedded in the symbolic and structural framework of Nagara style temples. They exemplify the intricate relationship between Hindu cosmology, symbolism, and architecture, highlighting the sophisticated and regionally distinct approaches to temple design in ancient India.