Major parts of a typical Kerala style temple are as described below:
- Sanctum Sanctorum (Sree Kovil and Garbha Gruha)
The most important part of the temple where the idol of the Deity is situated is the Sree Kovil. It may be of different forms- square rectangular, elliptical, circular etc. Front part of the sanctum sanctorum (holiest of the holy part) is called 'Sopana' where stone idols of guards called 'Dwarapaalakas' may be found in some temples. Top of the sanctum has a pointed bronze structure called 'Thaazhikakudam' (dome) or 'Stoopika' (Pyramid).
- Inner Circum ambulation area (Pradaksshina Vattom)
It is located just outside the sanctum. Statues of guards of the main deity such as Indra, Agni, Yama, Nithi, Varuna, Vaayu, Soma, Isaana etc are found in this part in some big temples.
- Prayer Hall (Namaskara Mandapom)
In front of the sopana facing the sanctum it is generally square shaped and has a roof supported by 4 pillars. Some temples have domes over it.
- Well
A well is a must in a temple. Its water is to be used exclusively for abhisheka and preparation of nivedya.
- Surrounding Structures (Chuttambalom &Valiyambalam)
These cover the temple on all sides and their function is to protect the temple. The one facing the sanctum is very broad and so is called 'Valiyambalam'. They are narrower on the other three sides and are called 'Chuttambalam'. The kitchen of the temple called 'Thidappalli' is in this area. Passage for devotees to enter and exist is through the 'Valiyambalam'.
- Outer – Circumbulation Area
It is located outside Chuttambalam. There are stands for lamps called 'Vilakkumaadam' on the outside wall. There may also be many stones called 'Balikallu'.
- Altar (Balikallu Pura)
Facing the sanctum there may be an extended portion of the passage in between the Valiyambalams for offerings. The main 'Balikallu' is large and is located here.
- Flag –post (Kodimaram or Dwaja)
It is for hoisting the flag and is located outside the balikalupura. It is a tall pillar and is made of teak wood covered with copper or gold and bears the emblem of the deity. During festivals the flag of the temple is hoisted which is visible from distant places.
- Auditorium (Koothambalam)
It is for the performance of temple arts during festivals and is on the right side of the principal deity in front of the temple.
- Outer Walls and Tower (Gopuram)
Outer walls are called 'Praakaara' and are the outermost protective coverings of the temple. The entrance tower called 'gopuram' may be single storeyed or multi storeyed.
Usually only Hindus are allowed to enter the temples. There are dress codes for men and women to wear when they enter the temple. Some temples have very stringent dress code where men need to enter bare-chested and in loin cloth (mundu). Women cannot enter in trousers and are allowed only occasionally in salwar-kammeez. A sari is mandatory in most temples. |
