Kodikal Mandapam - Mamallapuram

Little away, to the west of Trimurti Caves in Mamallapuram, a west-facing cave temple is found. Its architecture is basic and simple similar to the early cave temples of Mahendra Varma Pallava. This simple shrine has a complicated name, perhaps. Each person calls the shrine in their own style as "Kodikal Mandapam", "Kodik kaal mandapam" and so on. What was its original name, and what does the word "Kodikal" mean? We cannot find a genuine answer.

The temple has a sanctum and a mukha mandapa. 

The sanctum is empty now. Two kudu arches are found on the beam. As it is guarded by two female guardians (Dwarapalikas), it is presumed to be a Durga temple. One of them holds a sword and shield, whereas the other person holds a long bow and rests her left arm on her thigh. Both the graceful ladies are standing in an elegant posture. They have jata makuta (matted hair) laced with ornaments on their top. Breast-bands and waist-bands are there. Besides, there are no significant ornaments.

The mandapa is supported by two plain pillars and pilasters. The facade is not ornamented with regular features like mini shrines or arches. Instead, a few socket holes are found, suggesting the presence of a wooden structure on the front side.

A short Pallava Grantha inscription on the front pillar reads "Sri Vamankussa". It is possibly a title of Rajasimha Pallava. However, as most historians determined that the cave temple belonged to an earlier period, they see this as a name of a general or a Pallava vassal. 

Happy travelling.

Short inscription