Grace in Stone: The Stunning Lady Sculpture of Nellaiyappar Temple

This article continues the exploration of the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli. In the preceding segments, I detailed the sanctum of Nellaiyappar and the two surrounding prakaras, along with the Raja gopuram, outside mandapas, and wooden sculptures. Now, let's delve into the section connecting the main entrance with the third prakara, where numerous sub-shrines, the Nandi mandapa, and other structures await exploration in subsequent posts. Here, the focus will be on the strikingly beautiful and monumental sculptures adorning the pillars, renowned for their artistic finesse and exquisite beauty.

Crafted by Sivanthiappa Naicker in 1654 CE, a general under Tirumalai Naicker, this mandapa and its sculptures stand as remarkable artistic achievements. 

The first larger-than-life sculpture to be discussed is positioned at the eastern end, facing north. It portrays a tall, graceful native lady (Kurathi) with distinct features: a sharp nose, large expressive eyes, defined eyebrows, and full, beautiful lips. Adorned with sizable circular earrings, she wears minimal jewelry, emphasizing her natural beauty. Her breasts are big and sharp. With noticeable, sharply defined breasts, her slender waist and small abdomen create an elegant contrast. Carrying a bowl on her raised left arm, an infant is seated on her left shoulder, playfully eating with his right arm. The detailing, such as the realistic depiction of the infant's legs, is noteworthy and can be observed by viewing from the back of the pillar. While her upper body is mostly bare, her lower half is draped in an intricately folded dress, adding to her allure. Resting on a lad, she exudes a sense of bravery and dignity through her facial expression. The child is using both arms to mimic playing with a toy resembling a conch shell.

Adjacent on the same pillar, on the east-facing side, is a smaller sculpture of a male figure resembling a native warrior or Kuravan. Holding a stick in his left arm, he stands with crossed legs, bearing the cross belt, or cannaveeram, across his chest. Sporting a substantial moustache and a large bun atop his head, the intricate detailing extends even to the nerves and folds of his leg skin.

Turning to the west-facing side of the pillar, we encounter a smaller yet elegant depiction of a woman. Draped in a saree, one breast exposed, she stands stylishly with her left arm hanging down and her right arm raised towards the main sculpture, adding a touch of grace to the ensemble.

Let me continue with the other sculptures in the subsequent articles. 

As the photography is not allowed nowadays, I had to depend on the photos that I shot two decades ago. I know the quality of these pictures are not good.

Happy travelling.

This article is Part 26 of the series of articles I write about Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple. 

The other parts of the series can be accessed through the below-listed links.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

Part 11

Part 12

Part 13

Part 14

Part 15

Part 16

Part 17

Part 18

Part 19

Part 20

Part 21

Part 22

Part 23

Part 24

Part 25