Marvels of Stone: Discovering the Splendor of Nellaiyappar Temple

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As our captivating exploration of the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple unfolds, our attention is drawn to the western end of the east-side frontside mandapa, where two towering pillars proudly display their enthralling sculptures.

Upon beholding these magnificent sculptures, one may ponder: do they alone suffice to encapsulate the essence of the entire temple? Can anything within its sacred walls rival the beauty and allure of these masterpieces? It seems this sculptor's skill presents a challenge even to Brahma, the Creator of the Universe, who must surely envy such mastery of artistry.

A distinguished figure, bedecked in elaborate jewels and a grand crown, boasts a sharp nose and exquisite ears as he gracefully envelops a graceful lady in his embrace. His stance exudes refinement, with his left leg elegantly tucked behind him. Meanwhile, the lady, despite a broken nose, maintains her composure, her captivating features enhanced by her chic bun hairstyle. Her attire, intricately adorned, accentuates her slender form and gracefully contoured body. Additionally, from a different perspective, the finely sculpted buttocks of the lady and the sole of the man's foot are revealed. On the other sides of the same pillar, enchanting depictions of a girl holding chamara and a girl carrying a flower in her left arm, with her right arm raised, add to the pillar's allure. This pillar faces the east direction.



On the opposite side of this pillar, facing westward, stands a sculpture of an exquisitely beautiful girl. Adorned with a voluminous hairdo and a delicate garland cascading from her forehead, she possesses large, expressive eyes, a sharp nose, and smiling lips. Long earrings frame her face, drawing attention to her exposed, well-defined breasts. Her attire, intricately ornamented, emphasizes her slender waist and graceful figure, with intricate folds accentuating her stomach. She stylishly places her left arm on her waist, while her right arm adopts a dancing posture, with her index and thumb fingers joined. This female figure likely represents a dancer, possibly depicting the Yakshagana dance form. Above her, a tree is depicted, teeming with birds, monkeys, and parrots.



On the left side of the same pillar, a female companion is depicted, her left arm hanging down as she holds the main lady's left arm with her right hand. On the right side of the pillar, another beautiful lady is portrayed, elegantly placing her right arm on her waist while her left arm holds a flower and reaches out to touch the main lady. Thus, the main lady is depicted with her two companions or friends, creating a beautifully harmonious scene. Additionally, a girl bearing a chamara is also depicted beside them.



While commonly linked to Arjuna-Alli and Pavalakodi, the actual identities of these sculptures remain elusive. My speculation leads me to believe they depict a royal couple on one pillar, and a dancer accompanied by her entourage on the opposite side. Regardless of interpretation, the mesmerizing beauty and intricate details of these sculptures never fail to enchant all who gaze upon them.

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 32 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










Location: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India

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