Lepakshi Temple – Part 8: Sculptural Grandeur of the Ardha Mandapa
Following the ceiling murals of the Ardha Mandapa explored in an earlier part of this series, attention now shifts to the architectural and sculptural details of this transitional space within the Veerabhadra Temple. The Ardha Mandapa not only serves as a structural connector between the Maha Mandapa and the Garbha Griha, but it also presents some of the finest sculptural compositions found within the temple complex. At the eastern entrance to the Ardha Mandapa stand two imposing dwarapalakas (guardian figures). Towards the eastern end of the Ardha Mandapa , attached to a massive granite boulder, lies the small shrine dedicated to Papanasheshvara , a form of Shiva. What makes this area truly remarkable is the presence of a large rock-cut relief of Bhikshatanamurti , sculpted directly on the back face of the boulder. In addition to the narrative ceiling and the Bhikshatana panel, the Ardha Mandapa features two prominent freestanding sculptures placed along the inner corridor...