Temples in India are part of a tradition. Each temple has its own story. Of Kings that built it over years, of artists that performed there and of invaders that ruined them. The God for whom the temple is built is kept sanctimoniously at the heart of the temple and approach to him is (ironically) cordoned off.
What is most striking about the temples in the South is the majesticity around its architecture. Cholas, Pallavas and their ilk each had their own style of extravagance when it came to architecture. The dedication and patience invested in the construction is evident in each pillar that holds the temple structure. Not a single space is left devoid of art. Why such monumental works of art should be restricted to religion or caste is what seems deplorable.
Even though, most temples are now opening up to the modern society and do not prohibit people of certain religion or caste, there are still those orthodox temples that practice such cruel rules. As part of The Chennai Photowalk we face such prohibition for our cameras. Some of them allow photography inside the temple premises with a fee, but strictly forbid us to take photographs of any deities. And we adhere.
Lights ignited from Faith within,
The Holy flame now burns as the Hope.
For a life devoid of woes, they Pray,
What is left behind is all Gray.
From Destiny, run if you must,
In the End, it's Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust.
2 comments:
Ah! I remember this place!
@Narain: Yeah! You took some snaps too right?
Btw, this post was just in draft stage. Wrote down points to write more on them later... but too lazy to edit it now!
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