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kalaśa
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elevation of a North Indian temple with the latina type of superstructure
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kalaśa

architecture
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elevation of a North Indian temple with the latina type of superstructure
elevation of a North Indian temple with the latina type of superstructure Elevation of a North Indian temple with the latina type of superstructure.

The term kalaśa refers to the pot and crowning finial that sits atop the amalasaraka (a grooved disk) in North Indian temple architecture. This element is the uppermost part of the shikhara, which is the dominant superstructure or spire above the sanctuary of a Hindu temple in northern India.12

The shikhara itself is a defining feature of North Indian temple design. There are two primary types: the curvilinear latina and the rectilinear phamsana. The latina type, typically found above the sanctuary, is constructed from gradually receding horizontal roof slabs and is adorned with decorative tracery. The phamsana type, often capping halls (mandapas), is capped by a bell-shaped member. Variations like the shekhari and bhumija also exist, adding complexity and ornamentation to the spire.12

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  1. shikhara
  2. South Asian arts - Medieval temple architecture: North Indian style

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