|
Page17
A Hindu would see a replica of a Hindu temple, a Muslim will be struck by the reproduction of some of
the features of some of the greatest Muslim edifices, a Christian will find the environs of a Church, a Jain or a Buddhist would equally find himself at home in particular parts of the Ramakrishna temple at Belur. Personal touches of different places of prayer for the different creeds have been studied, blended and reproduced in a sublime harmonious manner. The great principle of universal brotherhood that theRamakrishna Mission propagates is
sought to be underlined by the particular way this temple has been constructed.
From a distance the temple looks like a Rajput edifice with arches in the style of Ajanta. A side view from he east from outside will show the scalloped arched type and the Rajput style of architecture blended with the late medieval temple style of Bengal. The panoramic view from the west from outside gives one the idea of a Rajput palace. The steps leading to the temple with domes on either side ending with the top-most Sikhara is typical of a
medieval Bengal temple. As soon as the gate is crossed and the congregation hall with massive sculptured pillars is
entered, one has a feeling of being in an ancient Buddhist or Jain cave temple. Well inside the hall one feels being in a church. From inside, the windows, balconies, arches
etc., remind one of the Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture.
C. Sivaramamurti has given a vivid description of the temple, which could be quoted in extenso:
"The main shrine at the farthest end of the long hall presents a picture of the usual type of late medieval temples of Bengal, with curved roof-line and alternating domes and pavilions surrounding the central elevated tower.
|
