Authors : Dr. S. Rajagopal; Dr. R. Praiya

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 2 - February

Google Scholar : http://tinyurl.com/5n8axjxh

Scribd : http://tinyurl.com/4tpjmcnm

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10683244

Abstract : Temples are cultural houses that expose art and architecture. The strength of the temple is based on its maintenance, architectural material and environment. Constructing a temple; maintaining and preserving temple architecture is a very big task. Madurai Nayaks were Vaishnavites, but they extended their patronage to all the Hindu sects. They were busy with people’s beliefs and constructed many Dravidian- style new temples in vital cities and rural villages. They extended many temple inner and outer prakaras, pillars mandapas; temple pounds. They repaired old temples and renovated Rajagopuras, Vimanas and boundary walls etc. Still date so many Madurai Nayak temples are rich in architectural beauty, sculptural beauty, and cultural transformation and it says about Madurai Nayak's religious contributions to devotees. At the same time, some old temples are located in rural villages of Madurai surroundings which were constructed by the Madurai Nayaks period. This paper deals with the Madurai Nayak period a dilapidated Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple which is situated in Madurai District, Vadipatti Taluk, at Maravapatti village on Natham Palamedu road. This paper is written about the said Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple plan, embossed sculpture, reason for dilapidation, damaged places and recommendation for repair and renovation of old temple. Regarding this dilapidated temple, the above- mentioned research authors report in the succeeding paragraph.

Keywords : Madurai Nayak, Ground Plan, Embossed Sculpture, Vijayanagar Sculpture Narasimha, Fish Symbol, Palaiyakkarars.