Prasad Tilaka

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prasad Tilaka" by Prabhashankar Oghadbhai Sompura, based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Prasad Tilaka (પ્રાસાદ તિલક) Author: Sutradhar Virapal (સૂત્રધાર વીરપાલ) Editor/Compiler: Padmashri Sthapati Prabhashankar Oghadbhai Sompura (પદ્મશ્રી સ્થપતિ પ્રભાશંકર ઓઘડભાઈ સોમપુરા) Publisher: Shri Balwantrai Prabhashankar Sompura, Shilpashastri, and Brothers (શ્રી બલવંતરાય પ્રભાશંકર સોમપુરા શિલ્પશાસ્ત્રી અને ભાઈઓ)

Overall Purpose: "Prasad Tilaka" is a significant treatise on Vastushastra (the science of architecture and dwelling), focusing specifically on the construction and design of temples (Prasad). It aims to provide detailed knowledge about various aspects of temple architecture, drawing from ancient Sanskrit texts and the author's own extensive experience. The work is presented with a Gujarati translation and commentary, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Key Themes and Content:

The text is a detailed exploration of temple architecture, covering a wide range of topics essential for understanding and practicing the art. The editor, Prabhashankar Sompura, highlights the importance of this work in preserving and disseminating ancient architectural knowledge.

The book is structured into several chapters, each dealing with specific aspects of temple construction:

• Introduction and Definitions: The book begins by defining Vastushastra, Sthapatya (architecture), and Shilpa (sculpture), emphasizing their interconnectedness and the vastness of knowledge in these fields. It traces the origins of architecture from basic human needs for shelter to the sophisticated temple structures of ancient India.

• History and Lineage of Architects: It delves into the history of architecture, mentioning ancient treatises and the lineage of renowned architects and their contributions. The text discusses the tradition of Vishwakarma, considered the divine architect, and various guilds of sculptors and builders across different regions of India.

• Classification of Temple Styles (Prasad's Fourteen Castes): A significant portion is dedicated to classifying temple architecture into fourteen distinct regional styles, including Nagar, Dravid, Latrina, Bhumija, Vimana, Mishrak, Virata, Sandhara, Vimana-Nagar, Vimana-Pushpak, Valabhi, Phansana, Simhavaktra, and Ratharoha. Each style is described with its unique characteristics and examples from different parts of India.

• Detailed Architectural Elements: The book provides in-depth descriptions and measurements for various components of a temple:

  • Foundation (Jagati): Detailed guidelines on the depth, width, and materials for temple foundations, including the significance of different types of soil and the process of purification.
  • Base (Pitha): Explanations on the various types and proportions of bases for temples, including their decorative elements.
  • Walls (Bhitti): The text discusses the thickness and proportion of temple walls based on the overall size and material used (stone, brick, wood, metal).
  • Doors (Dwara): Detailed instructions on the proportions, ornamentation, and number of subsidiary doors (shakhas) for different types of temples and deities. This includes elaborate descriptions of the "Ardha Chandra" (half-moon) motif and "Pratolya" (gateway) structures.
  • Pillars (Stambha): Various types of pillars, their shapes (square, octagonal, circular), names, and proportions are described, emphasizing their decorative aspects and suitability for different architectural contexts.
  • Mandapa (Hall): The book classifies mandapas into different types (Gudha Mandapa, Stambh Mandapa, Nritya Mandapa) and provides details on their construction, column arrangements, and decorative features, including twenty-seven types of mandapas and six types of Mahamandapas.
  • Shikhara (Spire/Tower): An extensive section covers the various styles of shikhara, including their components like 'Rekha', 'Karna', 'Pratiratha', 'Urusringa', 'Shukanaasa', 'Griva', 'Aamalaka', and 'Kalasha'. Different regional styles of shikhara (Nagar, Dravid, Latrina, Valabhi, Phansana) are elaborated upon.
  • Vitan (Ceiling/Dome): The text describes the different types of ceilings or domes, including 'Kshipta', 'Samatala', and 'Utkshipta'.
  • Balāṇuka (Finials/Decorative Elements): It details the construction and placement of various finials and decorative elements, including specific types like Vamana, Vimana, Haryashala, Pushkar, and Udgama.
  • Upāna and Pādasthāna: The principles of constructing the platform and the base where the idol is placed are explained.
  • Devata Padāsthāpana (Placement of Deities): This chapter is crucial, providing guidelines on the placement of various deities within the temple's sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha). It outlines a specific division of the Garbhagriha into sections for different deities like Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Surya, Ganesha, Durga, and Jain Tirthankaras, based on their directional orientation and importance. It also discusses the placement of their vehicles (Vahana) and the auspiciousness of certain directional alignments.
  • Lingapanchasutra (Five Principles of Lingam Placement): Specific rules and measurements are given for the correct installation of the Shiva Lingam, including its base (Jaladhari) and water channels (Pranali).
  • Pranali (Water Channel): The design and direction of water channels for the sanctum are discussed, emphasizing auspicious placement.
  • Festivals and Rituals (Pratishtha): The book includes sections on the auspicious times and rituals for consecrating a temple and installing the deities, including the procedures for performing sacrifices and fire rituals.
  • Repairs and Renovations (Jirnoddhara): Guidelines are provided for the restoration and repair of old or damaged temples, emphasizing the importance of adhering to original measurements and traditions.
  • Vastu Dosha (Architectural Flaws): A detailed discussion on architectural defects and their remedies, along with the consequences of incorrect construction.
  • Materials: The text touches upon the suitability of various materials like stone, brick, wood, and metal for different parts of the temple.

• Illustrations and Diagrams: The text is rich with diagrams and illustrations that visually explain the architectural concepts, measurements, and decorative elements, making complex principles easier to understand.

Editorial Contribution of Prabhashankar O. Sompura:

Prabhashankar Sompura, a renowned Shilpashastri, has painstakingly edited and translated this ancient text from Sanskrit into Gujarati. He has also provided extensive commentary, explanations, and comparative analysis with other Vastu texts, enriching the work with his deep knowledge and practical experience. The preface by Sompura highlights the arduous process of research, collection of manuscripts, and the critical need for such publications to preserve India's rich architectural heritage.

Significance:

"Prasad Tilaka" is considered a valuable resource for architects, sculptors, historians, and anyone interested in the ancient Indian tradition of temple architecture. It offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical guidance, reflecting the meticulous planning and artistry involved in temple construction. The editor's efforts have made this otherwise esoteric knowledge accessible, contributing significantly to the study and practice of traditional Indian architecture.