Mamallapuram-Panch Rathas

Arjuna, Draupadi Ratha
This two-storeyed temple has a graceful portrayal of Shiva leaning on his mount, bull Nandi. Royal couples and other elegantly carved figures in the niches embellish the outer walls.





Durga Panel
A four armed Durga is carved on the rear wall of the Draupati Ratha's Sanctum, with kneeling devotees in front. One of these is shown in the process of cutting his head off, as a supreme act of self-sacrifice.






Nakul Sahdeva Ratha
Named jointly afterthe Pandava twins, this ratha is unique for its apsidal form, known in architectural terms for as gajaprishta(back of an elephant).










Dharmaraja Ratha
An imposing three storeyed ratha, is crowned by an octagonal doomed roof. Sculpted panels are carved on the upper storeys.
(in pic)Harihara
Niche figures on the lower level include beautiful sculptures Harihara, a composite form of Vishnu and Shiva. The right side of the body with matted locks of hair is Shiva, and the left is Vishnu, with a smooth, tapering cylindrical crown.