Sacred Stones and Auspicious Ground: Materials and Site Selection in Kalinga Architecture
The construction of a Kalinga temple was a sacred act, and every aspect of the process, from the selection of materials to the choice of the site, was guided by ancient traditions and scriptural injunctions. The belief was that the use of auspicious materials and a properly chosen site would ensure the stability, sanctity, and longevity of the temple.
The Seven Sacred Stones
The Shilpa Chandrika, an ancient architectural treatise, identifies seven specific varieties of stone that are considered ideal for temple construction. While clay bricks have been used in rare cases, the vast majority of Kalinga temples are built from these select stones. Each type of stone was deemed suitable for different parts of the temple structure, based on its properties.
The seven auspicious stones are:
- Sahaṇa
- Chhita Sāhaṇa
- Baḍa Pagaḍa
- Dhobā Kuṇḍa
- Rasa Chiṇḍa
- Niḷa Kusāṇa
The careful selection and use of these stones contributed to the remarkable durability of Kalinga temples, many of which have withstood the test of time for over a millennium.
Choosing the Perfect Site: The Science of Vastu Shastra
The selection of a suitable site for the temple was a critical first step, guided by the principles of Vastu Shastra. A variety of factors were taken into consideration to ensure the site was auspicious and conducive to the divine presence.
- Soil Analysis: The quality of the soil was paramount. Its color, density, composition, and moisture content were carefully analyzed to classify it as best, middle, sub-middle, or worst.
- Plot Shape: The shape of the land was also important. According to Vastu Shastra, a rectangular plot is the most auspicious, followed by square, elliptical, and circular plots, in that order.
- Site Location: The overall location, including the availability of space and the level of the ground water, was also taken into account.
Naga Bandhani: The Mystical Site Plan
An intricate and ancient method detailed in the Shilpa Shastras, known as Naga Bandhani, was used to determine the temple’s exact orientation and the auspicious moment to begin construction. This process involved creating a mystical diagram on the ground to align the temple with the cardinal directions and cosmic energies.
This ancient science, which can be seen as a precursor to modern disciplines like Geomorphology, Seismology, and Topology, enabled the architects to understand and harmonize with natural forces, allowing them to build the massive and stable structures that define the skyline of Odisha.