Ramappa temple: A site of creative genius

As per the inscriptions found on a pillar, in what seems to be Telugu and Kannada scripts, the Rudreshwara temple was built sometime in the 13th century. Its patrons were the rulers of Kakatiya dynasty whose capital was Warangal, close to the holy site in north Telangana region. The technology used in the construction of the temple, near a forest area close to Palampur village, was borne out of the necessity to resist earthquakes of high intensity. Sand-lime, jaggery and other materials were used in the foundation to act as a cushion between earth and the structure and this technique popularly came to be known as sandbox technology. The engineers and architects involved in the project could scientifically factor in the seismic activity of the area and the vulnerability of structures, almost accurately. Hundreds of years later, either in the 17th or 19th century, a massive earthquake struck the region flattening many structures, but not the temple. The structural evidence of creative genius and engineering and architectural marvel has rightfully found its place in the list of world heritage sites of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation).     

Rudreswara Temple, an abode of Lord Shiva, is a rich tribute to its craftsman, Ramappa, as it is also known as Ramappa temple. Perhaps, this is the only Hindu temple which glorified its mortal creator in this way. The temple has many fascinating facts attached to it. One of them is the usage of floating bricks to construct the Gopuram or the tower so as to ease pressure on the remaining structure. While normal bricks have a density of more than two, the floating bricks have a density of less than one. The floating bricks and sandbox technology not only helped the structure to sustain earthquakes with negligible damage but also helped it to gain entry into UNESCO’s prestigious list as these two aspects were highlighted in the dossier. 

In today’s times, a model apartment or a villa is a gateway to a desired property promised by a builder. Similarly, almost 800 years back, Ramappa and team built a miniature model of the temple within the complex to give a glimpse of what is to come. The exact enlarged replica was constructed, which took almost 40 years. Both the structures stand complementary to each other, today. Celestial bodies have inspired the design of the structure. In top view, the platform and walls of the temple structure resemble a star.

The statue of Nandi (sacred bull calf) is an integral part of any Shiva temple as it is considered as the vehicle of the god. In this temple, too, there is a Nandi statue but the interesting part is that it showcases a ‘trick’ art. Stand at any place near to the statue and you will feel like the eyes of Nandi are watching you. On the temple walls, hundreds of beautifully carved elephants, each different from the other, act as signboards showcasing artistic excellence. The human carvings include those of foreign traders and lord Budhha and give an idea about the liberal rule of the Kakatiyas. Every pillar, wall and the ceilings have engravings of female dancers, Puranas and historical events with intricate and mesmerising detailing. The black sculptures depicting different actions of women are masterpieces positioned uniquely. The pillars have been constructed in such a way that when struck they produce music of different notes. It is also believed that the temple premises was used for performing arts like Perini dance on special occasions. The shivalinga lies inside a small chamber in the hall of the temple. The use of red and white stones comes across as a pleasing sight. There are still a lot of puzzling questions on the ancient engineering methods applied while using different coloured stones in the construction process of this temple complex. 

The efforts to get UNESCO’s recognition of Ramappa temple began almost a decade ago. It was spearheaded by Kakatiya Heritage Trust, a nonprofit organisation that aims to preserve and promote Kakatiya era monuments and technologies. The organisation is founded by retired IAS officer, Papa Rao who had worked in the United Nations and a retired professor and heritage conservationist Panduranga Rao. The duo brought out books on not just Ramappa temple, highlighting its engineering marvels, but also on other heritage structures and irrigation systems built by the Kakatiya rulers, who ruled the region for over 200 years. The Trust along with the Archaeological Society of India (ASI) and the state department of heritage, Telangana government with the help of experts prepared the proposal which made it to the tentative list of world heritage in 2014. The temple was proposed as the only nomination by the government for the world heritage site tag for the year 2019. In the same year, a 3-member team defended the nomination in front of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). There was a serious diplomatic effort which also paid off. Though inscribed as the world heritage site, the world heritage committee of UNESCO had made certain recommendations to the ASI which included making changes to the boundary of the temple and coming up with a conservation plan.

The global spotlight on Ramappa temple is expected to usher in more foreign tourists and funds which will probably restore the glory of the temple and save it from neglect.