We are all aware of one unique phenomenon in Indian architecture, not so commonly found in the West perhaps. Normally referred to as ‘mantap', it is basically a roofed space, supported by a minimum of four pillars. While the nearest English translation could be ‘pavilion,' the word does not conjure up all the expressions of the Indian ‘mantap.' Much before the word ‘gazebo' became popular in a rather limited sense, mantaps were tried out in our sub-continent in a bewildering variety at different regions.

Conforming to climate

Down south in Kerala, the pavilions ensure air and cool breeze, while providing shelter against rain. Kootambalams, the traditional performance theatres, are nothing but large open mantaps. Even in the hot deserts of Rajasthan, the flat roof on four pillars is an adequate shelter during day and pleasant to sleep under at night. Garden pavilions are seen in all palace gardens across India, they are a delight to watch and a comfort to use. Nearly in all river-side towns like Ujjain and sacred water tanks like Pushkar, the structures edging the water are pavilions.

Hampi is a city of mantaps; then used for everything from living to rituals; homes to temples; shops to storage. At the elaborate end, we have examples like the Bhuvaneshwari Mantap at Melkote Kalyani, an exquisite pillared structure in thee levels, octagon plan and two layers of carved pillars.

We are all aware of one unique phenomenon in Indian architecture, not so commonly found in the West perhaps. Normally referred to as ‘mantap', it is basically a roofed space, supported by a minimum of four pillars. While the nearest English translation could be ‘pavilion,' the word does not conjure up all the expressions of the Indian ‘mantap.' Much before the word ‘gazebo' became popular in a rather limited sense, mantaps were tried out in our sub-continent in a bewildering variety at different regions.

Conforming to climate

Down south in Kerala, the pavilions ensure air and cool breeze, while providing shelter against rain. Kootambalams, the traditional performance theatres, are nothing but large open mantaps. Even in the hot deserts of Rajasthan, the flat roof on four pillars is an adequate shelter during day and pleasant to sleep under at night. Garden pavilions are seen in all palace gardens across India, they are a delight to watch and a comfort to use. Nearly in all river-side towns like Ujjain and sacred water tanks like Pushkar, the structures edging the water are pavilions.

Hampi is a city of mantaps; then used for everything from living to rituals; homes to temples; shops to storage. At the elaborate end, we have examples like the Bhuvaneshwari Mantap at Melkote Kalyani, an exquisite pillared structure in thee levels, octagon plan and two layers of carved pillars.