In Hindu temple architecture, a ratha is a facet or vertical offset projection on the tower (generally a shikhara).[1]
In Sanskrit, the word "ratha" means "chariot", but the link with this meaning is not clear.
The rathas are decorated with geometric figures or statues, such as statues of a gatekeeper watching outside or a niche with a statue of a deity.
Sometimes, the facet of the ratha is hollowed to the interior; these are rathas with recesses.
If there is only one facet, this is a temple with three rathas (triratha): the wall and the facet on the left and on the right.
If there are a main facet and a secondary one, the temple has five rathas (pancharatha). There are also temples with seven rathas (saptaratha).[2][3] and nine rathas (navaratha).
Examples of triratha temples
Examples of pancharatha temples
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Isanesvara Siva Temple in Bhubaneswar
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Jagannath Temple in Baripada
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Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar
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Examples of saptaratha temples
Examples of navaratha temples
See also
- Ratha, for the original meaning of the word
Notes
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External links
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