LOUIS I KAHN PROGRAMME
FOREWORD
The National Association of Students of Architecture (NASA, India) is the largest architectural student body in the world with over 350 dues-paying colleges with participation from other student bodies and colleges in India and across the globe. NASA, India is an autonomous, nonprofitable, non-political, non-religious, and democratic body for the undergraduate students of Architecture in India.
The objective of the organization is to create a platform for architecture students to learn, interact and grow.
NASA India conducts events, conventions, programmes, workshops etc. The Louis Kahn documentation programme, Warangal is one such programme which catered students of architecture from different regions of the country to document the undocumented built heritage of India.
PREFACE
The Louis I Kahn program at Warangal aided students to explore and unravel the mysteries of Inavolu Mallanna Swamy Temple and document it. Temples embody one of the finest, deepest, grandest, and most profound expressions of the human spirit of awe, wonderment, and a timeless yearning for spirituality, philosophy, art and creativity etched in stone.
Inavolu Mallanna Swamy Temple is located in Hanmakonda District , Telangana State is a marvel of the bygone Kakatiya Kingdom that lay undocumented. It is said to have been built by Ayyanadeva, the minister of the Western Chalukya emperor, Tribhuvana Malla VI Vikramaditya (1076-1127 AD).
Constructed with 108 pillars in an octagonal shape in a spacious stone courtyard, the temple exhibits the Chalukya style of architecture. There is an inner circumambulation around the sanctum, indicating that it is a Chalukyan structure.
There are Kakatiya Keerthi Toranas in the eastern and southern parts of this temple. In the foreground is a spacious Ranga Mandapam
In the temple, a fierce idol of Mallanna (Mallikarjuna Swamy) is seen in four hands, wearing a sword , a drum and a drinking vessel. The idols of his wives Golla Kethamma and Balija Medalamma on either side. In front of these there is a white Shiva Lingam on Artha Panavattam.
Annual special festivals of Swami are held every year on the occasion of Mahashivaratri. The folk fair is held every Sunday and Wednesday from Sankranti to Ugadi. The story of Mallanna is sung in “Oggu Katha”. In this Oggu Katha, Swamy Mallanna married goddess Medallamma by facing conditions which are put up by her brothers.
"Documenting the Inavolu Mallanna temple revealed the rich, lesser-known heritage of Telangana's early Chalukyan and Kakatiya architecture."
WhenNASA India Team approached with the initiative of Documenting the Undocumented ,it was very interesting to know that they wanted to document less documented sites. It created a desire in me to share my knowledge and experience on the rich cultural heritage of Telangana (Warangal ). The first stage of LIK Warangal was to explore Warangal, rich cultural heritage, and spot the right Heritage site to document. The team explained that architecture of lesser known Warangal should be non-to students all over the country, and they also mentioned that students having interest in different aspects of documentation were handpicked and called under the same roof fascinated me and was a great deal of pleasure to be hosting students from all over the country in my state. The temple Inavolu Mallanna is just the right fit to document lesser known culture and architecture different from Brahmin temples. It was wonderful experience to document this told Paradise which place a major role in the culture of Telangana and is one of the main structures built in the early chalukyan and Kakatiya’s time.
Warm Regards, Anuradha
he documentation of Kakatiyan architecture is important for preserving its unique cultural heritage. Historic structures serve as tangible connections to our past, providing insight into different cultures, societies, and ways of life. Documenting them captures valuable information about architectural styles, construction techniques, and materials used,
“The process of documentation unveils the stories they hold, enriching our understanding of the past and providing context to historical narratives”.
Further, Documentation plays a vital role in
• Understanding past engineering and construction techniques
• Uncovering hidden details or forgotten aspects of history
• Providing a record for future archaeological investigations
• Inspiring artistic and creative endeavours
Overall, documenting historic structures serves as an investment in understanding, appreciating, and safeguarding our shared past. It enables us to learn from the past, guide the present, and inform the future.
It was interesting aspect to meet talk and explain the informed student crowd on Kaktiyan Architecture, the idea of selecting an unknown and undocumented structure rather than the popular one was that it could lead to exciting discoveries and a deeper understanding of the past.
Warm
Regards, Ar. Naga Praveen
MODERATOR NOTE
Onbehalf
“Kakatiya Architecture: Documenting the Past for the Future.”
Why it matters?
•Preserves cultural heritage: Protects unique architectural legacy.
•Unveils hidden stories: Reveals insights into past societies and engineering marvels.
•Inspires future generations: Provides valuable knowledge for learning and creativity.
Focusing on lesser-known structures:
•Exciting discoveries: Uncovers hidden aspects of history.
•Deeper understanding: Offers a richer perspective on the Kakatiya era.
Documenting Kakatiya architecture is an investment in our past, present, and future.
Warm Regards, Manikanth Reddy.
of the TORCH ( Team Of Research on Culture and Heritage), I am delighted to acknowledge the successful documentation project of the Inavole Temple undertaken by the NASA INDIA TEAM from December 15 to 18. 2023.
We are thrilled to have collaborated with the NASA INDIA TEAM on this significant project, which aimed to meticulously document the architectural and cultural significance of the Inavole Temple.
As a researcher, I am happy to have been part of this event, which has not only enriched our understanding of our cultural heritage but also showcased the temple's importance to a global audience.
The documentation project has successfully captured the intricate details and historical significance of the temple, which will serve as a valuable resource for future generations.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the NASA INDIA TEAM for their expertise, dedication, and passion in undertaking this project.
We look forward to continued collaborations and knowledge sharing in the pursuit of preserving our cultural heritage.
Warm Regards, Aravind Arya
General Secretary TORCH -
Telangana.
Myinterest
“Unlocking history’s secrets with passion and precision.
Grateful for the journey with LIK Warangal.”
to be a part of LIK Warangal has been there since the proposal of documentation happened in the zonal council meet. The importance of this documentation is because of its purpose to speak about the Kakatiya dynasty, which was lost in time. Every person involved in the documentation showed their utmost interest throughout, making the whole program a very knowledgeable one. I would like to express my special gratitude to Praveen sir and Anuradha Mam, the moderators for their support. The students were the heart of the program, their passion has lead us to a successful completion of the program. The student coordinators made the program invaluable for everyone, it was well organised and planned! The experience will always be cherished is what I want to conclude my words with.
Thank you for making me a part of this wonderful program, I enjoyed every part of it.
Warm Regards, Tanuja Sunkara Zonal President Zone 4
ZONAL PRESIDENT ZONE
“Historic structures serve as tangible connections to our past, providing insight into different cultures, societies, and ways of life.”
The documentation of Kakatiyan architecture is important for preserving its unique cultural heritage.Documenting them captures valuable information about architectural styles, construction techniques, and materials used, preserving this knowledge for future generations.
The process of documentation unveils the stories they hold, enriching our understanding of the past and providing context to historical narratives. Further, Documentation plays a vital role in
• Understanding past engineering and construc tion techniques
• Uncovering hidden details or forgotten aspects of history
• Providing a record for future archaeological investigations
• Inspiring artistic and creative endeavours Overall, documenting historic structures serves as an investment in understanding, appreciating, and safeguarding our shared past. It enables us to learn from the past, guide the present, and inform the future.
It was interesting aspect to meet talk and explain the informed student crowd on Kaktiyan Archi tecture, the idea of selecting an unknown and undocumented structure rather than the popular one was that it could lead to exciting discoveries.
Warm
Regards, Evanthika Pereira Zonal President Zone 5.
Moderators Notes
Zonal President Notes
“Role of temple in local community & the religious practices associated with It.”
The mythological tapestry of Inavolu Mallanna Swamy temple:
Introduction And History of Inavolu Mallanna Swamy Temple.
Brief Timeline of the Temple Documentation: Plan of the temple Column detailes
“Unveiling The Underrated Gem: Exploring Architectural Marvels of Inavolu Mallanna Temple.”
Significance of 7
“Warangal Chronicles: From Midnight Brainstorm to Wide-reaching Impact”
Brochure
Documentary
Acknowledgement
028-033
“Capturing the daily interactions of the local community.”
"UNVEILING THE UNDERRATED GEM: EXPLORING ARCHITECTURAL MARVELS OF INAVOLU MALLANA TEMPLE."
Having been used to seeing the large gopurams adorning the entrances to a temple in Chennai, it was unique to see the Inavolu Mallana temple with its quaint archway resemblant of Kakatiya architecture. It felt like a frame showcasing the beautifully carved temple in the distance.
As one walks towards the Nritya Mandapam, we can observe the grandeur and intricate details that were thought out while sculpting this masterpiece. A flight of steps leads up to the main stage which is demarcated by the circular engraving, slightly raised on the floor. It was interesting to observe that the main stage also has been framed by the four symmetric ante-chambers. Through a play of heights (the antechambers having a lower ceiling height) one could understand that attention had to be diverted towards the larger volume.
Stepping into the main compound we see the “Dhwaja Stambh”, Ar Naga
"The mythological tapestry of Inavolu Mallanna Swamy temple."
Once, there dwelled a monstrous being named Manimasara who harbored a desire for a divine boon. Following rigorous penance, Brahma was impressed and granted him the opportunity to express his wish. Manimasara wished for invincibility against anyone adorned with vermillion or a white tilak. Over time, this rakshasa began to torment various gods, goddesses, and rishis, prompting them to seek help from Vishnu.
In due course, Shiva was reincarnated and born in a village in Karnataka. To circumvent the conditions of the boon, which specified that vermillion and white could not harm him, Shiva enveloped himself in turmeric. As the showdown with the rakshasa approached, the distressed deities and sages turned to Vishnu for assistance. Advising them, Vishnu suggested they approach Shiva with their concerns.
The strategic use of turmeric allowed him to confront and defeat the troublesome rakshasa. Sensing the impending demise, the rakshasa pleaded for a death wish, proposing that, as they were being vanquished by the omnipotent Shiva, they be remembered with reverence, their heads placed below his feet.
Following this victorious encounter, Shiva was wedded to Medalamma in Karnataka. Subsequently, his second wife, Golla Ketamma, hailing from present day Mahbub Nagar, led to the establishment of a temple dedicated to Shiva in Warangal, Telangana.
INAVOLU
Inavolu, a village in the Warangal district of Telangana, is known for its rich historical and cultural significance. This quaint village is renowned for its ancient Inavolu Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which dates back to the Kakatiya dynasty. The temple, a remarkable example of Kakatiya architecture, attracts numerous devotees, especially during the annual Makara Sankranti festival when a grand fair is held. Inavolu's serene rural landscape and historical heritage make it a notable destination in the Warangal district.
The establisher of Kakatiya Kingdom Prola Raju
-One day approached his son and saw him sleeping, he sat beside Rudra Deva and caressed him while he was asleep.
-Rudra Deva who saw in sleep thought, that was someone who came to kill him and stabbed him with a knife.
It is said that the structure is built byChalukyans as a secret meeting/hiding space.
Inavolu Mallanna temple was built by Ayyanadeva through the minister of western Chalukyan emperor Tribhuvana Malla VI Vikramaditya.
Pasva Chalukya Raja donated land to VI Vikramaditya for conducting continuous prayers and Nityannadam for the devotees who visit the temple.
Marneni descendants handed their rights to endonement.
“The divine presence of Swami Inavolu.”
MANDAPA
1 mandapa
2 nandi mandapa
3 Garbha Griha
The Kakatiya dynasty, ruling southern India from the 12th to the 14th centuries, is renowned for its unique architecture, particularly the use of offsets—step-like recessed sections in the walls.
Structural Stability - Offsets ensure the even distribution of weight, reducing the risk of collapse, especially in taller structures.
Aesthetic Appeal - These recessed sections add visual complexity, creating intricate patterns and captivating shadows, enhancing the temple’s beauty.
Symbolic Significance - Offsets may symbolize Mount Meru, the cosmic mountain in Hindu mythology, representing different planes of existence and connecting the earthly with the divine.
These offsets showcase the Kakatiya dynasty’s blend of engineering, artistry, and spirituality, making their temples enduring marvels of architecture.
COLUMN DETAILS
1 : 50
• Kakatiya Toranas: Monumental gateway pillars adorned with detailed carvings depicting Hindu mythology.
• Mandapa Pillars: Central to many temples, featuring floral motifs, geometric patterns, and mythological scenes.
• Nandi Mandapa Stambhas: Found in front of Shiva temples, supporting pavilions housing Nandi statues, decorated with motifs related to Shiva and Parvati.
• Vimana Stambhas: Supporting towers above sanctums, bearing finely crafted carvings symbolizing religious devotion.
• These columns are not just structural supports but artistic canvases and spiritual symbols, showcasing the Kakatiya dynasty's architectural legacy.
Note: All dimensions in MM.
"Role of temple in local community & the religious practices associated with It."
Inthe heart of medieval Deccan, temples are more than stone structures; they’re living stories where religious traditions and community life converge. The Oggu Katha, a melodic narration of tales around the deities Mallanna, Beerappa, and Yellamma, takes center stage. This ancient ritual, the Oggukatha pooja, is believed to fulfill wishes and guide young couples to ideal life partners.
Instruments like Jaggu, Dolu, and Thalam add rhythm to the Oggu Katha narrative. Performers, dressed in distinctive costumes, with a big pant tied up to the knees, a colored shirt, head cloth, waistcloth, and ankle bells, become living storytellers, breathing life into tales of gods and heroes.
Beyond rituals, temples anchor community life. Wealthy patrons contribute to transform these sanctuaries into economic hubs, offering employment to priests, treasurers, performers, cooks, and artisans. Temples host
“Local woman preparing traditional delicacies.”
Intheheart of Warangal and Bastar, the number seven whispered through time, its significance woven into the very fabric of their storied past. The Kakatiyans, guardians of this legacy, infused every facet of their existence with this number. Seven forts stood sentinel over their lands, seven palaces echoed with the footsteps of history, and seven historic towns with cradled secrets of a bygone era. In their rituals, Art, Architecture and the very core of their daily lives, the number seven held sway, a powerful symbol that hinted at a deeper mystery or a forgotten truth.
Locals visiting the temple
"Warangal Chronicles: From Midnight Brainstorm to Wide-reaching Impact".
itwas an initial idea of mine and one of my agendas during our ZCM (Zonal council meeting of zone 5) that although a lot of really good programs delved into really good heritage sites in India, the heritage of Warangal which we understood being from Telangana was not displayed to the fullest to rest of India and this was only possible through a documentary. On arriving at CMR University, I remember a USec holding a round up near that one canteen table at 2 in the morning and ideating the whole thing. We typed up the whole program with few photos and even made a small insta reel to show the aspects of Warangal. We presented it, got a lot of great inputs and support too.
We worked on many changes in the program but the biggest change was when our Zonal President, Zone 5 Evanthika Pereira gave the idea of turning it into a LIK program. This opened up the doors for a lot more creativity and opportunity.
The biggest takeaway from that ZCM was to make this a reality. But the reach it had was beyond our expectations, the journey and the awareness that it radiated I would dedicate it to that night and the ZCM.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
EDITORIAL
Polas Shriya - Z501 (Chief editor)
Sriya Marrapu - Z501
E Shashikarthik reddy - Z501
Snehal Bageliker - Z501
Revanthi Katikireddy - Z501
Pranesh R.U. - Z609
Manasa Nallacheruvu - Z548
ILLUSTRATION
Polas Shriya - Z501
N Vishwacharani - Z501
Suchit K - Z501
Apoorva V - Z523
Kolusu Sunayna - Z514
Ramavath Sahithya - Z501
K. Dhamayanthi - Z501
CH.Chinmayi - Z547
B. Swabhanu - Z501
Palla Geetika - Z514
Gorati Manish - Z615
Rasmi Bikkumalla - Z548
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Likith Jain USEC Z523
Sharmista Bodakunta - Z523
Rishi Varun Madugula - Z515
Pedaprolu Rishikaa - Z523
Urair Karim - Z523
E Shashikarthik USEC- Z501
DOCUMENTATION
Swetha Manaswini - Z501
Yosha Noolu - Z501
Mahanti Kanishk - Z514
Himanshu Jangid - Z547
Palla Geetika - Z514
B Swabhanu - Z501
R Sahithya - Z501
