Temple Construction Process
The actual construction process of a temple can be divided into three steps. The first is the planning of the temple by architect, second is the carving of different parts and the third is assembling the parts.
In the second stage, the teams of assistants of the Shilpi carve the parts and segments according to temple Acharya’s and Shilpi’s drawings, designs, specifications, and guidelines. The parts thus got ready are transported to the site. And, at times the transportation to the site, itself, becomes a huge task.
The stability of the temple structure is attributed to its principles of unity, harmony, balance, and distribution of weight. It is said if one member of this family breaks, the unity, peace, and stability of the family is sure to crumble. Hence, no member moves from its place and holds the structure together even in the face of destruction all around. These aspects are ensured during the third stage.
The third stage is the assembling of the readied parts i.e. the actual construction of the temple. The various elements and parts of temples are interlocked to hold in position. All the parts have mortise and tenon joint for ensuring strength; and a hole or slot is cut into each piece of readied part, for a projecting part tenon of the adjacent part to be inserted into the next. These mortises and tenons not only hold the parts their positions securely but also allow space for the stones to expand in heat or even to vibrate modestly.
The third stage and the second stage have to be well-coordinated in order to take care of precise alignments and possible corrections. Though this stage, inevitably, means the slowing down of the construction pace, it is said, the Sthaphti or Sthalapahi, the one who supervises the actual construction process on-site, takes extra care to ensure precise positioning and alignment of each part and segment; and to meticulously follow the overall proportion, stability, and visual appeal, as specified and envisaged in the construction plans.
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