# The Anatomy of a Kalinga Temple: Bāḍa, Ganḍi, and Cuḷa The architecture of a [[Kalinga architecture|Kalinga temple]] is based on the human form, a symbolic representation of the divine in a physical body. The temple's superstructure is traditionally divided into three distinct parts, each with its own specific form and ornamentation. This tripartite division creates a sense of harmony, balance, and vertical progression, drawing the eye upwards from the base to the heavens. ### The Three-Part Superstructure 1. **Bāḍa (The Lower Limb):** The **Bāḍa** constitutes the lower part of the temple, its "foot" and "leg." It is the vertical section of the temple that extends from the plinth (*piṭha*) up to the beginning of the curvilinear tower. The Bāḍa is itself divided into several horizontal sections, or *pāgas*, which are decorated with a variety of sculptures and mouldings. This section of the temple grounds the structure and connects the earthly realm of the devotee to the divine realm of the sanctum. A common feature on the Bāḍa is the protective image of [[Gajalakshmi]] in a seated posture (*lalitasana*) over the main doorway, serving as the *lalatabimba*. 2. **Ganḍi (The Body):** The **Ganḍi** is the main body of the temple, corresponding to the trunk of the human form. This is the soaring, curvilinear tower that rises above the Bāḍa and encloses the *garbhagriha* (sanctum sanctorum). In a **Rekha Deula**, the Ganḍi is typically tall and curved, while in a **Pidha Deula**, it takes the form of a pyramidal roof made of receding platforms. The surface of the Ganḍi is often intricately decorated with a variety of motifs, including miniature shrines, chaitya arches, and other ornamental designs. 3. **Cuḷa or Mastaka (The Head):** The **Cuḷa** or **Mastaka** is the "head" of the temple, the crowning element that sits atop the Ganḍi. This section consists of several distinct components, including: * The **Amalaka:** A flattened, fluted, disc-shaped element that resembles a cogwheel. It is a defining feature of North Indian temple styles, including the Kalinga style. * The **Khapuri:** A skull-shaped cap that sits on top of the Amalaka. * The **Kalasha:** A pot-shaped finial that crowns the entire temple. It often has a banner or flag attached to it. * The **Ayudha:** The weapon or emblem of the presiding deity, which is placed on top of the Kalasha. This tripartite division of the Kalinga temple is a powerful and elegant system that creates a sense of unity, harmony, and spiritual ascent. It is a testament to the sophisticated architectural and philosophical principles that underpin this unique and enduring tradition.