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Home > Temples of Kerala > Total height of Vigraha Total height of VigrahaThe total height of an idol is determined as a proportion to the inner height of the garbha-graha-dwaara or the inner diameter of the garbha-graha. The only stipulation is that the inner perimeter of the garbha-grha and garbha-grha-dwaara, and the height of the idol should be in the same prathi-yoni. The mode of calculation of inner height of garbha-grha-dwaara has already been explained in paragraph 3.21 and hence not repeated. The total height of the idol is determined in two ways either based on the inner height of the garbha-graha-dwaara or the inner diameter/width of the garbha-grha and it is always expressed in yavams eg: 1 kole equals 192 yavams. These aspects have been elaborately described in patala 2 of Thanthra Samucchaya (slokas 85,86 and 119 to 121). In this context it is to be noted that the proportions for determining total height vary for Siva-lingas and idols (vigrahas) of other deities. Siva Lingas Siva Lingas are broadly classified into two those with a height below 1 kole, and 1 kole and above. This height covers the total height of the Siva-linga ie, square at the bottom, octagonal at middle, and circular at the top, as depicted in Diagram 22. The height of Siva-lirigas below 1 kole is determined based on height of garbha-grha-dwaara or diameter of garbha-grha as indicated below:
Those of one Kole and above are classified according to chathurvarnya as give below:
As per Thanthra Samucchaya (Patalam II, verses 119 to 120) it is stipulated that for Brahmins lingas of all types can be used. For Kshathriyas all types excluding the type meant for Brahmins, for Vaisyas excluding those for Brahmins and Kshathriyas and for Sudras only those meant exclusively for them. Of late these chaathur-varnya calculations have no relevance and Siva-lingas are built according to convenience. The very concept of chaathur-varnya is based on guna-karma (based on following rituals and actions) and not on caste distinction as proclaimed in Sreemad Bhagavath Geetha (4.13). Of late, in carving idols these distinctions are not followed. (b) Other deities The total height of idols of other deities is determined based on the inner height of garbha-grha-dwaara and inner width of garbha-grha as shown below:
When the above proportions are worked out the total height then obtained may not conform to the same prathi-yoni based on perimeter. In such cases the height of the idol has to be slightly adjusted to agree with the yoni of garbha-grha. It is ideal if the height of the idol and the circumference of the garbha-grha fall in the same dasa also.
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