Kunti Gudi complex, a group of four temples, is situated close to Charantimatha and Trymbakeshwara complexes. These four temples are grouped together closely in a rectangular pit. As one approaches the group from its northeastern corner, the most noticeable thing is the stone step-ladder leaning against the side wall of temple-1. Then the second unique thing here is the tall mantapa connecting temple-1 and temple-2. In the below picture, the mantapa is seen. However, this picture has been shot from the space between temple-3 (on the left) and temple-4 (on the right).
Here's a snap-shot of Kunti group in Google Maps. I've marked the structures with numbers for better understanding of the positioning. 1, 3, 4 and 5 are temples, 2 is the mantapa connecting 1& 2. The temples are positioned on the corners of an imaginary square. Coming to the orientation and configuration of the shrines-
- Temple-1 is a west facing Trikutachala
- Temple-2 is a east-facing Ekatachala
- Temple-3 is a east-facing Ekatachala
- Temple-4 is a north-facing Ekatachala
This is the front-side view of temple-3. All temples of this group have high bases and verandahs. Originally this temple had a canopy for the verandah. Presently only a portion of the canopy is remaining.
This is the left half of the verandah. The wall on the right holds the doorway and four perforated screen windows. The window design is simple; a matrix of square holes. Its designed to provide enough ventilation but maintain privacy as well.
The right half of the verandah. Its a symmetric space. The floor slabs seem rough cut but originally they might have been precisely shaped to form a leveled floor. I think the slab edges have rounded due to natural erosion of sandstone. Same is the case with pillars. For example, the first pillar in this picture has worn out considerably.
These columns have some interesting artworks. A bull-elephant pair sharing the head portion. The bulls head is lifted up as though resting on the elephant's neck. The bulls head & hump forms the elephant's head & trunk. This particular artwork can be seen in several Chalukyan temples.
On another column is the scene of Vishnu in Varaha Avatar rescuing Bhoodevi from Asura Hiranyaksha. This too is seen in most Chalukyan temples.
Lets step into the Sabhamantapa the inner hall between the verandah and the sanctum. This space is a mix of dark areas and bright spots. Eyes need a few seconds to adjust to this lighting. Photography is a little tricky in here but with some effort & luck one should end up with interesting shots. The sanctum is a small space with a narrow doorway. The doorframe is multi-tiered. In fact, the sanctum looks like a small temple by itself, like a temple inside a temple.
Light and shadow effect. A spot lights up a corner in the column top. The two arches in perpendicular planes appears like a semicircle in one plane. Also the outlining of pillar edges and the smaller semicircle are interesting effects.
More light & shadows at play. The perforated window has created symmetric slanting beams on the wall. The beam pointing down are due to direct light while the beams pointing upwards are due to reflected light. In the foreground is a damaged sculpture lying on the floor.
This sculpture, I'm assuming, is Vishnu seated on Garuda. The beak and feathers appear to be an eagle's. Also I feel this sculpture is incomplete. There are many more things to see in here but one has to make time.
Lastly, we come to temple-4, the smallest of the four. While the other three temples have steps ascending directly into the verandahs, temple-4 has sideway steps, the final step lets you step into the verandah. The four pillars in the façade feature amorous couples. The canopy of this temple has survived the forces of nature, looks quite original.
The piece with an wide arch and niche resting on the steps doesn't seem to belong here. Normally such sculptures are seen on the top i.e. on the front of temple Shikharas.
Close ups of two couples. Sadly the lovely sculptures are badly mutilated. From what's remaining we get to know the fashions of those days... for instance the variations in headgear.
Column heads are unique here, the grooves on the curved surface is an interesting variation. The columns in temple 2 are similar but without these grooves.
That's it! There's a lot to see if one has the time, patience & energy. Hopefully, I'll come here again and notice something anew.
Tourists must visit Kunti group while they are at Aihole. Perhaps they should start the
tour of Aihole here rather than at Durga temple complex.
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