Jagati
Topic: Early Indian Art and Architecture: Stupas, Rock-cut Caves, Temples · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
A jagati is the raised platform on which a temple is built. It lifts the temple above the ground around it. It also gives devotees an open path to walk around the temple in a clockwise direction (circumambulation). Jagatis are a common feature of Nagara (north Indian style) temples, especially in central and western India.
Example
The Kandariya Mahadeva temple at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh (c. eleventh century CE) stands on a high jagati. Devotees climb steps onto this platform before entering the temple.
Don't confuse with
- Garbhagriha: the small inner room that holds the main image. The jagati is the platform under the whole temple.
Related concepts
- Puranic Hinduism
- Vaishnavism
- Avatar
- Dashavatara
- Varaha
- Vasudeva-Krishna
- Shaivism
- Linga
- Garbhagriha
- Antarala