Research Paper
Spatial Study of ‘Chandore’ in India’s Western Ghats – Using Ethno-historic Study and Sculptural Details as Complementary Factors to Spatial Techniques
Authors: Pallavee Gokhale & Kurush F. Dalal
Year: 2018, Volume: 9, Page/Article: 1, DOI: https://doi.org/10.5334/aa.150
Abstract
The ancient temple complex site at Chandhore in the Western Ghats of India was discovered in 2011. Subsequent excavations at the site revealed successive occupation from the Shilahara Period (1100 CE), to the Bahmani, Adilshahi, and Maratha Periods (1500 CE – 1800 CE). A stela like element bearing a motif of a cow suckling a calf were discovered at various locations at the site and its environs. Some of these showed an exceedingly fine level of craftsmanship whilst others were crude and devoid of inscriptions. These stelae/pillars are referred to as Gaay-vaasru (Cow-Calf) pillars. These stelae were found at random locations such as the backyard of a house, abandoned hillslopes, roadside pavements, etc. Understanding the significance of the erection of such pillars at these locations was the main objective of this project. Spatial techniques complemented by textual references, iconographic interpretations, etc. were used to achieve this objective.